Those we allow in our lives says something about us.
We will become like those we spend time with, those whom are a big part of our life will influence our behavior. When we are not strong and bold, we are being changed by the evil person.
1 Corinthians 15:33
"33 Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.”
There are two reasons we keep difficult and rebellious people in our lives, the first is that we are afraid others will judge us for having boundaries concerning our friends, and the second reason is that a part of us likes the attention from our unruly friend.
If you think you cannot be influenced by your friends behavior, watch what you do when you are around them. Many people refuse to rebuke or correct in any fashion, their friends, thus becoming the supporters by silence, of the very things we do not agree with.
Some people are very proud of their silence as though it is godly, yes, the devil wants to convince you that silence to keep the peace is godly, but in fact it is playing into the hands of the one who rebels against God. There is a time for silence, however when we find ourselves remaining silent most of the time, then we know our friend is not a friend at all, but an emotional intimidater who has managed to gag us to be able to control us and everyone in their sphere.
When we remain silent long enough about things we disagree with, eventually we will become what we didn't approve of until our true self is lost in the shadow of the rebellious friend.
When we do not stand against sin and rebellion, our wicked friend is further empowered and the righteous side of us disappears.
This disappearance of self and support for sin, translates into loving our friend more than we love God. It also manages to support the actions of the evil one against others, so others are not very important either. Does anyone notice the lack of love for others demonstrated here?
Matthew 10:36-38 "36 A man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.’ 37 Anyone who loves his father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me; 38 and anyone who does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me.…"
The test of a true friendship is when we can stand for righteousness and our friend accepts it. When our friend can only love us when we think like they do, then there is no authentic friendship. The friendship is based on the believer remaining silent all the time, meaning the evil friend is continually being empowered to remain evil, while affecting the attitude and actions of the believer and others around them.
2 Timothy 3:5 tells us to get away from the evil people, if they will not leave, then we are to avoid them. We cannot always get away from family members who live with us, but we can avoid their tactics, remain strong and ignore their tantrums.
If you love God, speak up! You will lose friends until God replaces them with lovely people who agree with God. Don't miss out on the blessing of lovely God fearing people. The wicked friends in our life will often chase away the Godly ones. A Godly person has no desire to be with the wicked and their foolishness any longer than it takes to give them the gospel.
Friendships are based on mutual respect and love. When our friend shows us no respect, intimates they have no interest in our walk with God, even negating it, it is time to be alone for awhile as we wait for the friends God has for us.
Thursday, August 31, 2017
Rejection From the Proud
It has been six or seven years since we saw our son's family. There is a spirit of anger that has taken the hearts of many people in our children's generation, much of their bitterness is without reason. They did this to Jesus Christ, accusing Him of doing miracles by means of the devil. We too will not escape this as long as we love Christ.
If the anger were rational and there was love in their hearts, they would want to work things out, speak openly and listen intently, but because the anger is irrational, there is a refusal to speak or listen without hate and contempt in their voices. I am convinced that the devil has twisted their minds, causing them to believe there is a reason to be angry, when there is not. The only solution is for these raging adults to find Christ.
Until the angry entitled and rebellious generation is able to come to the end of themselves, there can be no relationships around the Lord, they will either be superficial or they will be broken.
John 15:24-26 "…24 If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin; but now they have seen and hated both Me and My Father. 25 But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: ‘They hated Me without reason.’ 26 When the Advocate comes, whom I will send you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—He will testify about Me.…"
When you are reviled, are following Christ and have prayed to understand why there is contempt toward you, my guess is that you are being maligned because of Christ Who lives in you.
In my personal life there are those who have gossiped behind my back but will not talk to me, they prefer to believe the gossip rather than know truth. Perhaps it is sin within the heart of the revilers that they are hiding, openness is not an option for them, it might expose their sinful hearts.
1 Peter 4:12-19 "1 Peter 4:12-19
12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.
16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator."
If the anger were rational and there was love in their hearts, they would want to work things out, speak openly and listen intently, but because the anger is irrational, there is a refusal to speak or listen without hate and contempt in their voices. I am convinced that the devil has twisted their minds, causing them to believe there is a reason to be angry, when there is not. The only solution is for these raging adults to find Christ.
Until the angry entitled and rebellious generation is able to come to the end of themselves, there can be no relationships around the Lord, they will either be superficial or they will be broken.
John 15:24-26 "…24 If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin; but now they have seen and hated both Me and My Father. 25 But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: ‘They hated Me without reason.’ 26 When the Advocate comes, whom I will send you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—He will testify about Me.…"
When you are reviled, are following Christ and have prayed to understand why there is contempt toward you, my guess is that you are being maligned because of Christ Who lives in you.
In my personal life there are those who have gossiped behind my back but will not talk to me, they prefer to believe the gossip rather than know truth. Perhaps it is sin within the heart of the revilers that they are hiding, openness is not an option for them, it might expose their sinful hearts.
1 Peter 4:12-19 "1 Peter 4:12-19
12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.
16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator."
Confession is Continual
It is only through confession that we grow in holiness, it is the first step in realizing a need in us to be changed further by Christ. Those who will not confess, do not grow, they even regress, becoming worse the longer they refuse to confess.
James 5:15-16 "…15 And the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick. The Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail. "
And,
1 John 1:8-10 "…8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say we have not sinned, we make Him out to be a liar, and His word is not in us.…"
James 5:15-16 "…15 And the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick. The Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail. "
And,
1 John 1:8-10 "…8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say we have not sinned, we make Him out to be a liar, and His word is not in us.…"
The Jewish Feasts
The Jewish feasts are for Israel! Not the church!! Has nothing to do with the Age of Grace!
I have been dealing with people for years who think they must "get all the leaven out of their house" for "Hanukkah." I have to laugh because the attempt is futile, since it is just as impossible to purge the leaven out of our kitchens as it is out of our lives. Those who have done this find they are throwing out nearly everything in their pantries. LOL
It is only Christ working in us Who can cleanse us, not by our own deeds but by His discipline and redirection.
Hebrews 12:5-7 "5 And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons: “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, or lose heart when He rebukes you. 6 For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises everyone He receives as a son.” 7 Endure suffering as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?…"
Ephesians 2:10
"10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
I have been dealing with people for years who think they must "get all the leaven out of their house" for "Hanukkah." I have to laugh because the attempt is futile, since it is just as impossible to purge the leaven out of our kitchens as it is out of our lives. Those who have done this find they are throwing out nearly everything in their pantries. LOL
It is only Christ working in us Who can cleanse us, not by our own deeds but by His discipline and redirection.
Hebrews 12:5-7 "5 And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons: “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, or lose heart when He rebukes you. 6 For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises everyone He receives as a son.” 7 Endure suffering as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?…"
Ephesians 2:10
"10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
Good or Bad?
The devil is very clever at making bad things look good and good things look bad.
He is also very good at making born again people look bad while elevating wicked people to appear good.
If the world loves something or someone, it is a good bet they are not.
Isaiah 5:20 "Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that count darkness as light, and light as darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!"
He is also very good at making born again people look bad while elevating wicked people to appear good.
If the world loves something or someone, it is a good bet they are not.
Isaiah 5:20 "Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that count darkness as light, and light as darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!"
Trusting Christ
Nothing in this life is more important than your eternity. Where we spend eternity depends entirely on what we do with Christ. His blood was shed for us, but it only counts to us if we trust in Him.
