The hours of Earth' history are passing away. Everything we do now has to have an eternal purpose. It's too late to play around. "And that, knowing the time, that it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed*" (Romans 13:11).
"The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk honestly as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof" (Romans 13:12-14).
Based on the prophecies of Matthew Chapter 24, the enemy knows that his time is short. We see the signs. He is working ever so feverishly to seek, to kill and to destroy as many people as he can. Don't think that all the Devil wants to do is wreck your marriage, mess up your children, disrupt your finances or ruin your health. What he ultimately wants is to kill you in your sins or better yet, for you to kill yourself.
If you die in your sins, you are lost. If you confess your sins, the Lord is faithful and just to forgive your sins and cleanse you from all unrighteousness (see 1 John 1:9). Make confession and repentance a daily priority in your day. See King David's example of a prayer of repentance in Psalm 51.
*History tends to repeat itself. In 1844, Christians of varying denominations eagerly awaited Christ return. When He didn't come as expected, many abandoned their faith and mocked those who still held on to theirs. Let us take heed lest we fall into the same temptation. In the fall of 2008, many predicted a financial collapse and many were stirred to action. 2009 is about to end and we have fallen into a false sense of financial security.
Don't go to the analysts for confirmation of what will occur, go to God's Holy, infallible, never-changing, reliable Word--The Old and and New Testament Scriptures.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Sunday, December 27, 2009
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
On December 18, 2009, the European Union...the President signed the first part of... What this means for the Christian is that God's word is coming to pass when, "...the dragon was wroth [angry] with the woman and went to make war with the remnant of her [the church of Christ] seed which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ," (Revelation 12:19) is nearer now than when we first believed.
On December 1, 2009, Germany reaffirmed the sacredness of Sunday as a day of worship to be protected. What this means for the Chrisian is that the time when the second beast power, with the backing of the first beast power would, "...cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed...and that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the number of the beast, or the number of his name" is nearer now than when we first believed (Revelation 13:15-17).
On December ??, 2009, the District of Columbia sanctioned gay marriage. What this means to the Christian that, "...as in the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be" (Matthew 24:37-39).
There are two groups of people we can be in during these times. One group will be looking at the coming crisis and respond with anxiety, fear or worse yet, despair. The other group will be watching, praying and working, and as they see bible prophecy being fulfulled, their faith will be strengthened in the certainty of the coming Christ.
This past year has brought about more changes to our world and way of life then we could ever have imagined. Some have been stirred to action or even more effective, self-examination and prayer. Some have missed the signs, being cleverly distracted by well-timed expositions of Tiger Woods' sins, Michael Jackson's well-publicized death, Rihanna's personal problems and the unprecedented inaugration of the first dark-skinned man in America's Presidental history.
Friends, my appeal is simple, "Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh" (Matthew 24:44).
"WHEREFORE GOD ALSO HATH HIGHLY EXALTED HIM, AND GIVEN HIM A NAME WHICH IS ABOVE EVERY NAME: THAT AT THE NAME OF JESUS EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW,...AND THAT EVERY TONGUE SHOULD CONFESS THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, TO THE GLORY OF GOD THE FATHER" (Philippians 2:9-11).
On December 1, 2009, Germany reaffirmed the sacredness of Sunday as a day of worship to be protected. What this means for the Chrisian is that the time when the second beast power, with the backing of the first beast power would, "...cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed...and that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the number of the beast, or the number of his name" is nearer now than when we first believed (Revelation 13:15-17).
On December ??, 2009, the District of Columbia sanctioned gay marriage. What this means to the Christian that, "...as in the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be" (Matthew 24:37-39).
There are two groups of people we can be in during these times. One group will be looking at the coming crisis and respond with anxiety, fear or worse yet, despair. The other group will be watching, praying and working, and as they see bible prophecy being fulfulled, their faith will be strengthened in the certainty of the coming Christ.
This past year has brought about more changes to our world and way of life then we could ever have imagined. Some have been stirred to action or even more effective, self-examination and prayer. Some have missed the signs, being cleverly distracted by well-timed expositions of Tiger Woods' sins, Michael Jackson's well-publicized death, Rihanna's personal problems and the unprecedented inaugration of the first dark-skinned man in America's Presidental history.
Friends, my appeal is simple, "Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh" (Matthew 24:44).
"WHEREFORE GOD ALSO HATH HIGHLY EXALTED HIM, AND GIVEN HIM A NAME WHICH IS ABOVE EVERY NAME: THAT AT THE NAME OF JESUS EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW,...AND THAT EVERY TONGUE SHOULD CONFESS THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, TO THE GLORY OF GOD THE FATHER" (Philippians 2:9-11).
Thursday, December 24, 2009
JEREMIAH THE PROPHET, SON OF HILKIAH THE PRIEST (the conclusion)
"...I spake unto you, rising up early and speaking, but ye heard not; and I called you, but ye answered not..." (Jeremiah 7:13).
"...But this thing commanded I them, saying, Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people: and walk ye in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you. But they hearkened not, nor inclined their ear, but walked in the counsels and in the imagination of their evil heart, and went backward, and not forward" (Jeremiah 7:23,24).
"...I have sent unto you all my servants the prophets, daily rising up early and sending them: yet they hearkened not unto me, nor inclined their ear, but hardened their neck: they did worse then their fathers" (Jeremiah 7:25,26).
"..This is a nation that obeyeth not the voice of the Lord their God, nor receiveth correction: truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth" (Jeremiah 7:28).
"Why then is this people of Jerusalem slidden back by a perpetual backsliding? they hold fast deceit, they refuse to return...no man repenteth him of his wickedness, saying, What have I done? Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the swallow observe the time of their coming; but my people know not the judgement of the Lord" (Jeremiah 8:5-8).
"...from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely. For they have healed the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace... We looked for peace, but no good came; and for a time of health and behold trouble!" (Jeremiah 8:10,11,15).
"Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?" (Jeremiah 8:22).
"...But this thing commanded I them, saying, Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people: and walk ye in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you. But they hearkened not, nor inclined their ear, but walked in the counsels and in the imagination of their evil heart, and went backward, and not forward" (Jeremiah 7:23,24).
"...I have sent unto you all my servants the prophets, daily rising up early and sending them: yet they hearkened not unto me, nor inclined their ear, but hardened their neck: they did worse then their fathers" (Jeremiah 7:25,26).
"..This is a nation that obeyeth not the voice of the Lord their God, nor receiveth correction: truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth" (Jeremiah 7:28).
"Why then is this people of Jerusalem slidden back by a perpetual backsliding? they hold fast deceit, they refuse to return...no man repenteth him of his wickedness, saying, What have I done? Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the swallow observe the time of their coming; but my people know not the judgement of the Lord" (Jeremiah 8:5-8).
"...from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely. For they have healed the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace... We looked for peace, but no good came; and for a time of health and behold trouble!" (Jeremiah 8:10,11,15).
"Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?" (Jeremiah 8:22).
JEREMIAH THE PROPHET, SON OF HILKIAH THE PRIEST (the continuation)
"...the Lord liveth, in truth, in judgement, and in righteousness; and the nations shall bless themselves in him, and in him shall they glory. For thus saith the Lord to the men of Judah and Jerusalem, Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among thorns. Circumcise yourselves to the Lord, and take away the foreskins of your heart..." (Jeremiah 4:2-4).
"The prophets prophecy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?" (Jeremiah 5:31)
"For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely...saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace. Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein. Hear, O earth; Behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it." (Jeremiah 6:13,14,16,19).
"Behold, ye trust in lying words, that cannot profit. Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not; and come and stand before me in this house, which is called by my name, and say, We are delivered to do all these abominations? Is this house, which is called by my name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, even I have seen it, saith the Lord" (Jeremiah 7:8-11).
to be continued...
"The prophets prophecy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?" (Jeremiah 5:31)
"For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely...saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace. Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein. Hear, O earth; Behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it." (Jeremiah 6:13,14,16,19).
"Behold, ye trust in lying words, that cannot profit. Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not; and come and stand before me in this house, which is called by my name, and say, We are delivered to do all these abominations? Is this house, which is called by my name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, even I have seen it, saith the Lord" (Jeremiah 7:8-11).
to be continued...
JEREMIAH THE PROPHET, SON OF HILKIAH THE PRIEST
"The words of Jeremiah the son of Hilkiah, of the priests...to whom the word of the Lord came in the days of Josiah..."(Jeremiah 1:1,2).
"Then the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.
Then said I, Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I a child. But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord. Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth" (Jeremiah 1:4-9).
"And I will utter my judgements against them touching all their wickedness, who have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, and worshiped the works of their own hands...and they shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail against thee; for I am with thee, saith the Lord, to deliver thee" (Jeremiah 1:16,19).
"Israel was holiness unto the Lord, and the first fruits of his increase...and I brought you into a plentiful country, to eat the fruit thereof and the goodness thereof: but when ye entered, ye defiled my land, and made mine heritage an abomination. The priests said not, Where is the Lord? and they that handle the law knew me not: the pastors also transgressed against me and the prophets prophesied by Baal and walked after things that do not profit" (Jeremiah 2:3,7,8).
"For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water...yet I had planted thee a noble vine, wholly a right seed: how then art thou turned into a degenerate plant of a strange vine unto me?" (Jeremiah 2:13,21)
"...Yet return again to me, saith the Lord...A voice was heard upon the high places, weeping and supplications of the children of Israel: for they have perverted their way, and they have forgotten the Lord their God." (Jeremiah 3;1,21)
to be continued...
"Then the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.
Then said I, Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I a child. But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord. Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth" (Jeremiah 1:4-9).
"And I will utter my judgements against them touching all their wickedness, who have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, and worshiped the works of their own hands...and they shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail against thee; for I am with thee, saith the Lord, to deliver thee" (Jeremiah 1:16,19).
"Israel was holiness unto the Lord, and the first fruits of his increase...and I brought you into a plentiful country, to eat the fruit thereof and the goodness thereof: but when ye entered, ye defiled my land, and made mine heritage an abomination. The priests said not, Where is the Lord? and they that handle the law knew me not: the pastors also transgressed against me and the prophets prophesied by Baal and walked after things that do not profit" (Jeremiah 2:3,7,8).
"For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water...yet I had planted thee a noble vine, wholly a right seed: how then art thou turned into a degenerate plant of a strange vine unto me?" (Jeremiah 2:13,21)
"...Yet return again to me, saith the Lord...A voice was heard upon the high places, weeping and supplications of the children of Israel: for they have perverted their way, and they have forgotten the Lord their God." (Jeremiah 3;1,21)
to be continued...
Thursday, December 17, 2009
ONE THING REMAINS CONSTANT
Through life's journey, God and His love remain constant.
He's promised never to leave us nor forsake us.
Through BIRTH or DEATH
Through MARRIAGE or DIVORCE
Through HEALTH or DISEASE
Through GROWTH or DOWNSIZE
Life is always changing, but Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today and forever.
He's promised never to leave us nor forsake us.
Through BIRTH or DEATH
Through MARRIAGE or DIVORCE
Through HEALTH or DISEASE
Through GROWTH or DOWNSIZE
Life is always changing, but Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today and forever.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
UNLEARN WHAT YOU'VE BEEN TAUGHT
No wonder Jesus is not a popular person with popular culture. His kingdom is based on teachings that rub against everything we've been taught from childhood.
For example, "look out for number one" v. humbling yourself
1. "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other[s] better than yourselves...Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross" (Philippians 2:3,5-8). [In laymen terms, He didn't think equality with God or His divinity, was something to be held on to]
2. John, the Baptist, testified of Jesus saying, "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30). [He knew when to take a step back and let others shine]
3. "At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, 'verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:1-4). [In a world where children and youth are minimized and often despised, this one was as hard to follow two thousand year ago as it is today]
5. "When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honorable man than thou be bidden him; ... but when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room that he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher; then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted" (Luke 14:10,11). [As special as we think we are, there is always someone more special or honored]
6. "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up" (James 4:10). [We can truly let the Lord fight our battles for us and trust that He will have our best interest at heart. Sometimes we'll be vindicated in this world and sometimes not, but we don't have to go out there swinging and trying to "get ours." Look around you, there is nothing in this sinful world to get but pain, misery and loss.
There is nothing sweeter than when the Lord lifts you up.
For example, "look out for number one" v. humbling yourself
1. "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other[s] better than yourselves...Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross" (Philippians 2:3,5-8). [In laymen terms, He didn't think equality with God or His divinity, was something to be held on to]
2. John, the Baptist, testified of Jesus saying, "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30). [He knew when to take a step back and let others shine]
3. "At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, 'verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:1-4). [In a world where children and youth are minimized and often despised, this one was as hard to follow two thousand year ago as it is today]
5. "When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honorable man than thou be bidden him; ... but when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room that he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher; then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted" (Luke 14:10,11). [As special as we think we are, there is always someone more special or honored]
6. "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up" (James 4:10). [We can truly let the Lord fight our battles for us and trust that He will have our best interest at heart. Sometimes we'll be vindicated in this world and sometimes not, but we don't have to go out there swinging and trying to "get ours." Look around you, there is nothing in this sinful world to get but pain, misery and loss.
There is nothing sweeter than when the Lord lifts you up.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
REFORMATION AND REVIVAL
These are tough times! The world is changing every day, and not for the better. Earth is reeling with the enormous weight of sin. In mercy, the four angels are holding back the winds of strife.
Many are without hope. To live in this earth without hope is a life-robbing experience. There needs to be a revival of hope in our lives. Some have grown up hearing the gospel message of Jesus birth, life, death, resurrection and soon return. For various reasons, some have lost sight of that blessed hope. Some still cling to the promises of God's word and are able to make it through each day.
IN TIMES LIKE THESE (Hymn 593)
by Ruth Caye Jones
In times like these you need a Savior, In times like these you need an anchor;
Be very sure, be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!
Refrain
This Rock is Jesus, yes, He's he one; This Rock is Jesus, the only One! Be very sure, be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!
In times like these you need the Bible, In times like these, O be not idle;
Be very sure, be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!
This Rock is Jesus, yes, He's he one; This Rock is Jesus, the only One! Be very sure, be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!
In times like these I have a Savior, In times like these I have an anchor;
I'm very sure, I'm very sure, my anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!
This Rock is Jesus, yes, He's the one; This Rock is Jesus, the only One! I'm very sure, I'm very sure, my anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!
Prayer inspired by Psalms 61
Hear my cry, O God; pay attention to my prayer
Wherever I am, I'll cry unto you (Psalm 139:7-10);
When the world overwhelms me,
lead me to the Rock Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 10:4)
who has overcome the world (John 16:33)
Many are without hope. To live in this earth without hope is a life-robbing experience. There needs to be a revival of hope in our lives. Some have grown up hearing the gospel message of Jesus birth, life, death, resurrection and soon return. For various reasons, some have lost sight of that blessed hope. Some still cling to the promises of God's word and are able to make it through each day.
IN TIMES LIKE THESE (Hymn 593)
by Ruth Caye Jones
In times like these you need a Savior, In times like these you need an anchor;
Be very sure, be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!
Refrain
This Rock is Jesus, yes, He's he one; This Rock is Jesus, the only One! Be very sure, be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!
In times like these you need the Bible, In times like these, O be not idle;
Be very sure, be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!
This Rock is Jesus, yes, He's he one; This Rock is Jesus, the only One! Be very sure, be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!
In times like these I have a Savior, In times like these I have an anchor;
I'm very sure, I'm very sure, my anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!
This Rock is Jesus, yes, He's the one; This Rock is Jesus, the only One! I'm very sure, I'm very sure, my anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!
Prayer inspired by Psalms 61
Hear my cry, O God; pay attention to my prayer
Wherever I am, I'll cry unto you (Psalm 139:7-10);
When the world overwhelms me,
lead me to the Rock Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 10:4)
who has overcome the world (John 16:33)
Thursday, December 3, 2009
HOW I WAS DISOBEYING GOD'S COMMANDMENTS
The following are some of the ways I was disobeying God's commandments, but didn't realize it.
