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!
Sunday, July 31, 2011
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!
"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!
Saturday, July 30, 2011
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?
"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?
Thursday, July 28, 2011
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!
"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!
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
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!
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!
Saturday, July 23, 2011
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!
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!
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Our perspectives...
.
It happens all the time...
Your light has just changed to green when somebody going "the other way" runs the red, and narrowly misses turning your vehicle into an accordion...
What is your reaction?
On a busy street, in a school zone, you see an SUV swerving all over the place, and going at least 15mph over the posted speed limit. As it passes, you see the driver is busy texting...
"What a stupid idiot!" you think out loud.
A very young child is playing in a busy street, but, where are the parents?
You read in the paper that some nut set his clothes on fire, and burned his belly, while trying to get his barbecue pit started.
You're shopping at the local Stuff-Mart, and somebody has her purse stolen. As it turns out, she left it in the basket seat while she was trying on clothes...
Every day, we are amazed at the foolish things people regularly do without thinking of the consequences. Quite often, our response is, "What an idiot!"
Jesus did have something to say about our reactions, and it isn't what most people expect, either! "Ye have heard it said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of judgment: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Ra-ca, shall be in danger of the counsel: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool shall be in danger of hell fire. Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother has ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come offer thy gift." (Mat 5:21-24)kjv
You see, the commandment says "Do not kill," but it means more than just that. We must also not belittle others, even in our own minds, by thinking them to be fools or idiots. If we find ourselves reacting in this manner, we are supposed to ask forgiveness of those about whom we find ourselves feeling superior! You should not even give your offering at church until you've made peace with these folks!
"But, why?" you ask. Actually, Jesus has explained this to us, as well...
"Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye meet, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam that is in thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye." (Mat 7:1-5)kjv
Jesus spelled it out for us. Not one of us is good enough to look with disdain on others! We all have our faults, but He died for each one of us, anyway!
You...
...me...
......everyone, even the worst mass-murderer in history!
So, who are we to judge?
It happens all the time...
Your light has just changed to green when somebody going "the other way" runs the red, and narrowly misses turning your vehicle into an accordion...
What is your reaction?
On a busy street, in a school zone, you see an SUV swerving all over the place, and going at least 15mph over the posted speed limit. As it passes, you see the driver is busy texting...
"What a stupid idiot!" you think out loud.
A very young child is playing in a busy street, but, where are the parents?
You read in the paper that some nut set his clothes on fire, and burned his belly, while trying to get his barbecue pit started.
You're shopping at the local Stuff-Mart, and somebody has her purse stolen. As it turns out, she left it in the basket seat while she was trying on clothes...
Every day, we are amazed at the foolish things people regularly do without thinking of the consequences. Quite often, our response is, "What an idiot!"
Jesus did have something to say about our reactions, and it isn't what most people expect, either! "Ye have heard it said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of judgment: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Ra-ca, shall be in danger of the counsel: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool shall be in danger of hell fire. Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother has ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come offer thy gift." (Mat 5:21-24)kjv
You see, the commandment says "Do not kill," but it means more than just that. We must also not belittle others, even in our own minds, by thinking them to be fools or idiots. If we find ourselves reacting in this manner, we are supposed to ask forgiveness of those about whom we find ourselves feeling superior! You should not even give your offering at church until you've made peace with these folks!
"But, why?" you ask. Actually, Jesus has explained this to us, as well...
"Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye meet, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam that is in thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye." (Mat 7:1-5)kjv
Jesus spelled it out for us. Not one of us is good enough to look with disdain on others! We all have our faults, but He died for each one of us, anyway!
You...
...me...
......everyone, even the worst mass-murderer in history!
So, who are we to judge?
Monday, July 18, 2011
One of the reasons we love kids...
.....
You know that incredible feeling you get when you unexpectedly find a love note under your dinner fork that says,
I love you!
love, Sally
A wash of profound emotion pours all over you. You find yourself wondering how any human could be so loved, and still live!
What about when your youngest says you need to adopt a baby donkey. And it can live in the bathroom "Since we don't use it."
Remember the time your child found a baby bird that had fallen from its nest? You were sure that there was no way for it to survive another day, but she'd already named it "Squishy."
Love for our children is a natural part of us, but we didn't invent it. It is a magnificent gift from God, and it is part of the reason He wants us to come to Him with the innocence of little children. We learned our delight in kids from Him!
Remember how much fun it was, listening to your little ones trying to find the "perfect name" for your new dog or cat?
"So the Lord God formed from the soil every kind of animal and bird. He brought them to Adam to see what he would call them, and Adam chose a name for each one." (Gen 2:19)nlt
Knowing how kids pick names for pets today, I'd bet Adam came up with; "fuzzy, toothy, wiggly, feathers," and a bunch of other similar names. And I bet, just like any proud parent, God smiled and said, "Great names!"
We didn't invent pride in our kids, and joy at their endeavors... but we were blessed to have inherited these awesome things from our wonderful God!
Thank God for all He's done! He deserves it!
You know that incredible feeling you get when you unexpectedly find a love note under your dinner fork that says,
I love you!
love, Sally
A wash of profound emotion pours all over you. You find yourself wondering how any human could be so loved, and still live!
What about when your youngest says you need to adopt a baby donkey. And it can live in the bathroom "Since we don't use it."
Remember the time your child found a baby bird that had fallen from its nest? You were sure that there was no way for it to survive another day, but she'd already named it "Squishy."
Love for our children is a natural part of us, but we didn't invent it. It is a magnificent gift from God, and it is part of the reason He wants us to come to Him with the innocence of little children. We learned our delight in kids from Him!
Remember how much fun it was, listening to your little ones trying to find the "perfect name" for your new dog or cat?
"So the Lord God formed from the soil every kind of animal and bird. He brought them to Adam to see what he would call them, and Adam chose a name for each one." (Gen 2:19)nlt
Knowing how kids pick names for pets today, I'd bet Adam came up with; "fuzzy, toothy, wiggly, feathers," and a bunch of other similar names. And I bet, just like any proud parent, God smiled and said, "Great names!"
We didn't invent pride in our kids, and joy at their endeavors... but we were blessed to have inherited these awesome things from our wonderful God!
Thank God for all He's done! He deserves it!
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Listen! Can you hear the snarling?
Whose snarling?
Why, the beast, of course. Don't you think he's coming?
God did not put warnings in the bible because He wanted to watch us squirm! He wants us to react, to prepare for catastrophe! "In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, 'Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live.' " (Isaiah 38:1) kjv
Hezekiah was about to die, but God gave him a little advance notice. God has sent of LOT of warnings to all of us. He loves us so much that He wants us to be free from the coming events. He already knows just how bad things will become! His words are recorded as guardrails for all of time, because He IS the God of all time.
We have become so complacent about the coming of future events contained with the book of Revelation (or Apocalypse, depending on your favorite Bible version), that we now refuse to even consider that these thing are all already lined up, and almost ready to go.
The following is something that will happen during the first half of the tribulation...
" 'And I will grant my two witnesses power to prophesy for one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.' These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands which stand before the Lord of the earth. And if anyone would harm them, fire pours from their mouth and consumes their foes; if anyone would harm them, thus he is doomed to be killed. They have the power to shut the sky, that no rain may fall during their prophesying, and they have the power over the waters to turn them into blood, and to smite the earth with every plague, as often as they desire. And when they have finished their testimony, the beast that ascends from the bottomless pit will make war upon them and conquer them and kill them, and their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which is allegorically called Sodom and Egypt, where their Lord was crucified. For three days and a half men from the peoples and tribes and tongues and nations gaze at their dead bodies and refuse to let them be placed in a tomb, and those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them and make merry and exchange presents, because these two prophets had been a torment to those who dwell on the earth.' " (Rev 11:1-10)rsv
The city mentioned above is Jerusalem. Imagine how bad things would have to get before it will be thought of as either Sodom or Egypt! You know what Sodom was all about, but did you know that Egypt was named in celebration of the false god, "pta?" You don't want to be in Jerusalem during these times, and God doesn't want to be there, either! He wants you at His side, in heaven, awaiting the end of the Great Tribulation.
There are many, today, in what is supposed to be "the land of the free, and the home of the brave" who have so rejected the ways of God, that they all but worship vileness. It is now "politically correct" to accept every possible lifestyle and perversion, and proclaim them to be "normal." In fact, almost the only thing you are no longer free to be is a God-fearing Christian! A very large percentage of our politicians are nothing more that puppets, controlled by the wealthy, hyper-powerful, the "king-makers." They practice divisiveness to a degree that is appalling! And what is it leading up to?
"They worshipped the dragon for giving the beast such power, and they worshipped the beast. 'I there anyone as great as the beast?' the exclaimed. 'Who is able to fight against him?' Then the beast was allowed to speak great blasphemies against God. And he was given authority to do what he wanted for forty-two months. And he spoke terrible words of blasphemy against God, slandering His name and all who live in heaven, who are His temple. And the beast was allowed to wage war against God's holy people and to overcome them. And he was given authority to rule over every tribe and people and language and nation." (Rev 13:4-7)nlt
"And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world." (Rev 13:8) kjv
How much preparation does it take to ready the world for the greatest, most vile, takeover EVER? A Lot! That is why there are so many today, pretending to be intellectual, who try to convince us all that, "The only way to world peace is Global unity," which is, of course, a very necessary precursor to Satan's takeover, and seven year reign.
Please, I beg of you, get yourself right with God. Accept the salvation that was paid for by the horrible death that Jesus endured, so that we all could avoid the punishment we deserve. The coming tribulation will, by comparison, make Hitler's regime seem like the Girl Scouts! And the Great Tribulation will truly be a nightmare of "biblical proportions!" Get saved! Spread the word, not just to those you love, but to everyone!
Listen. Can you hear the snarling? It is getting closer!
Why, the beast, of course. Don't you think he's coming?
God did not put warnings in the bible because He wanted to watch us squirm! He wants us to react, to prepare for catastrophe! "In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, 'Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live.' " (Isaiah 38:1) kjv
Hezekiah was about to die, but God gave him a little advance notice. God has sent of LOT of warnings to all of us. He loves us so much that He wants us to be free from the coming events. He already knows just how bad things will become! His words are recorded as guardrails for all of time, because He IS the God of all time.
We have become so complacent about the coming of future events contained with the book of Revelation (or Apocalypse, depending on your favorite Bible version), that we now refuse to even consider that these thing are all already lined up, and almost ready to go.
The following is something that will happen during the first half of the tribulation...
" 'And I will grant my two witnesses power to prophesy for one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.' These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands which stand before the Lord of the earth. And if anyone would harm them, fire pours from their mouth and consumes their foes; if anyone would harm them, thus he is doomed to be killed. They have the power to shut the sky, that no rain may fall during their prophesying, and they have the power over the waters to turn them into blood, and to smite the earth with every plague, as often as they desire. And when they have finished their testimony, the beast that ascends from the bottomless pit will make war upon them and conquer them and kill them, and their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which is allegorically called Sodom and Egypt, where their Lord was crucified. For three days and a half men from the peoples and tribes and tongues and nations gaze at their dead bodies and refuse to let them be placed in a tomb, and those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them and make merry and exchange presents, because these two prophets had been a torment to those who dwell on the earth.' " (Rev 11:1-10)rsv
The city mentioned above is Jerusalem. Imagine how bad things would have to get before it will be thought of as either Sodom or Egypt! You know what Sodom was all about, but did you know that Egypt was named in celebration of the false god, "pta?" You don't want to be in Jerusalem during these times, and God doesn't want to be there, either! He wants you at His side, in heaven, awaiting the end of the Great Tribulation.
