So You handed them over to their enemies, who made them suffer. But in their time of trouble they cried to You, and You heard them from heaven. In Your great mercy, You sent them liberators who rescued them from their enemies.
(Nehemiah 9:27 NLT)
It is not God’s will that we suffer but that we are obedient and do everything with a thankful heart but sometimes our path becomes bent and our attention becomes fixed on things other than God. It is in these times that He allows us to suffer or by His grace we recognize our current state and allow God’s Holy Spirit to lead us back to our first love and avoid the suffering that was surely headed our way.
But Samuel replied, "What is more pleasing to the LORD: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to His voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.
(1Sa 15:22 NLT)
Is it that God needs our attention, God is in need of nothing! Could it be God our Creator knows what is best for that which He has created? And is He not worthy of all adoration? Why then does my heart wonder? What is it I am looking for that cannot be found in Christ, my Savior and Redeemer? I have experienced His joy and presence in my life and feel as though I could dwell there forever. I have also suffered from my own bad decisions and pride and I don’t want to go there again still I struggle with doing things that will take me to even worse places. I do know this, the condition of my soul is more important than the comfort of my flesh; meaning if my flesh must suffer in order for my soul to be set back on the narrow path and my focus back on God then it’s not hard to imagine why He would allow it.
Our ultimate goal is to make it to that heavenly home and hear the Father say, “Well done, my faithful servant.” But I also believe it’s what we allow God to do through us in this life that determines our purpose in the next.
The greatest among you must be a servant.
(Mat 23:11 NLT)
Look at the apostils they gave their lives to show others the way. Do you not think their reward will be greater (read Luke 19:12-26)? I don’t know about you but I don’t want to barely make it by living a life filled with my wants right up to the very end and then recognizing my need for Jesus with my last breath. This life with all the good and bad is our time to walk with Jesus, to really know Him, to understand He is there when trouble comes, and to laugh with Him when it is time to rejoice and to be His witnesses so others can share the life you have found. So you see obedience is better that sacrifice.
Lord, thank you for this life though I do not always appreciate it. I am guilty of allowing my eyes and heart to wonder which bring about many struggles, please forgive me. Won’t You help me live a life that is pleasing to You by renewing my mind and strengthening my spirit so that I might better listen to Your leading. Lead me into paths of righteousness so that I might know Your purpose and see Your direction. May Your grace cover me so that I am not crushed by the enemy and may Your Holy Spirit fill me so that I respond to my enemy in love. Lord, You see how very fragile I am yet You hold me with all assurance - I am Yours and nothing can remove me from Your hand. You have also given me free will, may I always choose You and remain close to my first love.
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Monday, August 18, 2014
Understanding our need for Christ
Don't misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose.
(Matthew 5:17 NLT)
God gave the law so that we might know how to live but the law could not be satisfied through our own abilities and therefore points to our need. The Word was made flesh and came to live among us to fulfill the law and show us the heart of the Father so that the truth would set us free. Jesus said that if you have seen me you have already seen the Father (John 14:9). It is in our failures, our struggles, our coming face to face with our own desperate situations that keeps us from being blinded by pride, which is the enemy of God’s people. The man who falls then puffs out his chest and says, “it wasn’t me” instead of admitting his guilt only pushes the truth, the very freedom he longs for, further away. With that being said I am a strong believer in the ideal that just because I’m wrong doesn’t make you right. You see all have sinned and have come short of the glory of God and no man can come to the Father but through Jesus Christ and His righteousness.
"Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. "And why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own? "
(Matthew 7:1-3 NLT)
What difference does it make if you can persuade people to believe what you believe if the standard by which all men will be judged is not man’s standard but God’s? Are we so blind that we’ve convinced ourselves if I can get more people to believe what I’m saying then I must be right? Where is God in the judgment you’ve been handing out? Are you not afraid of God’s righteousness, even at the end? And what of those who cause God’s children to stumble? Jesus said this,
But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in Me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone hung around your neck.