1. My gods were the TV (Law and Order; Cold Case; The Practice; Seinfeld; Wheel of Fortune...
2. My house had the graven images (statues and works of art), that were worshipped (strategically placed for display and so they would not be meddled with or broken because they were so "precious".
3. Saying I'm a Christian, but in my private and public life, misbehaving and acting like Satan's servant.
4. Forgetting that the Sabbath was coming and failing to make necessary preparations (cleaning, cooking and planning so that our time would glorify God); Keeping my mind on, and initiating or entering into conversations that drew the focus from God, to self and worldly things
5. Not calling or visiting my parents as I should; treating them with indifference and/or disrespect; speaking ill of them and complaining about their parenting during my childhood
6. Speaking words to my husband, children or neighbors that kill
7. Defrauding my husband and finding fulfillment in other people; engaging in hobbies and selfish pursuits that draw my mind or time from my wifely duties
8. Taking office supplies without asking; not speaking up when I'd been undercharged; not alerting the cable company that we were getting more then we were paying for
9. Making up stories (filling in the blanks or guessing about something and making it a fact
10. Wishing that I had a marriage relationship, a home, vacations or talents like other people
1. My gods were the TV (Law and Order; Cold Case; The Practice; Seinfeld; Wheel of Fortune...
2. My house had the graven images (statues and works of art), that were worshipped (strategically placed for display and so they would not be meddled with or broken because they were so "precious".
3. Saying I'm a Christian, but in my private and public life, misbehaving and acting like Satan's servant.
4. Forgetting that the Sabbath was coming and failing to make necessary preparations (cleaning, cooking and planning so that our time would glorify God); Keeping my mind on, and initiating or entering into conversations that drew the focus from God, to self and worldly things
5. Not calling or visiting my parents as I should; treating them with indifference and/or disrespect; speaking ill of them and complaining about their parenting during my childhood
6. Speaking words to my husband, children or neighbors that kill
7. Defrauding my husband and finding fulfillment in other people; engaging in hobbies and selfish pursuits that draw my mind or time from my wifely duties
8. Taking office supplies without asking; not speaking up when I'd been undercharged; not alerting the cable company that we were getting more then we were paying for
9. Making up stories (filling in the blanks or guessing about something and making it a fact
10. Wishing that I had a marriage relationship, a home, vacations or talents like other people
REST A WHILE
Come ye yourselves apart into a deserted place and rest a while (Mark 6:31).
Jesus recognized that even His disciples needed quiet time to themselves. Even He made it a regular habit to go to some mountainside or secluded place to commune with His Father.
A couple weeks ago, we went to the mountains and stayed with a wonderful family. The area was so quiet and peaceful that the Lord was able to share some wonderful truths with me. I sooo wanted to share them with you, but instead of asking permission to use their computer and working on the blog right then, I presumed to do it when I came back to the city.
Of course, all the precious truths have since left my mind and may possibly be lost forever. Sorry!! I now recognize what the Lord was saying to each of us when he said, "Come ye yourselves apart into a deserted place and rest a while" and why.
Our spiritual growth is severely hampered in a place where there is constant noise, distractions, sin and debauchery. The hustle, bustle, business, wasting of time and foolishness is so overwhelming, and oftentimes alluring, that there is no time or desire to study the word of God. We're always tired, stressed, pressured, pulled and beaten down, that the things of God hold no power or beauty in our lives.
Oh, brethren, let us go to those retired places so that we can know what God's will is for our lives. When we feel that things are going out of control, jump off the hamster wheel and let God catch you. It may mean major lifestyle changes, major opposition from the world, but God will be there to help you.
It's getting harder to hear the still small voice of God in all the construction noise, the car horns, the train rattlings, the public cell phone conversations, the news alarms and terror alerts.
If He's saying, "this is the way, walk ye in it" (Isaiah 30:21), how will we know where to go if we can't hear Him?
Jesus recognized that even His disciples needed quiet time to themselves. Even He made it a regular habit to go to some mountainside or secluded place to commune with His Father.
A couple weeks ago, we went to the mountains and stayed with a wonderful family. The area was so quiet and peaceful that the Lord was able to share some wonderful truths with me. I sooo wanted to share them with you, but instead of asking permission to use their computer and working on the blog right then, I presumed to do it when I came back to the city.
Of course, all the precious truths have since left my mind and may possibly be lost forever. Sorry!! I now recognize what the Lord was saying to each of us when he said, "Come ye yourselves apart into a deserted place and rest a while" and why.
Our spiritual growth is severely hampered in a place where there is constant noise, distractions, sin and debauchery. The hustle, bustle, business, wasting of time and foolishness is so overwhelming, and oftentimes alluring, that there is no time or desire to study the word of God. We're always tired, stressed, pressured, pulled and beaten down, that the things of God hold no power or beauty in our lives.
Oh, brethren, let us go to those retired places so that we can know what God's will is for our lives. When we feel that things are going out of control, jump off the hamster wheel and let God catch you. It may mean major lifestyle changes, major opposition from the world, but God will be there to help you.
It's getting harder to hear the still small voice of God in all the construction noise, the car horns, the train rattlings, the public cell phone conversations, the news alarms and terror alerts.
If He's saying, "this is the way, walk ye in it" (Isaiah 30:21), how will we know where to go if we can't hear Him?
Monday, November 30, 2009
FACEBOOK REQUEST
If you have a Facebook page, please add a link to my Heaven Bound Blog www.http://jarsofoil.blogspot.com/ or post it once on your wall.
I'd like the message to reach as many people as possible. There is something on there that may appeal to anyone, from bible scriptures, current events, recipes, family matters, parenting concerns, etc.
You may add a disclaimer since my views and writing style may not be your own or the method used to communicate the gospel or disseminate information may be different from yours.
Thank you very much.
I'd like the message to reach as many people as possible. There is something on there that may appeal to anyone, from bible scriptures, current events, recipes, family matters, parenting concerns, etc.
You may add a disclaimer since my views and writing style may not be your own or the method used to communicate the gospel or disseminate information may be different from yours.
Thank you very much.
Friday, November 27, 2009
MY T-SHIRTS
Need Life Insurance?
Seek JESUS CHRIST
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
Seek JESUS CHRIST
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
DIARY OF A SKINNY FOOD ADDICT
The weight loss was easy. Eating a diet that is 98% based on the diet before sin makes it happen naturally, without any effort. The victory over appetite is not so easy. That requires a constant, daily force of the will.
There are eight natural laws of health that God gave to us. They all work in harmony with each other to promote better health and make our lives a little more enriched. These laws are nutrition, exercise, water, sunlight, temperance, air, rest and trust in the only Living, only Wise, Immortal God.
These principles will be expounded upon later. Some people go cold-turkey with changes and others have to incorporate changes gradually. The good news is that everyone of us can make changes in our lives. We need not be stuck in one place and resign ourselves to defeat.
We can do all things through Christ who gives us strenth (Philipians 4:13).
There are eight natural laws of health that God gave to us. They all work in harmony with each other to promote better health and make our lives a little more enriched. These laws are nutrition, exercise, water, sunlight, temperance, air, rest and trust in the only Living, only Wise, Immortal God.
These principles will be expounded upon later. Some people go cold-turkey with changes and others have to incorporate changes gradually. The good news is that everyone of us can make changes in our lives. We need not be stuck in one place and resign ourselves to defeat.
We can do all things through Christ who gives us strenth (Philipians 4:13).
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
THE CLASH OF WILLS
First thing this morning, before the cock crew, I had a clash of wills with one of my children. It was a hard fought battle, but once entered in, it had to be won by me. The challenge was to guide the will of my child without loud-voiced commands, threatenings or force.
Immediately, Child Guidance, by Ellen G. White came to mind and I had to pick it up for encouragement. The chapter entitled, "The Will a Factor in Success" helped me greatly and pointed me to pray to the Lord for strength at that moment. Before that, in my carnal state, prayer had not even entered my mind. In humility, I bowed my head in prayer and asked the Lord's strength, to which He mercifully and lovingly supplied. Not only did He strengthen me, but as I felt my anger melt away, He also worked on my child to bring her into compliance.
So, with a more surrendered spirit, she went to perform the word that had gone out of my mouth. She even asked for my assistance, which I reluctantly gave. Here the Spirit was calling me to surrender to Him again.
"Thanks be to God who giveth us the victory through Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 15:57).
Immediately, Child Guidance, by Ellen G. White came to mind and I had to pick it up for encouragement. The chapter entitled, "The Will a Factor in Success" helped me greatly and pointed me to pray to the Lord for strength at that moment. Before that, in my carnal state, prayer had not even entered my mind. In humility, I bowed my head in prayer and asked the Lord's strength, to which He mercifully and lovingly supplied. Not only did He strengthen me, but as I felt my anger melt away, He also worked on my child to bring her into compliance.
So, with a more surrendered spirit, she went to perform the word that had gone out of my mouth. She even asked for my assistance, which I reluctantly gave. Here the Spirit was calling me to surrender to Him again.
"Thanks be to God who giveth us the victory through Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 15:57).
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
AGE OF ACCOUNTABILITY FOR YOUTH
Why is the age of twenty a much more mature time for a young person to go to college or to do an apprenticeship program?
The following information is taken from an article from "Family Circle" entitled, "The Young and the Reckless." "Using MRI scans to track changes over 10 years, scientists at the National Institute of Mental Health announced in 2004 that the teen brain is actually going through an intense period of rewiring and isn't fully mature until about age 20. Even more startling, the last part of the brain to come completely online is the prefrontal cortex, the center of reasoning and judgement. 'If a teen were a car, it would be like flooring the accelerator while the brakes are under repair,' says Dr. Walsh. 'Teens can understand information but still tend to act impulsively out of emotion, without thinking ahead.' "
Parents should help their children and youth learn to make good choices of friends when they are still in the maturing stages (1-20 years of age).
The following information is taken from an article from "Family Circle" entitled, "The Young and the Reckless." "Using MRI scans to track changes over 10 years, scientists at the National Institute of Mental Health announced in 2004 that the teen brain is actually going through an intense period of rewiring and isn't fully mature until about age 20. Even more startling, the last part of the brain to come completely online is the prefrontal cortex, the center of reasoning and judgement. 'If a teen were a car, it would be like flooring the accelerator while the brakes are under repair,' says Dr. Walsh. 'Teens can understand information but still tend to act impulsively out of emotion, without thinking ahead.' "
Parents should help their children and youth learn to make good choices of friends when they are still in the maturing stages (1-20 years of age).
Monday, November 16, 2009
OUR DO's and SHOULD NOT's for HEALTFUL LIVING
Our Do’s and Should Not’s for Healthful Living
1. Should not make anything or anyone more important than God
2. Should not set up statues or relics and pray to them or make substitutions for God
3. Should not say that you are a Christian, but not act like Christ or speak God’s name flippantly and with disrespect
4. Do respect the seventh day Sabbath as a weekly memorial of God’s work at creation
5. Do treat your parents with respect; a long and emotionally healthy life will be the result
6. Should not willfully take a life or destroy someone with hurtful, angry or inconsiderate words
7. Should not engage in emotional or physical affairs
8. Should not cheat in business, take what is not yours; withhold tithe or skimp on offering; rob or burglarize others
9. Should not gossip (share others' personal information) or lie (even if it's a little white one)
10. Should not envy or harbor discontentment with what you have; be jealous of others
1. Should not make anything or anyone more important than God
2. Should not set up statues or relics and pray to them or make substitutions for God
3. Should not say that you are a Christian, but not act like Christ or speak God’s name flippantly and with disrespect
4. Do respect the seventh day Sabbath as a weekly memorial of God’s work at creation
5. Do treat your parents with respect; a long and emotionally healthy life will be the result
6. Should not willfully take a life or destroy someone with hurtful, angry or inconsiderate words
7. Should not engage in emotional or physical affairs
8. Should not cheat in business, take what is not yours; withhold tithe or skimp on offering; rob or burglarize others
9. Should not gossip (share others' personal information) or lie (even if it's a little white one)
10. Should not envy or harbor discontentment with what you have; be jealous of others
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION (Hymn #498)
If you confess your sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
When we confess our sins, we should be specific with the Lord. We can easily say, "Lord for give me of my sins", but not have real spirit of repentance for some specific sin. Or there may be a sin that we have let sit for so long that it is forgotten.
By being specific, we allow the Holy Spirit to jog our memory and to really make the confession meaningful. Believe me, the Holy Spirit will bring things back to your remembrance.
The likelihood of repeating a particular sin after we have been specific in confession, is slim. Gain the victory over each sin in particular. Each victory will give you confidence to approach the Lord with some other weakness that you need help overcoming.
As old sins come back to remembrance, take the time to confess and repent of it right away. Any sin unconfessed is a sin unforgiven.
God is willing to aid you.
YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION
Yield not to temptation, for yielding is sin,
Each victory will help you, some other to win.
Fight manfully onward, dark passions subdue,
Look ever to Jesus, He'll carry you through.
Refrain
Ask the Savior to help you, Comfort, strengthen, and keep you;
He is willing to aid you, He will carry you through
Shun evil companions, bad language disdain,
God's name hold in reverence, nor take it in vain;
Be thoughtful and earnest, kind-hearted and true,
Look ever to Jesus, He'll carry you through.
Refrain
To him that overcometh, God giveth a crown,
Through faith we shall conquer, though often cast down;
He who is our Savior, our strength will renew,
Look ever to Jesus, He'll carry you through.
Refrain
When we confess our sins, we should be specific with the Lord. We can easily say, "Lord for give me of my sins", but not have real spirit of repentance for some specific sin. Or there may be a sin that we have let sit for so long that it is forgotten.
By being specific, we allow the Holy Spirit to jog our memory and to really make the confession meaningful. Believe me, the Holy Spirit will bring things back to your remembrance.
The likelihood of repeating a particular sin after we have been specific in confession, is slim. Gain the victory over each sin in particular. Each victory will give you confidence to approach the Lord with some other weakness that you need help overcoming.
As old sins come back to remembrance, take the time to confess and repent of it right away. Any sin unconfessed is a sin unforgiven.
God is willing to aid you.
YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION
Yield not to temptation, for yielding is sin,
Each victory will help you, some other to win.
Fight manfully onward, dark passions subdue,
Look ever to Jesus, He'll carry you through.
Refrain
Ask the Savior to help you, Comfort, strengthen, and keep you;
He is willing to aid you, He will carry you through
Shun evil companions, bad language disdain,
God's name hold in reverence, nor take it in vain;
Be thoughtful and earnest, kind-hearted and true,
Look ever to Jesus, He'll carry you through.
Refrain
To him that overcometh, God giveth a crown,
Through faith we shall conquer, though often cast down;
He who is our Savior, our strength will renew,
Look ever to Jesus, He'll carry you through.
Refrain
Monday, November 9, 2009
RANDOM QUOTES
"In a time of universal deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act." George Orwell
Sunday, November 8, 2009
HOW WE TRAINED OUR CHILDREN IN BAD BEHAVIOR
BELOW ARE A LIST OF HABITS WE TRAINED OUR CHILDREN IN THAT ARE NOT CONDUCIVE TO A HAPPY HOME. LEARN FROM OUR MISTAKES AND MAKE YOUR HOME DIFFERENT. BY GOD'S GRACE, WE CAN STRIVE FOR HEAVEN'S ORDER IN OUR HOMES.
Stuffing their mouths when eating -- When they were now learning to eat solid food and we were feeding them, we'd full up the spoon, so that the process could go faster because we had other things to do. Sitting patiently and savoring time with our children was not a priority when there were dishes to wash, sports to watch, food to cook, floors to clean and other children to tend to.
