HAPPY HOLIDAYS
It’s the most wonderful time of year for many. From gifts, to feasting, to carols and hymns, to decorations, there is something for everyone to enjoy this time of year. People are a little nicer, the air is a little crisper, and an overall exciting buzz is in the air.
This time of year is also a perfect opportunity to share with those who have never been told that each of us, as wonderfully made as we are, were sinners, but that God sent His Son, Immanuel (God with Us) to redeem us from the penalty of sin (death). We can choose to have a new life in Jesus Christ. Old things can pass away and all things can become new in our lives. Many have not heard these truths and search in vain for the peace that only God can give.
Christians, Jews and African Americans have this time of year carved out for different celebrations.
If you are into history, the following site has the History of Christmas covering time periods before (B.C.) and after (A.D.) Christ, Christmas Traditions by Country, Santa Claus History, Christmas Origins and Trivia and lastly, Christmas Books.
http://www.thehistoryofchristmas.com/
The History of Chanukah
http://www.beingjewish.com/yomtov/chanukah/history.html
The History of Kwanzaa
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kwanzaa
In the midst of traditions and tall tales, there is a Truth that will set men and women, boys and girls free. Today is the day of salvation.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Thursday, December 16, 2010
RANDOM QUOTES
"The great test of every Christian is not preaching what he's [or she's] learned, but living what he [or she] preaches" - Dave Meyer
Sunday, December 5, 2010
PROVERBS 5 FOR DECEMBER 5, 2010
Solomon encourages his son, “My son, attend unto [pay attention to] my wisdom, and bow [incline] thine ear to my understanding; that thou may regard discretion.”
Then he tells him where this wisdom is most useful, “For the lips of a strange [immoral] woman drop as a honeycomb [drip honey], and her mouth is smoother than oil: But her end is bitter as wormwood [in the end she is bitter], sharp as a two-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell.
He continues, “Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth. Remove thy way far from her, and come not near the door of her house: Lest…
(a) …thou give thine honor unto others, and thy years unto the cruel: (you lose your usefulness and lifework)
(b) …strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labors be in the house of a stranger (financial loss and possible ruin)
(c) …And thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed (physical weakness from a possible venereal disease)
(d) And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof; and have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me! (regret and mental anguish for not having listened to wise counsel)
(e) I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assemble (almost losing social standing)
Then Solomon tells his son where to get his needs met—-with his wife. “Let thy fountain be blessed; and rejoice with the wife of thy youth. Let her be as the loving hind [deer] and pleasant [graceful] roe; let her breast satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished [intoxicated] with her love.”
He ends by questioning the rationale of sexual immorality, “for the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord, and he ponders all his goings.”
Then he tells him where this wisdom is most useful, “For the lips of a strange [immoral] woman drop as a honeycomb [drip honey], and her mouth is smoother than oil: But her end is bitter as wormwood [in the end she is bitter], sharp as a two-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell.
He continues, “Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth. Remove thy way far from her, and come not near the door of her house: Lest…
(a) …thou give thine honor unto others, and thy years unto the cruel: (you lose your usefulness and lifework)
(b) …strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labors be in the house of a stranger (financial loss and possible ruin)
(c) …And thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed (physical weakness from a possible venereal disease)
(d) And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof; and have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me! (regret and mental anguish for not having listened to wise counsel)
(e) I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assemble (almost losing social standing)
Then Solomon tells his son where to get his needs met—-with his wife. “Let thy fountain be blessed; and rejoice with the wife of thy youth. Let her be as the loving hind [deer] and pleasant [graceful] roe; let her breast satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished [intoxicated] with her love.”
He ends by questioning the rationale of sexual immorality, “for the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord, and he ponders all his goings.”
PROVERBS 2 FOR DECEMBER 2, 2010
Solomon gives instruction for the woman and for the man, “When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:”
(1) To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh forward [perverse] things; Who leave the paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness; Who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the forwardness of the wicked; Whose ways are crooked, and they forward in their paths:
(2) To deliver thee from the strange [immoral] woman, even from the stranger [seductress] which flattereth with her words; Who forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forgeteth the covenant of her God. For her house inclineth unto death, and her paths unto the dead. None that go unto her return again, neither take they hold of the paths of life.
(1) To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh forward [perverse] things; Who leave the paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness; Who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the forwardness of the wicked; Whose ways are crooked, and they forward in their paths:
(2) To deliver thee from the strange [immoral] woman, even from the stranger [seductress] which flattereth with her words; Who forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forgeteth the covenant of her God. For her house inclineth unto death, and her paths unto the dead. None that go unto her return again, neither take they hold of the paths of life.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR COLD AND FLU
Nature's Penicillin
1 grapefruit
1 orange
2 lemons
3 cloves of garlic
1/2 large onion
3 drops peppermint oil
Peal fruit onion and garlic. Blend. Add peppermint oil. Take one cup a day, 1 spoonful every 1-2 hours at a time. For child, ½ cup per day is sufficient.
Flu Fighter
Juice of 6 fresh lemons (not concentrate)
1 bulb of garlic (not a clove)
1 Tbsp. of honey
1/2 tsp. ground ginger. (or freshly grated)
And Pineapple Juice
>
> Place all ingredients in blender until smooth. Add enough pineapple
> juice to make 1 quart of liquid. Take at first sign of cold, sinus or
> flu. Take 1 cup of nature's flu shot every 3-4 hours until symptoms
> are gone.
To fight against AIDS and cancer>
> 1 large aloe vera leaf
> 3 garlic cloves
> 2 peeled oranges (including seeds)
> 2 cups pineapple juice
> 1 tsp. turmeric
>
>
> Blend all and drink one time daily.
>
> Note: This is the recipe as it is written on the handout. When Dr.
> Jackson made this at the seminar he actually combined the 2 recipes
> and gave it to us for the flu so you can combine the ingredients in
> both recipes. If you give this to a child under the age of 12, you can
> give them 1/2 cup instead of a cup and the cayenne pepper is optional.
> The only thing the cayenne pepper does is get it to your bloodstream
> faster.
1 grapefruit
1 orange
2 lemons
3 cloves of garlic
1/2 large onion
3 drops peppermint oil
Peal fruit onion and garlic. Blend. Add peppermint oil. Take one cup a day, 1 spoonful every 1-2 hours at a time. For child, ½ cup per day is sufficient.
Flu Fighter
Juice of 6 fresh lemons (not concentrate)
1 bulb of garlic (not a clove)
1 Tbsp. of honey
1/2 tsp. ground ginger. (or freshly grated)
And Pineapple Juice
>
> Place all ingredients in blender until smooth. Add enough pineapple
> juice to make 1 quart of liquid. Take at first sign of cold, sinus or
> flu. Take 1 cup of nature's flu shot every 3-4 hours until symptoms
> are gone.
To fight against AIDS and cancer>
> 1 large aloe vera leaf
> 3 garlic cloves
> 2 peeled oranges (including seeds)
> 2 cups pineapple juice
> 1 tsp. turmeric
>
>
> Blend all and drink one time daily.
>
> Note: This is the recipe as it is written on the handout. When Dr.
> Jackson made this at the seminar he actually combined the 2 recipes
> and gave it to us for the flu so you can combine the ingredients in
> both recipes. If you give this to a child under the age of 12, you can
> give them 1/2 cup instead of a cup and the cayenne pepper is optional.
> The only thing the cayenne pepper does is get it to your bloodstream
> faster.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
GOD'S WOUNDS CURE, SINS KISSES KILL
“God’s wounds cure, sin’s kisses kill” - William Gurnall
God is a wise disciplinarian. Concerning the difference in Adam and Eve’s consequences for sin, it is significant to consider what are generally topics of interest and value in each sex. Men usually find their greatest sense of significance in their work while women find it in their relationships. Adam’s discipline was associated with his work, increasing its challenge and difficulty. He had taken (with practically no effort) what did not belong to him to eat. His punishment was related to his sin in that now he must work very hard for what it was his right to eat.
Eve’s sin involved a breakdown in relationships—first with God then with her husband. Her discipline involved experiencing pain in the closest relationship—mother with child. The pain of childbearing is the pain of separation. This is symbolic of the pain Eve caused when she separated from God. (Patriarchs and Prophets, Ellen G. White, pgs. 58-60)
God is a wise disciplinarian. Concerning the difference in Adam and Eve’s consequences for sin, it is significant to consider what are generally topics of interest and value in each sex. Men usually find their greatest sense of significance in their work while women find it in their relationships. Adam’s discipline was associated with his work, increasing its challenge and difficulty. He had taken (with practically no effort) what did not belong to him to eat. His punishment was related to his sin in that now he must work very hard for what it was his right to eat.
Eve’s sin involved a breakdown in relationships—first with God then with her husband. Her discipline involved experiencing pain in the closest relationship—mother with child. The pain of childbearing is the pain of separation. This is symbolic of the pain Eve caused when she separated from God. (Patriarchs and Prophets, Ellen G. White, pgs. 58-60)
Sunday, November 28, 2010
THANK YOU, LORD
THANK YOU, LORD
Thank you, Lord, for simple things
That brighten every day
Like sunshine in the morning
And daffodils in May.