There are many, today, in what is supposed to be "the land of the free, and the home of the brave" who have so rejected the ways of God, that they all but worship vileness. It is now "politically correct" to accept every possible lifestyle and perversion, and proclaim them to be "normal." In fact, almost the only thing you are no longer free to be is a God-fearing Christian! A very large percentage of our politicians are nothing more that puppets, controlled by the wealthy, hyper-powerful, the "king-makers." They practice divisiveness to a degree that is appalling! And what is it leading up to?
"They worshipped the dragon for giving the beast such power, and they worshipped the beast. 'I there anyone as great as the beast?' the exclaimed. 'Who is able to fight against him?' Then the beast was allowed to speak great blasphemies against God. And he was given authority to do what he wanted for forty-two months. And he spoke terrible words of blasphemy against God, slandering His name and all who live in heaven, who are His temple. And the beast was allowed to wage war against God's holy people and to overcome them. And he was given authority to rule over every tribe and people and language and nation." (Rev 13:4-7)nlt
"And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world." (Rev 13:8) kjv
How much preparation does it take to ready the world for the greatest, most vile, takeover EVER? A Lot! That is why there are so many today, pretending to be intellectual, who try to convince us all that, "The only way to world peace is Global unity," which is, of course, a very necessary precursor to Satan's takeover, and seven year reign.
Please, I beg of you, get yourself right with God. Accept the salvation that was paid for by the horrible death that Jesus endured, so that we all could avoid the punishment we deserve. The coming tribulation will, by comparison, make Hitler's regime seem like the Girl Scouts! And the Great Tribulation will truly be a nightmare of "biblical proportions!" Get saved! Spread the word, not just to those you love, but to everyone!
Listen. Can you hear the snarling? It is getting closer!
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
But, what if you've "missed the boat?"
There are some churches, and quite a few preachers, who maintain that missing the rapture means you've forever lost your chance at heaven. I have never understood whether this opinion is an error on the part of those who should know better, or an out-and-out attempt to cause resignation on those who have missed the opportunity. Regardless, those who support that idea are doing Satan's work in your church.
They claim that, with the rapture, all that is good is removed from the earth, therefore, God is also no longer here. There is a lot of proof to the contrary contained within God's word. We will look into some.
Revelation, chapter 6, ends with, "For the great day of the wrath has come, and who will be able to survive?" nlt This occurs between the opening of the 6th and the 7th seals, during the Tribulation. Four angels have been given the power to wreak havoc on the land and sea. A fifth angel appears before them, and shouts, "Wait! Don't hurt the land or the sea or the trees, until we have placed the seal of God on the foreheads of His servants." (Rev 7:3) nlt
Consider, please, if there were no Christians on the earth at this time, there would be no need for the seal of God on anyone's forehead!
"After this, I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne, and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white, and held palm branches in their hands. And they were shouting with a mighty shout, 'Salvation comes from our God on the throne and from the Lamb!' " (Rev 7:9-10)nlt
Who are these people? The apostle John was asked this question, and was told, " '...These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb and made them white.' " (Rev 7:14b)nlt
If they came OUT of the great tribulation, and have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb (accepted salvation and become Christians) during this period of time, then the Holy Spirit is still hard at work upon the face of the earth!
Please also notice that chapter 7 of Revelation also mentions the 144,000 that came from the 12 tribes of Israel. If God were not active on the earth at this time, what possible purpose would these individuals have? There is another counter-proof against the erroneous claim of hopelessness after the tribulation starts. "And I will give power to My two witnesses, and they will be clothed in sackcloth, and will prophecy during these 1,260 days." (Rev 11:3)nlt
There is no need of sending witnesses into hell. Those souls are forever lost. If God sends two witnesses to the earth to prophecy, He is NOT sending them here to preach to those already condemned! He wants to offer a last chance to those who have not yet accepted Him.
The tribulation will not be fun, and the great tribulation will be torture to those who have to endure it. Don't wait to accept God's gift of salvation, but, whatever you do, don't let some (lower-case) antichrist convince you to give up. You don't lose your chance for salvation and heaven unless you accept the mark of the beast. "So the first angel left the temple and poured his bowl over the earth, and horrible, malignant sores broke out on everyone who had the mark of the beast and who worshipped his statue." (Rev 16:2)nlt "And the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who did mighty miracles on behalf of the beast - miracles that had deceived all who had accepted the mark of the beast and had worshipped his statue." (rev 19:20a)nlt
***Every once in a while I notice that I've made mistakes in typing. If you find one I've missed, please let me know. Thanks, I feel it is critical to make no mistakes while representing Our Lord!***
Till we meet, in Paradise!
They claim that, with the rapture, all that is good is removed from the earth, therefore, God is also no longer here. There is a lot of proof to the contrary contained within God's word. We will look into some.
Revelation, chapter 6, ends with, "For the great day of the wrath has come, and who will be able to survive?" nlt This occurs between the opening of the 6th and the 7th seals, during the Tribulation. Four angels have been given the power to wreak havoc on the land and sea. A fifth angel appears before them, and shouts, "Wait! Don't hurt the land or the sea or the trees, until we have placed the seal of God on the foreheads of His servants." (Rev 7:3) nlt
Consider, please, if there were no Christians on the earth at this time, there would be no need for the seal of God on anyone's forehead!
"After this, I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne, and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white, and held palm branches in their hands. And they were shouting with a mighty shout, 'Salvation comes from our God on the throne and from the Lamb!' " (Rev 7:9-10)nlt
Who are these people? The apostle John was asked this question, and was told, " '...These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb and made them white.' " (Rev 7:14b)nlt
If they came OUT of the great tribulation, and have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb (accepted salvation and become Christians) during this period of time, then the Holy Spirit is still hard at work upon the face of the earth!
Please also notice that chapter 7 of Revelation also mentions the 144,000 that came from the 12 tribes of Israel. If God were not active on the earth at this time, what possible purpose would these individuals have? There is another counter-proof against the erroneous claim of hopelessness after the tribulation starts. "And I will give power to My two witnesses, and they will be clothed in sackcloth, and will prophecy during these 1,260 days." (Rev 11:3)nlt
There is no need of sending witnesses into hell. Those souls are forever lost. If God sends two witnesses to the earth to prophecy, He is NOT sending them here to preach to those already condemned! He wants to offer a last chance to those who have not yet accepted Him.
The tribulation will not be fun, and the great tribulation will be torture to those who have to endure it. Don't wait to accept God's gift of salvation, but, whatever you do, don't let some (lower-case) antichrist convince you to give up. You don't lose your chance for salvation and heaven unless you accept the mark of the beast. "So the first angel left the temple and poured his bowl over the earth, and horrible, malignant sores broke out on everyone who had the mark of the beast and who worshipped his statue." (Rev 16:2)nlt "And the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who did mighty miracles on behalf of the beast - miracles that had deceived all who had accepted the mark of the beast and had worshipped his statue." (rev 19:20a)nlt
***Every once in a while I notice that I've made mistakes in typing. If you find one I've missed, please let me know. Thanks, I feel it is critical to make no mistakes while representing Our Lord!***
Till we meet, in Paradise!
Saturday, July 9, 2011
I found this diary...
The other day, while I was walking to town to see what all the commotion was about last weekend, I found a diary beside the road. It doesn't say to whom it belongs, and a bunch of the pages are missing. This is all that's left...
-monday-
Now that my training is complete, I'm taking a few months off to tour the country. I am doing all I can to avoid the attention of the Roman soldiers, the tax collectors and various thieves who seem to have sprung up all over our nation.
Jeruba, my mom's sister, told me I should try to catch one of the lectures by this "Jesus" fellow. Everybody seems amazed at what he can do. They say he can read minds, tell the future and perform miracles! Personally, I think most people are easily fooled by these street magicians. Do you know, I've even heard he fed a huge crowd with just a basket of food he found some kid carrying? I think he must have had a secret stash someplace, just in case. You know what I mean?
-thursday-
I'm not making quite as much progress as I'd expected. Its almost time for the Passover feast. A local farmer has invited me to share his meager meal with his family. I readily agreed, as there is no way I could make it to the next town in time.
-friday-
Well, now it is tomorrow, already, so I'm on my way again. There is some excitement going on over in the next town, something about a criminal being brought to trial. I think I can just make it in time to see the execution, at least.
Whew! I am tired! I almost ran the entire last hour, trying to get here before the trial was over. What a shock! The "criminal" being tried is the same Jesus my aunt told me to find. They say he is impersonating God, and has declared himself the King, and outranks everyone in Rome, including Ceasar!
Well, they already beat him with their leaded whips. Blood is RUNNING down his back. They are saying he is about to be crucified with two other criminals. I am going to see if I can find a good place to watch.
Wow! They didn't just tie him to the cross-piece like they usually do. They NAILED him to it! I can't believe it. What do they think he's going to do, fly away?
You know, with all that blood running down from his wounds, he is not going to last long. Hey, he just spoke with one of the thieves who are crucified next to him. I sure wish I could hear what he said.
You are not going to believe this. He just said, in a VERY loud voice, "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit." I heard him as clear as a bell. Then the sky got dark, wind blew around madly, and lightning started flashing all over the place. I've never been so scared in all my life.
Near me was a centurian. You know those guys are as hard as nails, right? They are in charge of one hundred soldiers, and are as mean as they come. He started crying! Then I heard him say, "This was surely the Son of God!" I think maybe he was right! I'm getting out of here before God smashes this place to dust.
That's all there was. I don't know what to make of it. What do you think?
-monday-
Now that my training is complete, I'm taking a few months off to tour the country. I am doing all I can to avoid the attention of the Roman soldiers, the tax collectors and various thieves who seem to have sprung up all over our nation.
Jeruba, my mom's sister, told me I should try to catch one of the lectures by this "Jesus" fellow. Everybody seems amazed at what he can do. They say he can read minds, tell the future and perform miracles! Personally, I think most people are easily fooled by these street magicians. Do you know, I've even heard he fed a huge crowd with just a basket of food he found some kid carrying? I think he must have had a secret stash someplace, just in case. You know what I mean?
-thursday-
I'm not making quite as much progress as I'd expected. Its almost time for the Passover feast. A local farmer has invited me to share his meager meal with his family. I readily agreed, as there is no way I could make it to the next town in time.
-friday-
Well, now it is tomorrow, already, so I'm on my way again. There is some excitement going on over in the next town, something about a criminal being brought to trial. I think I can just make it in time to see the execution, at least.
Whew! I am tired! I almost ran the entire last hour, trying to get here before the trial was over. What a shock! The "criminal" being tried is the same Jesus my aunt told me to find. They say he is impersonating God, and has declared himself the King, and outranks everyone in Rome, including Ceasar!
Well, they already beat him with their leaded whips. Blood is RUNNING down his back. They are saying he is about to be crucified with two other criminals. I am going to see if I can find a good place to watch.
Wow! They didn't just tie him to the cross-piece like they usually do. They NAILED him to it! I can't believe it. What do they think he's going to do, fly away?