Swallowing their food and not chewing enough times -- When we were feeding them, we didn't wait for them to chew their food thoroughly before we had another heaped spoonful ready to put into their mouths. [Now that this is brought to my attention, I [Leuanna] realize that that is the way I eat and it takes effort on a daily basis to correct this wrong habit in myself while trying to re-train our children.
Not respecting when their father, my husband, speaks -- When my husband says something that I disagree with, I'm quick to correct it or voice a better suggestion in front of the children. Over time, they have learned not to take daddy's words seriously or to ask me for my input concerning what he says. I can't be upset with them, I trained them that way. This requires the constant prayer, "Set a watch, O Lord, over my mouth. Keep the door of my lips (Psalm 141:3).
Habits of irregularity -- When they were babies, we didn't have a regular schedule for sleep times, wake up times, family worship, mealtimes, recreation, work or anything else. Everything happened according to our moods, so they grew up with the habits of irregularity. Now that we're trying to maintain heaven's order, it's a struggle, not just for us, but for them, but thanks be to God who giveth us the victory through Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57).
Not following rules or obeying rules when it was convenient to "self" -- If I [Leuanna] didn't feel like walking the long way, I'd jaywalk; if I wasn't patient, I would not wait for the pedestrian walk signal; if I was late or in a hurry, I'd drive way over the speed limit and the list goes on...
Shouting at each other or conversing too loud -- Because we didn't enforce rules, weren't consistent or didn't make our word law, they grew trained in habits of disobedience or indifference, so that when we needed them to do something, we'd have to shout to be heard. Since there was no order in the home, chaos ensued and everyone naturally spoke in loud tones, not being aware of the volume of their voices, so that became the norm. I [Leuanna] also kept the radio up loud (that's the way I like my music), so we always had to speak loudly to be heard. Now that we want to maintain a peaceful atmosphere in the home, it's requires daily diligence to undo the bad habits.
Hitting when angry -- And of course, this one. When they did something that crossed "self", my first reaction was to lash out, so when they are upset, they lashed out. Sometimes at me (even my sweet, mild-mannered 2 year old had a bout of this disease) or they'd lash out at each other. That's what they say, so that's what they did.
Being restlesss or disruptive in the public places (doctor's office, church, concerts, seminars, etc.) -- We allowed the children from early childhood to do whatever they wanted during family worship, during reading time and during meals. We weren't consistent in encouraging them to sit still for short and eventually longer periods of time. When they ran off or interrupted us whenw we were speaking, we weren't consistent in correcting those habits. The obvious result is lack of self-control, the inability to sit still when necessary and the habit of being disruptive by talking when others are speaking.
I praise the Lord that He has been showing us the truth of our sinful "selves". He doesn't do it to bring us down, but to bring us up to His standard. As we humble ourselves before Him, He exalts us to a higher standard of living that we can be a blessing and a source of encouragement to others. We're encouraged to behold healthy families.
Too many families are dysfunctional and the human heart naturally becomes what it beholds [that sounds like a good topic for another blog about the TV shows we watch and how that changes our minds to accept adultery, fornication, wrath, lies, covetousness, foolish jesting and the like, as normal].
Let's find healthy families and healthy relationships to be our example and make the bad examples a source of fervent prayer.
May God bless your marriages, your children and may your homes (if one inhabitant or more), be a little taste of heaven.
Stuffing their mouths when eating -- When they were now learning to eat solid food and we were feeding them, we'd full up the spoon, so that the process could go faster because we had other things to do. Sitting patiently and savoring time with our children was not a priority when there were dishes to wash, sports to watch, food to cook, floors to clean and other children to tend to.
Swallowing their food and not chewing enough times -- When we were feeding them, we didn't wait for them to chew their food thoroughly before we had another heaped spoonful ready to put into their mouths. [Now that this is brought to my attention, I [Leuanna] realize that that is the way I eat and it takes effort on a daily basis to correct this wrong habit in myself while trying to re-train our children.
Not respecting when their father, my husband, speaks -- When my husband says something that I disagree with, I'm quick to correct it or voice a better suggestion in front of the children. Over time, they have learned not to take daddy's words seriously or to ask me for my input concerning what he says. I can't be upset with them, I trained them that way. This requires the constant prayer, "Set a watch, O Lord, over my mouth. Keep the door of my lips (Psalm 141:3).
Habits of irregularity -- When they were babies, we didn't have a regular schedule for sleep times, wake up times, family worship, mealtimes, recreation, work or anything else. Everything happened according to our moods, so they grew up with the habits of irregularity. Now that we're trying to maintain heaven's order, it's a struggle, not just for us, but for them, but thanks be to God who giveth us the victory through Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57).
Not following rules or obeying rules when it was convenient to "self" -- If I [Leuanna] didn't feel like walking the long way, I'd jaywalk; if I wasn't patient, I would not wait for the pedestrian walk signal; if I was late or in a hurry, I'd drive way over the speed limit and the list goes on...
Shouting at each other or conversing too loud -- Because we didn't enforce rules, weren't consistent or didn't make our word law, they grew trained in habits of disobedience or indifference, so that when we needed them to do something, we'd have to shout to be heard. Since there was no order in the home, chaos ensued and everyone naturally spoke in loud tones, not being aware of the volume of their voices, so that became the norm. I [Leuanna] also kept the radio up loud (that's the way I like my music), so we always had to speak loudly to be heard. Now that we want to maintain a peaceful atmosphere in the home, it's requires daily diligence to undo the bad habits.
Hitting when angry -- And of course, this one. When they did something that crossed "self", my first reaction was to lash out, so when they are upset, they lashed out. Sometimes at me (even my sweet, mild-mannered 2 year old had a bout of this disease) or they'd lash out at each other. That's what they say, so that's what they did.
Being restlesss or disruptive in the public places (doctor's office, church, concerts, seminars, etc.) -- We allowed the children from early childhood to do whatever they wanted during family worship, during reading time and during meals. We weren't consistent in encouraging them to sit still for short and eventually longer periods of time. When they ran off or interrupted us whenw we were speaking, we weren't consistent in correcting those habits. The obvious result is lack of self-control, the inability to sit still when necessary and the habit of being disruptive by talking when others are speaking.
I praise the Lord that He has been showing us the truth of our sinful "selves". He doesn't do it to bring us down, but to bring us up to His standard. As we humble ourselves before Him, He exalts us to a higher standard of living that we can be a blessing and a source of encouragement to others. We're encouraged to behold healthy families.
Too many families are dysfunctional and the human heart naturally becomes what it beholds [that sounds like a good topic for another blog about the TV shows we watch and how that changes our minds to accept adultery, fornication, wrath, lies, covetousness, foolish jesting and the like, as normal].
Let's find healthy families and healthy relationships to be our example and make the bad examples a source of fervent prayer.
May God bless your marriages, your children and may your homes (if one inhabitant or more), be a little taste of heaven.
Monday, November 2, 2009
REVELATION OF HOPE
(1) Revelation's Predictions for the New Millenium
(2) Revelation's Biggest Surprise
(3) Revelation's Greatest End-Time Signs
(4) Revelation's Star Wars: Battle for the Throne
(5) Revelation's Peace Maker
(6) Revelation's Final Event
(7) Revelation's Most Amazing Prophecy
(2) Revelation's Biggest Surprise
(3) Revelation's Greatest End-Time Signs
(4) Revelation's Star Wars: Battle for the Throne
(5) Revelation's Peace Maker
(6) Revelation's Final Event
(7) Revelation's Most Amazing Prophecy
Sunday, November 1, 2009
THE HOUR OF HIS JUDGEMENT HAS COME
****ANNOUNCEMENT*****
You are personally invited to take time to attend an Evangelistic Series: REVELATION OF HOPE
Tonight at 7pm
Tonight's topic: What Happens when we die?
Hyattsville Seventh-day Adventist Church
4905 42nd Place
Hyattsville, MD 20871
301-318-0133 (Pastor)
301-927-2080 (for directions after 6pm)
Last few topics:
Yesterday morning we learned what is a cult. We also learned in the evening what the 2300 day prophecy in Daniel 8:14 means and it's link to the Jewish Sanctuary services. Tonight we will learn what happens after death. These lectures have been powerful and life-changing.
All the lectures are rooted in the book of Revelation. This book is no longer a mystery with mystic creatures or events. The fear and confusion is being taken away as truth is revealed and believed.
Forgive me, but I don't know the exact title of each lecture. Mario Torres just gives us what the subject matter will be.
Series continutes until November 14th at 7pm (Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays*
*there are two lectures on Saturdays, 11am and 7pm
You are personally invited to take time to attend an Evangelistic Series: REVELATION OF HOPE
Tonight at 7pm
Tonight's topic: What Happens when we die?
Hyattsville Seventh-day Adventist Church
4905 42nd Place
Hyattsville, MD 20871
301-318-0133 (Pastor)
301-927-2080 (for directions after 6pm)
Last few topics:
Yesterday morning we learned what is a cult. We also learned in the evening what the 2300 day prophecy in Daniel 8:14 means and it's link to the Jewish Sanctuary services. Tonight we will learn what happens after death. These lectures have been powerful and life-changing.
All the lectures are rooted in the book of Revelation. This book is no longer a mystery with mystic creatures or events. The fear and confusion is being taken away as truth is revealed and believed.
Forgive me, but I don't know the exact title of each lecture. Mario Torres just gives us what the subject matter will be.
Series continutes until November 14th at 7pm (Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays*
*there are two lectures on Saturdays, 11am and 7pm
Friday, October 30, 2009
IT PAYS TO SERVE JESUS
“Your words have been stout [harsh] against me, saith the Lord.
Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee?
Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts?
And now we call the proud happy [blessed]; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.” (Mal 3:13-15)
Let us be careful lest we speak against the Lord in this way. It is not in vain that we the serve the Lord. The fact that God sent His only begotten son as a ransom for your and my sin is evidence that we do not serve Him in vain. Were it not for His grace, we would be without hope, and that is one thing that we need in this wicked world—-hope. Hope that, come what may, there is a better world promised to those who serve Him*. (see Mal. 3:18)
If you're on the brink of foreclosure, divorce, unemployment, a nervous breakdown, disenheritance, disfellowship or any such thing, see it a test. A test of your strength. "If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small." (Proverbs 24:10)
In all this, do not turn away from the Lord, trusting that "all things work together for good to them that love the Lord, who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28).
*In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began. (Titus 1:2)
Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee?
Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts?
And now we call the proud happy [blessed]; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.” (Mal 3:13-15)
Let us be careful lest we speak against the Lord in this way. It is not in vain that we the serve the Lord. The fact that God sent His only begotten son as a ransom for your and my sin is evidence that we do not serve Him in vain. Were it not for His grace, we would be without hope, and that is one thing that we need in this wicked world—-hope. Hope that, come what may, there is a better world promised to those who serve Him*. (see Mal. 3:18)
If you're on the brink of foreclosure, divorce, unemployment, a nervous breakdown, disenheritance, disfellowship or any such thing, see it a test. A test of your strength. "If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small." (Proverbs 24:10)
In all this, do not turn away from the Lord, trusting that "all things work together for good to them that love the Lord, who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28).
*In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began. (Titus 1:2)
Thursday, October 29, 2009
BREAKFAST LIKE A KING
Whole Grains – sweet or long grain brown rice, millet, pearled or unhulled barley, soft or hard wheat berries, quinoa, bulgur wheat or steel cut, rolled or oat groats (choose 3 or more)
Nuts – pine nuts, walnuts, pecans, peanuts, cashews, almonds or Brazil nuts (choose 1)
Sweetener or Flavoring – agave nectar, maple syrup, molasses, honey, almond or vanilla extract, fruit smoothie, apple juice or other juice concentrate (choose 1)
Spice – coriander, cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla bean, cloves, citrus zest or star anise (choose 1)
Fresh Fruits – blueberries, bananas, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, pears and sweet grapes (choose 2)
Dried Fruit – dates, raisins, cranberries, apricots, shredded coconut, prunes and currents (choose 1)
Milk – coconut milk, rice milk, almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, hemp milk, carob milk (choose 1 store bought or homemade variety)
Nuts – pine nuts, walnuts, pecans, peanuts, cashews, almonds or Brazil nuts (choose 1)
Sweetener or Flavoring – agave nectar, maple syrup, molasses, honey, almond or vanilla extract, fruit smoothie, apple juice or other juice concentrate (choose 1)
Spice – coriander, cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla bean, cloves, citrus zest or star anise (choose 1)
Fresh Fruits – blueberries, bananas, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, pears and sweet grapes (choose 2)
Dried Fruit – dates, raisins, cranberries, apricots, shredded coconut, prunes and currents (choose 1)
Milk – coconut milk, rice milk, almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, hemp milk, carob milk (choose 1 store bought or homemade variety)
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
L.A.N.D. Children's Living Bible Series
FOUND RULES: THE FIRST STEPS TOWARD CHANGE
Josiah was eight years old when he became king of Judah
He reigned for 31 years and did what was right in the sight of the Lord
In his 18th year as king, Josiah sent Shaphan, the scribe, to the temple of the Lord
He told Shaphan to go to Hilkiah, the High Priest, and ask him to count the money that is collected by the door keepers
He was to deliver the money to the workers who were to repair the temple
While Hilkiah was in the temple, he found the Book of the Law and gave it to Shaphan to read
Shaphan went back and reported to Joshiah, now 26 years old, that the money was found in the temple and given to the workers
He also showed Joshiah the Book of the Law that Hilkiah, the High Priest, gave to him and read to the king
The king was distressed and humbled himself and gave orders to inquire of the Lord on behalf of the people
He realized that Lord was angry because the people had not been following the Book of the Law
So the High Priest, the Scribe and three others went to Huldah, the Prophetess, and asked her for a message from the Lord
Huldah told them to tell the king that the Lord was angry with the people because they were worshipping other gods
Since King Joshiah humbled himself before the Lord, the Lord heard him and would have mercy on him
The Lord told Huldah that King Joshiah would die in peace and not see the destruction that would come upon his people
excerpt from the L.A.N.D. Children's Living Bible Series
(c) Leuanna Matheson, 1997
Josiah was eight years old when he became king of Judah
He reigned for 31 years and did what was right in the sight of the Lord
In his 18th year as king, Josiah sent Shaphan, the scribe, to the temple of the Lord
He told Shaphan to go to Hilkiah, the High Priest, and ask him to count the money that is collected by the door keepers
He was to deliver the money to the workers who were to repair the temple
While Hilkiah was in the temple, he found the Book of the Law and gave it to Shaphan to read
Shaphan went back and reported to Joshiah, now 26 years old, that the money was found in the temple and given to the workers
He also showed Joshiah the Book of the Law that Hilkiah, the High Priest, gave to him and read to the king
The king was distressed and humbled himself and gave orders to inquire of the Lord on behalf of the people
He realized that Lord was angry because the people had not been following the Book of the Law
So the High Priest, the Scribe and three others went to Huldah, the Prophetess, and asked her for a message from the Lord
Huldah told them to tell the king that the Lord was angry with the people because they were worshipping other gods
Since King Joshiah humbled himself before the Lord, the Lord heard him and would have mercy on him
The Lord told Huldah that King Joshiah would die in peace and not see the destruction that would come upon his people
excerpt from the L.A.N.D. Children's Living Bible Series
(c) Leuanna Matheson, 1997
Monday, October 26, 2009
TRUTHFULNESS
Truthfulness - Conformity to fact or reality; exact accordance with that which is or has been or shall be; true state of facts for things; correct opinion. (Definition from SonLight Education Ministry Curriculum)
"Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another." Ephesians 4:25
"Everything that Christians do should be transparent as the sunlight. Truth is of God; deception, in every one of its myriad forms, is of Satan; and whoever in any way departs from the straight line of truth is betraying himself into the power of the wicked one. Yet it is not a light or easy thing to speak the exact truth.
We cannot speak the truth unless we know the truth; and how often preconceived opinions, mental bias, imperfect knowledge, error of judgement, prevent a right understanding of matters with which we have to do! We cannot speak the truth unless our minds are continually guided by Him who is truth."