Seeking and Hearing God
Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known. Jeremiah 33:3
And the Lord came and stood, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant hears.” 1 Samuel 3:10
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you. Psalm 32:8-9
Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:3-4
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Psalm 119:105
My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you, making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding; yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. Proverbs 2:1-5
And the Lord came and stood, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant hears.” 1 Samuel 3:10
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you. Psalm 32:8-9
Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:3-4
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Psalm 119:105
My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you, making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding; yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. Proverbs 2:1-5
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
Men Uncovered Women Covered
There are those women who claim to obey their husbands, but in the process they disobey God. Those husbands who have counseled their wives not to wear the covering will be the first to ask the man to remove his hat when he enters the worship. WHY?
The same passage where the men are commanded to be uncovered, is the passage that tells the woman to be covered. Why do we think it is for back in the day, for the woman's covering but the lack of covering for men is for now.
Those who cherry pick scriptures to make them say what they want to hear, are guilty of sin.
1 Corinthians 11 clearly explains the instructions for the covering and the purpose for it. God also says in these passages that the churches have no such tradition of being contentious about this matter, all the churches were doing it.
Coverings for women are for the sake of the angels. We show the order of God, to the glory of God.
We have lost the truth of the covering for women and the lack of covering for the man. Since it is rarely taught these days and believers are not seeking God for truth, they are falling into the traditions of men.
1 Corinthians 11, study it out for yourselves, I understand this is a hard teaching because it goes against the culture.
Follow the Link!
The same passage where the men are commanded to be uncovered, is the passage that tells the woman to be covered. Why do we think it is for back in the day, for the woman's covering but the lack of covering for men is for now.
Those who cherry pick scriptures to make them say what they want to hear, are guilty of sin.
1 Corinthians 11 clearly explains the instructions for the covering and the purpose for it. God also says in these passages that the churches have no such tradition of being contentious about this matter, all the churches were doing it.
Coverings for women are for the sake of the angels. We show the order of God, to the glory of God.
We have lost the truth of the covering for women and the lack of covering for the man. Since it is rarely taught these days and believers are not seeking God for truth, they are falling into the traditions of men.
1 Corinthians 11, study it out for yourselves, I understand this is a hard teaching because it goes against the culture.
Follow the Link!
Monday, August 28, 2017
Still think God isn't Watching?
Interesting that Houston Texas has the highest concentration of mega churches as well as the highest homosexual population in the United States!!!
They are being hammered with rain to rival any in the last 300 years.
Strike a cored?
Any Questions?
The average annual rainfall in Houston is 50 inches. The city has seen 25 inches of rain in two days. Another 25 could fall by Saturday. (CNN)
They are being hammered with rain to rival any in the last 300 years.
Strike a cored?
Any Questions?
The average annual rainfall in Houston is 50 inches. The city has seen 25 inches of rain in two days. Another 25 could fall by Saturday. (CNN)
Being Good Won't Get You There
The experience of the born again believer!
Ephesians 2:8 "8 For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.…"
The day I trusted Christ I began to have a conscience about sin, before there were any actions, the actions came later as I grew in the Lord. The sin began to fall off, fairly quickly as God revealed them to me.
I would go to the bar as before but feel terrible about it, then perhaps one more time when friends asked me, but experienced the same displeasure and repulsion until I made the choice to stop. I wasn't saved through absence of sin, I was saved and then the sin began to fall off.
There are those who never went to the bars, but their sin had more to do with arrogance and superiority for not going to the bar. Interesting isn't it, the very sin they are so proud for not doing is equivalent to the prideful attitude that leads someone else into the bar. There is such a thing as being prideful about being humble.
Pride about not sinning remains in the camp with those who sin. Everyone must humble themselves, admitting their sinfulness to become born again, no exceptions.
The sinful one who does not got to bars but has wicked pride is in the same condition as the one who visits unsavory places.
Luke 18:9-14
"9 And He also told this parable to some people who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and viewed others with contempt:
10 “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.
11 The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself: ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other people: swindlers, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector.
12 I fast twice a week; I pay tithes of all that I get.’
13 But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, the sinner!’
14 I tell you, this man went to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.”"
I actually had one man many years ago tell me that his sins were not as bad as the sins of others, as though that made him superior. As far as I know he never repented of that, today he maintains a stance of superiority and arrogance.
Over the years I have seen the love and humility of born again believers who lived very sinful lives before their transformation. Those who are least loving and humble are the ones who never were broken over their sin, in their minds they never did anything big and terrible, so they are exempt from judgment based on their "clean living."
Sadly, there are those who think their clean living is going to get them into heaven, they believe they deserve it. It is that very prideful stance that will send them to hell.
Matthew 7:21-23
"21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’
23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’"
If anyone thinks they are good in their own power, by their own deeds, need to repent of their arrogance, trust Christ and ask to be cleansed or they too will end up in the lake of fire with the drunks they condemn. Or even more sadly, they will end up in hell while the forgiven drunk, having been cleansed will be with the Lord because he trusted Christ.
Ephesians 2:8 "8 For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.…"
The day I trusted Christ I began to have a conscience about sin, before there were any actions, the actions came later as I grew in the Lord. The sin began to fall off, fairly quickly as God revealed them to me.
I would go to the bar as before but feel terrible about it, then perhaps one more time when friends asked me, but experienced the same displeasure and repulsion until I made the choice to stop. I wasn't saved through absence of sin, I was saved and then the sin began to fall off.
There are those who never went to the bars, but their sin had more to do with arrogance and superiority for not going to the bar. Interesting isn't it, the very sin they are so proud for not doing is equivalent to the prideful attitude that leads someone else into the bar. There is such a thing as being prideful about being humble.
Pride about not sinning remains in the camp with those who sin. Everyone must humble themselves, admitting their sinfulness to become born again, no exceptions.
The sinful one who does not got to bars but has wicked pride is in the same condition as the one who visits unsavory places.
Luke 18:9-14
"9 And He also told this parable to some people who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and viewed others with contempt:
10 “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.
11 The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself: ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other people: swindlers, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector.
12 I fast twice a week; I pay tithes of all that I get.’
13 But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, the sinner!’
14 I tell you, this man went to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.”"
I actually had one man many years ago tell me that his sins were not as bad as the sins of others, as though that made him superior. As far as I know he never repented of that, today he maintains a stance of superiority and arrogance.
Over the years I have seen the love and humility of born again believers who lived very sinful lives before their transformation. Those who are least loving and humble are the ones who never were broken over their sin, in their minds they never did anything big and terrible, so they are exempt from judgment based on their "clean living."
Sadly, there are those who think their clean living is going to get them into heaven, they believe they deserve it. It is that very prideful stance that will send them to hell.
Matthew 7:21-23
"21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’
23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’"
If anyone thinks they are good in their own power, by their own deeds, need to repent of their arrogance, trust Christ and ask to be cleansed or they too will end up in the lake of fire with the drunks they condemn. Or even more sadly, they will end up in hell while the forgiven drunk, having been cleansed will be with the Lord because he trusted Christ.
Connecting with the Brethren
I have to laugh at those who mock the use of social media for brothers and sisters in Christ.
We live in difficult times as 2 Timothy 3 plays out.
2 Timothy 3:1-5
“Difficult Times Will Come”
1 But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come.
2 For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy,
3 unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good,
4 treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,
5 holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these."
The social media has allowed believers to connect with one another, share, advise, encourage and teach one another.
I am convinced that God has given this medium to us in these last days of leanness of fellowship. There are many authentic believers who have no one in their town or families who identify with their yearning to speak of the Lord and share one another's burdens and experiences.
Romans 12:15
"15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep."
Believers are to be deeply connected to one another just like family. The family of Christ is far better than bio family in these days of mocking and demeaning of the believer by their own bio family members.
Luke 12:52-52 "…52 From now on, five in one household will be divided, three against two and two against three. 53 They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”"
John 15:11-13 "…11 I have told you these things so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.