(Mark 9:42 NLT)
My friend be careful about offering advice when you only know one side of the story, for if that one is misled and your advice only supports their way of thinking have you not kept them from knowing the truth? I tell you many Christians tread on thin ice unaware all in the name of compassion and in the end only deceive themselves. God was, is, and shall be judge - do not place yourself in a position higher than you ought.
When Jesus noticed that all who had come to the dinner were trying to sit in the seats of honor near the head of the table, He gave them this advice: "When you are invited to a wedding feast, don't sit in the seat of honor. What if someone who is more distinguished than you has also been invited? The host will come and say, 'Give this person your seat.' Then you will be embarrassed, and you will have to take whatever seat is left at the foot of the table! "Instead, take the lowest place at the foot of the table. Then when your host sees you, he will come and say, 'Friend, we have a better place for you!' Then you will be honored in front of all the other guests. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."
(Luke 14:7-11 NLT)
It is clear that God will bless those who do not exalt themselves. Those who progress in spirit and truth do so at the cost of their own flesh and though it appears the enemy has defeated them because they are not what the world would call successful or leaders but look at who God selected to be king over Israel ~ David, not his older brothers but a poor shepherd boy.
God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for Him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth. God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied. God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. "God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are My followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.
(Matthew 5:3-12 NLT)
(Matthew 5:17 NLT)
God gave the law so that we might know how to live but the law could not be satisfied through our own abilities and therefore points to our need. The Word was made flesh and came to live among us to fulfill the law and show us the heart of the Father so that the truth would set us free. Jesus said that if you have seen me you have already seen the Father (John 14:9). It is in our failures, our struggles, our coming face to face with our own desperate situations that keeps us from being blinded by pride, which is the enemy of God’s people. The man who falls then puffs out his chest and says, “it wasn’t me” instead of admitting his guilt only pushes the truth, the very freedom he longs for, further away. With that being said I am a strong believer in the ideal that just because I’m wrong doesn’t make you right. You see all have sinned and have come short of the glory of God and no man can come to the Father but through Jesus Christ and His righteousness.
"Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. "And why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own? "
(Matthew 7:1-3 NLT)
What difference does it make if you can persuade people to believe what you believe if the standard by which all men will be judged is not man’s standard but God’s? Are we so blind that we’ve convinced ourselves if I can get more people to believe what I’m saying then I must be right? Where is God in the judgment you’ve been handing out? Are you not afraid of God’s righteousness, even at the end? And what of those who cause God’s children to stumble? Jesus said this,
But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in Me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone hung around your neck.
(Mark 9:42 NLT)
My friend be careful about offering advice when you only know one side of the story, for if that one is misled and your advice only supports their way of thinking have you not kept them from knowing the truth? I tell you many Christians tread on thin ice unaware all in the name of compassion and in the end only deceive themselves. God was, is, and shall be judge - do not place yourself in a position higher than you ought.
When Jesus noticed that all who had come to the dinner were trying to sit in the seats of honor near the head of the table, He gave them this advice: "When you are invited to a wedding feast, don't sit in the seat of honor. What if someone who is more distinguished than you has also been invited? The host will come and say, 'Give this person your seat.' Then you will be embarrassed, and you will have to take whatever seat is left at the foot of the table! "Instead, take the lowest place at the foot of the table. Then when your host sees you, he will come and say, 'Friend, we have a better place for you!' Then you will be honored in front of all the other guests. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."
(Luke 14:7-11 NLT)
It is clear that God will bless those who do not exalt themselves. Those who progress in spirit and truth do so at the cost of their own flesh and though it appears the enemy has defeated them because they are not what the world would call successful or leaders but look at who God selected to be king over Israel ~ David, not his older brothers but a poor shepherd boy.
God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for Him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth. God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied. God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. "God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are My followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.