Thoughts from the Mount of Blessings, Ellen G. White, 68
"Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another." Ephesians 4:25
"Everything that Christians do should be transparent as the sunlight. Truth is of God; deception, in every one of its myriad forms, is of Satan; and whoever in any way departs from the straight line of truth is betraying himself into the power of the wicked one. Yet it is not a light or easy thing to speak the exact truth.
We cannot speak the truth unless we know the truth; and how often preconceived opinions, mental bias, imperfect knowledge, error of judgement, prevent a right understanding of matters with which we have to do! We cannot speak the truth unless our minds are continually guided by Him who is truth."
Thoughts from the Mount of Blessings, Ellen G. White, 68
Monday, October 19, 2009
RANDOM QUOTES
Acquaint now thyself with him [God], and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee. Job 22:21
Saturday, October 3, 2009
THE YEAR 2012
Everyone seems to have a fascination with the future, especially how the world is going to end.
This blog's a real simple appeal. Come to a prediction seminar (what the bible calls a Prophecy). God's predictions (prophecies) have ALWAYS come true. He's the only one who knows the end from the beginning. I can say that without hesitation or apology because it's true.
If you can't attend the one coming up at Hyattsville Seventh-day Adventist Church on October 16, 2009, at 7pm, then attend any prophecy seminar at a local Seventh-day Adventist Church near your part of the globe.
You may also find a bible-based study group and prayerfully attend (with bible, pen and highlighter in hand).
If push comes to shove, and you can't, or choose not to do any of the above, but still desire to know the truth, then open up the Word of God yourself, and as always, ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand what He's saying. That way, you know that you're getting truth straight from the source.
God's blessing be upon us all.
Leuanna
202-437-4867
P.S. COSMIC CONFLICT: Revelation of Hope
October 16-November 14, 2009
Friday's - Sundays and Wednesdays
7:00pm
4905 42nd Place
Hyattsville, MD 20782
301-318-0133 or 240-778-7261
This blog's a real simple appeal. Come to a prediction seminar (what the bible calls a Prophecy). God's predictions (prophecies) have ALWAYS come true. He's the only one who knows the end from the beginning. I can say that without hesitation or apology because it's true.
If you can't attend the one coming up at Hyattsville Seventh-day Adventist Church on October 16, 2009, at 7pm, then attend any prophecy seminar at a local Seventh-day Adventist Church near your part of the globe.
You may also find a bible-based study group and prayerfully attend (with bible, pen and highlighter in hand).
If push comes to shove, and you can't, or choose not to do any of the above, but still desire to know the truth, then open up the Word of God yourself, and as always, ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand what He's saying. That way, you know that you're getting truth straight from the source.
God's blessing be upon us all.
Leuanna
202-437-4867
P.S. COSMIC CONFLICT: Revelation of Hope
October 16-November 14, 2009
Friday's - Sundays and Wednesdays
7:00pm
4905 42nd Place
Hyattsville, MD 20782
301-318-0133 or 240-778-7261
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
FALL BACK, NOT FALL AWAY
Who doesn't want high standards? Even in the seediest business, there is a level of standard that employees must uphold.
Sometimes I find myself wanting, in my personal and home life, to lower my standards because they seem too high to attain to. My standards are based on God's ideal for me. Even family and friends tell me that my standards are too high, "God will understand," they say. That tell me that I put too much pressure on myself. My carnal self is prone to mediocrity as it is, so it's not a bad thing for me to aspire to something more noble.
When I listen to the words of "friendly advice", I begin to lower my standards. Unfortunately, that doesn't make me any happier. It cheapens my experience and makes me feel unfullfilled, because I'm assured that the God I serve is a High and Holy God. He can help me to accomplish what I cannot do in my own strength.
The apostle, Paul, said that he'd rather glory in his weakness, because when he is weak, he's strong. I truly know that I can do, and have done, many great things through Christ who has strengthened me over the years. When I've started feeling doubt, procrastination, discouragement, and like emotions, it was because I was looking at myself and relying on own skill and strength.
This race is not won yet. The journey is not over. We must endure to the end.
If you're felt that the race was too much for you and fell away. It's not too late to suit up and continue from where you left off. There are people who will welcome you with open arms and most of all there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels over one sinner that repents.
Let's not believe the lies of those who would have us forfeit our crown of eternal life. Press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
*Italicized text are paraphrases from the word of God.
Sometimes I find myself wanting, in my personal and home life, to lower my standards because they seem too high to attain to. My standards are based on God's ideal for me. Even family and friends tell me that my standards are too high, "God will understand," they say. That tell me that I put too much pressure on myself. My carnal self is prone to mediocrity as it is, so it's not a bad thing for me to aspire to something more noble.
When I listen to the words of "friendly advice", I begin to lower my standards. Unfortunately, that doesn't make me any happier. It cheapens my experience and makes me feel unfullfilled, because I'm assured that the God I serve is a High and Holy God. He can help me to accomplish what I cannot do in my own strength.
The apostle, Paul, said that he'd rather glory in his weakness, because when he is weak, he's strong. I truly know that I can do, and have done, many great things through Christ who has strengthened me over the years. When I've started feeling doubt, procrastination, discouragement, and like emotions, it was because I was looking at myself and relying on own skill and strength.
This race is not won yet. The journey is not over. We must endure to the end.
If you're felt that the race was too much for you and fell away. It's not too late to suit up and continue from where you left off. There are people who will welcome you with open arms and most of all there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels over one sinner that repents.
Let's not believe the lies of those who would have us forfeit our crown of eternal life. Press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
*Italicized text are paraphrases from the word of God.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
CALENDAR EVENTS
YARD SALE & COMMUNITY FAIR
Date: Sunday, September 20, 2009
Time: 11:00am - 4:00pm
Location: Parking Lot between the Church and the Fellowship Hall
4807 42nd Place
Hyattsville, MD 20781
FMI call Isabel 240-386-9339
Included: Natural Health Talks, Activities for the children and more
COOKING CLASS
Date: Sunday, September 27, 2009
Time: 11:00am - 1:30pm
Location: Fellowship Hall
4807 42nd Place,
Hyattsville, MD 20781
FMI: Doris Hernandez
540-672-3100
Cost: $5 per plate (cash)
Note: Instruction and materials in Spanish, but your visual aquity and taste buds will compensate and be excellent translators.
Personal note: Delicious, sumptuous food with no guilt or pain afterwards
EVANGELISTIC SERIES
Speaker: Mario Torres
Dates: October 16-November 14, 2009
Days: Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays nightly
Times: 7:00pm
Location: Hyattsville Seventh-day Adventist Church
4905 42nd Place,
Hyattsville, MD 20781
FMI:call Pastor Samuel (the most accessible Pastor I know) 301-318-0133
Date: Sunday, September 20, 2009
Time: 11:00am - 4:00pm
Location: Parking Lot between the Church and the Fellowship Hall
4807 42nd Place
Hyattsville, MD 20781
FMI call Isabel 240-386-9339
Included: Natural Health Talks, Activities for the children and more
COOKING CLASS
Date: Sunday, September 27, 2009
Time: 11:00am - 1:30pm
Location: Fellowship Hall
4807 42nd Place,
Hyattsville, MD 20781
FMI: Doris Hernandez
540-672-3100
Cost: $5 per plate (cash)
Note: Instruction and materials in Spanish, but your visual aquity and taste buds will compensate and be excellent translators.
Personal note: Delicious, sumptuous food with no guilt or pain afterwards
EVANGELISTIC SERIES
Speaker: Mario Torres
Dates: October 16-November 14, 2009
Days: Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays nightly
Times: 7:00pm
Location: Hyattsville Seventh-day Adventist Church
4905 42nd Place,
Hyattsville, MD 20781
FMI:call Pastor Samuel (the most accessible Pastor I know) 301-318-0133
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
THE LEGACY OF ADAM AND EVE
In the garden of Eden, when Adam and Eve ate the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, they ran and hid themselves, feeling guilt and shame for the first time. That feeling was too overwhelming to bear, so when God addressed them, they found self-justification and accusation against others much easier to bear.
Six thousand years later, we are still experiencing that strong tug of emotions when we do something wrong. The Holy Spirit convicts us of wrong so we are brought to godly sorrow, but instead of humbly confessing our sins so that we will be forgiven, we justify our wrongs and/or blame others for them.
Jesus, the Messiah, came to free us from such mental chains. Christ's love is a freeing love. He does not want any of his creation burdened with guilt and shame. There is therefore now no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus, who walk after the Spirit and not after the flesh (Romans 8:1). For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace (Romans 8:6).
We are behooved to reflect upon the character of God. "And the LORD passed by before him [Moses], and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth generation." Exodus 34:6,7
The mental chains that Satan wants to put on us are not the Lord choosing. Let us now become the Devil's plaything.
"If the Son therefore shall may you free, ye shall be free indeed." (John 8:36)
Six thousand years later, we are still experiencing that strong tug of emotions when we do something wrong. The Holy Spirit convicts us of wrong so we are brought to godly sorrow, but instead of humbly confessing our sins so that we will be forgiven, we justify our wrongs and/or blame others for them.
Jesus, the Messiah, came to free us from such mental chains. Christ's love is a freeing love. He does not want any of his creation burdened with guilt and shame. There is therefore now no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus, who walk after the Spirit and not after the flesh (Romans 8:1). For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace (Romans 8:6).
We are behooved to reflect upon the character of God. "And the LORD passed by before him [Moses], and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth generation." Exodus 34:6,7
The mental chains that Satan wants to put on us are not the Lord choosing. Let us now become the Devil's plaything.
"If the Son therefore shall may you free, ye shall be free indeed." (John 8:36)
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
RECENT RECIPES
MUELSI
Ingredients
3 cups rolled oats
3 cups apple juice*
1/2 cup raisins
¼ cup shredded coconut
1 tbsp cardamom
½ cup walnuts (finely or coarsely chopped)
Method
Mix all ingredients in a baking dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, serve with unsweetened rice, soy or nut milk. Enjoy with fresh fruit.
*may substitute 1 cup water if you don’t want your oatmeal too sweet
Serves 6
RED ONION-SUNFLOWER DIP
Ingredients
½ red onion
Fresh Rosemary
½ tsp salt or chicken-style seasoning
2 tbsp water (Extra water as needed)
1 cup sunflower seeds
Method
Heat the water and add everything except the sunflower seeds. When the onions turn clear, add mixture to a blender with ¼ cup water (more for desired consistency). Blend until creamy. May also leave it chunky if you like that texture.
Serve warm as a spread on crackers, bread, savory pancakes, wraps or pizza*
*On cooked pizza dough or savory pancakes or crepes, spread a thin layer of dip and put homemade spaghetti sauce or pizza sauce on top. Enjoy.
HARVEST NUT ROAST
Ingredients
2 cups celery, chopped
2 medium onions, chopped
½ cup walnuts, chopped
½ cup pecan or sunflower meal
1 tsp basil leaves
1 tsp salt
2 cups soy or rice milk
½ tsp sage
2 cups fresh bread crumbs (preferably Italian flavored)
Method
Sauté celery and onions in a small amount (1 tbsp water). Combine all ingredients, folding in breadcrumbs last. Place in oiled or non-stick loaf tin or casserole dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Loaf may need to be covered with foil near the end of baking if top begins to get two brown.*
Serve with gravy.
*if this happens, spread BBQ sauce or tomato paste on top.
Ingredients
3 cups rolled oats
3 cups apple juice*
1/2 cup raisins
¼ cup shredded coconut
1 tbsp cardamom
½ cup walnuts (finely or coarsely chopped)
Method
Mix all ingredients in a baking dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, serve with unsweetened rice, soy or nut milk. Enjoy with fresh fruit.
*may substitute 1 cup water if you don’t want your oatmeal too sweet
Serves 6
RED ONION-SUNFLOWER DIP
Ingredients
½ red onion
Fresh Rosemary
½ tsp salt or chicken-style seasoning
2 tbsp water (Extra water as needed)
1 cup sunflower seeds
Method
Heat the water and add everything except the sunflower seeds. When the onions turn clear, add mixture to a blender with ¼ cup water (more for desired consistency). Blend until creamy. May also leave it chunky if you like that texture.
Serve warm as a spread on crackers, bread, savory pancakes, wraps or pizza*
*On cooked pizza dough or savory pancakes or crepes, spread a thin layer of dip and put homemade spaghetti sauce or pizza sauce on top. Enjoy.
HARVEST NUT ROAST
Ingredients
2 cups celery, chopped
2 medium onions, chopped
½ cup walnuts, chopped
½ cup pecan or sunflower meal
1 tsp basil leaves
1 tsp salt
2 cups soy or rice milk
½ tsp sage
2 cups fresh bread crumbs (preferably Italian flavored)
Method
Sauté celery and onions in a small amount (1 tbsp water). Combine all ingredients, folding in breadcrumbs last. Place in oiled or non-stick loaf tin or casserole dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Loaf may need to be covered with foil near the end of baking if top begins to get two brown.*
Serve with gravy.
*if this happens, spread BBQ sauce or tomato paste on top.
Monday, September 7, 2009
LABOR SMARTER
"Come onto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me. For I am meek and lowly in heart and you shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" Psalm 11:28-30.
Maybe you have longed for peace. You've heard that there is more to life than you are currently experiencing, but can't seem to find it. Far too many people have gone through life just existing. It's even worse for the Christian because he or she knows that Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10).
But where is it?
The experiences from early childhood and even as far back as the womb, have shaped our thoughts and behaviors today. Oftentimes we react to situations without understanding where our feelings come from.
There is hope! There are many Christ-centered resources out there that can help you. The Holy Bible is my recommended favorite. Psalm 147:3 says of God, "He heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds."
Proverbs gives insight into the human heart
Psalm gives us examples of rough times, but also the victories and reasons for praise
Ecclesiastes gives us wisdom for everyday living
James is a character detector
Revelation is a place to go for hope of a glorious future
Search the Holy Scriptures, in them is life!
"And this is life eternal, that they may know thee the only true God, AND Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." John 17:3 [emphasis added]
Maybe you have longed for peace. You've heard that there is more to life than you are currently experiencing, but can't seem to find it. Far too many people have gone through life just existing. It's even worse for the Christian because he or she knows that Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10).
But where is it?
The experiences from early childhood and even as far back as the womb, have shaped our thoughts and behaviors today. Oftentimes we react to situations without understanding where our feelings come from.
There is hope! There are many Christ-centered resources out there that can help you. The Holy Bible is my recommended favorite. Psalm 147:3 says of God, "He heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds."
Proverbs gives insight into the human heart
Psalm gives us examples of rough times, but also the victories and reasons for praise
Ecclesiastes gives us wisdom for everyday living
James is a character detector
Revelation is a place to go for hope of a glorious future
Search the Holy Scriptures, in them is life!
"And this is life eternal, that they may know thee the only true God, AND Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." John 17:3 [emphasis added]
RANDOM QUOTES
Reputation is what others think of you;
Character is what God knows of you.
2009 A.D. (Anno Domini which means "In the Year of our Lord")
Character is what God knows of you.
2009 A.D. (Anno Domini which means "In the Year of our Lord")
Thursday, August 20, 2009
...THEN SHALL THE END COME
"And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." Matthew 24:14
EVANGELISTIC EFFORT
When: October 16-November 14 (Sundays, Mondays, Wednesday, Sabbath Morning and Saturday Evening
Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm
Place: Hyattsville Seventh-day Adventist Church
4905 42nd Place
Hyattsville, MD 20781
301-318-0133
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
RANDOM QUOTES
"God gives opportunities; success depends upon the use made of them. The openings of Providence must be quickly discerned and eagerly seized upon." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, pg. 321)
"The true object of education is to restore the image of God in the soul." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, pg. 322)
"The true object of education is to restore the image of God in the soul." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, pg. 322)
Friday, August 14, 2009
JEHOVAH'S REST #654
HOLY DAY, JEHOHAV'S REST
Written by F.E. Belden
Copyrighted 1886
1. Holy Day, Jehovah's rest, of creation's week the best;
Last of all the chosen seven, Blessed of God, to man 'twas given.