Thank you, too, for friends who care
When tears begin to fall
And thank you too for answered prayer
The greatest gift of all!
Thank you for each spring bouquet
And for the summer rose,
For rainbows in the meadow
And every stream that flows.
Thank you, Lord, for simple things
Which really are quite grand
For each is a miracle
Wrought by the Master’s hand!
Clay Harrison
Thank you, Lord, for simple things
That brighten every day
Like sunshine in the morning
And daffodils in May.
Thank you, too, for friends who care
When tears begin to fall
And thank you too for answered prayer
The greatest gift of all!
Thank you for each spring bouquet
And for the summer rose,
For rainbows in the meadow
And every stream that flows.
Thank you, Lord, for simple things
Which really are quite grand
For each is a miracle
Wrought by the Master’s hand!
Clay Harrison
Thursday, November 18, 2010
A PAIN-FREE CYCLE
FOLLOWING IS MY PERSONAL TESTIMONY OF HOW I SURVIVED MY TIME OF THE MONTH THIS TIME AROUND
Heavy bleeding; ripping pain; prolonged cycle; crying and inability to function. These all described my "time of the month" symptoms. This started happening within the past few years. Years is long time to live with pain. I dreaded my "time of the month" more than ever. I suffered from anxiety when I know the time was near. Thank the Lord, the cycle became regular after my fourth child, so I could mentally prepare myself for the onslaught that was to come upon me.
After years of this, each time getting a little worse, I begun paying attention to my body. I first noticed my mood changes, then the bodily changes and then the physical manifestations of what is a normal body function. I also started talking to other women to find out what they do to ease their symptoms. One women shared with me something that helped. She said to eat fruits for 1 day once a week. I didn't do it totally, but increased my fruit intake when the time was nearing. My pain was less for the first time. My curiosity was sparked and hope sprung up with me.
Then I realized that the month that I consumed an excess of processed food (corn chips, crackers or anything else in a box or crinkly bag), my pain was horrendous and my cycle dragged on for a few extra days. One day, in desperation, I was quietly going through the pews before church looking for someone to give me pain-killers, something I never like taking.
Here is the conclusion of my own personal research for how to have a normal menstrual cycle with out the extra drama: I as the test patient.
(1) I Included lots of fruits and vegetables in my diet (fresh and uncooked as much as possible)
(2) Drank water throughout the day (Alternated with pure water and distilled; I added fresh lemon juice* for flavor)
(3) Refrained from eating processed foods, milk, eggs and cheese a few days before the onset
(4) One day 1, I made an Anti-inflammatory Smoothie:
1 quarter fresh pineapple
1 handful walnuts
1 tbsp. whole flaxseed
1 tsp. ground ginger
Blend. Halved the mixture and eat with a spoon** twice a day the first day
*Minute Made has a squeezable lemon juice that is excellent since I rarely find fresh juicy lemons in my area
**You may add some pineapple juice to the smoothie(if you don't like it too thick) and drink it.
(5) For any possible infections that may be causing my pain, I made Nature's Penicillin for the second and third day:
1 grapefruit
1 orange
2 lemons
3 cloves of garlic
½ large onion
3 drops of peppermint oil (Use a capful if using peppermint extract)
Directions:
Peel fruit, onion and garlic. Blend. Add peppermint oil. Take one cup a day for an adult and half a cup for a child. Spread dosage out over course of the day, taking a spoonful every 1-2 hours.
This is the first time I was not tossing in bed and moaning all day because of menstrual cramps. Praise the Lord!!! My family had come to expect that this was normal. Thank God, it does not have to be.
Heavy bleeding; ripping pain; prolonged cycle; crying and inability to function. These all described my "time of the month" symptoms. This started happening within the past few years. Years is long time to live with pain. I dreaded my "time of the month" more than ever. I suffered from anxiety when I know the time was near. Thank the Lord, the cycle became regular after my fourth child, so I could mentally prepare myself for the onslaught that was to come upon me.
After years of this, each time getting a little worse, I begun paying attention to my body. I first noticed my mood changes, then the bodily changes and then the physical manifestations of what is a normal body function. I also started talking to other women to find out what they do to ease their symptoms. One women shared with me something that helped. She said to eat fruits for 1 day once a week. I didn't do it totally, but increased my fruit intake when the time was nearing. My pain was less for the first time. My curiosity was sparked and hope sprung up with me.
Then I realized that the month that I consumed an excess of processed food (corn chips, crackers or anything else in a box or crinkly bag), my pain was horrendous and my cycle dragged on for a few extra days. One day, in desperation, I was quietly going through the pews before church looking for someone to give me pain-killers, something I never like taking.
Here is the conclusion of my own personal research for how to have a normal menstrual cycle with out the extra drama: I as the test patient.
(1) I Included lots of fruits and vegetables in my diet (fresh and uncooked as much as possible)
(2) Drank water throughout the day (Alternated with pure water and distilled; I added fresh lemon juice* for flavor)
(3) Refrained from eating processed foods, milk, eggs and cheese a few days before the onset
(4) One day 1, I made an Anti-inflammatory Smoothie:
1 quarter fresh pineapple
1 handful walnuts
1 tbsp. whole flaxseed
1 tsp. ground ginger
Blend. Halved the mixture and eat with a spoon** twice a day the first day
*Minute Made has a squeezable lemon juice that is excellent since I rarely find fresh juicy lemons in my area
**You may add some pineapple juice to the smoothie(if you don't like it too thick) and drink it.
(5) For any possible infections that may be causing my pain, I made Nature's Penicillin for the second and third day:
1 grapefruit
1 orange
2 lemons
3 cloves of garlic
½ large onion
3 drops of peppermint oil (Use a capful if using peppermint extract)
Directions:
Peel fruit, onion and garlic. Blend. Add peppermint oil. Take one cup a day for an adult and half a cup for a child. Spread dosage out over course of the day, taking a spoonful every 1-2 hours.
This is the first time I was not tossing in bed and moaning all day because of menstrual cramps. Praise the Lord!!! My family had come to expect that this was normal. Thank God, it does not have to be.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
THE GARDEN IN EDEN: EARTH'S FIRST FAMILY
During the week of creation, God planted a garden and put the man Adam whom he had made.
A river that had four openings, flowed out of Eden to water the garden.
In addition to the trees that God made to provide food, two special trees were put in the garden.
One was the Tree of Life and the other was the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.
God gave man another job, to take care of the garden.
God told Adam that he may eat from any of the trees that were for food, but not to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.
God warned him that in the day he ate from that special tree, he would surely die.
Remember what Adam’s other job was, to name the animals, fish and birds?
Well, while he was naming them, he realized that they all had a partner, but he didn’t have one.
God already knew that it was not good for man to be alone, but now Adam knew it too.
God put Adam to sleep and performed the first surgery by taking a rib from Adam’s side and using it to make a partner for him.
Adam called her woman and she became known as Eve, the mother of all living.
During that time, the man and his wife didn’t wear any clothes, but they were not embarrassed and did not seem to notice.
Since there was no sin on the earth, this family could have lived happily every after.
(C) Leuanna N. Matheson 2007
A river that had four openings, flowed out of Eden to water the garden.
In addition to the trees that God made to provide food, two special trees were put in the garden.
One was the Tree of Life and the other was the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.
God gave man another job, to take care of the garden.
God told Adam that he may eat from any of the trees that were for food, but not to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.
God warned him that in the day he ate from that special tree, he would surely die.
Remember what Adam’s other job was, to name the animals, fish and birds?
Well, while he was naming them, he realized that they all had a partner, but he didn’t have one.
God already knew that it was not good for man to be alone, but now Adam knew it too.
God put Adam to sleep and performed the first surgery by taking a rib from Adam’s side and using it to make a partner for him.
Adam called her woman and she became known as Eve, the mother of all living.
During that time, the man and his wife didn’t wear any clothes, but they were not embarrassed and did not seem to notice.
Since there was no sin on the earth, this family could have lived happily every after.
(C) Leuanna N. Matheson 2007
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
CREATION: THE FIRST WEEK OF EARTH
L.A.N.D. Children Living Bible Series
Once upon a time, when nothing was in the world, God made Heaven and Earth.
The Earth was dark and empty, except for the Holy Spirit who was hovering over the Earth.
So on day 1, God made light and separated it from the darkness and called them day and night.
On day 2, God made the atmosphere, separated it with space and called the top part heaven.
On day 3, God made land on the bottom part and called it Earth and made seas, then added herb plants, grass and fruit trees.
One day 4, God made the sun for daytime and the moon for nighttime, so that we could keep track of time.
On day 5, God made fish and other sea creatures and birds and they had babies and multiplied.
On day 6, God made land animals and two people, a man named Adam and after that, a woman named Eve, his wife.
God put the man and woman in charge of the animals, fish and birds and even let the man name them.
God told Adam and Eve to have lots of children so that the Earth will be filled with people.
God also told them that they could eat the fruits and that both they and the animals could eat the herbs.