(Matthew 5:3-12 NLT)
Saturday, August 16, 2014
The second coming of Christ
Matthew chapter 10 we see Jesus giving instructions to his disciples so that they would be able to minister and do the will of the Father apart from Jesus’ physical presence, not unlike we do today.
Go and announce to them that the Kingdom of Heaven is near. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cure those with leprosy, and cast out demons. Give as freely as you have received!
(Mat 10:7-8 NLT)
He also instructs them to not be concerned for their own needs because their Heavenly Father would care for them through the very people they ministered to. This scripture is evidence that the church is to support the physical needs of it’s pastor and appointed leaders as they address the spiritual needs of the church. Not only that but evangelists who go from town to town their physical needs are also to be met as they care for the spiritual needs of the people but it has yet a third meaning… those who belong to God, who put God’s purpose ahead of their own desires will be cared for regardless of the actions of the people they come in contact with and if they were not cared for they were to move to the next town.
"Whenever you enter a city or village, search for a worthy person and stay in his home until you leave town. When you enter the home, give it your blessing. If it turns out to be a worthy home, let your blessing stand; if it is not, take back the blessing. If any household or town refuses to welcome you or listen to your message, shake its dust from your feet as you leave. I tell you the truth, the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah will be better off than such a town on the judgment day.
(Mat 10:11-15 NLT)
Everything up until this point sounds really good and makes you glad to be part of God’s team. You have studied the things of God, you know His presence, you hear His voice, His call, and you allow Him to lead you and in turn He promises to take care of your needs as you serve His purpose and love those you come in contact with but at verse 16 something changes.
"Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves. But beware! For you will be handed over to the courts and will be flogged with whips in the synagogues. You will stand trial before governors and kings because you are My followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell the rulers and other unbelievers about Me. When you are arrested, don't worry about how to respond or what to say. God will give you the right words at the right time. For it is not you who will be speaking—it will be the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. "A brother will betray his brother to death, a father will betray his own child, and children will rebel against their parents and cause them to be killed. And all nations will hate you because you are My followers. But everyone who endures to the end will be saved.
(Mat 10:16-22 NLT)
We are told by the One we trust that the same things He has gone through we will experience as well but even then, though our physical needs may not be met, He will remain a comfort to our spirit and as He leads us even through the worst of times we will be His witnesses and His wrath will follow so that even the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah would be better. As I look around America I do not see the persecution Jesus told His disciples about, I see pieces of it from other countries but not here, not now but it has begun and a time is coming when all of God’s children will experience this level of persecution. I believe what I just finished reading in Revelation about the Great Tribulation will be that time and we are drawing closer with each passing day. No longer will we hear about Christians dying for their faith in other countries but instead we will see it in our own towns and streets. What Jesus told His disciples was not just their future but the future of a whole generation of believers. It is a popular belief that God will rescue His people from such times but the Bible does not say that. We will be saved from God’s wrath, yes for the Great Tribulation will be divided up into sections, of which the end will come with God pouring out His wrath, which His people will not go through but there are many terrible things that happen prior to that from which we have not been promised to be spared, in fact just the opposite and in this way what Jesus told His disciples in Matthew chapter 10 will be made clear that the student is not greater than the Master, if He went through it so must we. If we are to experience His glory we must first experience His persecution.