Refrain
Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome
Glad we hail it's presence blest, 'Tis the great Jehaovah's rest
2. First His six days' work was done, then the Sabbath was begun;
thus He blessed the seventh day, thus in resting we obey.
3. Thousands have His plan reversed, resting now upon the first;
Search the Book and you will know, there’s no scripture tells them so.
4. All who speak the truth must say, it was man who changed the day;
In God’s word no change appears, through the whole six thousand years.
5. Thus I searched; and when I saw; only one great Sabbath law;
then I hastened to obey-- plainy 'twas the only way. – F.E. Belden
If you have questions about these and other truths from God's Word, the Bible, please call or email me at 202-437-4867 or email me at leuannam@qis.net.
Leuanna
Written by F.E. Belden
Copyrighted 1886
1. Holy Day, Jehovah's rest, of creation's week the best;
Last of all the chosen seven, Blessed of God, to man 'twas given.
Refrain
Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome
Glad we hail it's presence blest, 'Tis the great Jehaovah's rest
2. First His six days' work was done, then the Sabbath was begun;
thus He blessed the seventh day, thus in resting we obey.
3. Thousands have His plan reversed, resting now upon the first;
Search the Book and you will know, there’s no scripture tells them so.
4. All who speak the truth must say, it was man who changed the day;
In God’s word no change appears, through the whole six thousand years.
5. Thus I searched; and when I saw; only one great Sabbath law;
then I hastened to obey-- plainy 'twas the only way. – F.E. Belden
If you have questions about these and other truths from God's Word, the Bible, please call or email me at 202-437-4867 or email me at leuannam@qis.net.
Leuanna
FINANCIAL CRISIS: FALSE ALARM?
Last year, around this time, there were emails circulating about a financial crisis that was to come upon America and the World. Some people made plans as the what they were going to do about the crisis and actually executed that plan. Some ignored them and chalked the warnings up to the fanatical rantings of alarmists or bored emailers with nothing better to do. The last group, probably the majority, were concerned, but waited to see if Snopes.com or the evening news carried the story before they jumped into action.
This fall, another such warning has been issued.
Beloved, let me share with you a financial crisis that is soon to come upon the earth and the source is True.
"Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you.
Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten.
Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days.
Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth.
Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter.
Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you.
Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.
Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh". James 5:1-8
To find out when these things will come, read about them in the timeline put forth in the New Testament books of Matthew Chapter 24, verses 1-24; Luke Chapter 21: verses 5 to the end; and Mark Chapter 13.
Further Study
Matthew 6:19-21
Luke 12:13-40
Matthew 19:16-21
If you have questions about these and other truths from God's Word, the Bible, please call or email me at 202-437-4867 or email me at leuannam@qis.net.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Leuanna
This fall, another such warning has been issued.
Beloved, let me share with you a financial crisis that is soon to come upon the earth and the source is True.
"Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you.
Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten.
Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days.
Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth.
Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter.
Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you.
Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.
Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh". James 5:1-8
To find out when these things will come, read about them in the timeline put forth in the New Testament books of Matthew Chapter 24, verses 1-24; Luke Chapter 21: verses 5 to the end; and Mark Chapter 13.
Further Study
Matthew 6:19-21
Luke 12:13-40
Matthew 19:16-21
If you have questions about these and other truths from God's Word, the Bible, please call or email me at 202-437-4867 or email me at leuannam@qis.net.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Leuanna
Sunday, August 9, 2009
FANNIE J. CROSBY (1823-1915)
#388 Don't Forget the Sabbath
Words by Fanny J. Crosby (1820-1915)
Music by William B. Bradbury (1816-1868)
Don’t forget the Sabbath,
The Lord our God hath blest,
Of all the week the brightest,
Of all the week the best;
It brings repose from labor,
It tells of joy divine,
Its beams of light descending,
With heav’nly beauty shine.
Refrain
Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,
Blessèd Sabbath day,
Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,
Blessèd Sabbath day.
Keep the Sabbath holy,
And worship Him today,
Who said to His disciples,
“I am the living Way”;
And if we meekly follow
Our Savior here below,
He’ll give us of the fountain
Whose streams eternal flow.
Refrain
Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,
Blessèd Sabbath day,
Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,
Blessèd Sabbath day.
Day of sacred pleasure!
Its golden hours we’ll spend
In thankful hymns to Jesus,
The children’s dearest Friend;
O gentle, loving, Savior,
How good and kind Thou art,
How precious is Thy promise
To dwell in every heart!
Refrain
Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,
Blessèd Sabbath day,
Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,
Blessèd Sabbath day.
Words by Fanny J. Crosby (1820-1915)
Music by William B. Bradbury (1816-1868)
Don’t forget the Sabbath,
The Lord our God hath blest,
Of all the week the brightest,
Of all the week the best;
It brings repose from labor,
It tells of joy divine,
Its beams of light descending,
With heav’nly beauty shine.
Refrain
Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,
Blessèd Sabbath day,
Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,
Blessèd Sabbath day.
Keep the Sabbath holy,
And worship Him today,
Who said to His disciples,
“I am the living Way”;
And if we meekly follow
Our Savior here below,
He’ll give us of the fountain
Whose streams eternal flow.
Refrain
Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,
Blessèd Sabbath day,
Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,
Blessèd Sabbath day.
Day of sacred pleasure!
Its golden hours we’ll spend
In thankful hymns to Jesus,
The children’s dearest Friend;
O gentle, loving, Savior,
How good and kind Thou art,
How precious is Thy promise
To dwell in every heart!
Refrain
Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,
Blessèd Sabbath day,
Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,
Blessèd Sabbath day.
Friday, July 17, 2009
THE FOOLISH VIRGINS
Read the story from Matthew 25:1-13
The class represented by the foolish virgins are not hypocrites. They have a regard for the truth, they have advocated the truth, they are attracted to those who believe the truth; but they have not yielded themselves to the Holy Spirit's working. They have not fallen upon the Rock, Christ Jesus, and permitted their old nature to be broken up.
This class are represented also by the stony-ground hearers. They receive the word with readiness, but they fail of assimilating its principles. Its influence is not abiding. The Spirit works upon man's heart, according to his desire and consent implanting in him a new nature; but the class representing the foolish virgins have been content with a superficial work. They do not know God. They have not studied His character; they have not held communion with Him; therefore they do not know how to trust, how to look and live.
Their service to God degenerates into a form. "They come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as My people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them; for with their mouth they show much love, but their heart goeth after covetousness" Ezekiel 33:31.
The apostle Paul points out that this will be the special characteristic of those who live just before Christ's second coming. He says, "In the last days perilous times will come; for men shall be lovers of their own selves;...lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof" 2 Timothy 3:1-5.
Christ Object Lessons, Ellen G. White, pg. 411
The class represented by the foolish virgins are not hypocrites. They have a regard for the truth, they have advocated the truth, they are attracted to those who believe the truth; but they have not yielded themselves to the Holy Spirit's working. They have not fallen upon the Rock, Christ Jesus, and permitted their old nature to be broken up.
This class are represented also by the stony-ground hearers. They receive the word with readiness, but they fail of assimilating its principles. Its influence is not abiding. The Spirit works upon man's heart, according to his desire and consent implanting in him a new nature; but the class representing the foolish virgins have been content with a superficial work. They do not know God. They have not studied His character; they have not held communion with Him; therefore they do not know how to trust, how to look and live.
Their service to God degenerates into a form. "They come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as My people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them; for with their mouth they show much love, but their heart goeth after covetousness" Ezekiel 33:31.
The apostle Paul points out that this will be the special characteristic of those who live just before Christ's second coming. He says, "In the last days perilous times will come; for men shall be lovers of their own selves;...lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof" 2 Timothy 3:1-5.
Christ Object Lessons, Ellen G. White, pg. 411
Thursday, July 16, 2009
TRUSTING GOD: Lesson from the Sermon on the Mount
"In His Sermon on the Mount, Christ taught His disciples precious lessons in regard to the necessity of trusting in God. These lessons were designed to encourage the children of God through all ages, and they came down to our time full of instruction and comfort. The Savior pointed His followers to the birds of the air as they warbled their carols of praise, unencumbered with thoughts of care, for 'they sow not, neither do they reap.' And yet the great Father provides for their needs. The Savior asks, 'Are ye not much better than they? Matthew 6:26.
The great Provider for man and beast opens His hand and supplies all His creatures. The birds of the air are not beneath His notice. He does not drop the food into their bills, but He makes provision for their needs. They must gather the grains He has scattered for them. They must prepare the material for their little nests. They must feed their young. They go forth singing to their labor, for 'your heavenly Father feedeth them.' And 'are ye not much better than they?' Are not you, as intelligent, spiritual worshipers, of more value than the birds of the air? Will not the Author of our being, the Preserver of our life, the One who formed us in His own divine image, provide for our necessities if we but trust in Him?
Steps to Christ, Ellen G. White, pg. 123
The great Provider for man and beast opens His hand and supplies all His creatures. The birds of the air are not beneath His notice. He does not drop the food into their bills, but He makes provision for their needs. They must gather the grains He has scattered for them. They must prepare the material for their little nests. They must feed their young. They go forth singing to their labor, for 'your heavenly Father feedeth them.' And 'are ye not much better than they?' Are not you, as intelligent, spiritual worshipers, of more value than the birds of the air? Will not the Author of our being, the Preserver of our life, the One who formed us in His own divine image, provide for our necessities if we but trust in Him?
Steps to Christ, Ellen G. White, pg. 123
TRUST
"It is the love of self that brings unrest.
When we are born from above, the same mind will be in us that was in Jesus, the mind that led Him to humble Himself that we might be saved. Then we shall not be seeking the highest place.
We shall desire to sit at the feet of Jesus, and learn of Him. We shall understand that the value of our work does not consist of making a show and noise in the world, and in being active and zealout in our own strength. The value of our work is in proportion to the impartation of the Holy Spirit.
Trust in God brings holier qualities of mind, so that in patience we may possess our souls."
Desire of Ages, Ellen G. White, pg. 330-331
When we are born from above, the same mind will be in us that was in Jesus, the mind that led Him to humble Himself that we might be saved. Then we shall not be seeking the highest place.
We shall desire to sit at the feet of Jesus, and learn of Him. We shall understand that the value of our work does not consist of making a show and noise in the world, and in being active and zealout in our own strength. The value of our work is in proportion to the impartation of the Holy Spirit.
Trust in God brings holier qualities of mind, so that in patience we may possess our souls."
Desire of Ages, Ellen G. White, pg. 330-331
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
THE LAW OF LIBERTY
Jesus saves us from our sins. If God could have saved us in our sins, then there would have been no need for Jesus to die for our redemption.
Sin is a transgression of the law (1 John 3:4). If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us (1 John 1:10), for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).
We keep the law as an outshowing of our love for God. If we love him, we will keep his commandments (John 14:15). His commandments are not grevious (1 John 5:3), on them hang the law and the prophets (Matthew 22:40 & Romans 13:10). In keeping them, they'd be no desire to rebel against parental authority, no desire to kill, no desire to be unfaithful or commit adultery, no desire to covet or steal, no temptation to "save our skins" by lying and a definite desire to honor our parents (regardless of whether they're worthy of it or not).
Since, men (and women) transgress God’s law, then we have to rebuke our children, lock our doors, guard our marriages, protect our property, endure the failings of our parents, and admit when we've done wrong.
The Lord's Law is the law of liberty (James 1:25 & 2:12), not a law of restrictions or bondage, and in keeping them there is great reward (Psalm 19:11).
Sin is a transgression of the law (1 John 3:4). If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us (1 John 1:10), for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).
We keep the law as an outshowing of our love for God. If we love him, we will keep his commandments (John 14:15). His commandments are not grevious (1 John 5:3), on them hang the law and the prophets (Matthew 22:40 & Romans 13:10). In keeping them, they'd be no desire to rebel against parental authority, no desire to kill, no desire to be unfaithful or commit adultery, no desire to covet or steal, no temptation to "save our skins" by lying and a definite desire to honor our parents (regardless of whether they're worthy of it or not).
Since, men (and women) transgress God’s law, then we have to rebuke our children, lock our doors, guard our marriages, protect our property, endure the failings of our parents, and admit when we've done wrong.
The Lord's Law is the law of liberty (James 1:25 & 2:12), not a law of restrictions or bondage, and in keeping them there is great reward (Psalm 19:11).
Thursday, July 2, 2009
ORPAH'S WARNING GOES UNHEEDED
A few years ago, Oprah exposed the dangers of beef and the mad-cow disease it was tainted with. As powerful as Oprah was at that time and still is, there were people more powerful than she, who forced her to stop her claims. Thanks be to God that the God of Heaven is more powerful than those people. It is with that assurance that boldness is given to share this information.
In addition to the population, the size of our citizens have increased exponentially. I'm sure that you have noticed that relatives, friends, neighbors, and maybe even you, have ballooned in the past couple of years. Your diet hasn't changed much, but your body seems to have taken on a mind of its own.
The information out there is overwhelming and the source list is so extensive that I won't even bother to share them. Besides, I'm sure that you already know what I am about to share. Everyone knows it. Knowledge is not the problem! The daily choices we make, that's the root of the issue!
In modern society, there was a time when only those who could afford meat, ate meat. Now, even African, Asian and other plant food rich cultures have adopted a meat based diet, and as a result are dying from the diseases that were only seen in other parts of the world.
The consumption of beef, pork, chicken and fish has become the staple in people's diets because of overwhelming and well-placed advertising that shapes social thinking. Whole grains, fruits and vegetables have been given low priority and the digestive system and our mental aquity has paid the price.
This could be a really lengthy discourse on the dangers of eating meat, heart disease, high cholesterol notwithstanding. Religious and secular authorities will echo the same sentiment, but most of society seems to have stopped up their ears and turned a blind eye to the problem.
It's a little bigger than meat my friends. It's about preparing for heaven. If that's not your goal, then this just won't make much sense to you (a prayer was offered on your behalf). If heaven is your goal, then you must realize that diet or appetite is a very overlooked component in our spiritual walk.
Eve fell on the point of appetite, not to mention that she broke a few commandments in the process (#1, #8 & #10). Jesus was first tempted by the Devil in the wilderness on the point of appetite. Esau gave up his birthright for a bowl of lentils. The children of Israel craved the depraved diet of Egypt that they begged for meat and when they received it, gorged until it came out of their noses. Lastly, Paul warned against those "whose God is their belly."
This matter of appetite is nothing to be taken lightly. "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile (destroys) the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." (1 Corinthians 3:16,17)
"Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31)
In addition to the population, the size of our citizens have increased exponentially. I'm sure that you have noticed that relatives, friends, neighbors, and maybe even you, have ballooned in the past couple of years. Your diet hasn't changed much, but your body seems to have taken on a mind of its own.
The information out there is overwhelming and the source list is so extensive that I won't even bother to share them. Besides, I'm sure that you already know what I am about to share. Everyone knows it. Knowledge is not the problem! The daily choices we make, that's the root of the issue!
In modern society, there was a time when only those who could afford meat, ate meat. Now, even African, Asian and other plant food rich cultures have adopted a meat based diet, and as a result are dying from the diseases that were only seen in other parts of the world.
The consumption of beef, pork, chicken and fish has become the staple in people's diets because of overwhelming and well-placed advertising that shapes social thinking. Whole grains, fruits and vegetables have been given low priority and the digestive system and our mental aquity has paid the price.
This could be a really lengthy discourse on the dangers of eating meat, heart disease, high cholesterol notwithstanding. Religious and secular authorities will echo the same sentiment, but most of society seems to have stopped up their ears and turned a blind eye to the problem.