12 This is My commandment, that you love one another as I loved you.
13 Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.…"
Matthew 12:48 " 48 But Jesus replied, “Who is My mother, and who are My brothers?” 49 Pointing to His disciples, He said, “Here are My mother and My brothers.…"
It is a joy to meet new forever brothers and sisters who will be with us at the marriage supper of the Lamb. We are all connected spiritually by Christ Who lives in us.
God will be praised through these means in these last days, some will become saved, some who are saved will grow in holiness and others who walked in a sleeping stupor for lack of fellowship will be revived. I have seen all this and am blessed to have had this time on social media to connect with my spiritual family.
We live in difficult times as 2 Timothy 3 plays out.
2 Timothy 3:1-5
“Difficult Times Will Come”
1 But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come.
2 For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy,
3 unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good,
4 treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,
5 holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these."
The social media has allowed believers to connect with one another, share, advise, encourage and teach one another.
I am convinced that God has given this medium to us in these last days of leanness of fellowship. There are many authentic believers who have no one in their town or families who identify with their yearning to speak of the Lord and share one another's burdens and experiences.
Romans 12:15
"15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep."
Believers are to be deeply connected to one another just like family. The family of Christ is far better than bio family in these days of mocking and demeaning of the believer by their own bio family members.
Luke 12:52-52 "…52 From now on, five in one household will be divided, three against two and two against three. 53 They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”"
John 15:11-13 "…11 I have told you these things so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.
12 This is My commandment, that you love one another as I loved you.
13 Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.…"
Matthew 12:48 " 48 But Jesus replied, “Who is My mother, and who are My brothers?” 49 Pointing to His disciples, He said, “Here are My mother and My brothers.…"
It is a joy to meet new forever brothers and sisters who will be with us at the marriage supper of the Lamb. We are all connected spiritually by Christ Who lives in us.
God will be praised through these means in these last days, some will become saved, some who are saved will grow in holiness and others who walked in a sleeping stupor for lack of fellowship will be revived. I have seen all this and am blessed to have had this time on social media to connect with my spiritual family.
Waiting and Still Waiting
How many years have we waited for things to happen our way, only to discover it wasn't God's will.
OH, how we stress ourselves needlessly brothers and sisters!
Psalm 27:13-14 "…13 I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living. 14 Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD."
OH, how we stress ourselves needlessly brothers and sisters!
Psalm 27:13-14 "…13 I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living. 14 Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD."
Giving Up Impatience
I am giving up impatience, it is such a burden, stressful you know!
Asking the Lord to help me, I know I can't do it without Him.
Romans 12:12
"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer."
Asking the Lord to help me, I know I can't do it without Him.
Romans 12:12
"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer."
Waits are Getting Longer
I know just how impatient I am! Don't let it get out but God has been working on me for years about this.
I know He has been working on me because the "waits" to answered prayer are getting longer these days. LOL
"Isaiah 40:31-1 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
I know He has been working on me because the "waits" to answered prayer are getting longer these days. LOL
"Isaiah 40:31-1 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
Sunday, August 27, 2017
Humility or Rebellion
Proverbs 27:5-7
"…5 Better is open rebuke Than love that is concealed.
6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But deceitful are the kisses of an enemy. 7 A sated man loathes honey, But to a famished man any bitter thing is sweet."
Those who receive a rebuke in humility will grow in holiness with great joy.
Those who refuse to receive a rebuke in rebellion will not only not grow in holiness but they will regress as well as lose what joy they have.
"…5 Better is open rebuke Than love that is concealed.
6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But deceitful are the kisses of an enemy. 7 A sated man loathes honey, But to a famished man any bitter thing is sweet."
Those who receive a rebuke in humility will grow in holiness with great joy.
Those who refuse to receive a rebuke in rebellion will not only not grow in holiness but they will regress as well as lose what joy they have.
He Allows Us to Self Destruct
YES, we are seeing the mass destruction of the family and the babies. God does not have to send plagues and storms, He can merely take His hands off and allow rebellious hearts to self destruct. After all, have we not pushed Him away, forbidden His principles in our government and schools?
Our culture is a mess on every level, while those who live in stubbornness believe they are living a good life, so blind by their arrogance that they cannot see what a mess they are.
Revelation 3:14-22 "14 “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:
"These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation.
15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!
16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
17 You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.
18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see.
19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.
20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.
21 To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.
22 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”"
Our culture is a mess on every level, while those who live in stubbornness believe they are living a good life, so blind by their arrogance that they cannot see what a mess they are.
Revelation 3:14-22 "14 “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:
"These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation.
15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!
16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
17 You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.
18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see.
19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.
20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.
21 To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.
22 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”"
Helper and Counselor
Women in the church are to be helpers and advisers, not the leaders over men.
Women can teach children, the younger married women and each other, even men at times as Aquilla and Priscilla taught together, a husband and wife team, but the roll of leader as in elders in the church gathering, is not the job of the woman. The woman has every right and has been designed to counsel men when needed, but she is not to usurp their authority. When a man resists the godly counsel of a woman led by the Holy Spirit, he then resists the ordinance of God.
In the military the generals continually have counselors around them that they listen to as well as heeding their warnings or instructions. This is similar to the position of the wife to the husband.
When a husband will not listen to his wife, continually making decisions without her counsel, he is in disobedience to God.
Ladies please remember that your roll does not mean you are lesser, only different. To aspire to anything other than what God meant for us is to disobey God's Word.
Article / Produced by TOW Project:
"While many devout Christians see a woman's function as a subordinate to a man, the word ezer in the original Hebrew overturns that idea. The woman was not created to serve the man, but to serve with the man. Without the woman, the man was only half the story. She was not an afterthought or an optional adjunct to an independent, self-sufficient man. God said in Genesis 2:18 that without her, the man's condition was "not good." God's intention in creating the woman for the man was for the two to be partners in the many tasks involved in stewarding God's creation. "
There are those who would judge a wife as a usurper merely for counseling her husband, this is not so and lacking understanding of God's Word. Remember that often our cultural teachings are not from God but man's idea based on personal desire.
It is God's Word we want not the opinions of unspiritual men or women.
Women can teach children, the younger married women and each other, even men at times as Aquilla and Priscilla taught together, a husband and wife team, but the roll of leader as in elders in the church gathering, is not the job of the woman. The woman has every right and has been designed to counsel men when needed, but she is not to usurp their authority. When a man resists the godly counsel of a woman led by the Holy Spirit, he then resists the ordinance of God.
In the military the generals continually have counselors around them that they listen to as well as heeding their warnings or instructions. This is similar to the position of the wife to the husband.
When a husband will not listen to his wife, continually making decisions without her counsel, he is in disobedience to God.
Ladies please remember that your roll does not mean you are lesser, only different. To aspire to anything other than what God meant for us is to disobey God's Word.
Article / Produced by TOW Project:
"While many devout Christians see a woman's function as a subordinate to a man, the word ezer in the original Hebrew overturns that idea. The woman was not created to serve the man, but to serve with the man. Without the woman, the man was only half the story. She was not an afterthought or an optional adjunct to an independent, self-sufficient man. God said in Genesis 2:18 that without her, the man's condition was "not good." God's intention in creating the woman for the man was for the two to be partners in the many tasks involved in stewarding God's creation. "
There are those who would judge a wife as a usurper merely for counseling her husband, this is not so and lacking understanding of God's Word. Remember that often our cultural teachings are not from God but man's idea based on personal desire.
It is God's Word we want not the opinions of unspiritual men or women.
Rational & Reasonable?
Our culture no longer has the ability to think in rational reasonable terms. I am not describing the minority of people who do have these abilities, but the majority in the culture that flies by the seat of their emotions and desires, even those who claim to be Christian.
The inability to evaluate each matter according to the Word of God comes from a worldly focus rather than a heavenly one.