Everything God made was good.
On day 7, God was finished creating the Earth so he ended his work and rested.
God blessed the 7th day and made it special and told Adam and Eve to enjoy that special time with him and rest also.
(C) Leuanna Matheson 2007
Once upon a time, when nothing was in the world, God made Heaven and Earth.
The Earth was dark and empty, except for the Holy Spirit who was hovering over the Earth.
So on day 1, God made light and separated it from the darkness and called them day and night.
On day 2, God made the atmosphere, separated it with space and called the top part heaven.
On day 3, God made land on the bottom part and called it Earth and made seas, then added herb plants, grass and fruit trees.
One day 4, God made the sun for daytime and the moon for nighttime, so that we could keep track of time.
On day 5, God made fish and other sea creatures and birds and they had babies and multiplied.
On day 6, God made land animals and two people, a man named Adam and after that, a woman named Eve, his wife.
God put the man and woman in charge of the animals, fish and birds and even let the man name them.
God told Adam and Eve to have lots of children so that the Earth will be filled with people.
God also told them that they could eat the fruits and that both they and the animals could eat the herbs.
Everything God made was good.
On day 7, God was finished creating the Earth so he ended his work and rested.
God blessed the 7th day and made it special and told Adam and Eve to enjoy that special time with him and rest also.
(C) Leuanna Matheson 2007
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
"PRACTICE MAKES BETTER"
"And now, little children, abide in Him; that, when He shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before Him at his coming. If ye know that He is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth (practices) righteousness is born of Him...he that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk even as he walked...Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth (practices) righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous."
References:
1 John 2:28,29
1 John 2:6
1 John 3:7
References:
1 John 2:28,29
1 John 2:6
1 John 3:7
Saturday, August 14, 2010
FINDING THE PERFECT MAN (IN GOD'S SIGHT)
Looking for love? Here are 7 things to look for in the perfect man:
One who is at peace with God (1 Kings 8:61; 11:4; 15:3)
One whose works completes his faith (James 2:22)
One who does not offend [stumble] in his words (James 3:2)
One who is mature (1 Corinthians 2:6; Ephesians 4:13)
One who is equipped unto all good works through the study of the scriptures (2 Timothy 3:14:17; Ephesians 4:12)
One who is blameless – “Mark the perfect man, and the upright: for the end of that man is peace” (Psalm 37:37) -- More references found in Genesis 6:9; Deuteronomy 18:13; Psalm 101:2, 6 and Proverbs 2:21.
One who is fearless in his love (1 John 4:18)
“Be thou therefore perfect, even as your Father which is heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). This section of the Sermon on the Mount is summarized with the statement, Be ye therefore perfect. Since the New Testament is clear that even the believer is capable of sin, the term perfect (Greek teleios) is not to be taken as sinless perfection. Perfect here means “complete,” that is, possessing a complete love that, like God’s (v. 45), embraces those who love you as well as those who do not. (From the King James Study Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1988, pg. 1421)
In lieu of and in place of the perfect earthly man, God is more than enough --“He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4)
One who is at peace with God (1 Kings 8:61; 11:4; 15:3)
One whose works completes his faith (James 2:22)
One who does not offend [stumble] in his words (James 3:2)
One who is mature (1 Corinthians 2:6; Ephesians 4:13)
One who is equipped unto all good works through the study of the scriptures (2 Timothy 3:14:17; Ephesians 4:12)
One who is blameless – “Mark the perfect man, and the upright: for the end of that man is peace” (Psalm 37:37) -- More references found in Genesis 6:9; Deuteronomy 18:13; Psalm 101:2, 6 and Proverbs 2:21.
One who is fearless in his love (1 John 4:18)
“Be thou therefore perfect, even as your Father which is heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). This section of the Sermon on the Mount is summarized with the statement, Be ye therefore perfect. Since the New Testament is clear that even the believer is capable of sin, the term perfect (Greek teleios) is not to be taken as sinless perfection. Perfect here means “complete,” that is, possessing a complete love that, like God’s (v. 45), embraces those who love you as well as those who do not. (From the King James Study Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1988, pg. 1421)
In lieu of and in place of the perfect earthly man, God is more than enough --“He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4)
IN TIMES OF GRIEF OR LOSS
"Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you" (2 Corinthians 13:11).
Monday, August 9, 2010
WISDOM IN 9-11
I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favor to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all (Ecclesiastes 9:11).
Words of King Solomon, the Preacher
Words of King Solomon, the Preacher
Friday, August 6, 2010
EXAMINE YOURSELVES
Paul asks us to examine our selves (2 Corinthians 13:5). We must work out your own salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12).
Here are 7 questions* that will help with that personal assessment:
(1) Am I a Christian?
(2) Is the Word of God my study?
(3) Is Christ dwelling in my heart by faith?
(4) Is the law of God the rule of my life?
(5) Do the searching truths I profess to believe, penetrate into the secret places of my life?
(6) Do I carry out its principles in my business or home life?
(7) Is the influence I exert, having a saving power on those with whom I associate?
*I don't recall where these were obtained from
Here are 7 questions* that will help with that personal assessment:
(1) Am I a Christian?
(2) Is the Word of God my study?
(3) Is Christ dwelling in my heart by faith?
(4) Is the law of God the rule of my life?
(5) Do the searching truths I profess to believe, penetrate into the secret places of my life?
(6) Do I carry out its principles in my business or home life?
(7) Is the influence I exert, having a saving power on those with whom I associate?
*I don't recall where these were obtained from
Thursday, July 15, 2010
THE WILL OF GOD
"...if any man be a worshiper of God, and doeth His will, him He heareth." (John 9:31)
Romans 8:27 - That He (Jesus) that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit (Holy Ghost), because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
1 Corinthians 12:11 (see v. 7-10*) - That all these (the 9 spiritual gifts described*) worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing (distributing) to every man severally (individually) as He will.
Galatians 1:3-5 - That Jesus Christ game himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world according to the will of God and our father: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 5:17:21 - That wherefore ye be not unwise, but understanding what the will of the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; submitting yourselves on to another in the fear of God.
1 Thessalonians 4:3-6 - For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: that every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honor; not in lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: that no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any thing: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 - In every thing give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
1 Peter 2:13-16 - That ye submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as servants of God.
1 Peter 3:17 - For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
1 Peter 4:2,19 - That ye no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God...Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing , as unto a faithful Creator.
Romans 8:27 - That He (Jesus) that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit (Holy Ghost), because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
1 Corinthians 12:11 (see v. 7-10*) - That all these (the 9 spiritual gifts described*) worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing (distributing) to every man severally (individually) as He will.
Galatians 1:3-5 - That Jesus Christ game himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world according to the will of God and our father: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 5:17:21 - That wherefore ye be not unwise, but understanding what the will of the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; submitting yourselves on to another in the fear of God.
1 Thessalonians 4:3-6 - For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: that every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honor; not in lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: that no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any thing: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 - In every thing give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
1 Peter 2:13-16 - That ye submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as servants of God.
1 Peter 3:17 - For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
1 Peter 4:2,19 - That ye no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God...Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing , as unto a faithful Creator.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
SEARCHING FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS
After talking about what we should not worry about, Jesus in Matthew 6:33, says "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you."
This portion of the Sermon on the Mount is summarized by the statement seek ye first the kingdom of God. The disciples who have pledged their allegiance to the King must continue seeking the kingdom and its righteousness. The present imperative form of the Greek verb indicates a continual or constant seeking.
The contrast between the spiritual and the material is emphasized. The believer is to seek first the righteousness that is characteristic of God's kingdom and then all these things (material things) shall be added unto him. When our priority is spiritual, God will take care of the material, for where God guides, He provides.
We need not even worry about tomorrow, for sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof (v. 34). This meas that each day has its own troubles and challenges to be responsibly handled, without worrying about the hypothetical problems that could arise tomorrow.
Edited commentary from the King James Study Bible, pg. 1424, 1988, Nelson Publishing.
This portion of the Sermon on the Mount is summarized by the statement seek ye first the kingdom of God. The disciples who have pledged their allegiance to the King must continue seeking the kingdom and its righteousness. The present imperative form of the Greek verb indicates a continual or constant seeking.
The contrast between the spiritual and the material is emphasized. The believer is to seek first the righteousness that is characteristic of God's kingdom and then all these things (material things) shall be added unto him. When our priority is spiritual, God will take care of the material, for where God guides, He provides.
We need not even worry about tomorrow, for sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof (v. 34). This meas that each day has its own troubles and challenges to be responsibly handled, without worrying about the hypothetical problems that could arise tomorrow.
Edited commentary from the King James Study Bible, pg. 1424, 1988, Nelson Publishing.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
JESUS LOVES ME THIS I KNOW
Jesus loves me this I know, for the bible tells me so;
Little ones to Him belong, they are weak, but He is strong.
Jesus loves me, He who died, Heaven's gate to open wide;
He will wash away my sin, let His little child come in.
Jesus takes this heart of mine, make it pure and holy thine;
On the cross you died for me, I will love and live for thee.