It's a little bigger than meat my friends. It's about preparing for heaven. If that's not your goal, then this just won't make much sense to you (a prayer was offered on your behalf). If heaven is your goal, then you must realize that diet or appetite is a very overlooked component in our spiritual walk.
Eve fell on the point of appetite, not to mention that she broke a few commandments in the process (#1, #8 & #10). Jesus was first tempted by the Devil in the wilderness on the point of appetite. Esau gave up his birthright for a bowl of lentils. The children of Israel craved the depraved diet of Egypt that they begged for meat and when they received it, gorged until it came out of their noses. Lastly, Paul warned against those "whose God is their belly."
This matter of appetite is nothing to be taken lightly. "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile (destroys) the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." (1 Corinthians 3:16,17)
"Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31)
Sunday, June 21, 2009
ANTI-SOCIAL CHRISTIAN?
Today I went by my parents for a block party that their community was having. I stayed inside for the whole time and didn't get to meet one single neighbor of theirs. In my passing in and out the front door, I said Hello to whoever I passed. Truth be told, I didn't even make eye contact and could not describe one person who was out there.
My excuse to my parents (not that they asked), was that I was anti-social.
As the words left my mouth, I was convicted that that was one of the biggest oxymorons I'd ever said. An anti-social Christian? How is that possible? A Christian is a follower of Christ and He certainly was not anti-social. As a matter of fact, He received much criticism because He mingled with anyone and everyone who was willing to listen to Him and even with those who were not willing.
The message this Sabbath was on evangelism. The great commission was to "go ye therefore and make disciples," (Matthew 28:19,20). That can't happen if I'm being anti-social.
The real reason behind my anti-social behavior was the problem that Peter had in Acts 10:9-36. Peter was a respecter of persons and the Lord was showing him that He is Lord of all. There has to be love for others and a willingness to endure some uncomfortable situations in order to reach people.
Don't use this as an excuse to go to the club with the "mission" of reaching the lost. This is not an excuse to indulge our sinful desires and cloak it in "being all things to all people."
This is about being like Jesus who mingled among the people desiring their good.
That's my prayer. Let me start in my home with my husband and children (inreach), then take it to the neighbors, friends, strangers and the world (outreach). This is a hard thing--for me, but thanks be to God, with Him, all things are possible.
My excuse to my parents (not that they asked), was that I was anti-social.
As the words left my mouth, I was convicted that that was one of the biggest oxymorons I'd ever said. An anti-social Christian? How is that possible? A Christian is a follower of Christ and He certainly was not anti-social. As a matter of fact, He received much criticism because He mingled with anyone and everyone who was willing to listen to Him and even with those who were not willing.
The message this Sabbath was on evangelism. The great commission was to "go ye therefore and make disciples," (Matthew 28:19,20). That can't happen if I'm being anti-social.
The real reason behind my anti-social behavior was the problem that Peter had in Acts 10:9-36. Peter was a respecter of persons and the Lord was showing him that He is Lord of all. There has to be love for others and a willingness to endure some uncomfortable situations in order to reach people.
Don't use this as an excuse to go to the club with the "mission" of reaching the lost. This is not an excuse to indulge our sinful desires and cloak it in "being all things to all people."
This is about being like Jesus who mingled among the people desiring their good.
That's my prayer. Let me start in my home with my husband and children (inreach), then take it to the neighbors, friends, strangers and the world (outreach). This is a hard thing--for me, but thanks be to God, with Him, all things are possible.
BE CONTENT
The Apostle Paul recorded in Philippians 4:11,12, "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need."
What does that mean?
If I'm "broke" (just barely having enough to get by each month), I praise Him that He sustains me and that I am able to get by.
If I'm rich, I praise Him for the means to further the spreading of the Gospel and I'll give to ministries that are being faithful to the great commission.
If I'm single, I praise Him that I am able to devote my time to His service without having to check with anyone before I go forward in His name.
If I'm married, I praise Him that He's given me someone to walk with me on this journey and to hold me accountable for the way I live my life.
If I have children, I praise Him that there are little ones that are readily available for me to share His love with.
If I have no children, I praise Him that I can be a "foster" parent to those children who have no one to love them they way should be loved.
What does that mean?
If I'm "broke" (just barely having enough to get by each month), I praise Him that He sustains me and that I am able to get by.
If I'm rich, I praise Him for the means to further the spreading of the Gospel and I'll give to ministries that are being faithful to the great commission.
If I'm single, I praise Him that I am able to devote my time to His service without having to check with anyone before I go forward in His name.
If I'm married, I praise Him that He's given me someone to walk with me on this journey and to hold me accountable for the way I live my life.
If I have children, I praise Him that there are little ones that are readily available for me to share His love with.
If I have no children, I praise Him that I can be a "foster" parent to those children who have no one to love them they way should be loved.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
THE IMMUTABILITY OF GOD'S LAW
The Law of God is under attack. Not by those who want it removed from public places. It is under attack by those who are fighting for it to remain there, but who say that it is no longer binding.
They believe that we are under grace, that the law was done away with, and that Christ came to take a way the law.
Then we should be able to lie, commit adultery, steal, take God's name in vain, and kill without penalty. We may be under penalty of the state, but the Lord will take us all to Heaven with our sinful hearts, because the blood of Jesus covers us.
THAT IS A LIE OF THE DEVIL AND A FALSE DOCTRINE THAT WILL RENDER US INCAPACITATED AGAINST THE ASSAULT OF THE ENEMY.
Friends, let us not be found wanting. Let us not excuse sin and think that God will save us in our sins. God wants to save us from our sins. Sin must be put away. We have a part to play in that process. If we willfully sin, there is no more sacrifice for sin, but a fearful looking forward of judgement (see Hebrews 10:26:27).
They believe that we are under grace, that the law was done away with, and that Christ came to take a way the law.
Then we should be able to lie, commit adultery, steal, take God's name in vain, and kill without penalty. We may be under penalty of the state, but the Lord will take us all to Heaven with our sinful hearts, because the blood of Jesus covers us.
THAT IS A LIE OF THE DEVIL AND A FALSE DOCTRINE THAT WILL RENDER US INCAPACITATED AGAINST THE ASSAULT OF THE ENEMY.
Friends, let us not be found wanting. Let us not excuse sin and think that God will save us in our sins. God wants to save us from our sins. Sin must be put away. We have a part to play in that process. If we willfully sin, there is no more sacrifice for sin, but a fearful looking forward of judgement (see Hebrews 10:26:27).
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
THE PATIENCE OF THE SAINTS
HERE IS THE PATIENCE OF THE SAINTS: HERE ARE THEY THAT KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, AND THE FAITH OF JESUS (Revelation 14:12); See Rev. 12:17.
The Lord has ordained a special people to be a spiritual Israel for our time. In Deuteronomy 7:6, Moses records, speaking to the Israelites, "for thou art a holy [set apart] people unto the Lord thy God; the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people [treasure] unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth." [read to verse 11]
Why were the children of Israel special?
They would be the nation through whom Jesus Christ, the Messiah and Redeemer of mankind would come. Genesis 12:2,3 tells us, God speaking to Abraham, "And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing; and I will bless them that bless thee, and curse them that curseth thee; and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed."
There are two characteristics that distinguish God's special people. Revelation 12:17 tell us "And the dragon was wroth [enraged] with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant [rest of her offspring] of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." [see Rev. 19:10]
In your searching for spiritual Israel, seek for a people who teachings have the same components that the physical Israelites have. These are all summarized in Revelation Chapter 1:
SALVATION (The Messiah, Jesus Christ, as the only way to the Father)
SCRIPTURES (God's inspired word to us and mirror of His character)
SPIRIT OF PROPHECY (God's guiding servants of reproof and instruction)
SECOND COMING (The eminent return of our Lord)
SABBATH (The day God sanctified as a memorial of His work during creation week)
SANCTUARY (The Jewish temple services that pointed to the Messiah)
STATE OF THE DEAD (What happens when a person dies)
SAINTS (The living servants of the Lord and their ministry on His behalf)
Since the Word of God is from the source of truth, it must be studied "precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:" (Isaiah 28:10). There is no contradiction in the Lord. Any seeming contradiction is in our misunderstanding. God's word make absolute sense. No prophecy of scripture is of private interpretation (see 2 Peter 1:19-21).
The Lord has ordained a special people to be a spiritual Israel for our time. In Deuteronomy 7:6, Moses records, speaking to the Israelites, "for thou art a holy [set apart] people unto the Lord thy God; the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people [treasure] unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth." [read to verse 11]
Why were the children of Israel special?
They would be the nation through whom Jesus Christ, the Messiah and Redeemer of mankind would come. Genesis 12:2,3 tells us, God speaking to Abraham, "And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing; and I will bless them that bless thee, and curse them that curseth thee; and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed."
There are two characteristics that distinguish God's special people. Revelation 12:17 tell us "And the dragon was wroth [enraged] with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant [rest of her offspring] of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." [see Rev. 19:10]
In your searching for spiritual Israel, seek for a people who teachings have the same components that the physical Israelites have. These are all summarized in Revelation Chapter 1:
SALVATION (The Messiah, Jesus Christ, as the only way to the Father)
SCRIPTURES (God's inspired word to us and mirror of His character)
SPIRIT OF PROPHECY (God's guiding servants of reproof and instruction)
SECOND COMING (The eminent return of our Lord)
SABBATH (The day God sanctified as a memorial of His work during creation week)
SANCTUARY (The Jewish temple services that pointed to the Messiah)
STATE OF THE DEAD (What happens when a person dies)
SAINTS (The living servants of the Lord and their ministry on His behalf)
Since the Word of God is from the source of truth, it must be studied "precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:" (Isaiah 28:10). There is no contradiction in the Lord. Any seeming contradiction is in our misunderstanding. God's word make absolute sense. No prophecy of scripture is of private interpretation (see 2 Peter 1:19-21).
Thursday, June 4, 2009
THE WORD AGAINST THE WORLD
God says, my words shall not pass away
The world says that the law is done away with
God says:
Thou shall have no other Gods before me.
The world says that anything, anybody or even we can be our own gods.
Thou shall not make unto thee any graven images nor bow down to them nor serve them.
The world says that you can have statues around your house, in your yard, hanging in your rear view mirror, etc.
Thou shall not take the Lord's name in vain
The world uses the Lord's name flippantly in sitcoms, stand-up comedy and in choice curses on one hand, and on the other hand, people say that they are Christian and yet deny the Father and His Son in their words and actions
Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy...the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord
The world says that Friday, Sunday or Wednesday is good enough to observe as "my sabbath" or everyday is the sabbath or a few hours of whatever day we choose
Honor thy father and thy mother that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord they God giveth thee
The world says who are you to tell me what to do and when you become a burden, we'll leave you in a nursing care facility to wither away in loneliness
Thou shall not kill
The world says kill for oil, greed, sneakers, North Face jackets or just because you cut me off in traffic
Thou shall not commit adultery
The world says it's ok to have one night stands, have multiple families, marry and re-marry whenever the desire suits you
Thou shall not steal
The world says charge extra interest, embezzle, rip off, whatever to get ahead
Thou shall not bear false witness
The world says white lies are ok, lies that save people unnecessary hurt are fine, lies to get what you want are justifiable, and besides, everybody lies at some point in their life, so it's unrealistic the think that we can live without lying
Thou shall not covet
The world says that you can have whatever you set your mind to and that if you can conceive it, you can achieve it
What governs our actions, the word or the world?
The world says that the law is done away with
God says:
Thou shall have no other Gods before me.
The world says that anything, anybody or even we can be our own gods.
Thou shall not make unto thee any graven images nor bow down to them nor serve them.
The world says that you can have statues around your house, in your yard, hanging in your rear view mirror, etc.
Thou shall not take the Lord's name in vain
The world uses the Lord's name flippantly in sitcoms, stand-up comedy and in choice curses on one hand, and on the other hand, people say that they are Christian and yet deny the Father and His Son in their words and actions
Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy...the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord
The world says that Friday, Sunday or Wednesday is good enough to observe as "my sabbath" or everyday is the sabbath or a few hours of whatever day we choose
Honor thy father and thy mother that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord they God giveth thee
The world says who are you to tell me what to do and when you become a burden, we'll leave you in a nursing care facility to wither away in loneliness
Thou shall not kill
The world says kill for oil, greed, sneakers, North Face jackets or just because you cut me off in traffic
Thou shall not commit adultery
The world says it's ok to have one night stands, have multiple families, marry and re-marry whenever the desire suits you
Thou shall not steal
The world says charge extra interest, embezzle, rip off, whatever to get ahead
Thou shall not bear false witness
The world says white lies are ok, lies that save people unnecessary hurt are fine, lies to get what you want are justifiable, and besides, everybody lies at some point in their life, so it's unrealistic the think that we can live without lying
Thou shall not covet
The world says that you can have whatever you set your mind to and that if you can conceive it, you can achieve it
What governs our actions, the word or the world?
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
PRE- & POST-MARITAL ADULTERY
Books; Visual Media; Self-Gratification (Master...); Sexual Partners; and Other People's Sexual Experiences
All these things stored in our memory, return to our minds and into the marriage bed to defile our relationships. They lead to unfair comparisons and dissatisfaction on one hand and feelings of failure and loneliness on the other and numerous other negative emotions that are not healthy for a marriage.
Some believe that what occurs before you get married doesn't matter or that if your spouse is not directly affected, as in the case of self-gratification or Internet porn, there's no harm. Anything that defiles the marriage, destroys the marriage. Such experiences and the memory of them, or the recollection and continued indulgence of them, cheapens your spouse because it says that "you are not good enough to satisfy me." Anything that robs the affections or becomes more important then your spouse is adulterous.
Evidence is clear that we are a collection of our experiences--good and evil. They shape who we become. By beholding we become changed. It's not too late to start beholding what is profitable for sound character development. David said, "I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes," and Paul wrote "Whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report; if there be any virtue and any praise, think on these things."
Our choices of TV programs, reading material, Internet sites, vacations, hangout spots, friends, family events, etc. are all molding our character--for good or for evil.
Choose Wisely!!!
All these things stored in our memory, return to our minds and into the marriage bed to defile our relationships. They lead to unfair comparisons and dissatisfaction on one hand and feelings of failure and loneliness on the other and numerous other negative emotions that are not healthy for a marriage.
Some believe that what occurs before you get married doesn't matter or that if your spouse is not directly affected, as in the case of self-gratification or Internet porn, there's no harm. Anything that defiles the marriage, destroys the marriage. Such experiences and the memory of them, or the recollection and continued indulgence of them, cheapens your spouse because it says that "you are not good enough to satisfy me." Anything that robs the affections or becomes more important then your spouse is adulterous.
Evidence is clear that we are a collection of our experiences--good and evil. They shape who we become. By beholding we become changed. It's not too late to start beholding what is profitable for sound character development. David said, "I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes," and Paul wrote "Whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report; if there be any virtue and any praise, think on these things."
Our choices of TV programs, reading material, Internet sites, vacations, hangout spots, friends, family events, etc. are all molding our character--for good or for evil.
Choose Wisely!!!
Sunday, May 31, 2009
YOUR LOVED ONES ARE NOT IN HEAVEN NOW
It's the most comforting thought to believe that our parents, children, grandparents, friends, etc., who have died, are in Heaven. And it's even more assuring to think that they are there now.
Truth be known, that is not the case. Except for the exceptions that the Word gives (Moses, Enoch, Elijah, etc.) we're assured that they are resting in peace in the grave. Their death is referred to a sleep as in the case of Lazarus (see John 11, the whole chapter). The truth is, the Lord is very clear about this subject and gives numerous evidences of this fact.
"For in death there is no remembrance of thee; in the grave, who shall give thee thanks?" (Psalm 6:5)--We have no remembrance of God in the grave nor can we thank him for anything or roll over in our graves if something troubling occurs among the living.