1 Peter 4:11-13 "11 If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God supplies, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. 12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory.…"
The challenge: Seek Christ daily for His will and purposes. When we do this, many around us are not going to understand, they see everything from the perspective of the culture rather than from God's perspective as written in the Scriptures.
When we are spiritually minded, scripture versed and desiring to hear from Christ, then everything we do will be according to His promptings. When we fail to ask Him for direction, we will quickly confess it, learn from it and begin again to seek Him.
Psalm 14:2
"The LORD has looked down from heaven upon the sons of men To see if there are any who understand, Who seek after God."
The inability to evaluate each matter according to the Word of God comes from a worldly focus rather than a heavenly one.
1 Peter 4:11-13 "11 If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God supplies, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. 12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory.…"
The challenge: Seek Christ daily for His will and purposes. When we do this, many around us are not going to understand, they see everything from the perspective of the culture rather than from God's perspective as written in the Scriptures.
When we are spiritually minded, scripture versed and desiring to hear from Christ, then everything we do will be according to His promptings. When we fail to ask Him for direction, we will quickly confess it, learn from it and begin again to seek Him.
Psalm 14:2
"The LORD has looked down from heaven upon the sons of men To see if there are any who understand, Who seek after God."
Friday, August 25, 2017
Tuesday, August 22, 2017
Arrogance of the Young
I have a brother I love very much, he is only a year and a half older than me. One thing about this brother is his propensity for joking. He jokes and laughs often, so much so that my sister in law says that he has a condition called, "serious conversation challenged." We have a lot of good times together, there is never a dull moment.
Today in conversation on the phone we were discussing the roll of men and women in the family. Of course in every discussion there is a joke not far off.
My brother shared his philosophy of life (jokingly) concerning marriage. He said that he believes it might be good to elevate the woman so the man can blame her for everything, except when things go well, then he can take the credit. He has been married 44 years, it seems to be working out for him.
LOL, LOL, LOL!!!!!
Perhaps some people become so dogmatic about the rolls of women and men in marriage that they tend to oppress the creativity of one or the other. There is room for diversity in marriage in terms of function, as long as both husband and wife agree. They must decide between them what works in their marriage.
When I see people making rules that God does not make, for the sake of their own agenda, my first response is to study things out to determine if the rule is actually from God or just a idea spawned from the mind of a human based on one or two verses.
When we have a view of marriage based on Scripture, we had better use the entire Bible, not one or two short passages out of context to fit our own agenda. AND, never are we to judge the marriage of another couple based on OUR OWN ideas.
Each marriage has dynamics within it that we do not know about and that are, frankly, none of our business. When someone begins to mess in another person's marriage, placing pressure on one party to force the other spouse to comply, or, when someone chooses to treat one party in a marriage disrespectfully based on their particular interpretation then we have crossed the line into meddling. Sometimes this meddling comes in subtle covert ways, one of which is to show favoritism one over another.
1 Peter 4:14-16 "…14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 Indeed, none of you should suffer as a murderer or thief or wrongdoer, or even as a MEDDLER. 16 But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear this name.…"
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
"11 and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and ATTEND TO YOUR OWN BUSINESS and work with your hands, just as we commanded you,"
There is place for the older women to instruct the younger married women, but there is no place for forcing, belittling, intimidating and treating with contempt. Teaching is far different than attempting to start trouble in a marriage to manipulate one party against another.
Titus 2:3-5
"3 Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good,
4 so that they may ENCOURAGE THE YOUNG WOMEN TO LOVE THEIR HUSBANDS, TO LOVE THEIR CHILDREN,
5 to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored."
Each person ought to be encouraging one another to seek Christ. Then we would have each person evaluating themselves, not seeking to force or intimidate others.
In our modern day of rebellion we see the younger women refusing to listen to instruction and the older women intimidated to withhold it because of the fear of losing the love of their children.
Instruction of children does not end with adulthood, it should be even more appreciated because of growing maturity in the adult children.
No where in God's Word does He tell the younger women to instruct the older women. It is disrespectful for a young woman, newly married to think she can instruct an older woman who has been married 30 years, not only disrespectful but immature. Adult children are to love and honor their parents, they are not to instruct them. Honor means to value them, their wisdom and their years of experience in life.
Some of the most offensive encounters have been when people the age of our grandchildren think they can lecture us about life. Sorry, been through too much over a long period of time to go back to the first grade, taught by an arrogant and self righteous know-it-all.
I am pretty sure many young people are not going to like this post, however, the older ones will know exactly what I am talking about. Perhaps there will be some joy in watching these snotty nosed brats get it from their own children one day. LOL If someone is offended at the use of the term, "snotty nosed brats", then you must think this is about you. If you think this is about you, then seek the Lord for a changed heart, a heart free of arrogance and self righteousness, that will fix the problem.
Colossians 3:20
"Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord."
Romans 12:2
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
Psalm 31:18
"Let the lying lips be mute, Which speak arrogantly against the righteous With pride and contempt."
2 Timothy 3:1-5
"But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these."
The lesson for young people: Remember that you have not lived long enough to think you know more than those who have lived twice as long. There is a lot more for you to learn, but you will not learn it as long as you think you already know everything. Wisdom comes from listening, watching, praying and living life a long time.
Lastly, lighten up, in other words, don't take yourself so seriously that you can never say, "I was wrong", or "I'm sorry that was a dumb thing to do." The day you can say these things without feeling embarrassed, is the day you will grow spiritually and emotionally.
Today in conversation on the phone we were discussing the roll of men and women in the family. Of course in every discussion there is a joke not far off.
My brother shared his philosophy of life (jokingly) concerning marriage. He said that he believes it might be good to elevate the woman so the man can blame her for everything, except when things go well, then he can take the credit. He has been married 44 years, it seems to be working out for him.
LOL, LOL, LOL!!!!!
Perhaps some people become so dogmatic about the rolls of women and men in marriage that they tend to oppress the creativity of one or the other. There is room for diversity in marriage in terms of function, as long as both husband and wife agree. They must decide between them what works in their marriage.
When I see people making rules that God does not make, for the sake of their own agenda, my first response is to study things out to determine if the rule is actually from God or just a idea spawned from the mind of a human based on one or two verses.
When we have a view of marriage based on Scripture, we had better use the entire Bible, not one or two short passages out of context to fit our own agenda. AND, never are we to judge the marriage of another couple based on OUR OWN ideas.
Each marriage has dynamics within it that we do not know about and that are, frankly, none of our business. When someone begins to mess in another person's marriage, placing pressure on one party to force the other spouse to comply, or, when someone chooses to treat one party in a marriage disrespectfully based on their particular interpretation then we have crossed the line into meddling. Sometimes this meddling comes in subtle covert ways, one of which is to show favoritism one over another.
1 Peter 4:14-16 "…14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 Indeed, none of you should suffer as a murderer or thief or wrongdoer, or even as a MEDDLER. 16 But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear this name.…"
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
"11 and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and ATTEND TO YOUR OWN BUSINESS and work with your hands, just as we commanded you,"
There is place for the older women to instruct the younger married women, but there is no place for forcing, belittling, intimidating and treating with contempt. Teaching is far different than attempting to start trouble in a marriage to manipulate one party against another.
Titus 2:3-5
"3 Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good,
4 so that they may ENCOURAGE THE YOUNG WOMEN TO LOVE THEIR HUSBANDS, TO LOVE THEIR CHILDREN,
5 to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored."
Each person ought to be encouraging one another to seek Christ. Then we would have each person evaluating themselves, not seeking to force or intimidate others.
In our modern day of rebellion we see the younger women refusing to listen to instruction and the older women intimidated to withhold it because of the fear of losing the love of their children.
Instruction of children does not end with adulthood, it should be even more appreciated because of growing maturity in the adult children.