You know, with all that blood running down from his wounds, he is not going to last long. Hey, he just spoke with one of the thieves who are crucified next to him. I sure wish I could hear what he said.
You are not going to believe this. He just said, in a VERY loud voice, "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit." I heard him as clear as a bell. Then the sky got dark, wind blew around madly, and lightning started flashing all over the place. I've never been so scared in all my life.
Near me was a centurian. You know those guys are as hard as nails, right? They are in charge of one hundred soldiers, and are as mean as they come. He started crying! Then I heard him say, "This was surely the Son of God!" I think maybe he was right! I'm getting out of here before God smashes this place to dust.
That's all there was. I don't know what to make of it. What do you think?
Limited Time Offer!
Who hasn't received a flyer in the mail that reads something like this;
Act Now!
You have been selected from millions world-wide to receive one of the following free gifts!
...1 All expense paid vacation for a family of four to
......the Andromeda Galaxy!
...2 Title and ownership to the planet Mars!
...3 Your choice of a solid gold Rolls-Royce or Cadillac!
But you must act quickly! This is a limited time offer, and will not be repeated. To activate your account, please call 1 (800) 2ST-UPID.
Not many fall for gimmicks like these, but obviously some must, otherwise they would never keep being sent out. Teaching ourselves to NOT react to this type of garbage makes us skeptical of all free offers.
"And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32)kjv
"Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils; freely ye have received, freely give." (Matt 10:8)kjv
"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time His righteousness; that He might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus." (Rom 3:23-26)kjv
Wow!
You've already won!
And, unlike those fliers that promise to give you the sun, moon, and the stars, there are no sneaky gimmicks. All you are required to do is to acknowledge you've sinned, hold out your hands and receive salvation, and then tell everyone else. They are all winners, too, but somebody has to let them know. And nobody ever has to dial 1 (800) 2BS-AVED.
See you soon, in Paradise!
Act Now!
You have been selected from millions world-wide to receive one of the following free gifts!
...1 All expense paid vacation for a family of four to
......the Andromeda Galaxy!
...2 Title and ownership to the planet Mars!
...3 Your choice of a solid gold Rolls-Royce or Cadillac!
But you must act quickly! This is a limited time offer, and will not be repeated. To activate your account, please call 1 (800) 2ST-UPID.
Not many fall for gimmicks like these, but obviously some must, otherwise they would never keep being sent out. Teaching ourselves to NOT react to this type of garbage makes us skeptical of all free offers.
"And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32)kjv
"Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils; freely ye have received, freely give." (Matt 10:8)kjv
"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time His righteousness; that He might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus." (Rom 3:23-26)kjv
Wow!
You've already won!
And, unlike those fliers that promise to give you the sun, moon, and the stars, there are no sneaky gimmicks. All you are required to do is to acknowledge you've sinned, hold out your hands and receive salvation, and then tell everyone else. They are all winners, too, but somebody has to let them know. And nobody ever has to dial 1 (800) 2BS-AVED.
See you soon, in Paradise!
Today...
Today really is an interesting day.
I glance at the calendar, and get a smile on my face. Every time I look at a clock I start calculating hours and minutes.
Why?
Ten years ago, today, at noon, I married the woman that I am sure was sent to me by God.
We met over the internet AFTER she'd relocated from Argentina to Orlando, Florida. A very bad childhood made it extremely difficult for her to trust guys, at all, and the people she'd met after arriving in the U.S. didn't seem to have helped matters, either.
I thought I was only looking for a pen-pal, mostly because I was not supposed to have all that many years left, due to some weird health problems. Also, I'd been married before, but my first wife had some personality-altering psychosis that changed her into something so bizarre that she was not even allowed to see our kids without supervision. A friend, who happened to be a priest, had our marriage annulled because he was convinced she was no longer the person I'd originally married. Prior to that, when I'd tried (repeatedly) to adopt another child, I was advised to re-apply as a single parent. Believe me, I neither planned nor hoped to remarry.
And yet, God arranged things a bit differently than we'd expected. I was concerned that this lady understand that Our Lord had her best interests at heart, and probably had someone already picked out for her. And He did! As it turned out, it was me!
A few short weeks of being pen-pals made us realize we cared deeply for each other. We wanted to meet, but I still had a teenager in the nest, so she traveled here. That was July 3rd, and on the 9th, we were married.
I am aware that this is not the normal way for folks to get hitched. I suspect it would not have worked for any other couple, and I thank God that He intervened on our behalf.
Couples have to accept that there are always going to be differences between them.
Always...
In general, guys don't vocalize their feelings as much as do women, they hate shopping, love sports and like to view life as a power contest, very much like their favorite sport(s).
Women, thrive on conversation, love to go shopping, think almost all sports are boring and want their home-life to be the safe refuge from the world.
Are their exceptions? Again, always...
It is important to remember that God has always known what you'd be like, what you'd need and want. The right choice in your spouse is the one who completes you, makes you into the stable and viable individual that God meant you to be.
God blessed me a lot, and you too, if you think about it.
In closing; Guys, tell her you love her. Tell her a lot! Don't stop, not ever. Keep proving to her that the passage of time will never dull your interest in her. And ladies, he won't ever be very expressive about things that are not contests (again, like sports). Its OK to ask for reminders, just don't be hurt if they are not as automatic as you'd like.
Cars wear out, paint fades, styles change and we all get older, but true love only improves with use and age.
Till we meet again, in Paradise!
I glance at the calendar, and get a smile on my face. Every time I look at a clock I start calculating hours and minutes.
Why?
Ten years ago, today, at noon, I married the woman that I am sure was sent to me by God.
We met over the internet AFTER she'd relocated from Argentina to Orlando, Florida. A very bad childhood made it extremely difficult for her to trust guys, at all, and the people she'd met after arriving in the U.S. didn't seem to have helped matters, either.
I thought I was only looking for a pen-pal, mostly because I was not supposed to have all that many years left, due to some weird health problems. Also, I'd been married before, but my first wife had some personality-altering psychosis that changed her into something so bizarre that she was not even allowed to see our kids without supervision. A friend, who happened to be a priest, had our marriage annulled because he was convinced she was no longer the person I'd originally married. Prior to that, when I'd tried (repeatedly) to adopt another child, I was advised to re-apply as a single parent. Believe me, I neither planned nor hoped to remarry.
And yet, God arranged things a bit differently than we'd expected. I was concerned that this lady understand that Our Lord had her best interests at heart, and probably had someone already picked out for her. And He did! As it turned out, it was me!
A few short weeks of being pen-pals made us realize we cared deeply for each other. We wanted to meet, but I still had a teenager in the nest, so she traveled here. That was July 3rd, and on the 9th, we were married.
I am aware that this is not the normal way for folks to get hitched. I suspect it would not have worked for any other couple, and I thank God that He intervened on our behalf.
Couples have to accept that there are always going to be differences between them.
Always...
In general, guys don't vocalize their feelings as much as do women, they hate shopping, love sports and like to view life as a power contest, very much like their favorite sport(s).
Women, thrive on conversation, love to go shopping, think almost all sports are boring and want their home-life to be the safe refuge from the world.
Are their exceptions? Again, always...
It is important to remember that God has always known what you'd be like, what you'd need and want. The right choice in your spouse is the one who completes you, makes you into the stable and viable individual that God meant you to be.
God blessed me a lot, and you too, if you think about it.
In closing; Guys, tell her you love her. Tell her a lot! Don't stop, not ever. Keep proving to her that the passage of time will never dull your interest in her. And ladies, he won't ever be very expressive about things that are not contests (again, like sports). Its OK to ask for reminders, just don't be hurt if they are not as automatic as you'd like.
Cars wear out, paint fades, styles change and we all get older, but true love only improves with use and age.
Till we meet again, in Paradise!
Friday, July 8, 2011
Betrayed by a friend...
I grew up in a primarily Hispanic town (San Antonio), so my tastes were greatly influenced by the local culture. A few years back, a young woman rose to great fame as an incredible crossover singer. Her name was Selena. To make a long, sad story short, she was shot and killed by a friend who was embezzling money from the singer and her fan club.
The outrage over the incident still burns strongly in many. Her fans, her friends, her family & neighbors will never forget her.
Note the similarity between this incident and the betrayal of Jesus Christ. He, too, was betrayed unto death by one who was supposedly His friend.
Now I am not trying to imply that there exists any connection between Selena's death, and that of Jesus, I just find it incredible that a friend was guilty in each. In both cases, it seems that the same trusted friend was also misappropriating funds.
Judas hung himself. Selena's killer is still in prison, if I understand correctly.
How many of us recognize that Jesus died for both killers? In fact, for all murderers and every other criminal. And for everyone, since we have all broken commandments.
All of us...
Be sure to thank Him for His sacrifice,
now, and when we meet Him in Paradise!
The outrage over the incident still burns strongly in many. Her fans, her friends, her family & neighbors will never forget her.
Note the similarity between this incident and the betrayal of Jesus Christ. He, too, was betrayed unto death by one who was supposedly His friend.
Now I am not trying to imply that there exists any connection between Selena's death, and that of Jesus, I just find it incredible that a friend was guilty in each. In both cases, it seems that the same trusted friend was also misappropriating funds.
Judas hung himself. Selena's killer is still in prison, if I understand correctly.
How many of us recognize that Jesus died for both killers? In fact, for all murderers and every other criminal. And for everyone, since we have all broken commandments.
All of us...
Be sure to thank Him for His sacrifice,
now, and when we meet Him in Paradise!
Before time passes on...
I ask you to consider that our time may be unbelievably short. If you have not been saved, and wish to do so, please pray this simple prayer;
Father, I know Your Son died for me, because of my sins. I accept His sacrifice, though I am not worthy. I will tell others about this incredible gift.
Then watch your values change! You will on fire to spread the word!
But, what if you are not sure of what to believe? I was once in that boat. I often wanted those Christians to just leave me alone. One day, more in desparation than anything else, I prayed; "God, I don't know what to believe. If You're really there, please help me."
I don't know that I expected anything to happen, but, in a little while, I began to find it was easier to believe.
I do not think anyone can believe in God without His grace, but He gives it freely.
Ask Him!
Father, I know Your Son died for me, because of my sins. I accept His sacrifice, though I am not worthy. I will tell others about this incredible gift.
Then watch your values change! You will on fire to spread the word!
But, what if you are not sure of what to believe? I was once in that boat. I often wanted those Christians to just leave me alone. One day, more in desparation than anything else, I prayed; "God, I don't know what to believe. If You're really there, please help me."
I don't know that I expected anything to happen, but, in a little while, I began to find it was easier to believe.
I do not think anyone can believe in God without His grace, but He gives it freely.
Ask Him!
Do you believe in the coming tribulation?
... or, are you hoping it is only a "myth-take?"
A lot of people, and a lot of religions, hold that the tribulation, mentioned in the Bible, is merely an error in understanding. Some maintain that it is only symbolic. A surprisingly large number believe (hope?) that it is far away, into the distant future.
How do you feel about it?
Allow me to point out that NONE of the predictions in the Bible have EVER been proven to be false. Not one! In all of history, it has never happened. God sees the future, the present, the past... all are within His now.
Part of our problem here is that we experience time as a point-by-point travel along one line (our time-line). We cannot see even the very next instant of time, otherwise, we'd never be taken by surprise. Most of us are not too good at remembering the past, either. I know you've met folks who also didn't seem too aware of the present, you know, the ones whose permanent address seems to be "La-La land."