For the living know that they shall die; but the dead know not anything, neither have they any more a reward, for the memory of them is forgotten. Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished; neither have they any more portion for ever in any thing that is done under the sun. (Ecclesiastes 9:5,6)
So man lieth down and riseth not: til the heavens be no more, they shall not awake, nor be raised out of sleep. (Job 10:12)
His sons come to honor, and he knoweth it not; and they are brought low, and he perceiveth it not of them. (Job 10:21)--We won't perceive who visits our grave site, if our spouses have re-married, if our children have accepted the Lord or turned from Him, if a black man became president of the United States or if America, Canada and Mexico ever became one nation.
They praise not the Lord, neither any that go down into silence. (Psalm 115:17)--Would there be true praising in Heaven if they are there and they see us suffering still in this world of sin?
Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. (John 5:28,29).
Truth be known, that is not the case. Except for the exceptions that the Word gives (Moses, Enoch, Elijah, etc.) we're assured that they are resting in peace in the grave. Their death is referred to a sleep as in the case of Lazarus (see John 11, the whole chapter). The truth is, the Lord is very clear about this subject and gives numerous evidences of this fact.
"For in death there is no remembrance of thee; in the grave, who shall give thee thanks?" (Psalm 6:5)--We have no remembrance of God in the grave nor can we thank him for anything or roll over in our graves if something troubling occurs among the living.
For the living know that they shall die; but the dead know not anything, neither have they any more a reward, for the memory of them is forgotten. Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished; neither have they any more portion for ever in any thing that is done under the sun. (Ecclesiastes 9:5,6)
So man lieth down and riseth not: til the heavens be no more, they shall not awake, nor be raised out of sleep. (Job 10:12)
His sons come to honor, and he knoweth it not; and they are brought low, and he perceiveth it not of them. (Job 10:21)--We won't perceive who visits our grave site, if our spouses have re-married, if our children have accepted the Lord or turned from Him, if a black man became president of the United States or if America, Canada and Mexico ever became one nation.
They praise not the Lord, neither any that go down into silence. (Psalm 115:17)--Would there be true praising in Heaven if they are there and they see us suffering still in this world of sin?
Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. (John 5:28,29).
Thursday, May 28, 2009
TEN COMMANDMENT WEEKEND 2009
3ABN's Ten Commandments Weekend for 2009
http://www.tencommandmentsweekend.com/index.html
Friday, May 29, 2009
6:00-7:00pm Overview' Sermon CD Brooks
Introduction: Jim Gilley & Danny Shelton
7:00-8:00pm Commandment #1 Jim Gilley
8:00-9:00pm Commandment #2 Wintley Phipps
Saturday, May 30, 2009
9:00-10:00am Commandment #3 Bill Kilgore
10:00-11:00am Musical Hour
11:00-12:00am Commandment #4 JoAnn Davidson
12:00-1:00pm Children's Hour 3ABN's Ten Commandments Kids with Doug Batchelor
1:00-2:00pm Youth Hour Youth Culture Versus the Ten Commandments
2:00-3:00pm Commandment #5 Jay Rosario
3:00-4:00pm Commandment #6 David Asscherick
4:00-5:00pm Commandment #7 Mike Tucker
5:00-6:00pm Commandment #8 Nathan Renner
6:00-7:00pm Religious Liberties &
the Ten Commandments Lincoln Steed and Dr. John Graz
7:00-8:00pm Commandment #9 CD Brooks
8:00-9:00pm Commandment #10 Stephen Bohr
The link to watch online
http://www.3abntv.org/player.cfm
http://www.tencommandmentsweekend.com/index.html
Friday, May 29, 2009
6:00-7:00pm Overview' Sermon CD Brooks
Introduction: Jim Gilley & Danny Shelton
7:00-8:00pm Commandment #1 Jim Gilley
8:00-9:00pm Commandment #2 Wintley Phipps
Saturday, May 30, 2009
9:00-10:00am Commandment #3 Bill Kilgore
10:00-11:00am Musical Hour
11:00-12:00am Commandment #4 JoAnn Davidson
12:00-1:00pm Children's Hour 3ABN's Ten Commandments Kids with Doug Batchelor
1:00-2:00pm Youth Hour Youth Culture Versus the Ten Commandments
2:00-3:00pm Commandment #5 Jay Rosario
3:00-4:00pm Commandment #6 David Asscherick
4:00-5:00pm Commandment #7 Mike Tucker
5:00-6:00pm Commandment #8 Nathan Renner
6:00-7:00pm Religious Liberties &
the Ten Commandments Lincoln Steed and Dr. John Graz
7:00-8:00pm Commandment #9 CD Brooks
8:00-9:00pm Commandment #10 Stephen Bohr
The link to watch online
http://www.3abntv.org/player.cfm
HELL IS NOT BURNING TODAY
This was one of the most liberating truths. The wicked won't burn forever. If the Devil, who is the epitomy of evil will be devoured by fire and consumed, how much moreso those who have lived for 120 years tops?
God is not sadistic. That is not His Character. Why will be burn Hitler for ever and the 30 year old guy who didn't get around to accepting Christ as Savior? God is just and fair. This doctrine of everlasting burning in Hellfire is a false doctrine that does not line up with scripture.
The effects of Hell (when the earth is cleansed by fire and sin, sinners, the Devil and his evil angels are burned up) is what is everlasting. Not the punishment--the effects.
Study this out from God's word. The truth will set you free.
God is not sadistic. That is not His Character. Why will be burn Hitler for ever and the 30 year old guy who didn't get around to accepting Christ as Savior? God is just and fair. This doctrine of everlasting burning in Hellfire is a false doctrine that does not line up with scripture.
The effects of Hell (when the earth is cleansed by fire and sin, sinners, the Devil and his evil angels are burned up) is what is everlasting. Not the punishment--the effects.
Study this out from God's word. The truth will set you free.
Friday, May 8, 2009
RESTORING FAMILIES WORLDWIDE
Messages From Current Albums (see RESTORATION INTERNATIONAL'S LINK TO THE RIGHT)
Title Speaker
Our Greatest Battle
Tom Waters
From the album: Steps to Higher Ground
Redemptive Discipline Alane Waters
From the album:The Work That Lies Nearest
The Refiner's Fire Paul Rayne
From the album: Guiding Principles for the Personal Walk
The Mother's Priceless Privilege Carolyn Rayne
From the album: Guiding Principles for a Happy Home
Godly Fatherhood Edwin Nebblett
From the album: Raising Godly Seed
The Language of Encouragement Maria Nebblett
From the album: Heavenly Priorities in the Family
Brothers & Sisters, Best Friends Nebblett youth
From the album: Remember Thy Creator
Messages From Discontinued Albums
Title Speaker
Enhancing Family Life (See also Family Heart to Heart)
1. Preserving the Family Tom Waters
2. The Garden of the Heart Waters family
3. Samuel, Prepared & Willing Waters family
6. Making Sabbath Special Waters family
Finding Joy & Fulfillment as Youth
1. I Want Freedom Allison Waters
2. Improving Important Talents Allison & Emily Waters
3. Sibling Association Emily Waters (now Schlittenhart)
Forever a Family (See also Family Heart to Heart)
1. A Well-Ordered Family Emily Waters
3. Highlights of Motherhood Alane Waters
5. Learning the Language of Heaven Emily Waters
6. Eternal Realities Alane Waters
Talks With Youth
1. Companionship With Christ Tom Waters
3. Repent, Confess, & Restore Tom Waters
4. Taming the Tongue Tom Waters
Youth Panel 2005
1. 2005 OK Family Campmeeting Youth Panel Chantée, Michael, Allison, Sean, Emily
2. 2005 WA Family Campmeeting Youth Panel Kaleb, Elizabeth, Sean, Lisa, & Isaac
Youth Panel 2006
2. 2006 NJ Family Campmeeting Youth Panel Alvin, Emily, Alex, Samantha, Quint
Title Speaker
Our Greatest Battle
Tom Waters
From the album: Steps to Higher Ground
Redemptive Discipline Alane Waters
From the album:The Work That Lies Nearest
The Refiner's Fire Paul Rayne
From the album: Guiding Principles for the Personal Walk
The Mother's Priceless Privilege Carolyn Rayne
From the album: Guiding Principles for a Happy Home
Godly Fatherhood Edwin Nebblett
From the album: Raising Godly Seed
The Language of Encouragement Maria Nebblett
From the album: Heavenly Priorities in the Family
Brothers & Sisters, Best Friends Nebblett youth
From the album: Remember Thy Creator
Messages From Discontinued Albums
Title Speaker
Enhancing Family Life (See also Family Heart to Heart)
1. Preserving the Family Tom Waters
2. The Garden of the Heart Waters family
3. Samuel, Prepared & Willing Waters family
6. Making Sabbath Special Waters family
Finding Joy & Fulfillment as Youth
1. I Want Freedom Allison Waters
2. Improving Important Talents Allison & Emily Waters
3. Sibling Association Emily Waters (now Schlittenhart)
Forever a Family (See also Family Heart to Heart)
1. A Well-Ordered Family Emily Waters
3. Highlights of Motherhood Alane Waters
5. Learning the Language of Heaven Emily Waters
6. Eternal Realities Alane Waters
Talks With Youth
1. Companionship With Christ Tom Waters
3. Repent, Confess, & Restore Tom Waters
4. Taming the Tongue Tom Waters
Youth Panel 2005
1. 2005 OK Family Campmeeting Youth Panel Chantée, Michael, Allison, Sean, Emily
2. 2005 WA Family Campmeeting Youth Panel Kaleb, Elizabeth, Sean, Lisa, & Isaac
Youth Panel 2006
2. 2006 NJ Family Campmeeting Youth Panel Alvin, Emily, Alex, Samantha, Quint
Thursday, May 7, 2009
HEALTH SCHOOL ONLINE
New!
Wildwood Online Course
The new online Health Evangelism course is a go-at-your-own-pace course designed to give individuals an understanding of God’s methods in the treatment of the sick, while at the same time preparing the student to share the truths of the gospel. Students are given instruction in preventive medicine, natural remedies, Bible, Spirit of Prophecy and other aspects of God’s healing way.
This course lays a solid foundation in medical missionary work, needed for effective labor in the Lord’s vineyard. Individuals will have up to two years to complete all three units of the training. The units are sequential and will be available after the previous one is completed.
If more time is needed students may continue for $50 per month.
Visit us at www.healthevangelism.com for the full details or call us at 706-820-1493 ext. 415.
Wildwood Online Course
The new online Health Evangelism course is a go-at-your-own-pace course designed to give individuals an understanding of God’s methods in the treatment of the sick, while at the same time preparing the student to share the truths of the gospel. Students are given instruction in preventive medicine, natural remedies, Bible, Spirit of Prophecy and other aspects of God’s healing way.
This course lays a solid foundation in medical missionary work, needed for effective labor in the Lord’s vineyard. Individuals will have up to two years to complete all three units of the training. The units are sequential and will be available after the previous one is completed.
If more time is needed students may continue for $50 per month.
Visit us at www.healthevangelism.com for the full details or call us at 706-820-1493 ext. 415.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
JOHN THE BAPTIST, A PROPHET
And his [John's] father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying,
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people,
And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;
As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:
That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us;
To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant;
The oath which he sware to our father Abraham,
That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear,
In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.
And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways;
To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins,
Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us,
To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.
Luke 1:67-80
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people,
And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;
As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:
That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us;
To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant;
The oath which he sware to our father Abraham,
That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear,
In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.
And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways;
To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins,
Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us,
To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.
Luke 1:67-80
Monday, April 20, 2009
PATRIOTISM OF ANOTHER ORDER (Pt. 2)
The weekend after writing PATRIOTISM OF ANOTHER ORDER (Pt. 1), I had the opportunity to drive six hours on the highway. I maintained the speed limit all the way, either going at 55mph or 65mph depending on the Interstate.
In a small town, I was cruising down a mountain, letting gravity do it natural work, not paying attention to my speed and ended up being pulled over for going 48mph in a 25mph speed zone. For one split moment, not paying attention caused me to transgress the law.
Are you beginning to see the spiritual importance here as it relates to the Law of God? Are you beginning to get a clearer picture of the deception that is being preached concerning the Ten Commandments and their validity in our lives today?
This is important friends. This is not legalism. If obeying the law is legalism, then that police should not have pulled me over and I should not have received a ticket. He should be out of a job and the courts should be closed. We would be free to do as we please and there would be no governing body to appeal to.
Can you see the chaos this world would be in. The law is there for our happiness, not to hinder us. Why should God's laws be any different?
Do you get the picture?
In a small town, I was cruising down a mountain, letting gravity do it natural work, not paying attention to my speed and ended up being pulled over for going 48mph in a 25mph speed zone. For one split moment, not paying attention caused me to transgress the law.
Are you beginning to see the spiritual importance here as it relates to the Law of God? Are you beginning to get a clearer picture of the deception that is being preached concerning the Ten Commandments and their validity in our lives today?
This is important friends. This is not legalism. If obeying the law is legalism, then that police should not have pulled me over and I should not have received a ticket. He should be out of a job and the courts should be closed. We would be free to do as we please and there would be no governing body to appeal to.
Can you see the chaos this world would be in. The law is there for our happiness, not to hinder us. Why should God's laws be any different?
Do you get the picture?
Friday, April 10, 2009
CHOICE OR CHANCE
The outcome of my life will be the result of choices and decisions I’ve made. My upbringing, friends, circumstances and such only serve as influences, but these factors don’t determine the decisions I make. God has given every man (and woman) a measure of the Holy Spirit (1 John 3:24; 4:13). Some people call Him their conscience, the sixth sense, something, someone, etc.
We can have the best of influences and choose to make bad choices or we can have the worse of circumstances and choose to make good decisions. Choice or decision alone is not enough. We have to work toward it. Lay plans in the right direction, etc.
Why my ramblings?
I realize that my children make choices every day, every hour, every minute. I don’t know what they will become. All I can do is pray to the Lord on their behalf, do my best (with God’s help)…
We can have the best of influences and choose to make bad choices or we can have the worse of circumstances and choose to make good decisions. Choice or decision alone is not enough. We have to work toward it. Lay plans in the right direction, etc.
Why my ramblings?
I realize that my children make choices every day, every hour, every minute. I don’t know what they will become. All I can do is pray to the Lord on their behalf, do my best (with God’s help)…
Thursday, April 9, 2009
NEHEMIAH THE CUPBEARER
What vision has God given you? Goals are man made but vision is from God. ~
Your goals must line up with God's vision.
The book of Nehemiah in the Old Testament is one we can glean from. The story of Nehemiah was during the exile of the Israelites from Jerusalem into Babylon. There was a remnant that survived the exile. (Nehemiah 1:1) At the time God gave Nehemiah a vision, he was a servant to the king of Babylon. God gave Nehemiah the vision to repair the wall that once surrounded Jerusalem. Interestingly enough, an attempt to repair the wall had been made by a group before but where they failed, God would allow Nehemiah to succeed.
Once God gave Nehemiah the vision, he then turned it into action. Nehemiah's distress over the destruction of the wall was so great that he couldn't hide his sorrow, not even from the king. Nehemiah 1:4-2:1. Before even being in the king's presence though, Nehemiah consulted God. Let's see how he did it.
Step 1: Nehemiah prayed and fasted
Step 2: Nehemiah asked for foregiveness of his sins and the sins of his people.
Step 3: Nehemiah asked for God's favor. A very important factor in doing anything.
Once in front of the king, Nehemiah was given the opportunity to express God's vision. (Nehemiah 2:4-6) Once given the blessing of the king, he took a small trusted group/team to exam and begin rebuilding the wall. (Nehemiah 2:11-20, 3)
Soon after the rebuilding started, Nehemiah faced opposition. (Nehemiah 4:1-3). How did Nehemiah handle the opposition? He gave the battle to God. Understand that we do not battle against flesh and blood but against the principalities of darkness. (Ephesians 6:12)
Any opposition that we encounter is spiritual in nature so why would you battle what is spiritual in the flesh? (Nehemiah 4:4-5) Once Nehemiah prayed he allowed God to point him in the direction he needed to go.