"Students are not greater than their teacher, and slaves are not greater than their master. Students are to be like their teacher, and slaves are to be like their master. And since I, the master of the household, have been called the prince of demons, the members of My household will be called by even worse names! "But don't be afraid of those who threaten you. For the time is coming when everything that is covered will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all. What I tell you now in the darkness, shout abroad when daybreak comes. What I whisper in your ear, shout from the housetops for all to hear! "Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
(Mat 10:24-28 NLT)
To say Jesus’ words that day were only for the ones who were in the room is short-sighted and blissfully ignorant. How many times did Jesus’ words have more than one meaning? When He spoke about destroying the temple and it would be rebuilt in three days was He talking about the structure they saw in front of them or did he speak of something else? How many times did He bypass the question of the Pharisees to speak to the heart of the matter causing the one asking and those surrounding to probe their own intentions when their plan was to catch Jesus in a trap? Every word that came out of Jesus’ mouth was and is life and being such not only has meaning for those who were physically with Him but for future generations. I am convinced when the things of Revelation begin, when the plagues are released on the earth and people begin to worship the beast and his statue and they take his seal upon their foreheads and hands God’s people will still be present on the earth. In this way all His people will know the persecution their Teacher knew and it will not be isolated cases as it is today, yes even America will fall and no longer will she be known for her freedom, God’s grace will be removed and the enemy will be allowed to conduct business in such a way that those who don’t know better will be deceived and will be haters of God and His people and the wedding invitation that was once opened will then be closed. This will be allowed for a short time and then God’s wrath will be poured out on the earth but before it is Jesus’ will come to get His bride and those that remain will be removed from what the earth is about to experience.
Then I saw thrones, and the people sitting on them had been given the authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their testimony about Jesus and for proclaiming the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or his statue, nor accepted his mark on their forehead or their hands. They all came to life again, and they reigned with Christ for a thousand years. This is the first resurrection. (The rest of the dead did not come back to life until the thousand years had ended.)
(Rev 20:4-5 NLT)
Go and announce to them that the Kingdom of Heaven is near. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cure those with leprosy, and cast out demons. Give as freely as you have received!
(Mat 10:7-8 NLT)
He also instructs them to not be concerned for their own needs because their Heavenly Father would care for them through the very people they ministered to. This scripture is evidence that the church is to support the physical needs of it’s pastor and appointed leaders as they address the spiritual needs of the church. Not only that but evangelists who go from town to town their physical needs are also to be met as they care for the spiritual needs of the people but it has yet a third meaning… those who belong to God, who put God’s purpose ahead of their own desires will be cared for regardless of the actions of the people they come in contact with and if they were not cared for they were to move to the next town.
"Whenever you enter a city or village, search for a worthy person and stay in his home until you leave town. When you enter the home, give it your blessing. If it turns out to be a worthy home, let your blessing stand; if it is not, take back the blessing. If any household or town refuses to welcome you or listen to your message, shake its dust from your feet as you leave. I tell you the truth, the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah will be better off than such a town on the judgment day.
(Mat 10:11-15 NLT)
Everything up until this point sounds really good and makes you glad to be part of God’s team. You have studied the things of God, you know His presence, you hear His voice, His call, and you allow Him to lead you and in turn He promises to take care of your needs as you serve His purpose and love those you come in contact with but at verse 16 something changes.
"Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves. But beware! For you will be handed over to the courts and will be flogged with whips in the synagogues. You will stand trial before governors and kings because you are My followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell the rulers and other unbelievers about Me. When you are arrested, don't worry about how to respond or what to say. God will give you the right words at the right time. For it is not you who will be speaking—it will be the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. "A brother will betray his brother to death, a father will betray his own child, and children will rebel against their parents and cause them to be killed. And all nations will hate you because you are My followers. But everyone who endures to the end will be saved.
(Mat 10:16-22 NLT)
We are told by the One we trust that the same things He has gone through we will experience as well but even then, though our physical needs may not be met, He will remain a comfort to our spirit and as He leads us even through the worst of times we will be His witnesses and His wrath will follow so that even the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah would be better. As I look around America I do not see the persecution Jesus told His disciples about, I see pieces of it from other countries but not here, not now but it has begun and a time is coming when all of God’s children will experience this level of persecution. I believe what I just finished reading in Revelation about the Great Tribulation will be that time and we are drawing closer with each passing day. No longer will we hear about Christians dying for their faith in other countries but instead we will see it in our own towns and streets. What Jesus told His disciples was not just their future but the future of a whole generation of believers. It is a popular belief that God will rescue His people from such times but the Bible does not say that. We will be saved from God’s wrath, yes for the Great Tribulation will be divided up into sections, of which the end will come with God pouring out His wrath, which His people will not go through but there are many terrible things that happen prior to that from which we have not been promised to be spared, in fact just the opposite and in this way what Jesus told His disciples in Matthew chapter 10 will be made clear that the student is not greater than the Master, if He went through it so must we. If we are to experience His glory we must first experience His persecution.