Since God invented time ("the evening, and the morning, were the first day." - remember?) why should we be so disbelieving that He sees the future?
Over and over, throughout the Bible, He has foretold of catastrophe, trying to get people to get their act together, and to get back on His page. All too often, He has gotten blamed for the very disaster that He said would come if folks didn't turn back to Him! I'm sure you know someone who blames cops for speeding tickets, its the same attitude problem. People have always wanted to "do their own thing" and "go their own way." Pretty much the same thing, isn't it?
See if this sounds a lot like our country today; "When the skies are shut and there is no rain because of our sins, and then we pray toward this Temple and claim You as our God, and turned from our sins because You have punished us, then listen from heaven and forgive the sins of your people, and teach them what is right; and send rain upon this land which You have given to Your people as their own property." (2 Chron 6:26-27)tlb
No, it wasn't written to us in our time, but, have you noticed that many people are praying for rain. God want us to turn back to Him in our time of need. There will always be those who say, "Big deal! There have always been droughts." They want only their own way.
In a similar way, what is coming for us has been predicted for quite some time.
"Sound the alarm in Jerusalem! Let the blast of the warning trumpet be heard upon my holy mountain! Let everyone tremble in fear, for the day of the Lord's judgement approaches!
"It is a day of darkness and gloom, of black clouds and thick darkness. What a mighty army! It covers the mountain like night! How great, how powerful these 'people' are! The likes of them have not been seen before, and never will again throughout the generations of the world! Fire goes before them and follows on every side! Ahead of them the land lies fair as Eden's garden in all its beauty, but they destroy it to the ground; not one thing escapes. They look like tiny horses, and they run as fast. Look at them leaping along the top of the mountain! Listen to the noise they make, like the rumbling of chariots, or the roar of fire sweeping across a field, and like a mighty army moving into battle.
"Fear grips the waiting people; their faces grow pale with fright. These 'soldiers' charge like infantry; they scale the walls like picked and trained commandos. Straight forward they march, never breaking ranks. They never crowd each other. Each is right in place. No weapon can stop them. They swarm upon the city; they run upon the walls; they climb up into the houses, coming like thieves through the windows. The earth quakes before them and the heavens tremble. The sun and moon are obscured and the stars are hid.
"The Lord leads them with a shout. This is His mighty army and they follow His orders. The day of the judgment of the Lord is an awesome, terrible thing. Who can endure it?" (Joel 2:1-11) tlb
"That is why the Lord says, 'Turn to Me now, while there is time! Give Me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don't tear your clothing in your grief; instead tear your hearts.' Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful. He is not easily angered. He is filled with kindness and is eager not to punish you." (Joel 2:12-13)nlt
"And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, Saying with a loud voice, 'Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.' " (Rev 14:6-7)kjv
I think it is important to take note that, the greater the calamity that we bring upon ourselves, the greater the prophecy God sends our way to get us back on the right path. If He didn't love us so much, He would not warn us that it was coming! Think about this, have you ever seen a portable sign on the side of the road that said, "Slow down! Speed trap ahead!" Of course not! Traffic laws exist, and enforcement is mandatory. You'll never see cops out on the corners of busy intersections carrying signs that read, "Drive slow or die in a horrible accident" either.
The difference? God wants to protect all of us! Civil laws exist to protect everyone from careless stupidities, as well as from evildoers. The Bible is not crammed full of "sin-limit" signs, either, just lots of warnings that sin has its consequences.
So, get your life in line with God's will. The end is coming!
...and wear your seat belt, we call it salvation!
A lot of people, and a lot of religions, hold that the tribulation, mentioned in the Bible, is merely an error in understanding. Some maintain that it is only symbolic. A surprisingly large number believe (hope?) that it is far away, into the distant future.
How do you feel about it?
Allow me to point out that NONE of the predictions in the Bible have EVER been proven to be false. Not one! In all of history, it has never happened. God sees the future, the present, the past... all are within His now.
Part of our problem here is that we experience time as a point-by-point travel along one line (our time-line). We cannot see even the very next instant of time, otherwise, we'd never be taken by surprise. Most of us are not too good at remembering the past, either. I know you've met folks who also didn't seem too aware of the present, you know, the ones whose permanent address seems to be "La-La land."
Since God invented time ("the evening, and the morning, were the first day." - remember?) why should we be so disbelieving that He sees the future?
Over and over, throughout the Bible, He has foretold of catastrophe, trying to get people to get their act together, and to get back on His page. All too often, He has gotten blamed for the very disaster that He said would come if folks didn't turn back to Him! I'm sure you know someone who blames cops for speeding tickets, its the same attitude problem. People have always wanted to "do their own thing" and "go their own way." Pretty much the same thing, isn't it?
See if this sounds a lot like our country today; "When the skies are shut and there is no rain because of our sins, and then we pray toward this Temple and claim You as our God, and turned from our sins because You have punished us, then listen from heaven and forgive the sins of your people, and teach them what is right; and send rain upon this land which You have given to Your people as their own property." (2 Chron 6:26-27)tlb
No, it wasn't written to us in our time, but, have you noticed that many people are praying for rain. God want us to turn back to Him in our time of need. There will always be those who say, "Big deal! There have always been droughts." They want only their own way.
In a similar way, what is coming for us has been predicted for quite some time.
"Sound the alarm in Jerusalem! Let the blast of the warning trumpet be heard upon my holy mountain! Let everyone tremble in fear, for the day of the Lord's judgement approaches!
"It is a day of darkness and gloom, of black clouds and thick darkness. What a mighty army! It covers the mountain like night! How great, how powerful these 'people' are! The likes of them have not been seen before, and never will again throughout the generations of the world! Fire goes before them and follows on every side! Ahead of them the land lies fair as Eden's garden in all its beauty, but they destroy it to the ground; not one thing escapes. They look like tiny horses, and they run as fast. Look at them leaping along the top of the mountain! Listen to the noise they make, like the rumbling of chariots, or the roar of fire sweeping across a field, and like a mighty army moving into battle.
"Fear grips the waiting people; their faces grow pale with fright. These 'soldiers' charge like infantry; they scale the walls like picked and trained commandos. Straight forward they march, never breaking ranks. They never crowd each other. Each is right in place. No weapon can stop them. They swarm upon the city; they run upon the walls; they climb up into the houses, coming like thieves through the windows. The earth quakes before them and the heavens tremble. The sun and moon are obscured and the stars are hid.
"The Lord leads them with a shout. This is His mighty army and they follow His orders. The day of the judgment of the Lord is an awesome, terrible thing. Who can endure it?" (Joel 2:1-11) tlb
"That is why the Lord says, 'Turn to Me now, while there is time! Give Me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don't tear your clothing in your grief; instead tear your hearts.' Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful. He is not easily angered. He is filled with kindness and is eager not to punish you." (Joel 2:12-13)nlt
"And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, Saying with a loud voice, 'Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.' " (Rev 14:6-7)kjv
I think it is important to take note that, the greater the calamity that we bring upon ourselves, the greater the prophecy God sends our way to get us back on the right path. If He didn't love us so much, He would not warn us that it was coming! Think about this, have you ever seen a portable sign on the side of the road that said, "Slow down! Speed trap ahead!" Of course not! Traffic laws exist, and enforcement is mandatory. You'll never see cops out on the corners of busy intersections carrying signs that read, "Drive slow or die in a horrible accident" either.
The difference? God wants to protect all of us! Civil laws exist to protect everyone from careless stupidities, as well as from evildoers. The Bible is not crammed full of "sin-limit" signs, either, just lots of warnings that sin has its consequences.
So, get your life in line with God's will. The end is coming!
...and wear your seat belt, we call it salvation!
Thursday, July 7, 2011
I stand at the door...
There is a kid's church song you've probably heard. The first line is, "Behold, behold, I stand at the door and knock, knock, knock." As you may surmise, it is biblically based.
"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
Think for a bit of what this implies, and why it makes such a great kid's song.
If Jesus is standing at the door, knocking, it is not open. Most importantly, He is not the one who closed it, either. All of us have placed something in between God and ourselves at some point in our lives. He is on the other side of our obstacle asking for us to let Him back in. He does not force us, He wants it to be voluntary on our part. Just as baptism is a volitional submission to His will, so is our renouncing the sin we have placed in the way.
So, why does this make such a great kid's song? Kids love and trust completely, until WE teach them not to.
Several months ago, a very sweet 4 year old girl came up to me while I was sitting at a bench. "I love you very much," she said, "will you be my friend?" (If you can find someone who'd say "No." to that request, check to see which hand he holds his pitchfork in.) This is the openness and trust that God wants us to have when we aproach Him. And yes, I now have a new best friend who is not yet 5.
Listen... He is knocking! Let Him in.
"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
Think for a bit of what this implies, and why it makes such a great kid's song.
If Jesus is standing at the door, knocking, it is not open. Most importantly, He is not the one who closed it, either. All of us have placed something in between God and ourselves at some point in our lives. He is on the other side of our obstacle asking for us to let Him back in. He does not force us, He wants it to be voluntary on our part. Just as baptism is a volitional submission to His will, so is our renouncing the sin we have placed in the way.
So, why does this make such a great kid's song? Kids love and trust completely, until WE teach them not to.
Several months ago, a very sweet 4 year old girl came up to me while I was sitting at a bench. "I love you very much," she said, "will you be my friend?" (If you can find someone who'd say "No." to that request, check to see which hand he holds his pitchfork in.) This is the openness and trust that God wants us to have when we aproach Him. And yes, I now have a new best friend who is not yet 5.
Listen... He is knocking! Let Him in.
Coming Home
..........Coming Home... Coming Home
..........Never more to roam.
..........Open wide Your arms of love,
..........Lord, I'm coming home!
Ten years ago, my wife was able to meet my dad, though he died a short time after we married. He suffered badly from Alzheimer's, but, on Thanksgiving day that year, he was completely himself. I was thankful that she could see what he was really like, even if it was just that once.
Yesterday, my father-in-law died. Unfortunately, I was never able to get to know him. He was much too old to travel, and my health precluded it. Still, I really wish I'd known him. The only knowledge I have is her recollections of him. But, they are her memories, not mine...
You have friends and family that mean a lot to you. Be sure that they know how much you treasure their existence. Never let any opportunity to be a positive, uplifting friend (or brother, sister, daughter or son) pass you by. He or she just might not be there tomorrow.
But above all, be absolutely sure that you have never avoided the subject of God's love. It is always possible that you are the only one to care enough to do so. After all, as that person's eyes close upon this world for the last time, you know you want him or her to open them in the next, singing;
..........Coming Home... Coming Home
..........Never more to roam.
..........Open wide Your arms of love,
..........Lord I'm coming home!
..........Never more to roam.
..........Open wide Your arms of love,
..........Lord, I'm coming home!
Ten years ago, my wife was able to meet my dad, though he died a short time after we married. He suffered badly from Alzheimer's, but, on Thanksgiving day that year, he was completely himself. I was thankful that she could see what he was really like, even if it was just that once.
Yesterday, my father-in-law died. Unfortunately, I was never able to get to know him. He was much too old to travel, and my health precluded it. Still, I really wish I'd known him. The only knowledge I have is her recollections of him. But, they are her memories, not mine...