No where in God's Word does He tell the younger women to instruct the older women. It is disrespectful for a young woman, newly married to think she can instruct an older woman who has been married 30 years, not only disrespectful but immature. Adult children are to love and honor their parents, they are not to instruct them. Honor means to value them, their wisdom and their years of experience in life.
Some of the most offensive encounters have been when people the age of our grandchildren think they can lecture us about life. Sorry, been through too much over a long period of time to go back to the first grade, taught by an arrogant and self righteous know-it-all.
I am pretty sure many young people are not going to like this post, however, the older ones will know exactly what I am talking about. Perhaps there will be some joy in watching these snotty nosed brats get it from their own children one day. LOL If someone is offended at the use of the term, "snotty nosed brats", then you must think this is about you. If you think this is about you, then seek the Lord for a changed heart, a heart free of arrogance and self righteousness, that will fix the problem.
Colossians 3:20
"Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord."
Romans 12:2
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
Psalm 31:18
"Let the lying lips be mute, Which speak arrogantly against the righteous With pride and contempt."
2 Timothy 3:1-5
"But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these."
The lesson for young people: Remember that you have not lived long enough to think you know more than those who have lived twice as long. There is a lot more for you to learn, but you will not learn it as long as you think you already know everything. Wisdom comes from listening, watching, praying and living life a long time.
Lastly, lighten up, in other words, don't take yourself so seriously that you can never say, "I was wrong", or "I'm sorry that was a dumb thing to do." The day you can say these things without feeling embarrassed, is the day you will grow spiritually and emotionally.
Narcissists Attempt at Control
Often I see narcissists deliberately disagreeing with malice or mocking in their voices to cause hurt feelings. They know if they do this in a crowd, it will cast their target in an unfavorable light, for answering back and then an argument ensues. The narcissists in a case like this is able to shut down any discussion immediately through this tactic.
He thinks he appears superior and is able to control the conversation. The best way to handle this is to ignore the arguer and speak personally to someone else in the group. this way the arguer is not able to control the entire conversation through his intimidation tactics.
When we are having a private conversation with a reasonable person, others in the group may hear but feel it is not their conversation and remain silent. This is good in cases where a narcissist is working to cause fights. You will still be able to have your say, the others will hear and the narcissist looks foolish if they insert themselves into a private conversation.
It is the goal of the narcissist to start an argument, they think this makes them superior. It is impossible to reason with someone who only cares about appearing to win, even if he is not winning, beating someone up verbally to make them give up, will make the narcissist sense that he has won. That is the goal of the narcissist, he cares not whether he is rational, whether truth is discovered or someone else is validated, he only care that he wins.
My suggestion:
As soon as you realize you are encountering a narcissist in conversation, ignore everything that comes out of their mouth. The reason? The narcissist will use every single response to begin the fight. If we ignore them and converse with others in the room, the narcissist is not able to take complete control of the mood of the room or the direction of the discussion.
Proverbs 23:9 " 9 Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, For he will despise the wisdom of your words."
Proverbs 14:6-8 "…6 A scoffer seeks wisdom and finds none, But knowledge is easy to one who has understanding. 7 Leave the presence of a fool, Or you will not discern words of knowledge. 8 The wisdom of the sensible is to understand his way, But the foolishness of fools is deceit.…"
He thinks he appears superior and is able to control the conversation. The best way to handle this is to ignore the arguer and speak personally to someone else in the group. this way the arguer is not able to control the entire conversation through his intimidation tactics.
When we are having a private conversation with a reasonable person, others in the group may hear but feel it is not their conversation and remain silent. This is good in cases where a narcissist is working to cause fights. You will still be able to have your say, the others will hear and the narcissist looks foolish if they insert themselves into a private conversation.
It is the goal of the narcissist to start an argument, they think this makes them superior. It is impossible to reason with someone who only cares about appearing to win, even if he is not winning, beating someone up verbally to make them give up, will make the narcissist sense that he has won. That is the goal of the narcissist, he cares not whether he is rational, whether truth is discovered or someone else is validated, he only care that he wins.
My suggestion:
As soon as you realize you are encountering a narcissist in conversation, ignore everything that comes out of their mouth. The reason? The narcissist will use every single response to begin the fight. If we ignore them and converse with others in the room, the narcissist is not able to take complete control of the mood of the room or the direction of the discussion.
Proverbs 23:9 " 9 Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, For he will despise the wisdom of your words."
Proverbs 14:6-8 "…6 A scoffer seeks wisdom and finds none, But knowledge is easy to one who has understanding. 7 Leave the presence of a fool, Or you will not discern words of knowledge. 8 The wisdom of the sensible is to understand his way, But the foolishness of fools is deceit.…"
In the Presence of God
Yes, this is what I think of when I encounter a "know it all" who is bent on demeaning everyone else to elevate self. I have experienced a lot of these in my life. Most of them have been people who claim to be "Christians."
Jason Herrington
"It is impossible for a person that lives in the presence of God to be proud, you become proud when you leave the presence of God."
Jason Herrington
"It is impossible for a person that lives in the presence of God to be proud, you become proud when you leave the presence of God."
A Show of the End Times
The eclipse, in my estimation is a show of God's glory. The moon representing society all over the world snuffing out the light of the SON.
Not a warning, but an expression of the end times. As soon as the sun was completely blotted out except the small ring around the moon, the people cheered.
There is a small remnant of believer, perhaps representing that tiny ring of light, who remain but soon the truth will be blotted out, the Holy Spirit will be gone and the cold darkness will envelope everything.
Not a warning, but an expression of the end times. As soon as the sun was completely blotted out except the small ring around the moon, the people cheered.
There is a small remnant of believer, perhaps representing that tiny ring of light, who remain but soon the truth will be blotted out, the Holy Spirit will be gone and the cold darkness will envelope everything.
Darkness, Missing the Light
Darkness is nothing, it is merely the absence of light. Without Christ there is only darkness in the soul of man. With Christ we possess the light that brings all things good.
Reviled Because of Christ
I know of those who are so contentious that they negate everything others say and do.
If it isn't what they would do or like they mock it, working to demean anyone who does not do or say what they do or say.
These people are fools, their desire to be superior destroys any chance they have of rational evaluation, as well as any relationship of value.
These people believe they know everything and everyone else is stupid.
Here's what God says about it. If we find ourselves acting or speaking in a superior fashion, then we fit into this category:
Proverbs 29:8-10 "…8 Scorners set a city aflame, But wise men turn away anger. 9 When a wise man has a controversy with a foolish man, The foolish man either rages or laughs, and there is no rest. 10 Men of bloodshed hate the blameless, But the upright are concerned for his life.…"
Those who love to elevate themselves above others always mock and demean anything that is not their own idea. They will even use the ideas of others claiming it was theirs in the first place.
These mockers are self righteous and judgmental over things that do not matter and accept no one who doesn't treat them with special honor.
When we meet a mocker, they will see everyone who does not elevate them, as an enemy to be destroyed. This is exactly what the Pharisees did to Christ. They hated Him because He was righteous, because He did good deeds and because He told the truth. They claimed He did and said things that He didn't, to discredit Him in the eyes of others.
Galatians 4:16-17 "16 Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth? 17 Those people are zealous for you, but not in a good way. Instead, they want to isolate you from us, so that you will be zealous for them."
They will often attempt to isolate you from those that would benefit and love you, so that you will have no one but them. They are less likely to be able to destroy you, if you have allies.
Arrogant mockers always see righteous people as the enemy and someone to be conquered.
Praise the Lord for His testimony! He was treated in spiteful ways too, when all He did was good and righteous. They concocted lies about Him to isolate him from others.