Of course then the people assisting him became weak. So Nehemiah had to encourage them despite what was going on. (Nehemiah 4:13-14)
This process of dealing with opposition and the people needing encouragement continued in chapter 5. God also provided Nehemiah with the discernment to see what and who was of God and who wasn't as false prophets were sent to further destress him. Nehemiah continued to be in prayer and stayed in God's presence through the process. The wall was completed because Nehemiah sought God throughout the process. (Nehemiah 6:15) He didn't leave God out. Why leave God out of a vision that He gave you? If you do, you delay the fruition of God's vision and even the termination of by you. Remember what I said in the beginning. The attempt had been made before but where the others failed, God allowed Nehemiah to succeed.
(EMAIL SENT BY JOY RILEY)
Your goals must line up with God's vision.
The book of Nehemiah in the Old Testament is one we can glean from. The story of Nehemiah was during the exile of the Israelites from Jerusalem into Babylon. There was a remnant that survived the exile. (Nehemiah 1:1) At the time God gave Nehemiah a vision, he was a servant to the king of Babylon. God gave Nehemiah the vision to repair the wall that once surrounded Jerusalem. Interestingly enough, an attempt to repair the wall had been made by a group before but where they failed, God would allow Nehemiah to succeed.
Once God gave Nehemiah the vision, he then turned it into action. Nehemiah's distress over the destruction of the wall was so great that he couldn't hide his sorrow, not even from the king. Nehemiah 1:4-2:1. Before even being in the king's presence though, Nehemiah consulted God. Let's see how he did it.
Step 1: Nehemiah prayed and fasted
Step 2: Nehemiah asked for foregiveness of his sins and the sins of his people.
Step 3: Nehemiah asked for God's favor. A very important factor in doing anything.
Once in front of the king, Nehemiah was given the opportunity to express God's vision. (Nehemiah 2:4-6) Once given the blessing of the king, he took a small trusted group/team to exam and begin rebuilding the wall. (Nehemiah 2:11-20, 3)
Soon after the rebuilding started, Nehemiah faced opposition. (Nehemiah 4:1-3). How did Nehemiah handle the opposition? He gave the battle to God. Understand that we do not battle against flesh and blood but against the principalities of darkness. (Ephesians 6:12)
Any opposition that we encounter is spiritual in nature so why would you battle what is spiritual in the flesh? (Nehemiah 4:4-5) Once Nehemiah prayed he allowed God to point him in the direction he needed to go.
Of course then the people assisting him became weak. So Nehemiah had to encourage them despite what was going on. (Nehemiah 4:13-14)
This process of dealing with opposition and the people needing encouragement continued in chapter 5. God also provided Nehemiah with the discernment to see what and who was of God and who wasn't as false prophets were sent to further destress him. Nehemiah continued to be in prayer and stayed in God's presence through the process. The wall was completed because Nehemiah sought God throughout the process. (Nehemiah 6:15) He didn't leave God out. Why leave God out of a vision that He gave you? If you do, you delay the fruition of God's vision and even the termination of by you. Remember what I said in the beginning. The attempt had been made before but where the others failed, God allowed Nehemiah to succeed.
(EMAIL SENT BY JOY RILEY)
JONAH THE PROPHET
There a few lessons we can learn from the Book Jonah regardless of how short it is. Some of you may remember the story of Jonah as it is a story often told. If not: Here is your chance.
Jonah was a prophet for the Lord. A prophet is a spokesperson or mouthpiece for God. A prophet is called to encourage through God's word, rebuke when necessary and to tell God's people what the Lord is doing or is going to do.
In Amos 3:7 Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.
The Lord gave Jonah an assignment/directive to go the city of Nineveh and preach against it. (Jonah 1:1)
Lesson #1: It is clear when God speaks.
Now there was no mistake that the Lord spoke to Jonah. Some question when God is speaking to them. In John 10:27 it says, My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. But if we don't study His word, we don't pray and listen for His direction, then we will never know Him. And if Jonah was a prophet for the Lord, then he knew exactly who was speaking to him. However we see in verse 3 that Jonah refused to do what God told him to do and ran from God, or so he thought.
Lesson # 2 God does not take disobedience lightly, especially if you have said to Him that you are His servant and you will follow him. That's a vow. God is very serious about vows. Jonah thought he was running from God but you can't run from Him. Running from Him means doing the opposite of what He told you to do. We see that God wouldn't give Jonah any peace in verse 4. Jonah thought if he slept he wouldn't know that God was there. God is everywhere! And when you disobey Him you may not only be causing yourself harm but those around you will suffer as well. Those that were on the boat with Jonah going to Tarsus were caught in the middle of Jonah's struggle with God. Have you ever struggled over what God has told you to do? Did you know you could harm others around you by your disobedience? God does this to get your attention so that you see that everything you do or don't do impacts more than just you. In verse 17 it's clear that Jonah wanted to die in order to get out of his assignment. God is the giver of life and death so He wouldn't let Jonah die.
Lesson #3 God does not care about your personal feelings or issues when He tells you to do something. Jonah refused to follow God's direction because he didn't like the people of Nineveh and thought they didn't deserve to hear from God. After being swallowed by the fish, we see that Jonah prayed his way out in Chapter 2. Truthfully, his heart hadn't changed. It doesn't matter if you have racism, sexism, agism, married/unmarried, cultural or any other type of issue against a person. If the Lord is saying you are to do something, get your feelings out of the way. God knew all about Jonah's heart and knew that Jonah didn't like the Ninevites but God was trying to show Jonah that the Israelites were not the only ones who could benefit from God's word. And that he must learn compassion and forgiveness. We see in chapter 3 that the Ninevites turned from their evil ways and submitted to the Lord. Jonah thought they didn't deserve to live and made it clear in Chapter 4. First and foremost we need to understand something from Isaiah 55:8-9.
8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,"
declares the LORD.
9 "As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Who are we to determine what God does and doesn't do? It is just for us to follow His directions. Not out of fear but out of Love and reverance for Him. But the only way that comes about is stated in lesson #1.
(EMAIL SENT BY JOY RILEY)
Jonah was a prophet for the Lord. A prophet is a spokesperson or mouthpiece for God. A prophet is called to encourage through God's word, rebuke when necessary and to tell God's people what the Lord is doing or is going to do.
In Amos 3:7 Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.
The Lord gave Jonah an assignment/directive to go the city of Nineveh and preach against it. (Jonah 1:1)
Lesson #1: It is clear when God speaks.
Now there was no mistake that the Lord spoke to Jonah. Some question when God is speaking to them. In John 10:27 it says, My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. But if we don't study His word, we don't pray and listen for His direction, then we will never know Him. And if Jonah was a prophet for the Lord, then he knew exactly who was speaking to him. However we see in verse 3 that Jonah refused to do what God told him to do and ran from God, or so he thought.
Lesson # 2 God does not take disobedience lightly, especially if you have said to Him that you are His servant and you will follow him. That's a vow. God is very serious about vows. Jonah thought he was running from God but you can't run from Him. Running from Him means doing the opposite of what He told you to do. We see that God wouldn't give Jonah any peace in verse 4. Jonah thought if he slept he wouldn't know that God was there. God is everywhere! And when you disobey Him you may not only be causing yourself harm but those around you will suffer as well. Those that were on the boat with Jonah going to Tarsus were caught in the middle of Jonah's struggle with God. Have you ever struggled over what God has told you to do? Did you know you could harm others around you by your disobedience? God does this to get your attention so that you see that everything you do or don't do impacts more than just you. In verse 17 it's clear that Jonah wanted to die in order to get out of his assignment. God is the giver of life and death so He wouldn't let Jonah die.
Lesson #3 God does not care about your personal feelings or issues when He tells you to do something. Jonah refused to follow God's direction because he didn't like the people of Nineveh and thought they didn't deserve to hear from God. After being swallowed by the fish, we see that Jonah prayed his way out in Chapter 2. Truthfully, his heart hadn't changed. It doesn't matter if you have racism, sexism, agism, married/unmarried, cultural or any other type of issue against a person. If the Lord is saying you are to do something, get your feelings out of the way. God knew all about Jonah's heart and knew that Jonah didn't like the Ninevites but God was trying to show Jonah that the Israelites were not the only ones who could benefit from God's word. And that he must learn compassion and forgiveness. We see in chapter 3 that the Ninevites turned from their evil ways and submitted to the Lord. Jonah thought they didn't deserve to live and made it clear in Chapter 4. First and foremost we need to understand something from Isaiah 55:8-9.
8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,"
declares the LORD.
9 "As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Who are we to determine what God does and doesn't do? It is just for us to follow His directions. Not out of fear but out of Love and reverance for Him. But the only way that comes about is stated in lesson #1.
(EMAIL SENT BY JOY RILEY)
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
EZEKIEL THE PRIEST
The word of the Lord came expressly unto Ezekiel the priest (Ezekiel 1:3). The heavens were opened and he saw visions of God (Ezek. 1:1). Ezekiel saw a magnificent vision of creatures with four wings and four faces being moved about upon wheels with eyes on their rims.
He heard the noise of the creatures wings, like the noise of great waters, as the voice of the Almighty, the voice of speech, as the noise of a host: when they stood, they let down their wings (Ezek. 1:24).
Above the firmament, that was over their heads was the likeness of a throne...and the appearance of a rainbow that was bright. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And when he saw it, he fell upon his face and heard a voice of one that spake (see Ezek 1:26-28).
The spirit entered into Ezekiel and said, "I do send thee unto them (the children of Israel); and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God. And they, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear (refuse) for they ar a rebellious house, yet shall they know that there hath been a prophet among them. Be not afraid of their words nor be dismayed at their looks... (see Ezek. 2:4-6)
Then a hand appeared and gave him a scroll that was written all over it. He read it and was to share its contents with the children of Israel. "Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth and give them warning from me" (Ezek. 3:17).
If Ezekiel fails to give warning and the wicked die in their sins, their blood will be on Ezekiel's hands, but if he gives the warning and the wicked refuse the warning and die in their sins, their blood is on their own heads and Ezekiel is absolved of his responsibility.
Also, upon receiving the warning, when the righteous turn from their righteousness and commit sin, their blood is upon their own heads, but if Ezekiel fails to give the righteous warning and they turn to sin, their righteousness shall not be remembered, but their blood will be on Ezekiel's hand.
Nevertheless, if Ezekiel warns the righteous and the righteous does not sin, though they die, because they heed the warning, both they and Ezekiel (the watchman) hath delivered their souls (see Ezek. 3:18-21).
THE RESPONSIBILITY RESTS ON THE MESSANGER AND THE RECIPIENT TO DO THEIR PART!!!
In Matthew 24 when asked, "what shall be the sign of thy coming and of the end of the world?," Jesus answered and said, "...take heed that no man deceive you. for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars; see that ye be not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
Then He goes on to describe the beginning of sorrows [nations rising against nation, famines, earthquakes, pestilences, saints being afflicted because of their faith in Jesus and because they keep the commandments of God (see Revelation 12:17 & 14:12).
As if that isn't enough, Jesus goes on to prophecy that many of the saints shall betray one another and false prophets will rise and deceive many. Sin will also increase and people's love will grow cold, but he that shall endure unto the end, shall be saved."
Here's the point to hand your faith, "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come" (Matt. 24:11-14).
With TV, radio, internet and the faithful, word of mouth, the gospel has been preached in places, some of which we don't even know exist. Our Loving Savior has promised a world of peace to us [not in this sinful world, but in the earth made new (see Rev.21:1 & Isaiah 66:22,23).
Rev. 22:20 "He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen"
He heard the noise of the creatures wings, like the noise of great waters, as the voice of the Almighty, the voice of speech, as the noise of a host: when they stood, they let down their wings (Ezek. 1:24).
Above the firmament, that was over their heads was the likeness of a throne...and the appearance of a rainbow that was bright. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And when he saw it, he fell upon his face and heard a voice of one that spake (see Ezek 1:26-28).
The spirit entered into Ezekiel and said, "I do send thee unto them (the children of Israel); and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God. And they, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear (refuse) for they ar a rebellious house, yet shall they know that there hath been a prophet among them. Be not afraid of their words nor be dismayed at their looks... (see Ezek. 2:4-6)
Then a hand appeared and gave him a scroll that was written all over it. He read it and was to share its contents with the children of Israel. "Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth and give them warning from me" (Ezek. 3:17).
If Ezekiel fails to give warning and the wicked die in their sins, their blood will be on Ezekiel's hands, but if he gives the warning and the wicked refuse the warning and die in their sins, their blood is on their own heads and Ezekiel is absolved of his responsibility.
Also, upon receiving the warning, when the righteous turn from their righteousness and commit sin, their blood is upon their own heads, but if Ezekiel fails to give the righteous warning and they turn to sin, their righteousness shall not be remembered, but their blood will be on Ezekiel's hand.
Nevertheless, if Ezekiel warns the righteous and the righteous does not sin, though they die, because they heed the warning, both they and Ezekiel (the watchman) hath delivered their souls (see Ezek. 3:18-21).
THE RESPONSIBILITY RESTS ON THE MESSANGER AND THE RECIPIENT TO DO THEIR PART!!!
In Matthew 24 when asked, "what shall be the sign of thy coming and of the end of the world?," Jesus answered and said, "...take heed that no man deceive you. for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars; see that ye be not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
Then He goes on to describe the beginning of sorrows [nations rising against nation, famines, earthquakes, pestilences, saints being afflicted because of their faith in Jesus and because they keep the commandments of God (see Revelation 12:17 & 14:12).
As if that isn't enough, Jesus goes on to prophecy that many of the saints shall betray one another and false prophets will rise and deceive many. Sin will also increase and people's love will grow cold, but he that shall endure unto the end, shall be saved."
Here's the point to hand your faith, "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come" (Matt. 24:11-14).
With TV, radio, internet and the faithful, word of mouth, the gospel has been preached in places, some of which we don't even know exist. Our Loving Savior has promised a world of peace to us [not in this sinful world, but in the earth made new (see Rev.21:1 & Isaiah 66:22,23).
Rev. 22:20 "He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen"
Sunday, March 29, 2009
LIVE ONLINE BIBLE STUDY
In order for you to stay connected with our Creator, my wife and I have
created an ONLINE LIVE BIBLE STUDY HOUR titled FOR THE LOVE OF TRUTH.
During this hour, we will discuss many Bible prophecies that are being
fulfilled before our eyes but we don't recognize them. Some of the topics
are:
The Mark of the Beast
The Rapture
The Signs of the End
And many more
We invite you to please join us every Sunday, at 9:00PM EST at the following
link: http://laymenevangelismteam.org/TV_Station.aspx
Once you go into the TV Station site
, you are able to ask
questions based on the topic we are covering using our CHAT area at the
bottom of the screen. One of our team members will be there to answer any
question you may have.
If you are interested in this Bible Study, we will be more than happy to
send you the Bible Study guide 2 hours before the Study begins in order for
you to follow along during the study.
created an ONLINE LIVE BIBLE STUDY HOUR titled FOR THE LOVE OF TRUTH.
During this hour, we will discuss many Bible prophecies that are being
fulfilled before our eyes but we don't recognize them. Some of the topics
are:
The Mark of the Beast
The Rapture
The Signs of the End
And many more
We invite you to please join us every Sunday, at 9:00PM EST at the following
link: http://laymenevangelismteam.org/TV_Station.aspx
Once you go into the TV Station site
questions based on the topic we are covering using our CHAT area at the
bottom of the screen. One of our team members will be there to answer any
question you may have.
If you are interested in this Bible Study, we will be more than happy to
send you the Bible Study guide 2 hours before the Study begins in order for
you to follow along during the study.
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