Jesus loves me when I'm good, when I do the things I should;
Jesus loves me when I'm bad, even though it makes Him sad.
Little ones to Him belong, they are weak, but He is strong.
Jesus loves me, He who died, Heaven's gate to open wide;
He will wash away my sin, let His little child come in.
Jesus takes this heart of mine, make it pure and holy thine;
On the cross you died for me, I will love and live for thee.
Jesus loves me when I'm good, when I do the things I should;
Jesus loves me when I'm bad, even though it makes Him sad.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
COUNTRY LIVING (Part 2)
Country Living continues...
Good things about being in the country
Tasting treasures out of your own garden that you planted and that the earth yielded
Seeing deer for the “umpteenth” time and still being excited
Feeling the cool morning air while the dew is still on the ground
Smelling fresh cut grass (one of my favorite smells)
Hearing the happy laughter of our children playing with the garden hose
Bad things about being in the country
Tasting a recipe experiment that did not quite come out like the cookbook
Seeing the evidence that something’s eating your collards
Feeling the loving, sincere hugs from your family
Smelling banana skins left out to be put in the compost bin
Hearing muffled rifle shots in the far distance as another deer loses its life
Good things about being in the country
Tasting treasures out of your own garden that you planted and that the earth yielded
Seeing deer for the “umpteenth” time and still being excited
Feeling the cool morning air while the dew is still on the ground
Smelling fresh cut grass (one of my favorite smells)
Hearing the happy laughter of our children playing with the garden hose
Bad things about being in the country
Tasting a recipe experiment that did not quite come out like the cookbook
Seeing the evidence that something’s eating your collards
Feeling the loving, sincere hugs from your family
Smelling banana skins left out to be put in the compost bin
Hearing muffled rifle shots in the far distance as another deer loses its life
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
PERFECTION OF CHARACTER
Perfection of Character
One of the current errors in Christianity is that there is justification (Romans 4:24, 25), i.e. saved by grace (Ephesians 2:5, 8) without sanctification, i.e. change of character and habits through obedience to the truth (Acts 16:26, 1 Peter 1:2). Study these precepts in the following lines, Romans 8:1 and 2 Corinthians 5:7 and Acts 26:18. The two work together.
Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently (1 Peter 1:22)
Jesus said to the demoniac and to the woman caught in adultery, “go and sin no more”. Sin is transgression of the law (1 John 3:4). The law of God is spelled out for us in the 10 Commandments (Found in the Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, all the way to the Gospels, Paul’s letters and finally in Revelation).
Recurring themes: victory over sin; overcoming; being perfect; purifying our souls; and many more
Living a sinless life through the merits of Christ is possible!
Since you’re interested in understanding more of God’s word, here are some texts for further study (this is by no means and exhaustive list of bible texts):
Zephaniah 3:13 [no guile in our mouths]; Revelation 14:1, 5 [the 144,000]; Revelation 7:1-8 [144,000 receive the seal of God]; 1 Peter 1:16 [be ye perfect]; 1 Peter 2:21 [Christ our example]; Hebrews 8:8-10 [the sealing of God’s law in our hearts is the new covenant] and many more
One of the current errors in Christianity is that there is justification (Romans 4:24, 25), i.e. saved by grace (Ephesians 2:5, 8) without sanctification, i.e. change of character and habits through obedience to the truth (Acts 16:26, 1 Peter 1:2). Study these precepts in the following lines, Romans 8:1 and 2 Corinthians 5:7 and Acts 26:18. The two work together.
Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently (1 Peter 1:22)
Jesus said to the demoniac and to the woman caught in adultery, “go and sin no more”. Sin is transgression of the law (1 John 3:4). The law of God is spelled out for us in the 10 Commandments (Found in the Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, all the way to the Gospels, Paul’s letters and finally in Revelation).
Recurring themes: victory over sin; overcoming; being perfect; purifying our souls; and many more
Living a sinless life through the merits of Christ is possible!
Since you’re interested in understanding more of God’s word, here are some texts for further study (this is by no means and exhaustive list of bible texts):
Zephaniah 3:13 [no guile in our mouths]; Revelation 14:1, 5 [the 144,000]; Revelation 7:1-8 [144,000 receive the seal of God]; 1 Peter 1:16 [be ye perfect]; 1 Peter 2:21 [Christ our example]; Hebrews 8:8-10 [the sealing of God’s law in our hearts is the new covenant] and many more
Monday, May 17, 2010
THE REFINED GOSPEL - PROCESSED RELIGION
The Refined Gospel – Processed Religion
“And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man saying, we will eat our own bread and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name to take away our reproach” (Isaiah 4:1)*
There is a plethora of religious options to choose from, all claiming to be true. The patient seeker of truth has the guarantee that they will find it (Jeremiah 29:13). In the hodgepodge of religious teachings there is a pure and undefiled religion (James 1:27) and there is a processed religion.
In the processed religion the people say, “prophecy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophecy deceits” (see Isaiah 30:10). The leaders of the people cause them to err (see Isaiah 9:16) and the idolatrous priests…that burned incense unto Baal, to the sun, and to the moon, and to the planets, and to all the host of heaven (2 Kings 23:5) are misleading the flock.
When we begin to feed upon the pure, unrefined word of God it will have a powerful effect on our lives. We will preach with power (Revelation 18:1) and there will be no spiritual constipation or a form of godliness (2 Timothy 3:5). Just like food with its full fiber moves the waste and impurities from our bodies, so the pure word of the Lord purges the mind of impure thoughts and false teachings to the perfection of our character (Ephesians 5:26).
The word, however, must be chewed (studied) thoroughly (2 Timothy 2:15). If you’re not used to such full truth, it may be difficult at first, but as you become accustomed to the word of God, it will become easier to understand. Isaiah encourages us to study the word line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little (Isaiah 28:10). By a casual perusal or by trying to take in too much at one time, we will not be edified and confusion and frustration will be the sure result.
Let us choose our spiritual food carefully.
*symbolic language: woman – church (Jeremiah 6:2; Revelation 12:17); bread - word of God (2 Peter 1:20; Matthew 16:12); apparel – character (Revelation 19:8; Isaiah 61:10); man/name – Christ (2 Chronicles 7:14)
“And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man saying, we will eat our own bread and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name to take away our reproach” (Isaiah 4:1)*
There is a plethora of religious options to choose from, all claiming to be true. The patient seeker of truth has the guarantee that they will find it (Jeremiah 29:13). In the hodgepodge of religious teachings there is a pure and undefiled religion (James 1:27) and there is a processed religion.
In the processed religion the people say, “prophecy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophecy deceits” (see Isaiah 30:10). The leaders of the people cause them to err (see Isaiah 9:16) and the idolatrous priests…that burned incense unto Baal, to the sun, and to the moon, and to the planets, and to all the host of heaven (2 Kings 23:5) are misleading the flock.
When we begin to feed upon the pure, unrefined word of God it will have a powerful effect on our lives. We will preach with power (Revelation 18:1) and there will be no spiritual constipation or a form of godliness (2 Timothy 3:5). Just like food with its full fiber moves the waste and impurities from our bodies, so the pure word of the Lord purges the mind of impure thoughts and false teachings to the perfection of our character (Ephesians 5:26).
The word, however, must be chewed (studied) thoroughly (2 Timothy 2:15). If you’re not used to such full truth, it may be difficult at first, but as you become accustomed to the word of God, it will become easier to understand. Isaiah encourages us to study the word line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little (Isaiah 28:10). By a casual perusal or by trying to take in too much at one time, we will not be edified and confusion and frustration will be the sure result.
Let us choose our spiritual food carefully.
*symbolic language: woman – church (Jeremiah 6:2; Revelation 12:17); bread - word of God (2 Peter 1:20; Matthew 16:12); apparel – character (Revelation 19:8; Isaiah 61:10); man/name – Christ (2 Chronicles 7:14)
Friday, May 14, 2010
UNLEARN
"Seeing is believing."
This is an unbiblical teaching. It's the theme of songs, books, movies, and many other forms of instruction.
The unfallible Word of God states, "Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen"(Hebrews 11:1).
From birth, we have been in the school of the enemy of our souls. It's time to unlearn his unbiblical teachings and learn what "Thus saith the Lord!"
This is an unbiblical teaching. It's the theme of songs, books, movies, and many other forms of instruction.
The unfallible Word of God states, "Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen"(Hebrews 11:1).
From birth, we have been in the school of the enemy of our souls. It's time to unlearn his unbiblical teachings and learn what "Thus saith the Lord!"
Monday, May 10, 2010
RANDOM QUOTE
"There is more peace when a relationship is severed with a full disclosure of information than one that ends because of inadequate disclosure"
Still wondering why a friendship I had years ago ended suddenly
Still wondering why a friendship I had years ago ended suddenly
WHAT IS DEATH?
When we die, we become:
- useless
- unfruitful
- stagnant
- unedifying
"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 a portion for ever in any thing that is done under the sun."