"Students are not greater than their teacher, and slaves are not greater than their master. Students are to be like their teacher, and slaves are to be like their master. And since I, the master of the household, have been called the prince of demons, the members of My household will be called by even worse names! "But don't be afraid of those who threaten you. For the time is coming when everything that is covered will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all. What I tell you now in the darkness, shout abroad when daybreak comes. What I whisper in your ear, shout from the housetops for all to hear! "Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
(Mat 10:24-28 NLT)
To say Jesus’ words that day were only for the ones who were in the room is short-sighted and blissfully ignorant. How many times did Jesus’ words have more than one meaning? When He spoke about destroying the temple and it would be rebuilt in three days was He talking about the structure they saw in front of them or did he speak of something else? How many times did He bypass the question of the Pharisees to speak to the heart of the matter causing the one asking and those surrounding to probe their own intentions when their plan was to catch Jesus in a trap? Every word that came out of Jesus’ mouth was and is life and being such not only has meaning for those who were physically with Him but for future generations. I am convinced when the things of Revelation begin, when the plagues are released on the earth and people begin to worship the beast and his statue and they take his seal upon their foreheads and hands God’s people will still be present on the earth. In this way all His people will know the persecution their Teacher knew and it will not be isolated cases as it is today, yes even America will fall and no longer will she be known for her freedom, God’s grace will be removed and the enemy will be allowed to conduct business in such a way that those who don’t know better will be deceived and will be haters of God and His people and the wedding invitation that was once opened will then be closed. This will be allowed for a short time and then God’s wrath will be poured out on the earth but before it is Jesus’ will come to get His bride and those that remain will be removed from what the earth is about to experience.
Then I saw thrones, and the people sitting on them had been given the authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their testimony about Jesus and for proclaiming the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or his statue, nor accepted his mark on their forehead or their hands. They all came to life again, and they reigned with Christ for a thousand years. This is the first resurrection. (The rest of the dead did not come back to life until the thousand years had ended.)
(Rev 20:4-5 NLT)
Monday, August 11, 2014
Meditation and discipline
But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night.
(Psa 1:2 NLT)
Those who are strong in faith have something in common, they know God’s Word and they allow what is inside it to refresh their battle weary soul each hour of the day. They do not look to the left or the right but keep God’s Word in focus as they face each new situation.
They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.
(Psa 1:3 NLT)
It should be no surprise with each passing day God’s Holy Spirit continues to draw you towards His Word but the flesh is strong and it will resist because in spending more time learning about God you will be called to consider others first and yourself last, following Jesus’ example. The flesh does not give in easily but it is yours to control. If you starve your spirit by not reading God’s Word, praying, meditating, and worship then that which you are meant to control will control you.
Doing what is right does not come natural, successfully surrendering your will for God’s in your life does not just happen but it takes discipline to obey and faith to listen.
Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. My child, listen when your father corrects you. Don't neglect your mother's instruction. What you learn from them will crown you with grace and be a chain of honor around your neck.
(Pro 1:7-9 NLT)
Solomon’s words are wise and true and good to remember as young people head off to college and back to school. God gave His Word to instruct and teach and He gave you parents to lead you in the ways of the Lord, do not reject their wisdom or experience, you only make things more difficult on yourselves and parents make sure that your instruction to your children is from God’s Word. Where much is given, much is required and if you instruct above all be consistent and know God’s Word.
The requirements for a good guide are reliability and accurate knowledge.
(1Co 4:2 MSG)
But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.
(Luk 12:48 NLT)
(Psa 1:2 NLT)
Those who are strong in faith have something in common, they know God’s Word and they allow what is inside it to refresh their battle weary soul each hour of the day. They do not look to the left or the right but keep God’s Word in focus as they face each new situation.