You have friends and family that mean a lot to you. Be sure that they know how much you treasure their existence. Never let any opportunity to be a positive, uplifting friend (or brother, sister, daughter or son) pass you by. He or she just might not be there tomorrow.
But above all, be absolutely sure that you have never avoided the subject of God's love. It is always possible that you are the only one to care enough to do so. After all, as that person's eyes close upon this world for the last time, you know you want him or her to open them in the next, singing;
..........Coming Home... Coming Home
..........Never more to roam.
..........Open wide Your arms of love,
..........Lord I'm coming home!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Salvation Airlines
There is a ticket and boarding pass waiting for you at the counter. It is for a permanent vacation at the greatest resort, ever. The price is so high that all the people in the world could not collectively buy even just one ticket, but yours is already bought and paid for. And there is one for everyone who asks for one.
The problem is, nobody knows just exactly when the plane leaves, but we think it is very soon. The owner of the resort feels that, if the departure time were posted, a lot of folks would wait until the last minute before they showed up at the airport.
He's probably right, isn't He?
Believe it or not, there are a lot of jerks who want you to skip this vacation, on the grounds that you can have a lot more fun here. They don't tell you just how bad that will be, they just count on you not checking up on their lies.
"As Jesus was leaving the temple grounds, His disciples came along and wanted to take Him on a tour of the various temple buildings. But He told them, 'All these buildings will be knocked down, with not one stone left on top of another!' 'When will this happen?' the disciples asked Him later, as He sat on the slopes of the Mount of Olives. 'What events will signal Your return, and the end of the world?' Jesus told them, 'Don't let anyone fool you. For many will come claiming to be the Messiah, and will lead many astray. When you hear of wars beginning, this does not signal My return, these must come, but the end is not yet. The nations and kingdoms of the earth will rise up against each other and there will be famines and earthquakes in many places. But all this will be only the beginning of the horrors to come. Then you will be tortured and killed and hated all over the world because you are mine, and many of you shall fall back into sin and betray and hate each other. And many false prophets will appear and lead many astray. Sin will be rampant everywhere and will cool the love of many. But those enduring to the end shall be saved. And the good news about the kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it, and then, finally, the end will come. So when you see the horrible thing told by Daniel the prophet standing in a holy place, then those in Judea must flee into the Judean hills. Those on their porches must not even go inside to pack before they flee. Those in the fields must not return to their homes for their clothes. And woe to pregnant women and those with babies in those days. And pray that your flight will not be in winter or on the Sabbath. For there will be persecution such as the world has never before seen, and will never see again. In fact, unless those days are shortened, all mankind will perish. But they will be shortened for the sake of God's chosen people. Then if anyone tells you, The Messiah has arrived at such a place, or has appeared here or there, don't believe it. For false Christs shall arise, and false prophets, and will do wonderful miracles, so that if it were possible, even God's chosen ones would be deceived. See, I have warned you.' " (Mat 24:1-25)tlb
We can see that the world is bad. Jesus has warned us that it is going to get worse, much worse!
Do you remember the "Ghostbusters" movie from some years ago? The theme song said, "Don't go out alone, Oh No!" Take Christ with you, in all you do.
Pick up your ticket and boarding pass from Jesus at the counter. It is unbelievably easy; Confess your sins. Believe Christ died for you. Tell others.
Jesus paid the price! Get your ticket on Salvation Airlines!
See you soon at the Paradise Resort!
The problem is, nobody knows just exactly when the plane leaves, but we think it is very soon. The owner of the resort feels that, if the departure time were posted, a lot of folks would wait until the last minute before they showed up at the airport.
He's probably right, isn't He?
Believe it or not, there are a lot of jerks who want you to skip this vacation, on the grounds that you can have a lot more fun here. They don't tell you just how bad that will be, they just count on you not checking up on their lies.
"As Jesus was leaving the temple grounds, His disciples came along and wanted to take Him on a tour of the various temple buildings. But He told them, 'All these buildings will be knocked down, with not one stone left on top of another!' 'When will this happen?' the disciples asked Him later, as He sat on the slopes of the Mount of Olives. 'What events will signal Your return, and the end of the world?' Jesus told them, 'Don't let anyone fool you. For many will come claiming to be the Messiah, and will lead many astray. When you hear of wars beginning, this does not signal My return, these must come, but the end is not yet. The nations and kingdoms of the earth will rise up against each other and there will be famines and earthquakes in many places. But all this will be only the beginning of the horrors to come. Then you will be tortured and killed and hated all over the world because you are mine, and many of you shall fall back into sin and betray and hate each other. And many false prophets will appear and lead many astray. Sin will be rampant everywhere and will cool the love of many. But those enduring to the end shall be saved. And the good news about the kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it, and then, finally, the end will come. So when you see the horrible thing told by Daniel the prophet standing in a holy place, then those in Judea must flee into the Judean hills. Those on their porches must not even go inside to pack before they flee. Those in the fields must not return to their homes for their clothes. And woe to pregnant women and those with babies in those days. And pray that your flight will not be in winter or on the Sabbath. For there will be persecution such as the world has never before seen, and will never see again. In fact, unless those days are shortened, all mankind will perish. But they will be shortened for the sake of God's chosen people. Then if anyone tells you, The Messiah has arrived at such a place, or has appeared here or there, don't believe it. For false Christs shall arise, and false prophets, and will do wonderful miracles, so that if it were possible, even God's chosen ones would be deceived. See, I have warned you.' " (Mat 24:1-25)tlb
We can see that the world is bad. Jesus has warned us that it is going to get worse, much worse!
Do you remember the "Ghostbusters" movie from some years ago? The theme song said, "Don't go out alone, Oh No!" Take Christ with you, in all you do.
Pick up your ticket and boarding pass from Jesus at the counter. It is unbelievably easy; Confess your sins. Believe Christ died for you. Tell others.
Jesus paid the price! Get your ticket on Salvation Airlines!
See you soon at the Paradise Resort!
-an interview with a reporter-
(recording starts - sounds of chairs being pushed closer together)
OK, you're a reporter and you want me to talk with you about my nephew, Johnny? Is this off the record?
(the reporter's questions are much too faint to be heard clearly, and are represented here by the gaps between the responses)
Tell me, is he in trouble again?
Well, OK, I'll tell you about him, but you can't use our family name. We don't want to get arrested. You know those occupying jerks don't even let us complain. If they knew I'd spoken to you, I'd get tortured to death, and probably the whole family with me.
Right... you want to talk about Johnny... what do you want to know?
Well, he's my nephew, my wife's sister's son. He seemed liked a great kid, till he started running around with that group of peace-nicks. Those guys kept getting all the foreigners mad. We were afraid we'd all get killed!
You know, when he was little, he was really impressive. He even had this pet sheep named Dolly, or something like that. Some jerks from their army stole it, though, and roasted it one night. I bet that was when it all started. Some of his buddies and he got together trying to find some way of dealing with the injustice of it all. Maybe they lost valuable stuff to those foreign bullies, too.
Odd thing was we didn't think they were going to cause any real problems till that peculiar guy got to be Johnny's best friend, and then became leader of their club. He was eight or ten year older than Johnny, I think. Johnny really looked up to him, though, kind of like the older brother he never had.
To begin with, we all thought it was beneficial. Johnny needed a best friend. He'd never had one before. We kind of hoped he might pick up some woodworking skills from his buddy. You know, it sure seemed like they all got sort of flaky when even more guys started hanging around with them.
I've got to admit, he's been an adult for a some time, so even though I'll always think of him as a kid, I probably ought to refer to him as "John" instead of Johnny. Always did seem like the innocent one in the family, you know what I mean? But, whenever the subject of God came up, that whole group of his got kind of worked up, and went on and on about how folks should act towards each other, and interact with our Creator.
Right off they started roaming around the country, trying to get folks interested in their cause, doing odd tricks, and performing magic, or something. Everywhere they went, they'd get a crowd up and get them really agitated. Lots of the local church people started complaining to the government, and you know they'll raise our taxes (at least) if they get involved!
Those guys sure had some odd ideas pertaining to the value of people! Seems they felt kids were great to be around, instead of thinking of them as near-parasites like most of us do. They hung out with women with low morals, and even worse, those despicable tax collectors! Who can explain it?
But, I think things will probably start getting back to normal, now that the main instigator (John's buddy) was caught and put to death last Friday afternoon. Hopefully, people will start to realize that he was just another guy, not some sort of messiah, or something.
How did Johnny meet that guy? I think it was when we bought those two chairs from the local craftsman. Hey! Hang on a minute!
(sounds of furniture being moved about)
Yeah, I thought so... underneath this chair is the signature of "Yeheshua bar..." never mind. In your language it says the craftsman was Jesus, son of Joseph the carpenter. He sure did good work.
Yeah... I guess it'll always be Jesus and John... BFFs!
(recording ends)
OK, you're a reporter and you want me to talk with you about my nephew, Johnny? Is this off the record?
(the reporter's questions are much too faint to be heard clearly, and are represented here by the gaps between the responses)
Tell me, is he in trouble again?
Well, OK, I'll tell you about him, but you can't use our family name. We don't want to get arrested. You know those occupying jerks don't even let us complain. If they knew I'd spoken to you, I'd get tortured to death, and probably the whole family with me.
Right... you want to talk about Johnny... what do you want to know?
Well, he's my nephew, my wife's sister's son. He seemed liked a great kid, till he started running around with that group of peace-nicks. Those guys kept getting all the foreigners mad. We were afraid we'd all get killed!
You know, when he was little, he was really impressive. He even had this pet sheep named Dolly, or something like that. Some jerks from their army stole it, though, and roasted it one night. I bet that was when it all started. Some of his buddies and he got together trying to find some way of dealing with the injustice of it all. Maybe they lost valuable stuff to those foreign bullies, too.
Odd thing was we didn't think they were going to cause any real problems till that peculiar guy got to be Johnny's best friend, and then became leader of their club. He was eight or ten year older than Johnny, I think. Johnny really looked up to him, though, kind of like the older brother he never had.
To begin with, we all thought it was beneficial. Johnny needed a best friend. He'd never had one before. We kind of hoped he might pick up some woodworking skills from his buddy. You know, it sure seemed like they all got sort of flaky when even more guys started hanging around with them.
I've got to admit, he's been an adult for a some time, so even though I'll always think of him as a kid, I probably ought to refer to him as "John" instead of Johnny. Always did seem like the innocent one in the family, you know what I mean? But, whenever the subject of God came up, that whole group of his got kind of worked up, and went on and on about how folks should act towards each other, and interact with our Creator.
Right off they started roaming around the country, trying to get folks interested in their cause, doing odd tricks, and performing magic, or something. Everywhere they went, they'd get a crowd up and get them really agitated. Lots of the local church people started complaining to the government, and you know they'll raise our taxes (at least) if they get involved!
Those guys sure had some odd ideas pertaining to the value of people! Seems they felt kids were great to be around, instead of thinking of them as near-parasites like most of us do. They hung out with women with low morals, and even worse, those despicable tax collectors! Who can explain it?
But, I think things will probably start getting back to normal, now that the main instigator (John's buddy) was caught and put to death last Friday afternoon. Hopefully, people will start to realize that he was just another guy, not some sort of messiah, or something.