"Whatsoever they hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, wither thou goest." (Ecclesiastes 9:5,6 & 10)
"Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man (a human being), in whom there is no help. His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish." (Psalm 146:3,4)
- useless
- unfruitful
- stagnant
- unedifying
"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 a portion for ever in any thing that is done under the sun."
"Whatsoever they hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, wither thou goest." (Ecclesiastes 9:5,6 & 10)
"Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man (a human being), in whom there is no help. His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish." (Psalm 146:3,4)
Sunday, May 9, 2010
RANDOM QUOTE
"If you don't know who you are, then anyone can name you, and you are then theirs by right of possession" - partial quote on the *Metro New York Men's Prayer Ministry conference call, with my addition
Romans 6:16 says, "Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?"
Praise the Lord for the encouragement that follows in verse 17,18 of the same chapter, "But God be thanked, that ye were servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being made free from sin ye became servants of righteousness."
*Metro New York Men's Prayer Ministry
Daily 5:30am (EST)
218-486-1622
Pin: 13514#
N.B. Women are invited and welcome to participate as silent listeners and prayer partners
Romans 6:16 says, "Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?"
Praise the Lord for the encouragement that follows in verse 17,18 of the same chapter, "But God be thanked, that ye were servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being made free from sin ye became servants of righteousness."
*Metro New York Men's Prayer Ministry
Daily 5:30am (EST)
218-486-1622
Pin: 13514#
N.B. Women are invited and welcome to participate as silent listeners and prayer partners
SEVEN (7) THINGS THE LORD HATES...
BUT WE THINK THEY ARE NO BIG DEAL
Six Things the Lord Hates; The Seventh is an *Abomination (Proverbs 6:12-19)
Proverbs 6:12-15 and Proverbs 6:16-19:
He that winketh with his eyes - A proud look (haughty eyes)
A naughty person, a wicked man,[who] walketh with a froward mouth - A lying tongue
He that teacheth (points)[accuses] with his fingers - Hands that shed innocent blood
He deviseth mischief (evil) continually - A false witness that speaketh lies
He speaketh with his feet (shuffles)[slothful] - Feet that be swift in running to mischief
Frowardness (perversity) is in his heart - A heart that deviseth wicked imaginations
He soweth discord - He that soweth discord among brethren
*Abomination
loathsome (Genesis 46:39)
defiles (Leviticus 18:30)
cursed (Deuteronomy (7:26)
detestable (Deuteronomy 18:9; 25;16)
odious (1 Samuel 13:4)
[brackets] are my addition
Six Things the Lord Hates; The Seventh is an *Abomination (Proverbs 6:12-19)
Proverbs 6:12-15 and Proverbs 6:16-19:
He that winketh with his eyes - A proud look (haughty eyes)
A naughty person, a wicked man,[who] walketh with a froward mouth - A lying tongue
He that teacheth (points)[accuses] with his fingers - Hands that shed innocent blood
He deviseth mischief (evil) continually - A false witness that speaketh lies
He speaketh with his feet (shuffles)[slothful] - Feet that be swift in running to mischief
Frowardness (perversity) is in his heart - A heart that deviseth wicked imaginations
He soweth discord - He that soweth discord among brethren
*Abomination
loathsome (Genesis 46:39)
defiles (Leviticus 18:30)
cursed (Deuteronomy (7:26)
detestable (Deuteronomy 18:9; 25;16)
odious (1 Samuel 13:4)
[brackets] are my addition
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
SMALL CHANGES THAT YIELD A LOT
SUNLIGHT
As one of the N.E.W.S.T.A.R.T. Principles, exposure to Sunlight is very beneficial for many things:
(1) It provides Vitamin D which helps naturally with Calcium absorption
(2) It serves as a anti-depressant
(3) It cleanses the skin
The best time to be outside is between 10:00am and 4:00pm to minimize exposure to UVA and UVB rays. At least half an hour will do wonders. A little truly goes a long way.
As one of the N.E.W.S.T.A.R.T. Principles, exposure to Sunlight is very beneficial for many things:
(1) It provides Vitamin D which helps naturally with Calcium absorption
(2) It serves as a anti-depressant
(3) It cleanses the skin
The best time to be outside is between 10:00am and 4:00pm to minimize exposure to UVA and UVB rays. At least half an hour will do wonders. A little truly goes a long way.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
THE COMING CHRIST OR THE COMING CRISIS
As we see the signs of the return of our Savior, what is the condition of your spiritual life and mine?
"For the great day of His wrath is come and who shall be able to stand?" (Revelation 6:17).
Between the close of probation >(Revelation 22:11) and Jesus second coming (Isaiah 25:9), the angels of the Lord will pour out the seven vials with the seven last plagues upon the earth (Revelation 16).
At that time there will be two groups of people upon the earth, those who have purified their hearts in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren (1 Peter 1:22) and those which had the mark of the beast and upon them which worshiped his image (Revelation 16:2).
With which group will we be numbered?
"For the great day of His wrath is come and who shall be able to stand?" (Revelation 6:17).
Between the close of probation >(Revelation 22:11) and Jesus second coming (Isaiah 25:9), the angels of the Lord will pour out the seven vials with the seven last plagues upon the earth (Revelation 16).
At that time there will be two groups of people upon the earth, those who have purified their hearts in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren (1 Peter 1:22) and those which had the mark of the beast and upon them which worshiped his image (Revelation 16:2).
With which group will we be numbered?
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
HOW'S YOUR HEARING?
If any man have an ear, let him hear. (Revelation 13:9)
If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your savior, you work is not done. Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). Each day, we are to live lives of obedience to our Savior. The lives we lived while in sin, the things that held us captive, must be done away with. We are to become new creatures (see 2 Corinthians 5:17).
Keep His Commandments and live (Proverbs 4:4 and 7:2). It may cost you your job, your friends, your family, or even your life, but great is your reward in heaven (Matthew 5:11,12).
Daniel, Esther and her people and the three Hebrew boys all faced death decree's because of their devotion to God, but yet they did not waiver in keeping God's commandments. They did not follow the customs or traditions of their time or obey the laws of the land (if those laws caused them to disobey God's commandments).
As we strive to be obedient to our Lord, fear not, for "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7).
Luke encourages us in Acts 5:29, "We ought to obey God rather than man."
If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your savior, you work is not done. Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). Each day, we are to live lives of obedience to our Savior. The lives we lived while in sin, the things that held us captive, must be done away with. We are to become new creatures (see 2 Corinthians 5:17).
Keep His Commandments and live (Proverbs 4:4 and 7:2). It may cost you your job, your friends, your family, or even your life, but great is your reward in heaven (Matthew 5:11,12).
Daniel, Esther and her people and the three Hebrew boys all faced death decree's because of their devotion to God, but yet they did not waiver in keeping God's commandments. They did not follow the customs or traditions of their time or obey the laws of the land (if those laws caused them to disobey God's commandments).
As we strive to be obedient to our Lord, fear not, for "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7).
Luke encourages us in Acts 5:29, "We ought to obey God rather than man."
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
IT'S THE LITTLE THINGS
When moving, it's the little things that take up most of our time and make packing and moving a lenghty chore
In a conflict, it's the little words we say that turns simple disagreements into a full blown war
In our character, it's the little things that keep us from a total surrender to our Redeemer
In a conflict, it's the little words we say that turns simple disagreements into a full blown war
In our character, it's the little things that keep us from a total surrender to our Redeemer
ONE IMPORTANT QUESTION FOR TODAY
WERE THEY TELLING THE TRUTH?
Throughout your life (at home, at work, at school or in the street), you've met people who shared or tried to share some aspect of the gospel* with you. The question is, "were they telling the truth?"
In the myriad of information, you won't know what truth is unless you compare what they said with Truth. Truth is the Word of God found in the Bible** (The Old and New Testament).
I implore you to study*** your Bibles today and find out for yourself what your strength and foundation is build upon.
*the gospel is the good news of Salvation by Faith in Jesus Christ
**the King James Bible is the preferred for its accurate translation into English. Most of the newer versions and paraphrases are based on polluted manuscripts and false doctrines. Some are acceptable for a first time bible reader, but study the matter out thoroughly as you progress
***always pray for the Lord to give you understanding before attempting to study His word, otherwise confusion will be the sure result
Throughout your life (at home, at work, at school or in the street), you've met people who shared or tried to share some aspect of the gospel* with you. The question is, "were they telling the truth?"
In the myriad of information, you won't know what truth is unless you compare what they said with Truth. Truth is the Word of God found in the Bible** (The Old and New Testament).
I implore you to study*** your Bibles today and find out for yourself what your strength and foundation is build upon.
*the gospel is the good news of Salvation by Faith in Jesus Christ
**the King James Bible is the preferred for its accurate translation into English. Most of the newer versions and paraphrases are based on polluted manuscripts and false doctrines. Some are acceptable for a first time bible reader, but study the matter out thoroughly as you progress
***always pray for the Lord to give you understanding before attempting to study His word, otherwise confusion will be the sure result
Sunday, April 18, 2010
THREE (3) IMPORTANT TRUTHS FOR THE END TIME
(1) God, the creator, who is Love, seeks each day to demonstrate His great love toward us.