They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.
(Psa 1:3 NLT)
It should be no surprise with each passing day God’s Holy Spirit continues to draw you towards His Word but the flesh is strong and it will resist because in spending more time learning about God you will be called to consider others first and yourself last, following Jesus’ example. The flesh does not give in easily but it is yours to control. If you starve your spirit by not reading God’s Word, praying, meditating, and worship then that which you are meant to control will control you.
Doing what is right does not come natural, successfully surrendering your will for God’s in your life does not just happen but it takes discipline to obey and faith to listen.
Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. My child, listen when your father corrects you. Don't neglect your mother's instruction. What you learn from them will crown you with grace and be a chain of honor around your neck.
(Pro 1:7-9 NLT)
Solomon’s words are wise and true and good to remember as young people head off to college and back to school. God gave His Word to instruct and teach and He gave you parents to lead you in the ways of the Lord, do not reject their wisdom or experience, you only make things more difficult on yourselves and parents make sure that your instruction to your children is from God’s Word. Where much is given, much is required and if you instruct above all be consistent and know God’s Word.
The requirements for a good guide are reliability and accurate knowledge.
(1Co 4:2 MSG)
But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.
(Luk 12:48 NLT)
Thursday, August 7, 2014
This is the first resurrection
Then I saw thrones, and the people sitting on them had been given the authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their testimony about Jesus and for proclaiming the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or his statue, nor accepted his mark on their forehead or their hands. They all came to life again, and they reigned with Christ for a thousand years. This is the first resurrection. (The rest of the dead did not come back to life until the thousand years had ended.)
(Rev 20:4-5 NLT)
Did you notice the mark of the beast which had taken place when God’s judgment began to fall starting in chapter 6 leading up to chapter 13 took place before the first resurrection? And we know the dead in Christ shall rise first leaving everyone else to experience the holy righteousness of the Creator of all things who has patiently waited for mankind to choose whom they would serve.
Then I saw another beast come up out of the earth. He had two horns like those of a lamb, but he spoke with the voice of a dragon.
(Rev 13:11 NLT)
He required everyone—small and great, rich and poor, free and slave—to be given a mark on the right hand or on the forehead. And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name.
(Rev 13:16-17 NLT)
Chapter 20 tells us the FIRST resurrection was well after the apocalypse had begun by sword, famine, pestilence, and the beasts that had been released on the earth. In this way the saints are associated with the sufferings of Christ and we are promised to know Christ better because of it. This brings to the saints a clearer picture of the value of Christ’s rule and reign over all the earth, affectively separating us from those things that would pull us away from the life He wants us to know. I believe this is, in part, why we are to walk out this life with open hands and not hold tightly to desires of the flesh and by that I mean not things that are sinful but things that bring pleasure whether it is riding motorcycles, being with family, eating, working out, all the things we enjoy but are temporary. For when this time comes if we don’t know how to let go surely we will miss the provisions God has made for us, meaning we will not recognize the eternal because of the temporary things we have surrounded ourselves with. In this way those who are meek, poor, those who mourn… read Matthew chapter 5 these are the ones who are blessed for they have already learned what lies ahead and look forward to it with great anticipation. Let not our eyes distract us from that which has true value and that which deserves our attention, for only the overcomers shall reign victoriously and this is the great equalizer for those who have been first will find they are last and have been living this life upside down because of their extensive blindness and their relentless hold on things that brought them a false sense of hope.
And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire.
(Rev 20:15 NLT)
(Rev 20:4-5 NLT)
Did you notice the mark of the beast which had taken place when God’s judgment began to fall starting in chapter 6 leading up to chapter 13 took place before the first resurrection? And we know the dead in Christ shall rise first leaving everyone else to experience the holy righteousness of the Creator of all things who has patiently waited for mankind to choose whom they would serve.