Matthew 12:23-25 "…23 The crowds were all amazed and asked, “Could this be the Son of David?” 24 But when the Pharisees heard this, they said, “Only by Beelzebul, the prince of the demons,” does this man drive out demons. 25 Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.…"
The same tactics the devil used in Christ's day are the ones they use in our day. Anyone who loves the Lord and tells the truth will be a target for these modern day Pharisees. Those who attack believers unjustly will be divided against one another.
2 Thessalonians 2:8-9 "…8 And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will slay with the breath of His mouth and abolish by the majesty of His arrival. 9 The coming of the lawless one will be accompanied by the working of Satan, with every kind of power, sign, and false wonder, 10 and with every wicked deception directed against those who are perishing, because they refused the love of the truth that would have saved them.…"
Those who are rebellious against God also be ravenously against God's children.
1 Peter 4:12-14 "12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you;
13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.
14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you."
If it isn't what they would do or like they mock it, working to demean anyone who does not do or say what they do or say.
These people are fools, their desire to be superior destroys any chance they have of rational evaluation, as well as any relationship of value.
These people believe they know everything and everyone else is stupid.
Here's what God says about it. If we find ourselves acting or speaking in a superior fashion, then we fit into this category:
Proverbs 29:8-10 "…8 Scorners set a city aflame, But wise men turn away anger. 9 When a wise man has a controversy with a foolish man, The foolish man either rages or laughs, and there is no rest. 10 Men of bloodshed hate the blameless, But the upright are concerned for his life.…"
Those who love to elevate themselves above others always mock and demean anything that is not their own idea. They will even use the ideas of others claiming it was theirs in the first place.
These mockers are self righteous and judgmental over things that do not matter and accept no one who doesn't treat them with special honor.
When we meet a mocker, they will see everyone who does not elevate them, as an enemy to be destroyed. This is exactly what the Pharisees did to Christ. They hated Him because He was righteous, because He did good deeds and because He told the truth. They claimed He did and said things that He didn't, to discredit Him in the eyes of others.
Galatians 4:16-17 "16 Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth? 17 Those people are zealous for you, but not in a good way. Instead, they want to isolate you from us, so that you will be zealous for them."
They will often attempt to isolate you from those that would benefit and love you, so that you will have no one but them. They are less likely to be able to destroy you, if you have allies.
Arrogant mockers always see righteous people as the enemy and someone to be conquered.
Praise the Lord for His testimony! He was treated in spiteful ways too, when all He did was good and righteous. They concocted lies about Him to isolate him from others.
Matthew 12:23-25 "…23 The crowds were all amazed and asked, “Could this be the Son of David?” 24 But when the Pharisees heard this, they said, “Only by Beelzebul, the prince of the demons,” does this man drive out demons. 25 Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.…"
The same tactics the devil used in Christ's day are the ones they use in our day. Anyone who loves the Lord and tells the truth will be a target for these modern day Pharisees. Those who attack believers unjustly will be divided against one another.
2 Thessalonians 2:8-9 "…8 And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will slay with the breath of His mouth and abolish by the majesty of His arrival. 9 The coming of the lawless one will be accompanied by the working of Satan, with every kind of power, sign, and false wonder, 10 and with every wicked deception directed against those who are perishing, because they refused the love of the truth that would have saved them.…"
Those who are rebellious against God also be ravenously against God's children.
1 Peter 4:12-14 "12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you;
13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.
14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you."
Never Deny the Experiences of Others
When we deny what we are going through to appear spiritual, we are lying. Tell the truth, while trusting Christ. Chances are good if we deny the truth of our trials to appear superior, we will also deny the trials of others for the same reason.
Romans 12:15
"Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep."
We cannot weep with those who weep if we deny their reality. We cannot laugh with those who laugh if we will not also share in all aspects of the lives of others. God wants us to deeply love others, that means we will feel what they feel, we will connect with their struggles as well as their joys.
When Christ sets us free, we are free to express ourselves in truth, knowing that He has the solutions and the strength that we need to endure them.
Never negate another brother or sisters reality, empathize, encourage and pray for, but never judge something that is not sin or negate what they are experiencing.
James 1:2-12
"2 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,
3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.
4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
6 But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.
7 For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord,
8 being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
9 But the brother of humble circumstances is to glory in his high position;
10 and the rich man is to glory in his humiliation, because like flowering grass he will pass away.
11 For the sun rises with a scorching wind and withers the grass; and its flower falls off and the beauty of its appearance is destroyed; so too the rich man in the midst of his pursuits will fade away.
12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
Romans 12:15
"Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep."
We cannot weep with those who weep if we deny their reality. We cannot laugh with those who laugh if we will not also share in all aspects of the lives of others. God wants us to deeply love others, that means we will feel what they feel, we will connect with their struggles as well as their joys.
When Christ sets us free, we are free to express ourselves in truth, knowing that He has the solutions and the strength that we need to endure them.
Never negate another brother or sisters reality, empathize, encourage and pray for, but never judge something that is not sin or negate what they are experiencing.
James 1:2-12
"2 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,
3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.
4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
6 But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.
7 For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord,
8 being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
9 But the brother of humble circumstances is to glory in his high position;
10 and the rich man is to glory in his humiliation, because like flowering grass he will pass away.
11 For the sun rises with a scorching wind and withers the grass; and its flower falls off and the beauty of its appearance is destroyed; so too the rich man in the midst of his pursuits will fade away.
12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
The Message of the Eclipse
My husband and I traveled 2 and 1/2 hours to see the eclipse in the path of totality to the apartment of our grandaughter, grandson and their friends.
I had not expected it to be as dramatic as it was. The only real reasons I saw to go, was my husbands interest in science and to be with our grandchildren. The visit was wonderful as well as what followed.
The eclipse was amazing and wonderful, causing me to want to worship as I watched the very power of God through His creation. After it was over we said our goodbyes and traveled 120 miles, normally taking us 2 and 1/2 hours, morphing into 9 hours before we reached home. 20 miles an hour, in most places was the pace at which we crawled along, sometimes stopped for several minutes.
The traffic was horrific but the experience was worth it. I had read writings from so called prophets and prophetesses that this may be a warning from God for America. I didn't think it had that much significance as a "warning", these events happen around the world every year.
It was however a once in a lifetime event for our region. Also, I do not take the "warnings" seriously because God has given me everything I need to know in the Word to trust Him for each day until He takes us home.
As I watched the moon slowly, over a period of about an hour, obscure small bites of the sun, it began to get colder on the one thousand high hill where we were. Then it happened, the sun was gone, with only a tiny sliver of sun showing around the edges, while the temperature dropped dramatically, even becoming chilly, when before that it was hot outside, for less than two minutes.
As the sun was obscured at totality, I felt an amazing sense of wanting to worship. There were about a hundred people in that secluded place, suddenly the crowd erupted in cheers and shouts at the total obliteration of the sun's light except for that sliver of light encasing the edge of the moon. It was an eerie and wonderful cool darkness with just enough light to still be able to see, as a though standing in the shadows.
Then the Lord explained the meaning of this event to me. It was not a warning to us about pending doom, although we deserve it and later it may come.
This was a show of God's power and majesty, the creation He made was obeying His command to show what He demonstrates frequently in nature, that He is all powerful, that His creation is beyond human understanding. Humans have no ability to altar what God has done or what He will do in the future.
Romans 1:19-21 "…19 For what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. 20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse. 21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts.…"
This amazing event was God showing, through His creation, Who He is. Perhaps this is just one more demonstration of His power and might to draw the unbelieving heart to Him. He is shouting, "see Who I am."
Most who watched the event did not understand the significance of this, the power of God and His majesty were glorified, but they didn't know it.
The cheers that came from the crowd as the sun was darkened, made me realize that God was showing us another principle at play. That is that the Son of God is being hidden by the world. The more the Son has been removed from the culture, the more loudly they cheer.