How did Johnny meet that guy? I think it was when we bought those two chairs from the local craftsman. Hey! Hang on a minute!
(sounds of furniture being moved about)
Yeah, I thought so... underneath this chair is the signature of "Yeheshua bar..." never mind. In your language it says the craftsman was Jesus, son of Joseph the carpenter. He sure did good work.
Yeah... I guess it'll always be Jesus and John... BFFs!
(recording ends)
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
We call her, Mary!
Jesus called her, mom.
Of all the women God could have chosen, why did He pick Mary, and not someone else? There were lineage requirements that the Bible mentions, and they had to be met, but still, God picked Mary.
"In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, 'Hail, O favored one, the Lord is with you!' But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered in her mind what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.' " (Luke 1:26-31)rsv
"And Mary said to the angel, 'How can this be, since I have no husband?' And the angel said to her, 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God.' "
(Luke 1:34-35)rsv
She was the one with whom God found favor. He was pleased with her. Of all women, she was the only one He found acceptable.
Keep in mind that God gifted women with something fantastic! Inside them, He placed a small part of His creation. They have they ability to house new life, and bring it forth. No man can ever say he was so blessed. It cannot be. Only women can bear children. I'm sure that some would probably rather forego this "honor," but this precious gift only they will ever have.
I ask every woman to think of the incredible honor that Mary received. God's Son was her child! She was NOT a foster mom! He was her son, too!
And I ask every man who ever reads this to consider what God thinks of women... He made them the way they are on purpose. You are the warrior, SHE is the (possibly potential) mother of your kids! And one girl became His Son's mom. Incredible, isn't it!
Love them the way God does!
See you soon, in Paradise.
Of all the women God could have chosen, why did He pick Mary, and not someone else? There were lineage requirements that the Bible mentions, and they had to be met, but still, God picked Mary.
"In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, 'Hail, O favored one, the Lord is with you!' But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered in her mind what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.' " (Luke 1:26-31)rsv
"And Mary said to the angel, 'How can this be, since I have no husband?' And the angel said to her, 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God.' "
(Luke 1:34-35)rsv
She was the one with whom God found favor. He was pleased with her. Of all women, she was the only one He found acceptable.
Keep in mind that God gifted women with something fantastic! Inside them, He placed a small part of His creation. They have they ability to house new life, and bring it forth. No man can ever say he was so blessed. It cannot be. Only women can bear children. I'm sure that some would probably rather forego this "honor," but this precious gift only they will ever have.
I ask every woman to think of the incredible honor that Mary received. God's Son was her child! She was NOT a foster mom! He was her son, too!
And I ask every man who ever reads this to consider what God thinks of women... He made them the way they are on purpose. You are the warrior, SHE is the (possibly potential) mother of your kids! And one girl became His Son's mom. Incredible, isn't it!
Love them the way God does!
See you soon, in Paradise.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Where is the evidence of your Passover Lamb?
"Then Moses called for all the elders of Israel, and said unto them, 'Draw out and take you a lamb according to your families, and kill the passover. And ye shall take a bunch of hyssop, and dip it in the blood that is in the basin, and strike the lintel and two side posts with the blood that is in the basin; and none of you shall go out of the door of his house until the morning. For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when He seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, the LORD will pass over the door and will not suffer the destroyer to come into your house to smite you. And ye shall observe this thing for an accordance to thee and to thy sons forever.' " (Ex 12:21-24)kjv
"Now the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called the passover. And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him; for they feared the people." (Luke 22:2)kjv
"Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed." (Luke 22:7)kjv
"Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bead of sincerity and truth." (1Cor 5:7-8)kjv
"Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them." (Heb 11:28)kjv
Christians have been adopted into (or grafted onto, if you prefer) the Jewish faith. We have inherited salvation, not because we deserve it, but because we have accepted Jesus' death for us, confessed our sinful nature, and proclaim our beliefs to others.
Jesus was, and is, our Passover Lamb for eternity! In no way have we ever done anything deserving of His sacrifice! Yet He freely offered Himself up for each of us!
Does the blood of our Passover Lamb show on your lintel and side posts? Do you proclaim Him as your Savior?
Or have you scrubbed all evidence off your doorway, so as not to be different from everyone else? To be "politically correct?" To not "offend?"
Jesus offered Himself up as our Passover Lamb! Wear His sacrifice with pride! He said you were worth it.
Prove Him right, and ask everyone to join us in Paradise!
"Now the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called the passover. And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him; for they feared the people." (Luke 22:2)kjv
"Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed." (Luke 22:7)kjv
"Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bead of sincerity and truth." (1Cor 5:7-8)kjv
"Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them." (Heb 11:28)kjv
Christians have been adopted into (or grafted onto, if you prefer) the Jewish faith. We have inherited salvation, not because we deserve it, but because we have accepted Jesus' death for us, confessed our sinful nature, and proclaim our beliefs to others.
Jesus was, and is, our Passover Lamb for eternity! In no way have we ever done anything deserving of His sacrifice! Yet He freely offered Himself up for each of us!
Does the blood of our Passover Lamb show on your lintel and side posts? Do you proclaim Him as your Savior?
Or have you scrubbed all evidence off your doorway, so as not to be different from everyone else? To be "politically correct?" To not "offend?"
Jesus offered Himself up as our Passover Lamb! Wear His sacrifice with pride! He said you were worth it.
Prove Him right, and ask everyone to join us in Paradise!
God Bless America
..........God Bless America,
..........Land that I love.
..........Stand beside her, and guide her
..........Thru the night with a light from above.
..........From the mountains, to the prairies,
..........To the oceans, white with foam
..........God bless America, My home sweet home.
..........God bless America, My home sweet home.
This has always been one of my favorite songs, right up there with the "Star Spangled Banner." "God Bless America" was written and copyrighted a LONG time ago by Irving Berlin. Kate Smith's rendition could put tears into almost everyone's eyes. I've worn out several 78rpm records of this song.
(For those of you under 50, a 78rpm was a bit smaller than a 33 1/3rpm LP record, but VERY easy to break. For those of you under 30, a record was the "old version" of a CD, but they became worn through use because they relied on a pick-up needle that rubbed on the surface constantly while playing.)
In this song, we asked God to bless our country, and He did! America has nearly always been called "The Land of Opportunity," and with good reason! This one region of the earth was packed with what we consider "wealth," but, had not been befouled by human hands. Well, at least, not until recently.
Still, we, as American citizens, were VERY proud of our country. And here is, I think, the origin of our downfall. Every time God has blessed any particular people, they begin to believe that they are the authors of their own good fortune. God starts to receive less and less of the credit. He starts becoming viewed as a hindrance to "business as usual."
Look around you! Can you name ONE politician who gives God the credit He deserves?
..........Land that I love.
..........Stand beside her, and guide her
..........Thru the night with a light from above.
..........From the mountains, to the prairies,
..........To the oceans, white with foam
..........God bless America, My home sweet home.
..........God bless America, My home sweet home.
This has always been one of my favorite songs, right up there with the "Star Spangled Banner." "God Bless America" was written and copyrighted a LONG time ago by Irving Berlin. Kate Smith's rendition could put tears into almost everyone's eyes. I've worn out several 78rpm records of this song.
(For those of you under 50, a 78rpm was a bit smaller than a 33 1/3rpm LP record, but VERY easy to break. For those of you under 30, a record was the "old version" of a CD, but they became worn through use because they relied on a pick-up needle that rubbed on the surface constantly while playing.)
In this song, we asked God to bless our country, and He did! America has nearly always been called "The Land of Opportunity," and with good reason! This one region of the earth was packed with what we consider "wealth," but, had not been befouled by human hands. Well, at least, not until recently.
Still, we, as American citizens, were VERY proud of our country. And here is, I think, the origin of our downfall. Every time God has blessed any particular people, they begin to believe that they are the authors of their own good fortune. God starts to receive less and less of the credit. He starts becoming viewed as a hindrance to "business as usual."
Look around you! Can you name ONE politician who gives God the credit He deserves?
Does any business come to mind that puts even some of their profit back into preserving this incredible land that God made?
As people "move up" in society, they always get more wasteful of God's gifts. We feel we have to "reflect our position." A bigger house, a bigger car, more clothes, more jewels, more electronic gadgets, more vacations, and there is no end in sight!
There are millions of people who have nothing! Helping them to survive, reaching them with God's Word, assisting them in educating their kids... Is any new SUV more important than that?
Throughout history, there have been other "civilizations" that have squandered God's blessings, and turned gradually to evil ways.
Sodom...
Babylon...
Gomorrah...
Nineveh...
Eventually, God became so disgusted with their evil ways that He was forced to destroy them, but that will never happen to us, right? After all, we only encourage filth and degradation like; drugs, murder of unborn babies, homosexuality false gods and Satanism. While all this is transpiring, we are handicapping those want to spread God's word here by making it a "hate crime" to respect God.
As people "move up" in society, they always get more wasteful of God's gifts. We feel we have to "reflect our position." A bigger house, a bigger car, more clothes, more jewels, more electronic gadgets, more vacations, and there is no end in sight!
There are millions of people who have nothing! Helping them to survive, reaching them with God's Word, assisting them in educating their kids... Is any new SUV more important than that?
Throughout history, there have been other "civilizations" that have squandered God's blessings, and turned gradually to evil ways.
Sodom...
Babylon...
Gomorrah...
Nineveh...
Eventually, God became so disgusted with their evil ways that He was forced to destroy them, but that will never happen to us, right? After all, we only encourage filth and degradation like; drugs, murder of unborn babies, homosexuality false gods and Satanism. While all this is transpiring, we are handicapping those want to spread God's word here by making it a "hate crime" to respect God.
Brother, when His wrath is finally roused against America... I don't think anybody will survive.
"O Lord, do not rebuke me in Your anger or discipline me in Your rage. Have compassion on me, Lord, for I am weak. Heal me, Lord, for my body is in agony. I am sick at heart. How long, O Lord, until You restore me? Return, O Lord, and rescue me. Save me because of Your unfailing love. For in death, who remembers You? Who can praise you from the grave? I am worn out from sobbing. Every night tears drench my bed; my pillow is wet from weeping. My vision is blurred by grief; my eyes are worn out because of all my enemies. Go away, all you who do evil, for the Lord has heard my crying. The Lord has heard my plea, the Lord will answer my prayer. May all my enemies be disgraced and terrified. May they suddenly turn back in shame." (Psalm 6)nlt
Does America have time to turn back to God's way? That is not up to us. How angry is God with our selfishness? Is there a chance to turn the country back to God? I hope so.
Do your part. Spread God's Word! Get His message out! Don't put yourself first. Always remember; Nobody... no thing is more important than God! Nothing even comes close!
Remember... Love one another as God has loved you!
"O Lord, do not rebuke me in Your anger or discipline me in Your rage. Have compassion on me, Lord, for I am weak. Heal me, Lord, for my body is in agony. I am sick at heart. How long, O Lord, until You restore me? Return, O Lord, and rescue me. Save me because of Your unfailing love. For in death, who remembers You? Who can praise you from the grave? I am worn out from sobbing. Every night tears drench my bed; my pillow is wet from weeping. My vision is blurred by grief; my eyes are worn out because of all my enemies. Go away, all you who do evil, for the Lord has heard my crying. The Lord has heard my plea, the Lord will answer my prayer. May all my enemies be disgraced and terrified. May they suddenly turn back in shame." (Psalm 6)nlt
Does America have time to turn back to God's way? That is not up to us. How angry is God with our selfishness? Is there a chance to turn the country back to God? I hope so.