Then I saw another beast come up out of the earth. He had two horns like those of a lamb, but he spoke with the voice of a dragon.
(Rev 13:11 NLT)
He required everyone—small and great, rich and poor, free and slave—to be given a mark on the right hand or on the forehead. And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name.
(Rev 13:16-17 NLT)
Chapter 20 tells us the FIRST resurrection was well after the apocalypse had begun by sword, famine, pestilence, and the beasts that had been released on the earth. In this way the saints are associated with the sufferings of Christ and we are promised to know Christ better because of it. This brings to the saints a clearer picture of the value of Christ’s rule and reign over all the earth, affectively separating us from those things that would pull us away from the life He wants us to know. I believe this is, in part, why we are to walk out this life with open hands and not hold tightly to desires of the flesh and by that I mean not things that are sinful but things that bring pleasure whether it is riding motorcycles, being with family, eating, working out, all the things we enjoy but are temporary. For when this time comes if we don’t know how to let go surely we will miss the provisions God has made for us, meaning we will not recognize the eternal because of the temporary things we have surrounded ourselves with. In this way those who are meek, poor, those who mourn… read Matthew chapter 5 these are the ones who are blessed for they have already learned what lies ahead and look forward to it with great anticipation. Let not our eyes distract us from that which has true value and that which deserves our attention, for only the overcomers shall reign victoriously and this is the great equalizer for those who have been first will find they are last and have been living this life upside down because of their extensive blindness and their relentless hold on things that brought them a false sense of hope.
And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire.
(Rev 20:15 NLT)
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
God has not forgotten
Then I heard another voice calling from heaven, "Come away from her, My people. Do not take part in her sins, or you will be punished with her. For her sins are piled as high as heaven, and God remembers her evil deeds.
(Rev 18:4-5 NLT)
As we strive to build a great nation have we left God behind? But I do not know anything about building a nation, then look at what you are building. Are you a business owner, what about your own household, for each one should look around and take an account of the things they labor over. Is God included or are the things of God of no consequence? Does God’s standards seem antiquated and impede production? While the world toils to be something great they leave behind the very things God told us He would honor.
Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. Anyone who wants to be My disciple must follow Me, because My servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves Me.
(Joh 12:25-26 NLT)
Babylon represents the peak of all human striving that lifts up mankind, not God and in return she will fall and the world will watch in amazement as a great society crashes to the ground bringing low all who made a profit from her greed.
The light of a lamp will never shine in you again. The happy voices of brides and grooms will never be heard in you again. For your merchants were the greatest in the world, and you deceived the nations with your sorceries. In your streets flowed the blood of the prophets and of God's holy people and the blood of people slaughtered all over the world."
(Rev 18:23-24 NLT)
God is holy and just who can question His ways or reasons for doing what He sees fit? When we sin and the consequences are not seen right away that doesn’t mean God doesn’t care but He is long suffering, patient, and full of mercy. The longer we turn a blind eye towards God’s conviction the less likely we are to hear His final call to come in from the darkness before it’s too late.
(Rev 18:4-5 NLT)
As we strive to build a great nation have we left God behind? But I do not know anything about building a nation, then look at what you are building. Are you a business owner, what about your own household, for each one should look around and take an account of the things they labor over. Is God included or are the things of God of no consequence? Does God’s standards seem antiquated and impede production? While the world toils to be something great they leave behind the very things God told us He would honor.
Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. Anyone who wants to be My disciple must follow Me, because My servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves Me.
(Joh 12:25-26 NLT)
Babylon represents the peak of all human striving that lifts up mankind, not God and in return she will fall and the world will watch in amazement as a great society crashes to the ground bringing low all who made a profit from her greed.
The light of a lamp will never shine in you again. The happy voices of brides and grooms will never be heard in you again. For your merchants were the greatest in the world, and you deceived the nations with your sorceries. In your streets flowed the blood of the prophets and of God's holy people and the blood of people slaughtered all over the world."