(2) Jesus, our Advocate and intercessor is coming soon to redeem those who reflect His character in thoughts, words and actions.
(3) Morning by morning, by the choices we make, we are being transformed into Christ's image or not.
(2) Jesus, our Advocate and intercessor is coming soon to redeem those who reflect His character in thoughts, words and actions.
(3) Morning by morning, by the choices we make, we are being transformed into Christ's image or not.
Friday, April 9, 2010
SELF IN ACTION
SELF (That selfish spirit that threatens to take over in any situation or conflict)
When SELF shows up, you have...
-Problems in the workplace - bosses and employees are only concerned with their individual responsibilities and fail to see their job as part of the larger organization
-Problems in parenting - one parent says x, while the other parent says y, and the children are left confused as to which parent to obey
-Problems in marriage - each spouse feels strongly about his/her position and is relentless in proving that they are right
-Problems in ministry - each saint has a different method of evangelizing and they don't let the Holy Spirit lead
-Problems with neighbors - each neighbor fails to have concern for each other and only look out for their family or property
-Problems in relationship with God - God has a way He knows is right, but you have a way you think is better
When SELF shows up, you have...
-Problems in the workplace - bosses and employees are only concerned with their individual responsibilities and fail to see their job as part of the larger organization
-Problems in parenting - one parent says x, while the other parent says y, and the children are left confused as to which parent to obey
-Problems in marriage - each spouse feels strongly about his/her position and is relentless in proving that they are right
-Problems in ministry - each saint has a different method of evangelizing and they don't let the Holy Spirit lead
-Problems with neighbors - each neighbor fails to have concern for each other and only look out for their family or property
-Problems in relationship with God - God has a way He knows is right, but you have a way you think is better
Thursday, April 1, 2010
TO BE OR MAYBE NOT
The Double-Minded Man
Lord I want To Be a Christian, but Maybe Not right now;
I’ll wait until I’m older, oh this I humbly vow!
Lord I want To Be self-relying but Maybe Not in self-control;
enjoying earthly pleasures while you chisel, shape and mold.
No man can serve two masters but how can this be true?
Can’t I break your Holy Sabbath while my mind may drift on you?
Or can’t I murder with my tongue while my lips may sing your praise?
To Be a Christian once a week but Maybe Not the other days?
I can have my slice of cake and I can eat it too!
I can be as bad as I want and end up just like you,
so I’ll wait until tomorrow and my life I’ll carefully plot
then I’ll choose To Be a Christian but then again, just Maybe Not!
A double–minded man is unstable in all his ways (James 1:8)
(c) Dale A. Matheson
Lord I want To Be a Christian, but Maybe Not right now;
I’ll wait until I’m older, oh this I humbly vow!
Lord I want To Be self-relying but Maybe Not in self-control;
enjoying earthly pleasures while you chisel, shape and mold.
No man can serve two masters but how can this be true?
Can’t I break your Holy Sabbath while my mind may drift on you?
Or can’t I murder with my tongue while my lips may sing your praise?
To Be a Christian once a week but Maybe Not the other days?
I can have my slice of cake and I can eat it too!
I can be as bad as I want and end up just like you,
so I’ll wait until tomorrow and my life I’ll carefully plot
then I’ll choose To Be a Christian but then again, just Maybe Not!
A double–minded man is unstable in all his ways (James 1:8)
(c) Dale A. Matheson
THE CONDITIONS OF UNCONDITIONAL LOVE
God's love is unconditional. He loves us with an everlasting love and everything He does is with the express purpose of showing us His love.
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten love, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).
Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and [then] all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33).
Ye shall search for me and find me when ye seek me with all your heart (Jeremiah 33:13).
If my people that are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray and seek my face, then will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14).
If you confess your sins, He is faithful and just to forgive your sins and cleanse you from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
If thou seekest her [wisdom] as silver and searchest her [wisdom] as for hid treasures, then shall thou understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God (Proverbs 2:4,5).
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten love, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).
Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and [then] all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33).
Ye shall search for me and find me when ye seek me with all your heart (Jeremiah 33:13).
If my people that are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray and seek my face, then will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14).
If you confess your sins, He is faithful and just to forgive your sins and cleanse you from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
If thou seekest her [wisdom] as silver and searchest her [wisdom] as for hid treasures, then shall thou understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God (Proverbs 2:4,5).
Thursday, March 18, 2010
MONEY DOES BUY HAPPINESS...
...AT LEAST SOME KINDS
But for those like me who can't always afford the things that make me happy [a good meal, a vacation, a babysitter or getting my hair professionally done], there is hope.
Today I experienced some of God's blessings that money can't buy:
Over three hours of sunlight
Spending time outdoors with my family
Fresh Air
Birds Chirping
My husband working with the children to prepare meals so I can complete a 1-day fast (something I've attempted to do several times in the past six month, but failed)
A refreshing shower
Peace that passes all understanding
But for those like me who can't always afford the things that make me happy [a good meal, a vacation, a babysitter or getting my hair professionally done], there is hope.
Today I experienced some of God's blessings that money can't buy:
Over three hours of sunlight
Spending time outdoors with my family
Fresh Air
Birds Chirping
My husband working with the children to prepare meals so I can complete a 1-day fast (something I've attempted to do several times in the past six month, but failed)
A refreshing shower
Peace that passes all understanding
Monday, March 15, 2010
LIFE IS A BUFFET
LIFE IS A BUFFET; CHOOSE WISELY
This thought came to mind this morning as I lay in bed, unable to go back to sleep. A situation occurred yesterday with the children when I was eating something and they asked for some. My intention was not to give them any (a parent must be able to enjoy some things by themselves). Their request pricked my conscience and I decided to "share." Then after giving them each a bite, I proceeded to finish it and they asked for some more. Of course I became irritated and regretted giving them any in the first place.
As I lay in bed this morning, the situation came back to my mind and the realization that my lack of self-denial has influenced the children. I feel that I must have everything my heart desires, regardless of whether it's beneficial or healthful or not.
We were at a church potluck and each side of the table had various visually appetizing selections of the same kinds of food (starch, vegetable, meat substitute and salad). My children wanted to try everything from both sides as we've grown accustomed to doing. I was impressed in that moment, that this was not a healthful practice, so I instructed them accordingly. Of course when they went back for seconds with my permission, they ended up at the other side of the table to "sample" the other foods before I realized what they were doing. My conscience was dull to what just happened--until now.
My epiphany: life is a buffet. It has many opportunities and offerings, some good and some evil or put like Paul, "not expedient"; some have immediate outcomes while others have eternal consequences. We shouldn't have it all. We should choose wisely. We should choose only those things that are beneficial and healthful for us as the Lord directs us. In so doing, we model and teach our children also, that they should not have everything that they want.
This lesson, if learned early, will save us, and them, from many hurtful situations and will secure us a place among the faithful, for self-denial is a key ingredient in the gospel of salvation.
Jesus said, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me." (Luke 9:23)
"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 [thought equality with God as something to be grasped]*: 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 2:5-8)
*emphasis added
This thought came to mind this morning as I lay in bed, unable to go back to sleep. A situation occurred yesterday with the children when I was eating something and they asked for some. My intention was not to give them any (a parent must be able to enjoy some things by themselves). Their request pricked my conscience and I decided to "share." Then after giving them each a bite, I proceeded to finish it and they asked for some more. Of course I became irritated and regretted giving them any in the first place.
As I lay in bed this morning, the situation came back to my mind and the realization that my lack of self-denial has influenced the children. I feel that I must have everything my heart desires, regardless of whether it's beneficial or healthful or not.
We were at a church potluck and each side of the table had various visually appetizing selections of the same kinds of food (starch, vegetable, meat substitute and salad). My children wanted to try everything from both sides as we've grown accustomed to doing. I was impressed in that moment, that this was not a healthful practice, so I instructed them accordingly. Of course when they went back for seconds with my permission, they ended up at the other side of the table to "sample" the other foods before I realized what they were doing. My conscience was dull to what just happened--until now.
My epiphany: life is a buffet. It has many opportunities and offerings, some good and some evil or put like Paul, "not expedient"; some have immediate outcomes while others have eternal consequences. We shouldn't have it all. We should choose wisely. We should choose only those things that are beneficial and healthful for us as the Lord directs us. In so doing, we model and teach our children also, that they should not have everything that they want.
This lesson, if learned early, will save us, and them, from many hurtful situations and will secure us a place among the faithful, for self-denial is a key ingredient in the gospel of salvation.