Do your part. Spread God's Word! Get His message out! Don't put yourself first. Always remember; Nobody... no thing is more important than God! Nothing even comes close!
Remember... Love one another as God has loved you!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Hey! Who loves ya?
I've heard this as a greeting, quite a few times. It was much more common 40 years ago, but I still hear it occasionally today.
Who loves you?
Without thinking about it, we Christians always say, "God loves us..."
It is time to think about it. God, our Lord, our Creator... He gave up His only Son for us, for you, for me! Think of it this way. Whom do you care enough about that you'd willingly give up your child's life for that person?
Anybody?
My kids have all been grown for some time, so for me, the question has always been a bit blurred. For some reason, today, I considered this question from the standpoint of my feelings for my granddaughter.
Wow! Boy, did that ever put it into perspective for me! There is nobody on this planet I value anywhere near as much as one scratch on my Princess! Nobody! Not even if you put everyone who's ever lived onto the other side of the equation! If anybody ever hurts her in the slightest way, he better get struck by lightning before I get there! Could God possibly care any less for His Son? I think not!
And yet... He did sacrifice His only Son. And He did it to save countless people who showed Him no respect, no concern and no love. It really boggles the mind. He loves even people who live an evil lifestyle, & loves them enough that His own Son was not too big a price to pay!
Look at how He's been paid back. Crime, lies, filth, and various forms of unspeakable vileness are commonplace today. A large percentage of people don't want to even be bothered with God. Who among us would have been capable of enduring all this satanic back-stabbing?
"And the Lord thy God will circumcise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live." (Deut 30:6)kjv
"...and I will say to them which were not my people, Thou art my people; and they shall say, thou art my God." (Hos 2:23)kjv
"The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will rejoice over thee with singing." (Zeph 3:17)kjv
"But God commanded his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life."
(Rom 5:8-10)kjv
Almost puts tears in your eyes, doesn't it? And it should! God loves us all with a love that infinitely exceeds anything we are capable of! Jesus died for each one of us. My sins killed Him, so did yours, so did the sins of each and every person who's ever lived. He died on the cross to save each of us.
Separately...
Individually...
Completely...
There is no way to respond to a love like that, except to hit your knees, thanking Him with all that you have, promising to do better, and meaning it.
Then get out and tell (or remind) others; after all, He values each of them that much, too.
See you soon, in Paradise!
Who loves you?
Without thinking about it, we Christians always say, "God loves us..."
It is time to think about it. God, our Lord, our Creator... He gave up His only Son for us, for you, for me! Think of it this way. Whom do you care enough about that you'd willingly give up your child's life for that person?
Anybody?
My kids have all been grown for some time, so for me, the question has always been a bit blurred. For some reason, today, I considered this question from the standpoint of my feelings for my granddaughter.
Wow! Boy, did that ever put it into perspective for me! There is nobody on this planet I value anywhere near as much as one scratch on my Princess! Nobody! Not even if you put everyone who's ever lived onto the other side of the equation! If anybody ever hurts her in the slightest way, he better get struck by lightning before I get there! Could God possibly care any less for His Son? I think not!
And yet... He did sacrifice His only Son. And He did it to save countless people who showed Him no respect, no concern and no love. It really boggles the mind. He loves even people who live an evil lifestyle, & loves them enough that His own Son was not too big a price to pay!
Look at how He's been paid back. Crime, lies, filth, and various forms of unspeakable vileness are commonplace today. A large percentage of people don't want to even be bothered with God. Who among us would have been capable of enduring all this satanic back-stabbing?
"And the Lord thy God will circumcise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live." (Deut 30:6)kjv
"...and I will say to them which were not my people, Thou art my people; and they shall say, thou art my God." (Hos 2:23)kjv
"The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will rejoice over thee with singing." (Zeph 3:17)kjv
"But God commanded his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life."
(Rom 5:8-10)kjv
Almost puts tears in your eyes, doesn't it? And it should! God loves us all with a love that infinitely exceeds anything we are capable of! Jesus died for each one of us. My sins killed Him, so did yours, so did the sins of each and every person who's ever lived. He died on the cross to save each of us.
Separately...
Individually...
Completely...
There is no way to respond to a love like that, except to hit your knees, thanking Him with all that you have, promising to do better, and meaning it.
Then get out and tell (or remind) others; after all, He values each of them that much, too.
See you soon, in Paradise!
Giving Thanks
Do you?
Most people don't... even most who consider themselves Christians.
We have it so easy today. Our world is fast-paced, automated & mechanized. If you're thirsty, you don't have to walk to a well or creek, you pop the top on a cola. Hungry? You head to McBurgers just down the block. Almost no one today has to farm, hunt, fish or scavenge, just to survive. We eat and drink without thinking about it. It has become part of our background.
Our kids pick our attitudes up from us. When you grab a snack at a convenience store, do you thank God for the candy and drink? Your kids won't, either. They've learned it from you. When they grow up and have their own children, those kids (your grandkids!) will be even less likely to give thanks.
The bible says; "...unto the seventh generation" remember?
God has given us so much, and if we're honest, we don't deserve any of it. Give thanks to Him! Do it now. Be vocal. Be sure your kids hear you, and ask them to join in.
Remember, He did not have to make things any easier on us than it was in Moses' time!
He has even allowed us to have modern technology. If it were not for the internet, I couldn't even post this message at all. Thanks, God!
Till we meet again, in Paradise!
Most people don't... even most who consider themselves Christians.
We have it so easy today. Our world is fast-paced, automated & mechanized. If you're thirsty, you don't have to walk to a well or creek, you pop the top on a cola. Hungry? You head to McBurgers just down the block. Almost no one today has to farm, hunt, fish or scavenge, just to survive. We eat and drink without thinking about it. It has become part of our background.
Our kids pick our attitudes up from us. When you grab a snack at a convenience store, do you thank God for the candy and drink? Your kids won't, either. They've learned it from you. When they grow up and have their own children, those kids (your grandkids!) will be even less likely to give thanks.
The bible says; "...unto the seventh generation" remember?
God has given us so much, and if we're honest, we don't deserve any of it. Give thanks to Him! Do it now. Be vocal. Be sure your kids hear you, and ask them to join in.
Remember, He did not have to make things any easier on us than it was in Moses' time!
He has even allowed us to have modern technology. If it were not for the internet, I couldn't even post this message at all. Thanks, God!
Till we meet again, in Paradise!
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Discernment: blessing or curse?
Tell the truth, would you really want to know every time someone was lying to you?
Now I'm not talking about the kind of tales that were common when I was a kid. Not too many people had a TV back then, most everyone I knew had a radio set, though. Sometimes, if there was nothing else to do, later on that evening one of the uncles or neighbors would get a far-away gleam in his eye, and start up with;
"Well, I mind me of the time my buddy Rupert and me was campin' out late. Some sort of a ruckus came up, an' naturally we lit out to investigate. We seen a critter comin' an' we roped it in the dark. Struggled with that varmint for three whole days, let me tell you. When we finally got 'im tuckered out, we had us a 1200 pound jackalope. For the next 3 years, or so... we saddled 'im up an' rode 'im to all the shindigs here about. Impressed them ladies, too, let me tell you!"
The surroundings, the sparkle in the old man's eye and his grin always told us this was a "yarn," not to ever be confused with reality in any way shape or form. But this is not the type of untruth that makes the hair on the back of your neck shiver and makes you feel as though a cold wind is blowing. I thank God it doesn't happen often.
Discernment is not the most heavily mentioned "gift" in the bible. Sometimes, the reference is vague, at best.
"...You are like babies who drink only milk and cannot eat solid food. And a person who is living on milk isn't very far along in Christian life and doesn't know much about doing what is right. Solid food is for those who are mature, who have trained themselves to recognize the difference between right and wrong and then do what is right." (Heb 5:12-14)nlt
See what I mean, this is not much of a description. But this next is more to the point;
"Yes, the king will give us peace of mind again. I know that you are like an angel of God and can discern good from evil. May the Lord your God be with you." (2 Sam 14:17)nlt
Right from wrong, good from evil, there seems to be a pattern here.
" 'Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?' And the speech pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this thing. And God said unto him, 'Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor has asked the life of thine enemies; but has asked for thyself understanding to discern judgement; Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo I have given thee a wise and understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.' " (1King 3:9-12)kjv
There never was, nor will there ever be, another Solomon. I am very thankful that God gave him this gift, he needed it. There are times, however, when I wish I had none of it. I am thankful it doesn't usually kick in, but when it does, the little bit of discernment I "enjoy" is very unsettling. Would you REALLY like to know when a cop was lying to you? How about your preacher or a cashier at the grocery store? We normally expect sleazy jerks to lie to us, though, that isn't the problem. If it is someone you trust, the stab is deep.
I once had a business appointment with a guy I thought I knew. As I walked up, I noticed his office door was open, so I stuck my head around the corner to announce myself. For about 2 seconds, I saw (at his desk) a human-sized outline with some substance that looked a bit lizard-like. It glanced my way with an annoyed look, then vanished. To this day, I feel I saw that guy's spirit controller. I've never trusted that man since. Rarely have I spoken of this with others, but several have told me that he has lied profusely to them, mostly about other people. Was it just discernment acting in my behalf? I suppose I'll have to ask God about it someday.
Remember this; God gives all of us various gifts. We have no control over which, or why. It is His choice. Make the most of what He's given you. Invest the "talent" on His behalf.
We can compare notes when we meet in Paradise!
Now I'm not talking about the kind of tales that were common when I was a kid. Not too many people had a TV back then, most everyone I knew had a radio set, though. Sometimes, if there was nothing else to do, later on that evening one of the uncles or neighbors would get a far-away gleam in his eye, and start up with;
"Well, I mind me of the time my buddy Rupert and me was campin' out late. Some sort of a ruckus came up, an' naturally we lit out to investigate. We seen a critter comin' an' we roped it in the dark. Struggled with that varmint for three whole days, let me tell you. When we finally got 'im tuckered out, we had us a 1200 pound jackalope. For the next 3 years, or so... we saddled 'im up an' rode 'im to all the shindigs here about. Impressed them ladies, too, let me tell you!"
The surroundings, the sparkle in the old man's eye and his grin always told us this was a "yarn," not to ever be confused with reality in any way shape or form. But this is not the type of untruth that makes the hair on the back of your neck shiver and makes you feel as though a cold wind is blowing. I thank God it doesn't happen often.
Discernment is not the most heavily mentioned "gift" in the bible. Sometimes, the reference is vague, at best.
"...You are like babies who drink only milk and cannot eat solid food. And a person who is living on milk isn't very far along in Christian life and doesn't know much about doing what is right. Solid food is for those who are mature, who have trained themselves to recognize the difference between right and wrong and then do what is right." (Heb 5:12-14)nlt
See what I mean, this is not much of a description. But this next is more to the point;
"Yes, the king will give us peace of mind again. I know that you are like an angel of God and can discern good from evil. May the Lord your God be with you." (2 Sam 14:17)nlt
Right from wrong, good from evil, there seems to be a pattern here.