(Rev 18:23-24 NLT)
God is holy and just who can question His ways or reasons for doing what He sees fit? When we sin and the consequences are not seen right away that doesn’t mean God doesn’t care but He is long suffering, patient, and full of mercy. The longer we turn a blind eye towards God’s conviction the less likely we are to hear His final call to come in from the darkness before it’s too late.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Am I prepared?
"Look, I will come as unexpectedly as a thief! Blessed are all who are watching for Me, who keep their clothing ready so they will not have to walk around naked and ashamed."
(Revelation 16:15 NLT)
God has provided His Word to lead, guide, and protect those who love Him. Those who have a heart for Him, who live expecting to see His return, will not be disappointed. How often have things such as tragedies, heartbreak, and trouble got our attention and refocused our eyes upon Christ? Tell me are we not loved by our Heavenly Father who prepares us for what is to come. In the days we read about in Revelation the difference between those who belong to the beast and who belong to God can be determined by what or who the eye is trained on. If we live this life now looking to God in the little things how much more will we look to Him at the end of time? All will look to the heavens in those days, many shaking their fists but only those who know God will be saved!
You will know you are prepared by looking at your relationship with Him now. Do you make an effort to know Him in the midst of your busy life? The primary means of knowing and recognizing the character of God is to read the Bible, His Word, and praying that the Holy Spirit will give you wisdom and understanding as you read it so that God’s Word is etched into your very soul. This way when trouble comes you will already know the answer and you will not be found searching. There will be no knowing Him the day of because the test will be beyond all that you have faced before. Like the days of school either you are learning each day from the teacher and your text book or you cram the night before the big test, one yields good results the other not so much and because no one knows when the time will come the only option that brings peace and joy is to live for Him today. Read Revelation and see what is in store for humanity, then read chapter 16 and see what leads to Armageddon. Is this something you want to face without knowing Christ Jesus? Many will dismiss it, saying it’s only a story but are you willing to bet your soul on it? And what will you do when the day comes and you are reminded of what you read in Revelation? Will you cram like you did in school? If you could not give your life to God when times were good how can you expect to do it when doing so will mean you will lose your life? To those not prepared the book of Revelation is a warning but to those who are it is the finish line to a race and the winner’s circle is just on the other side.
(Revelation 16:15 NLT)
God has provided His Word to lead, guide, and protect those who love Him. Those who have a heart for Him, who live expecting to see His return, will not be disappointed. How often have things such as tragedies, heartbreak, and trouble got our attention and refocused our eyes upon Christ? Tell me are we not loved by our Heavenly Father who prepares us for what is to come. In the days we read about in Revelation the difference between those who belong to the beast and who belong to God can be determined by what or who the eye is trained on. If we live this life now looking to God in the little things how much more will we look to Him at the end of time? All will look to the heavens in those days, many shaking their fists but only those who know God will be saved!
You will know you are prepared by looking at your relationship with Him now. Do you make an effort to know Him in the midst of your busy life? The primary means of knowing and recognizing the character of God is to read the Bible, His Word, and praying that the Holy Spirit will give you wisdom and understanding as you read it so that God’s Word is etched into your very soul. This way when trouble comes you will already know the answer and you will not be found searching. There will be no knowing Him the day of because the test will be beyond all that you have faced before. Like the days of school either you are learning each day from the teacher and your text book or you cram the night before the big test, one yields good results the other not so much and because no one knows when the time will come the only option that brings peace and joy is to live for Him today. Read Revelation and see what is in store for humanity, then read chapter 16 and see what leads to Armageddon. Is this something you want to face without knowing Christ Jesus? Many will dismiss it, saying it’s only a story but are you willing to bet your soul on it? And what will you do when the day comes and you are reminded of what you read in Revelation? Will you cram like you did in school? If you could not give your life to God when times were good how can you expect to do it when doing so will mean you will lose your life? To those not prepared the book of Revelation is a warning but to those who are it is the finish line to a race and the winner’s circle is just on the other side.
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