The ungodly cheered when Christ was on the cross, they loved that he was, in their minds, "destroyed."
Most people saw this as nothing more than an exciting natural event. But I saw it as much greater than that, not as warning for coming things, but as a demonstration of the heart of man in response to the Savior.
I will repeat what God said in Romans 1, God has been showing us all down through the ages Who He is, but mankind would rather worship self and nature than the God who made both.
Romans 1:20-21 "…20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse. 21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts. 22 Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools,…"
Was this a warning for America? I do not believe so, but it was from God that He is the God of creation, showing the world one more time that without Him, we would not exist, this world would not exist and there would be no salvation for man. Christ is the Son that died for us, and the world is blocking Him out.
I had not expected it to be as dramatic as it was. The only real reasons I saw to go, was my husbands interest in science and to be with our grandchildren. The visit was wonderful as well as what followed.
The eclipse was amazing and wonderful, causing me to want to worship as I watched the very power of God through His creation. After it was over we said our goodbyes and traveled 120 miles, normally taking us 2 and 1/2 hours, morphing into 9 hours before we reached home. 20 miles an hour, in most places was the pace at which we crawled along, sometimes stopped for several minutes.
The traffic was horrific but the experience was worth it. I had read writings from so called prophets and prophetesses that this may be a warning from God for America. I didn't think it had that much significance as a "warning", these events happen around the world every year.
It was however a once in a lifetime event for our region. Also, I do not take the "warnings" seriously because God has given me everything I need to know in the Word to trust Him for each day until He takes us home.
As I watched the moon slowly, over a period of about an hour, obscure small bites of the sun, it began to get colder on the one thousand high hill where we were. Then it happened, the sun was gone, with only a tiny sliver of sun showing around the edges, while the temperature dropped dramatically, even becoming chilly, when before that it was hot outside, for less than two minutes.
As the sun was obscured at totality, I felt an amazing sense of wanting to worship. There were about a hundred people in that secluded place, suddenly the crowd erupted in cheers and shouts at the total obliteration of the sun's light except for that sliver of light encasing the edge of the moon. It was an eerie and wonderful cool darkness with just enough light to still be able to see, as a though standing in the shadows.
Then the Lord explained the meaning of this event to me. It was not a warning to us about pending doom, although we deserve it and later it may come.
This was a show of God's power and majesty, the creation He made was obeying His command to show what He demonstrates frequently in nature, that He is all powerful, that His creation is beyond human understanding. Humans have no ability to altar what God has done or what He will do in the future.
Romans 1:19-21 "…19 For what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. 20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse. 21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts.…"
This amazing event was God showing, through His creation, Who He is. Perhaps this is just one more demonstration of His power and might to draw the unbelieving heart to Him. He is shouting, "see Who I am."
Most who watched the event did not understand the significance of this, the power of God and His majesty were glorified, but they didn't know it.
The cheers that came from the crowd as the sun was darkened, made me realize that God was showing us another principle at play. That is that the Son of God is being hidden by the world. The more the Son has been removed from the culture, the more loudly they cheer.
The ungodly cheered when Christ was on the cross, they loved that he was, in their minds, "destroyed."
Most people saw this as nothing more than an exciting natural event. But I saw it as much greater than that, not as warning for coming things, but as a demonstration of the heart of man in response to the Savior.
I will repeat what God said in Romans 1, God has been showing us all down through the ages Who He is, but mankind would rather worship self and nature than the God who made both.
Romans 1:20-21 "…20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse. 21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts. 22 Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools,…"
Was this a warning for America? I do not believe so, but it was from God that He is the God of creation, showing the world one more time that without Him, we would not exist, this world would not exist and there would be no salvation for man. Christ is the Son that died for us, and the world is blocking Him out.
Do We Allow Him?
Isaiah 30:18
God Is Gracious and Just
18 "Therefore the Lord longs to be gracious to you,
And therefore He waits on high to have compassion on you.
For the Lord is a God of justice;
How blessed are all those who long for Him."
Sunday, August 20, 2017
Bullying the New Norm
Silliness abounds! Bullying is now the new norm.
I wonder what the anarchists would tear down if there were no statues. I have a feeling they are nothing more than bullies and thugs who want something to destroy so they "blame" the statues for all of America's problems when in fact they themselves are the problem.
Rebellion is growing, hate and anger is growing as people step away from the gospel to self righteousness and self exaltation. All those who think they have a right to be "special", are the ones who are destroying the lives of others as well as their possessions.
2 Timothy 3
1 But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come.
2 For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy,
3 unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good,
4 treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,
5 holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these.
6 For among them are those who [c]enter into households and captivate weak women weighed down with sins, led on by various impulses,
7 always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
8 Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men of depraved mind, rejected in regard to the faith.
9 But they will not make further progress; for their folly will be obvious to all, just as Jannes’s and Jambres’s folly was also.
10 Now you followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, perseverance,
11 persecutions, and sufferings, such as happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium and at Lystra; what persecutions I endured, and out of them all the Lord rescued me!
12 Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.
13 But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.
14 You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them,
15 and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;
17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
I wonder what the anarchists would tear down if there were no statues. I have a feeling they are nothing more than bullies and thugs who want something to destroy so they "blame" the statues for all of America's problems when in fact they themselves are the problem.
Rebellion is growing, hate and anger is growing as people step away from the gospel to self righteousness and self exaltation. All those who think they have a right to be "special", are the ones who are destroying the lives of others as well as their possessions.
2 Timothy 3
1 But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come.
2 For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy,
3 unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good,
4 treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,
5 holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these.
6 For among them are those who [c]enter into households and captivate weak women weighed down with sins, led on by various impulses,
7 always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
8 Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men of depraved mind, rejected in regard to the faith.
9 But they will not make further progress; for their folly will be obvious to all, just as Jannes’s and Jambres’s folly was also.
10 Now you followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, perseverance,
11 persecutions, and sufferings, such as happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium and at Lystra; what persecutions I endured, and out of them all the Lord rescued me!
12 Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.
13 But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.
14 You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them,
15 and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;
17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
Saturday, August 19, 2017
Trusting Christ Testing Man
If anyone is trusting the teachings they received in Bible school or seminary, then they are not trusting Christ.
Sadly many people who attend these establishments think they are being told pure unadulterated truth, when often they are being indoctrinated into the thinking of men rather than the teachings of Christ.
They are being trained to believe that those who do not have human institutional training cannot possibly know the truths of the Bible. Even though they would say they don't think like this, they demonstrate that they do, by their arrogance in refusing to listen to anyone led by the Holy Spirit, who has not been trained in these institutions.
All you need is Christ, good teaching is beneficial, but all that comes from the mouth of man must be evaluated by the Word of God. To believe someone simply because they went to an institution that claimed Christianity, is to place one's trust in man rather than Christ.
John 16:13-14 "13 However, when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak what He hears, and He will declare to you what is to come. 14 He will glorify Me by taking from what is Mine and disclosing it to you.…"
For 1700 years after Christ made His sacrifice on the cross, there were no seminaries or Bible schools in the world. Men and Women of God were led by the Holy Spirit, their dependence on Him left them with greater wisdom and devotion to Him than we see today. Authentic believer's faith was greater because they depended entirely on Christ for their guidance.
We have more Bible schools and seminaries today in the world than ever before and far more apostasy among congregations. This is because our reliance on human wisdom and the acceptance of man has dominated our thinking. Very few believers are willing to stand alone to walk with Christ.
Luke 14:25-27
Discipleship Tested
25 Now large crowds were going along with Him; and He turned and said to them,
26 “If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple.
27 Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. "
Sadly many people who attend these establishments think they are being told pure unadulterated truth, when often they are being indoctrinated into the thinking of men rather than the teachings of Christ.