Jesus said, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me." (Luke 9:23)
"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 [thought equality with God as something to be grasped]*: 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 2:5-8)
*emphasis added
Thursday, March 11, 2010
COUNTRY LIVING
Good Things about Being in the Country
Seeing purple mountains in their magestic glory
Hearing the snow falling on the ground
Smelling hickory wood burning
Tasting farm fresh produce
Feeling the sun on a cold winters' day
Bad Things about Being in the Country
Seeing a cigarette butt in the woods
Hearing the hurtful, angry words spoken between family members
Smelling kerosene which signalled that the unit was running dry
Tasting savory food which needed salt, and not having any
Feeling frozen toes indoors
Seeing purple mountains in their magestic glory
Hearing the snow falling on the ground
Smelling hickory wood burning
Tasting farm fresh produce
Feeling the sun on a cold winters' day
Bad Things about Being in the Country
Seeing a cigarette butt in the woods
Hearing the hurtful, angry words spoken between family members
Smelling kerosene which signalled that the unit was running dry
Tasting savory food which needed salt, and not having any
Feeling frozen toes indoors
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
THE END IS NOT YET
See that ye be not troubled...the end is not yet (Matthew 24:6)
Last night, we were on our way to prayer meeting. We were on the road where we needed to make a right turn unto the street where the church was. From my vantage point, I could read the street signs (though I didn't know which street we were supposed to turn on by name).
As we made our way down, the children and I were looking for the red fire hydrant with the orange top (the town is full of two-colored hydrants, this one being the most unique).
After a while, my husband thought that we had passed the church. He asked if we had passed Beverly yet. I remembered seeing that street name and spoke up. He kept going. As we passed landmarks we remembered seeing three days ago, he kept verbalizing that he didn't remember it being this far down. I concurred. He kept driving. I was becoming anxious and eventually annoyed. He wondered aloud if we should turn around. I responded in irritation, "a long time ago." He kept driving. Silence in the car! The children were no longer looking for the orange-top fire hydrant, but were now helping us to find the church.
Then one of the children said, "there it is" and lo and behold, there it was, not on Beverly, but on Berkeley. Man was I embarrassed and humbled!
Spiritual lessons jumped out at me that I wanted to share. Solomon says, "a fool learns from his own mistakes, but a wise man learns from the mistakes of others." (my parents paraphrase). [Please share the text if you know which one I'm referencing]
1. Know where you're going before you try to get there -- it gives you a definite goal to try to attain and makes your journey less stressful; The journey is already laid out for us, we just need to re-familiarize ourselves with it (Genesis to Revelation)
2. Don't assume that the other person (man or woman) knows where they are going, regardless of their vantage point, position or confidence (Psalm 118:8)
3. Trust your instinct (the Holy Spirit) -- He'll never lead you astray (John 16:13; all of John Chapters 14-16)
4. With everyone working on one accord like the disciples, the work becomes more fruitful (Acts 2:1-11, 2:38-41, 2:44-47, 5:12-14 and many more)
5. A little child shall lead them (Isaiah 11:6)
6. Be humble enough to admit when you're wrong (Matthew 11:4)--BTW, I did do that
7. There are many distractions, false roads, and "bumps" along the way (2 Corinthians 11:26), but don't give up--the end is not yet (Matthew 10:22)
The end goal is Heaven, where eternal life is the reward. The journey is our daily lives and interactions with others. This journey is no joke. It is hard, especially without a reliable trusted guide. The character does not get transformed overnight.
"Sanctification is the work of a lifetime." [Please share the reference if you know it]
Last night, we were on our way to prayer meeting. We were on the road where we needed to make a right turn unto the street where the church was. From my vantage point, I could read the street signs (though I didn't know which street we were supposed to turn on by name).
As we made our way down, the children and I were looking for the red fire hydrant with the orange top (the town is full of two-colored hydrants, this one being the most unique).
After a while, my husband thought that we had passed the church. He asked if we had passed Beverly yet. I remembered seeing that street name and spoke up. He kept going. As we passed landmarks we remembered seeing three days ago, he kept verbalizing that he didn't remember it being this far down. I concurred. He kept driving. I was becoming anxious and eventually annoyed. He wondered aloud if we should turn around. I responded in irritation, "a long time ago." He kept driving. Silence in the car! The children were no longer looking for the orange-top fire hydrant, but were now helping us to find the church.
Then one of the children said, "there it is" and lo and behold, there it was, not on Beverly, but on Berkeley. Man was I embarrassed and humbled!
Spiritual lessons jumped out at me that I wanted to share. Solomon says, "a fool learns from his own mistakes, but a wise man learns from the mistakes of others." (my parents paraphrase). [Please share the text if you know which one I'm referencing]
1. Know where you're going before you try to get there -- it gives you a definite goal to try to attain and makes your journey less stressful; The journey is already laid out for us, we just need to re-familiarize ourselves with it (Genesis to Revelation)
2. Don't assume that the other person (man or woman) knows where they are going, regardless of their vantage point, position or confidence (Psalm 118:8)
3. Trust your instinct (the Holy Spirit) -- He'll never lead you astray (John 16:13; all of John Chapters 14-16)
4. With everyone working on one accord like the disciples, the work becomes more fruitful (Acts 2:1-11, 2:38-41, 2:44-47, 5:12-14 and many more)
5. A little child shall lead them (Isaiah 11:6)
6. Be humble enough to admit when you're wrong (Matthew 11:4)--BTW, I did do that
7. There are many distractions, false roads, and "bumps" along the way (2 Corinthians 11:26), but don't give up--the end is not yet (Matthew 10:22)
The end goal is Heaven, where eternal life is the reward. The journey is our daily lives and interactions with others. This journey is no joke. It is hard, especially without a reliable trusted guide. The character does not get transformed overnight.
"Sanctification is the work of a lifetime." [Please share the reference if you know it]
Friday, February 5, 2010
THE LOVE OF GOD
Satan is determined that men shall not see the love of God, which led Him to give His only-begotten Son to save the lost race; for it is the goodness of God that leads men to repentance. Oh, how shall we succeed in setting forth before the world the deep, precious love of God?
In no other way can we compass it than by exclaiming, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God” (1 John 3:1)!
Let us say to sinners, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29)! By presenting Jesus as the representative of the Father, we shall be able to dispel the shadow that Satan has cast upon our pathway, in order that we shall not see the mercy and love of God’s inexpressible love as manifested in Jesus Christ. {1SM 384.2}
Emphasis mine
See the whole inspirational thought at www.growministries.net
In no other way can we compass it than by exclaiming, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God” (1 John 3:1)!
Let us say to sinners, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29)! By presenting Jesus as the representative of the Father, we shall be able to dispel the shadow that Satan has cast upon our pathway, in order that we shall not see the mercy and love of God’s inexpressible love as manifested in Jesus Christ. {1SM 384.2}
Emphasis mine
See the whole inspirational thought at www.growministries.net
Saturday, January 30, 2010
BEYOND BLOGGING...
As I lay in bed tonight, my thoughts went on facebook for some reason. Some time ago, I vowed that I would NEVER get a facebook page, because I wanted to be in close intimate relationship with my friends, either by face to face contact, telephoning or email (LOL). Then based on a chance request and morbid curiosity, I opened an account and subsequently, a can of worms (or snakes depending on one's perspective).
Hours were now spend in this new fascinating world. One day, my son, then 7 said to me, "mommy, you spend too much time on facebook." My heart pricked, as I knew this to be the case, but no one was holding me accountable for the use of my time, and besides, it helped me to get away from the demands of my day. With the strength of the Lord, I closed out the account that very day, less than three months into it.
While on Facebook, I reconnected briefly with friends from my schools in Guyana, Stella Maris Primary School and Bishops High School, and friends from my schools in Maryland, Montgomery Blair High School, Sherwood High School and the University of Maryland, College Park. Even one childhood playmate was on there. The introductions were brief, just enough to get caught up on our status in life [married or not, children or not, employed or not, etc.). There the connections stopped and communications waned.
I wanted to justify my "umpteen" hours on Facebook and wanted my time to be worth something, so my mission became to "evangelize" with links, quotes and access to this Heaven Bound Blog. After a while, it seemed like there was more juicy things going on to make my little tit-bits of any effect or interest. The request from my son made the decision so much easier to make, especially for my ego (self).
My prayer, however, is that at least 1 person was drawn closer to Jesus Christ as a result of something they read or saw; That at least 1 person began to prayerfully study the Bible more and at least 1 person made the decision to accept the salvation that comes through faith in Jesus Christ.
For there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over 1 sinner that repents. (see Luke 15:7,10)
Hours were now spend in this new fascinating world. One day, my son, then 7 said to me, "mommy, you spend too much time on facebook." My heart pricked, as I knew this to be the case, but no one was holding me accountable for the use of my time, and besides, it helped me to get away from the demands of my day. With the strength of the Lord, I closed out the account that very day, less than three months into it.
While on Facebook, I reconnected briefly with friends from my schools in Guyana, Stella Maris Primary School and Bishops High School, and friends from my schools in Maryland, Montgomery Blair High School, Sherwood High School and the University of Maryland, College Park. Even one childhood playmate was on there. The introductions were brief, just enough to get caught up on our status in life [married or not, children or not, employed or not, etc.). There the connections stopped and communications waned.
I wanted to justify my "umpteen" hours on Facebook and wanted my time to be worth something, so my mission became to "evangelize" with links, quotes and access to this Heaven Bound Blog. After a while, it seemed like there was more juicy things going on to make my little tit-bits of any effect or interest. The request from my son made the decision so much easier to make, especially for my ego (self).