" 'Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?' And the speech pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this thing. And God said unto him, 'Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor has asked the life of thine enemies; but has asked for thyself understanding to discern judgement; Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo I have given thee a wise and understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.' " (1King 3:9-12)kjv
There never was, nor will there ever be, another Solomon. I am very thankful that God gave him this gift, he needed it. There are times, however, when I wish I had none of it. I am thankful it doesn't usually kick in, but when it does, the little bit of discernment I "enjoy" is very unsettling. Would you REALLY like to know when a cop was lying to you? How about your preacher or a cashier at the grocery store? We normally expect sleazy jerks to lie to us, though, that isn't the problem. If it is someone you trust, the stab is deep.
I once had a business appointment with a guy I thought I knew. As I walked up, I noticed his office door was open, so I stuck my head around the corner to announce myself. For about 2 seconds, I saw (at his desk) a human-sized outline with some substance that looked a bit lizard-like. It glanced my way with an annoyed look, then vanished. To this day, I feel I saw that guy's spirit controller. I've never trusted that man since. Rarely have I spoken of this with others, but several have told me that he has lied profusely to them, mostly about other people. Was it just discernment acting in my behalf? I suppose I'll have to ask God about it someday.
Remember this; God gives all of us various gifts. We have no control over which, or why. It is His choice. Make the most of what He's given you. Invest the "talent" on His behalf.
We can compare notes when we meet in Paradise!
Friday, July 1, 2011
The Commandments - part 3 - Jesus' explanation
"One of the teachers of religion who was standing there listening to the discussion realized that Jesus had answered well. So he asked, 'Of all the commandments, which is the most important?' Jesus replied, 'The one that says 'Hear O Israel! The Lord our God is the one and only God. And you must love Him with all your heart and soul and mind and strength.' 'The second is, 'You must love others as much as yourself.' No other commandments are greater than these." (Mark 12:28-30)tlb
Jesus explanation was both profound and simple. If we love the Lord with all we have, and love others as much as we care for ourselves, we will obey the law and break none of His commandments.
"The teacher of religious law replied, 'Well said, teacher. You have spoken the truth by saying there is only one God and no other. And I know it is important to love Him with all my heart, and all my understanding, and all my strength, and to love my neighbors as myself. This is more important than to offer all the burnt offerings and sacrifices required in the law.'
Realizing this man's understanding, Jesus said to him, 'You are not far from the kingdom of God.' " (Mark 12:32-34)nlt
How far are we from God's kingdom?
Jesus explanation was both profound and simple. If we love the Lord with all we have, and love others as much as we care for ourselves, we will obey the law and break none of His commandments.
"The teacher of religious law replied, 'Well said, teacher. You have spoken the truth by saying there is only one God and no other. And I know it is important to love Him with all my heart, and all my understanding, and all my strength, and to love my neighbors as myself. This is more important than to offer all the burnt offerings and sacrifices required in the law.'
Realizing this man's understanding, Jesus said to him, 'You are not far from the kingdom of God.' " (Mark 12:32-34)nlt
How far are we from God's kingdom?
Ten Commandments - part 2
These commandments pertain to the ways people deal with each other...
"Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which the Lord your God gives you. You shall not kill. You shall not commit adultery. You shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant, or his maidservant, or his ox, or his ass, or anything that is your neighbor's." (Ex 20:12-17)rsv
I am aware that some religions divide up the last one, then combine two of the earlier into one, but there are still ten, no matter how you read it.
Respect your parents, and by inference, all your relatives.
Do not kill or hurt one anyone.
Never engage in any sex with anyone not your spouse.
Never take what is not yours.
Never lie about another human being.
Never wish for stuff that isn't yours.
Some of this is so obvious that it makes you wonder just how dense we humans can be. All your older relatives deserve your respect, even when they've done something wrong. Are you perfect? Me neither... and your family is responsible for your being here. Show them some respect.
Don't kill people. God gave each of them the same right to be here as you. I know there are times when it is unavoidable; war, self-defense, etc, but if you kill someone, that individual no longer has the ability to be forgiven for his/her wrongdoings. This is a tough one for some people, I know. If somebody tried to hurt my wife or granddaughter, I'd fight back with everything I have. Yet I know that anguish would eat me up, forever.
Sex is sex, despite what an ex-president tried to claim. Sex with anyone, even imaginary sex, is wrong unless the other person is your spouse. God intended us to be modern-day Adam and Eve couples. One man, one woman, acting as one completed person. Anything else is forbidden. Its that simple.
If something isn't yours, don't take it. Wishing for it, thinking you deserve it, figuring out ways around laws... none of these make you the owner of something that belongs to someone else. Get used to it.
Don't ever tell a lie about anybody! This is not to say you cannot tell bedtime stories or fairy tales. Just don't say anything about someone that isn't true. You shouldn't hurt their reputation, you wouldn't want them to mess-up yours.
Don't wish for things you don't have. You can get out and work to better yourself and your family, but don't base your life on outdoing your neighbor. You don't need his house, car, dog, lifestyle, bills or anything else. Wishing for your neighbor's spouse is really stupid, beside breaking two commandments, would you really want to make a life-choice based on anyone's infidelity?
God gives us these rules for a reason. He knows we are easily misled. He knows we will pay way too much attention to Satan's words at some point in our lives. Having these rules "set in stone" gives us a bit more "backbone" when that time comes.
Thank God He loves us enough to spell these things out!
OK, so you "blow it" once in a while. Do you give up? No way! God still loves you! Hit your knees, tell Him you're sorry, and strive to never mess up again. You won't be completely successful (who is?), but you have to start over.
Thank God for second chances, too.
See you soon, in Paradise.
"Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which the Lord your God gives you. You shall not kill. You shall not commit adultery. You shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant, or his maidservant, or his ox, or his ass, or anything that is your neighbor's." (Ex 20:12-17)rsv
I am aware that some religions divide up the last one, then combine two of the earlier into one, but there are still ten, no matter how you read it.
Respect your parents, and by inference, all your relatives.
Do not kill or hurt one anyone.
Never engage in any sex with anyone not your spouse.
Never take what is not yours.
Never lie about another human being.
Never wish for stuff that isn't yours.
Some of this is so obvious that it makes you wonder just how dense we humans can be. All your older relatives deserve your respect, even when they've done something wrong. Are you perfect? Me neither... and your family is responsible for your being here. Show them some respect.
Don't kill people. God gave each of them the same right to be here as you. I know there are times when it is unavoidable; war, self-defense, etc, but if you kill someone, that individual no longer has the ability to be forgiven for his/her wrongdoings. This is a tough one for some people, I know. If somebody tried to hurt my wife or granddaughter, I'd fight back with everything I have. Yet I know that anguish would eat me up, forever.
Sex is sex, despite what an ex-president tried to claim. Sex with anyone, even imaginary sex, is wrong unless the other person is your spouse. God intended us to be modern-day Adam and Eve couples. One man, one woman, acting as one completed person. Anything else is forbidden. Its that simple.
If something isn't yours, don't take it. Wishing for it, thinking you deserve it, figuring out ways around laws... none of these make you the owner of something that belongs to someone else. Get used to it.
Don't ever tell a lie about anybody! This is not to say you cannot tell bedtime stories or fairy tales. Just don't say anything about someone that isn't true. You shouldn't hurt their reputation, you wouldn't want them to mess-up yours.
Don't wish for things you don't have. You can get out and work to better yourself and your family, but don't base your life on outdoing your neighbor. You don't need his house, car, dog, lifestyle, bills or anything else. Wishing for your neighbor's spouse is really stupid, beside breaking two commandments, would you really want to make a life-choice based on anyone's infidelity?
God gives us these rules for a reason. He knows we are easily misled. He knows we will pay way too much attention to Satan's words at some point in our lives. Having these rules "set in stone" gives us a bit more "backbone" when that time comes.
Thank God He loves us enough to spell these things out!
OK, so you "blow it" once in a while. Do you give up? No way! God still loves you! Hit your knees, tell Him you're sorry, and strive to never mess up again. You won't be completely successful (who is?), but you have to start over.
Thank God for second chances, too.
See you soon, in Paradise.
The Ten Commandments
No, They are NOT called the Ten Suggestions!
God loves us all so much that He knew we'd need rules to live by. These rules were set in stone, so that we'd realize that they are permanent. The first four pertain to propriety with respect to God. The rest deal with human interaction. First, let us take a look at the commands that show respect to our Lord;
"I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from slavery in Egypt. Do not worship any other gods besides Me. Do not make idols of any kind, whether in the shape of birds or animals or fish. You must never worship or bow down to them, for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God who will not share your affection with any other god! I do not leave unpunished the sins of those who hate me, but I punish the children for the sins of their parents to the third and fourth generation. But I lavish My love on those who love Me and obey my commands, even for a thousand generations. Do not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse His Name. Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days a week are set apart for your daily duties and regular work, but the seventh day is a day of rest, dedicated to the Lord your God. On that day no one in your household may do any kind of work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your livestock, and any foreigners living among you. For in six days, the Lord made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them; then He rested on the seventh day. That is why the Lord blessed the Sabbath, and set it apart as holy." (Ex 20:2-11)nlt
So, I am the Lord - your God (I Am is God's name, remember)
Never worship or place a higher value on anything else!
Do not ever misuse God's name!
The Sabbath must forever be reserved for God as a sign of respect to Him!
As Christians, we are "adopted" children of Israel. We must obey God's Laws. Do we obey even these first few all the time? Something startles you, you hit your thumb hard, you fall and tear your hose... what do you say? Is respecting God more important in your house than weekend outings? Have you ever "held out" just a bit, on what you know your tithe should be so you could go to the movies?
Does making excuses make it right?
Put God first! Look at what He's done for you!
Next time - the commands that deal with human interaction...
See you soon, in Paradise!
God loves us all so much that He knew we'd need rules to live by. These rules were set in stone, so that we'd realize that they are permanent. The first four pertain to propriety with respect to God. The rest deal with human interaction. First, let us take a look at the commands that show respect to our Lord;
"I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from slavery in Egypt. Do not worship any other gods besides Me. Do not make idols of any kind, whether in the shape of birds or animals or fish. You must never worship or bow down to them, for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God who will not share your affection with any other god! I do not leave unpunished the sins of those who hate me, but I punish the children for the sins of their parents to the third and fourth generation. But I lavish My love on those who love Me and obey my commands, even for a thousand generations. Do not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse His Name. Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days a week are set apart for your daily duties and regular work, but the seventh day is a day of rest, dedicated to the Lord your God. On that day no one in your household may do any kind of work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your livestock, and any foreigners living among you. For in six days, the Lord made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them; then He rested on the seventh day. That is why the Lord blessed the Sabbath, and set it apart as holy." (Ex 20:2-11)nlt
So, I am the Lord - your God (I Am is God's name, remember)
Never worship or place a higher value on anything else!
Do not ever misuse God's name!
The Sabbath must forever be reserved for God as a sign of respect to Him!
As Christians, we are "adopted" children of Israel. We must obey God's Laws. Do we obey even these first few all the time? Something startles you, you hit your thumb hard, you fall and tear your hose... what do you say? Is respecting God more important in your house than weekend outings? Have you ever "held out" just a bit, on what you know your tithe should be so you could go to the movies?
Does making excuses make it right?
Put God first! Look at what He's done for you!
Next time - the commands that deal with human interaction...
See you soon, in Paradise!
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