They are being trained to believe that those who do not have human institutional training cannot possibly know the truths of the Bible. Even though they would say they don't think like this, they demonstrate that they do, by their arrogance in refusing to listen to anyone led by the Holy Spirit, who has not been trained in these institutions.
All you need is Christ, good teaching is beneficial, but all that comes from the mouth of man must be evaluated by the Word of God. To believe someone simply because they went to an institution that claimed Christianity, is to place one's trust in man rather than Christ.
John 16:13-14 "13 However, when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak what He hears, and He will declare to you what is to come. 14 He will glorify Me by taking from what is Mine and disclosing it to you.…"
For 1700 years after Christ made His sacrifice on the cross, there were no seminaries or Bible schools in the world. Men and Women of God were led by the Holy Spirit, their dependence on Him left them with greater wisdom and devotion to Him than we see today. Authentic believer's faith was greater because they depended entirely on Christ for their guidance.
We have more Bible schools and seminaries today in the world than ever before and far more apostasy among congregations. This is because our reliance on human wisdom and the acceptance of man has dominated our thinking. Very few believers are willing to stand alone to walk with Christ.
Luke 14:25-27
Discipleship Tested
25 Now large crowds were going along with Him; and He turned and said to them,
26 “If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple.
27 Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. "
Friday, August 18, 2017
The Days Are Getting Shorter
There are days when I am tempted to comment, and I do, on the foolishness that is going on in the world. Then the Lord reminds me this is prophesy being fulfilled, there isn't anything I can do about it, except to live my life for the Lord, grow myself while others help me and I help them. Along with that comes God's mandate to bring the gospel to the unsaved.
Nothing can distract us from that mission given by Christ if our mind is continually being regenerated by the Word of God. We must spend more time reading about and talking about Him, than we do the things of the world to keep our perspective.
However, we do want to be able to answer the lies of the world with the Word of God. When we know what is going on, perhaps it comes up in the news feed, then we will be able to bring God's perspective that help brothers and sisters sense safety in the Lord no matter what is going on.
There are many brothers and sisters in the Lord who are suffering in one way or another, they need us and we need them to keep us focused on what really matters and the coming inheritance that we will be experiencing soon.
This life is so very temporal, the speed with which the days pass are a testimony to the shortness of life. I still feel 35 inside, but my body is now elderly. The memories of the past 65 years seem as near as yesterday.
James 4:14
"Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes."
Psalm 144:4
"Man is like a breath; his days are like a passing shadow."
Psalm 90:12
"So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom."
Proverbs 27:1
"Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring."
Nothing can distract us from that mission given by Christ if our mind is continually being regenerated by the Word of God. We must spend more time reading about and talking about Him, than we do the things of the world to keep our perspective.
However, we do want to be able to answer the lies of the world with the Word of God. When we know what is going on, perhaps it comes up in the news feed, then we will be able to bring God's perspective that help brothers and sisters sense safety in the Lord no matter what is going on.
There are many brothers and sisters in the Lord who are suffering in one way or another, they need us and we need them to keep us focused on what really matters and the coming inheritance that we will be experiencing soon.
This life is so very temporal, the speed with which the days pass are a testimony to the shortness of life. I still feel 35 inside, but my body is now elderly. The memories of the past 65 years seem as near as yesterday.
James 4:14
"Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes."
Psalm 144:4
"Man is like a breath; his days are like a passing shadow."
Psalm 90:12
"So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom."
Proverbs 27:1
"Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring."
Fisticuffs no Solution at All
Please, please, please, believers let's focus on what matters for eternity and stop getting caught up in the struggles of the world.
The devil loves to distract us with meaningless things that we hang onto with "PRIDE."
Yes I said pride! Most skirmishes in our world today have to do with one person or government having power over another. It has nothing to do with "working things out", but rather one or the other side winning.
When our relationships are based on "winning", then love, kindness, empathy and decency is absent.
We have the bratty liberals and the bratty conservatives taking to the streets to duke it out with fisticuffs to determine the winner, whom ever is left standing wins. Sad, very sad!
The devil loves to distract us with meaningless things that we hang onto with "PRIDE."
Yes I said pride! Most skirmishes in our world today have to do with one person or government having power over another. It has nothing to do with "working things out", but rather one or the other side winning.
When our relationships are based on "winning", then love, kindness, empathy and decency is absent.
We have the bratty liberals and the bratty conservatives taking to the streets to duke it out with fisticuffs to determine the winner, whom ever is left standing wins. Sad, very sad!
This World is Passing Away
If this world is not my home, I am here to learn and to bring the gospel, then I will not be overly concerned about what governments are doing. Or what the ungodly value.
As a believer my focus is that Christians grow in holiness and those that are lost become saved.
Other than that, I realize that God is the one who rises up governments and takes them down for His own purposes.
Romans 13:1-2 "1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. 2 Consequently, the one who resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.…"
We never disobey God to obey an authority over us. When the authority over us is not telling us to dishonor God, then we are to obey them.
If a government commanded me to kill my baby, I would have to disobey that, but if the government commands me to remove a statue, then I will comply.
I understand the mentality behind the rioting factions, total rebellion against anything conservatives held dear. Those who are rebellious often "throw the baby out with the bath water" and commonly overreact to simple and unimportant things. However, what should be our response to those who have tantrums over nothing?
My response to an adult having a tantrum is to ignore them, let them have what they want and allow the ungodly to come against them. God is using ungodly conservatives to come against ungodly liberals, the two factions are "taking it to the streets" and all that results is civil war, worse anger ensuing and nothing resolved. The one who fights the hardest wins, but what did it accomplish? All it did was to make for more tantrums, more wars and deeper resentment.
We are about the gospel as believers, we don't put up statues nor do we tear them down. Our entire focus ought to be the gospel, lost souls and spiritual purity for the believer.
It is my belief that America is under judgment, but so is every other country of the world. The world is under judgment. Christ is very patient, He destroyed the world once, He destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah and He will destroy the world once again during the tribulation.
2 Peter 3:10 "10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up."
Those statues in the square that some people go to observe and work up happy feelings about, will be destroyed by Christ along with everything and everyone else that and who do not honor Him.
As a believer my focus is that Christians grow in holiness and those that are lost become saved.
Other than that, I realize that God is the one who rises up governments and takes them down for His own purposes.
Romans 13:1-2 "1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. 2 Consequently, the one who resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.…"
We never disobey God to obey an authority over us. When the authority over us is not telling us to dishonor God, then we are to obey them.
If a government commanded me to kill my baby, I would have to disobey that, but if the government commands me to remove a statue, then I will comply.
I understand the mentality behind the rioting factions, total rebellion against anything conservatives held dear. Those who are rebellious often "throw the baby out with the bath water" and commonly overreact to simple and unimportant things. However, what should be our response to those who have tantrums over nothing?
My response to an adult having a tantrum is to ignore them, let them have what they want and allow the ungodly to come against them. God is using ungodly conservatives to come against ungodly liberals, the two factions are "taking it to the streets" and all that results is civil war, worse anger ensuing and nothing resolved. The one who fights the hardest wins, but what did it accomplish? All it did was to make for more tantrums, more wars and deeper resentment.
We are about the gospel as believers, we don't put up statues nor do we tear them down. Our entire focus ought to be the gospel, lost souls and spiritual purity for the believer.
It is my belief that America is under judgment, but so is every other country of the world. The world is under judgment. Christ is very patient, He destroyed the world once, He destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah and He will destroy the world once again during the tribulation.
2 Peter 3:10 "10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up."
Those statues in the square that some people go to observe and work up happy feelings about, will be destroyed by Christ along with everything and everyone else that and who do not honor Him.
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