My prayer, however, is that at least 1 person was drawn closer to Jesus Christ as a result of something they read or saw; That at least 1 person began to prayerfully study the Bible more and at least 1 person made the decision to accept the salvation that comes through faith in Jesus Christ.
For there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over 1 sinner that repents. (see Luke 15:7,10)
WRAPPED UP: THE BOOK OF ENDINGS
The last book of the Holy Bible begins, "The Revelation of Jesus Christ..." (Chapter 1: verse 1).
Eight key themes, which are woven into the whole bible (old testament and new testament Scriptures, are summarized in Revelation Chapter 1. Interestingly, they all begin with "S":
SCRIPTURE (see verses 1-3) - The Bible and the Bible only (Sola Scriptura); "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth" (John 17:17); "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15);>"...the truth of the Lord endureth forever..." (Psalm 117:2).
SALVATION (see verses 4-6) - "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); "Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live..." (Ezekiel 33:11).
SECOND COMING (see verses 7-8) - "...I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again* and receive you unto myself: that where I am, there ye may be also" (John 14:2,3).
*He didn't say that we would go to meet Him before He returns (see 1 Thessalonians 4:16,17)
SABBATH (see verse 10) - "And on the seventh day God ended his work which He had made; and He rested on the seventh day from all his work which He had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it He had rested from all his work which God created and made" (Genesis 2:2,3); also see Exodus 20:8-11; Isaiah 58:13,14; Hebrews 11:1-4 & Revelation 14:7.
SANCTUARY (see verses 12-13) - "Thy way O Lord is in the Sanctuary, who is so great a God as our God" (Psalms 77:13); [Everything in the Jewish Sanctuary and its corresponding services pointed forward to Jesus Christ and the mystery of SALVATION]
STATE OF THE DEAD (verses 17,18) - "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23); Death is a sleep (see Job 7:9,10,21; The dead know not anything (see Ecclesiastes 9:5); The righteous dead will be raised at the SECOND COMING of Christ, before the 1000 years, to receive their reward [life without end], and the wicked dead will be raised after the 1000 year, to receive their reward [death with an end] (see Revelation 20:1-6,14,15).
SPIRIT OF PROPHECY (verse 9) - "The Lord will do nothing but He revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets" (Amos 3:7); "I have even sent unto you all my servants the prophets, daily raising and sending them..." (Jeremiah 7:25); also see Revelation 19:10 & 22:9,10.
SAINTS (see verse 20) - "Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as we see the day approaching" (Hebrews 10:24,25); "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love" (1 John 4:7,8); also see Luke 6:27,28 and ending at v. 36); "And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise" (Galations 3:29); "...that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through* Jesus Christ: that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith" (Galatians 3:14).
*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" (Genesis 12:2,3).
Look up the fascination Geneologies of:
Judah (the son of Israel) to David, the King (Ruth 4:12-22)
Abraham to Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:1-17)
Jesus to Adam (the first man made in the image of God)(Luke 3:23-38)
Eight key themes, which are woven into the whole bible (old testament and new testament Scriptures, are summarized in Revelation Chapter 1. Interestingly, they all begin with "S":
SCRIPTURE (see verses 1-3) - The Bible and the Bible only (Sola Scriptura); "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth" (John 17:17); "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15);>"...the truth of the Lord endureth forever..." (Psalm 117:2).
SALVATION (see verses 4-6) - "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); "Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live..." (Ezekiel 33:11).
SECOND COMING (see verses 7-8) - "...I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again* and receive you unto myself: that where I am, there ye may be also" (John 14:2,3).
*He didn't say that we would go to meet Him before He returns (see 1 Thessalonians 4:16,17)
SABBATH (see verse 10) - "And on the seventh day God ended his work which He had made; and He rested on the seventh day from all his work which He had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it He had rested from all his work which God created and made" (Genesis 2:2,3); also see Exodus 20:8-11; Isaiah 58:13,14; Hebrews 11:1-4 & Revelation 14:7.
SANCTUARY (see verses 12-13) - "Thy way O Lord is in the Sanctuary, who is so great a God as our God" (Psalms 77:13); [Everything in the Jewish Sanctuary and its corresponding services pointed forward to Jesus Christ and the mystery of SALVATION]
STATE OF THE DEAD (verses 17,18) - "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23); Death is a sleep (see Job 7:9,10,21; The dead know not anything (see Ecclesiastes 9:5); The righteous dead will be raised at the SECOND COMING of Christ, before the 1000 years, to receive their reward [life without end], and the wicked dead will be raised after the 1000 year, to receive their reward [death with an end] (see Revelation 20:1-6,14,15).
SPIRIT OF PROPHECY (verse 9) - "The Lord will do nothing but He revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets" (Amos 3:7); "I have even sent unto you all my servants the prophets, daily raising and sending them..." (Jeremiah 7:25); also see Revelation 19:10 & 22:9,10.
SAINTS (see verse 20) - "Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as we see the day approaching" (Hebrews 10:24,25); "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love" (1 John 4:7,8); also see Luke 6:27,28 and ending at v. 36); "And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise" (Galations 3:29); "...that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through* Jesus Christ: that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith" (Galatians 3:14).
*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" (Genesis 12:2,3).
Look up the fascination Geneologies of:
Judah (the son of Israel) to David, the King (Ruth 4:12-22)
Abraham to Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:1-17)
Jesus to Adam (the first man made in the image of God)(Luke 3:23-38)
WHOSE FAMILY TREE ARE WE A PART OF?
Since the creation, and subsequently sin, men (and women) and our descendants can be traced to one of two lines:
God's or Satan's
Seth's or Cain's
Abraham, the father of the faithful or not
Jacob's or Esau's
The righteous or the wicked
Him that serveth God or Him that serveth Him not (Malachi 4:13)
The children of God or the children of the Devil (1 John 3:10)
God's or Satan's
Seth's or Cain's
Abraham, the father of the faithful or not
Jacob's or Esau's
The righteous or the wicked
Him that serveth God or Him that serveth Him not (Malachi 4:13)
The children of God or the children of the Devil (1 John 3:10)
Sunday, January 3, 2010
LIFE CHANGING QUOTES
"The christian life is not an improvement or modification of the old, but a transformation of the character" by Ellen G. White.
"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." Paul the Apostle,
2 Corinthians 5:7
"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." Paul the Apostle,
2 Corinthians 5:7
RANDOM QUOTE
When a man who is honestly mistaken hears the truth, he will either quit being mistaken or cease to be honest -- Unknown
Cuando un hombre esta honestamente equivocado y escucha la verdad, El o para de estar equivocado, O cese de ser honesto
Cuando un hombre esta honestamente equivocado y escucha la verdad, El o para de estar equivocado, O cese de ser honesto
A NEW CREATION
SEVEN SMALL LIFESTYLE CHANGES THAT CHANGED MY LIFE
1. Live on a schedule (sleep times, eating times, work times, recreation times, etc.)
2. Increase your intake of plant based foods (grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, fresh herbs) and decrease your intake of animal products (meat, milk, eggs and cheese)
3. Eat a hearty breakfast and lunch, skip snacks between meals and eat a light supper at least 3 hours before retiring for bed
4. Spend time outdoors getting sunshine, fresh air and exercise
5. Boost your immune system by increasing your intake of pure water between meals (add fresh lemon juice for a great cleanser) and decreasing refined and artificial sugars and foods containing them
6. Get your rest by going to bed early, rising early in the morning and leaving the Sabbath for mental, physical and spiritual rejuvenation
7. The most important to complete the list--Gain strength by beginning your day with prayer to the Living God and personal study of His will through His Word
1. Live on a schedule (sleep times, eating times, work times, recreation times, etc.)
2. Increase your intake of plant based foods (grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, fresh herbs) and decrease your intake of animal products (meat, milk, eggs and cheese)
3. Eat a hearty breakfast and lunch, skip snacks between meals and eat a light supper at least 3 hours before retiring for bed
4. Spend time outdoors getting sunshine, fresh air and exercise
5. Boost your immune system by increasing your intake of pure water between meals (add fresh lemon juice for a great cleanser) and decreasing refined and artificial sugars and foods containing them
6. Get your rest by going to bed early, rising early in the morning and leaving the Sabbath for mental, physical and spiritual rejuvenation
7. The most important to complete the list--Gain strength by beginning your day with prayer to the Living God and personal study of His will through His Word
Friday, January 1, 2010
RANDOM QUOTE
"You can't influence the world for Jesus Christ using the world's methods."
Pondering and reconsidering the "doom and gloom" approach I've been using to stir people to wake up and pay attention that Jesus is coming soon.
The world has been using fear and force to bring about change. Jesus Christ never used those methods. He used love and a general concern for people's welfare and gave them the straight truth, then left their decisions to them.
Pondering and reconsidering the "doom and gloom" approach I've been using to stir people to wake up and pay attention that Jesus is coming soon.
The world has been using fear and force to bring about change. Jesus Christ never used those methods. He used love and a general concern for people's welfare and gave them the straight truth, then left their decisions to them.
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