Monday, December 31, 2012

Whatever happened to chivalry and being respectful?

I do believe that we live in a society where looks, social status, self-satisfaction, and sexuality have become more important than character, faith, love, modesty, and dignity. We have become judgemental, disrespectful, less than respectable, crass, vulgar, and just plain immoral. I was just wondering if you have something to add about it. Maybe I just have opinions about things or the fact that I would like to have a family of my own one day do play a role in it. It could also be that in the past I have tried to avoid the issue of women's infidelity altogether. Not because I think women are more moral, but because I have noticed that many women, espcially between 18-44 have become more crass, vulgar, less gracious, thankful, and humble. I am personally concerned that we have a generation or two in which many women care more about how many men they have, have become less nurturing,less loving, less faithful and dignified, and extremely troubled, unappreciative, and arrogant. Sorry to be so harsh, but that is true. Meanwhile, we have a generation or two of men who are either mysoginist barbarians, ignorants, feminized, suicidal, angry, entitled, dead, or in jail. Maybe I am being harsh or oversimplifying things, but I guess that is why my obsessions center around sex and religion. I have spent time trying to put my troubles and obsessions in perspective and finding some distractions along the way. Over the last few days things have improved. My concerns are not as strong as they once were. I cannot believe all that I have written in that in a way, they help to explain why I have this disorder or at least these obsessions.

Is chvalry dead?

Makes me wonder.  What is happening to this world?

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Give Thanks to the Lord


Give Thanks to the Lord
For his mercy endures forever
Give Thank to the Lord
For He is the Father
Give thanks to the Lord
For He is our Savior
Give thanks to the Lord
For He is our Provider and Healer
Give thanks to the Lord
For He is the One who sacrificed for us
Give thanks to the Lord
For He never changes
Give thanks to the Lord
Thank you, Lord, in Jesus' name

Friday, December 28, 2012

Losing weight is hard

It is so hard sometimes to try to lose weight.  I have lost a lot f weight, at least for me.  I am doing okay with it.  I realize that I need to take better care of myself and learn to eat better foods.  I also need to do a better job of holding myself accountable.  With the health issues that I have, I wish I had done this a long time ago.  I am doing well other than that.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Having OCD sucks

Having OCD sucks.  It seems that at times I take pleasure in those thoughts because it calms my mind down and it answers those questions that I ask.  Maybe it is about asking for reassurance which is what I have done often.  I have been diagnosed as having OCD as late as 2010.  I felt relieved but it was one in a set of problems that I have.  My problems are about moral and religious issues.  I sometimes wonder if God really saved me or if I am lost.  Moral issues include infidelity and just doing the right thing.  I always have these questions in my head that in my mind require an answer.  I hate uncertainty and I just can't take it.  I wish I never had it and I felt very lonely because I don't have all of the answers and I don't know anyone personally who has the same problem.

Serenity Prayer
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

I know Christmas is over, but here are a few of my favorite Christmas songs





I tend to have Christmas songs in my head.  Yet even though today is December 26, I am still in the Christmas spirit.  I know that Christmas is over, I hate to let it go.

Monday, December 24, 2012

Fruitcake Recipe

 








 
Ingredients
1/2 cup light brown sugar
2 cups white sugar
4 cups self rising flour
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/3 cup dried blueberries
1/3 cup dried mixed berries
1/3 cup dried cranberries
2 cups raisins
1/2 cup chopped apricots
1/2 cup chopped figs
1 cup chopped dates
1/4 cup chopped prunes
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. lemon juice
3 eggs
2 sticks of softened butter
 
Directions:
In a mixer, combine softened butter and both sugars.  Beat mixture until fluffy.  Then slowly add the eggs and the vanilla extract. Continue until mixture is fluffy.  Next, fold in the self rising flour and stir until well incorporated.  Then fold in the dried fruit and lemon juice.  Mix until well incorporated.  Pour batter in a lightly greased and floured bundt pan.  Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 45 minutes or until you insert a toothpick and it comes out clean.  You can even use a knife for this.  In the center of the cake, stand the knife up in the cake.  If the knife stands up, then it is done.  Otherwise, bake for a few more minutes until done.  Let the cake cool for 20 minutes.  Then take the cake out of the pan and serve it in a plate.  The final product should look like the above pictures.

Is God real?

Yes, God is real.  He died for you.  This Christmas, let us all take the time to celebrate and commemorate His birth, death, and resurrection.  He is Lord, Savior, and Creator.  He hates sin.  He is a God of Justice.  Life is too short.  Receive Him as Lord and Savior today.  He knows who we all are and knows us by name.  Don't be blinded and think that God doesn't exist.  He does.  These two videos answer the question on whether or not God is real:



Sunday, December 23, 2012

Hallelujah!

I am ever grateful.  I love the Lord with all of my heart, soul, mind, and strength.  That is what a Christian should be grateful.  Love because God is love.  Pray because he is closer than a phone call away.  Don't get too caught up in the world or be too busy for the Lord.  Praise the Lord, Christian, for He has saved us.  Praise the Lord, sinner, for He died for you.

Saturday, December 22, 2012

Friday, December 21, 2012

Moment of Silence and a Prayer




Let us all have a moment of silence to the little angels who have lost their lives at Sandy Hook Elementary and everywhere else around the world.  God, continue to love and protect our children.  Keep them safe from harm.


Thursday, December 20, 2012

What does God say about our children?


God, protect and continue to love our children.  May those who are no longer with us rest in peace.

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Gratitude Prayer



     Lord Jesus.
I need You.
Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins.
I open the door of my life, and receive You as my Lord and Savior.
Take control of my life.
Make me the kind of person You want me to be.
In Jesus Christ's name I pray,
who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit
One God
forever and ever.
Amen~

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Wisdom Has Built a House



Wisdom has built a house

She is a wise woman

She is a woman of beauty and strength

She will take you very far

She will take you close

Wisdom has built a house

On a strong foundation

She is a woman of grace and class

She is caring

She is a woman of integrity

A woman who won't steer you wrong

She is the foundation

That brings men to their knees

She is the foundation

Of strength

Wisdom has built a house

That brings families together

Wisdom has built a house

The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom

Monday, December 17, 2012

The Sun





 
The sun casts its shadow through the window
With the breath of dust in the air
It touched the house
The heat kissed my face
I am reminded of the creation God made
The white hot sun
The clear blue sky
The cotton white clouds
The dew kissed leaves crowning a thick, muscular streaked gray, white-streaked oak tree
Hovering over the brightest green grass
I am reminded daily that the moving sun is His way of saying
"I am the Creator
I made all of these things with the fruits to enjoy
With the sun to give light for Me to do My handiwork
With the sun to guide you with as I am guiding You with Mine eye
With the sun peeking through those clouds
With the sun complementing the grass that continually grows
The sun I create is a reminder that I am a Jealous God
And Me only shall You serve
I am a Jealous God
You are Not to worship all that is in it
Acknowledge me and you will be wise
Acknowledge me as the sun acknowledges me
Acknowledge me as the Son was there from the beginning for the world including the sun
was created through Him
Acknowledge Him as the Only Begotten Son, Your Savior
Acknowledge Him and you shall live
You shall live as those things you see
I gave you a purpose and that is to live for and serve me and not deny Him
Just as I gave this Son a purpose
Just as I gave this sun a purpose
We shall all work in harmony just as I intended
But alas, the stench of sin has seperated You and I
But the sun gives light
But the Son gives life"
It is an interesting thing that God's creation is marveled
But the Son is overlooked
But one thing I do know
The Son saved my life and my soul
And I know that the Son was there all along
And that God is the World's Greatest Artist

Sunday, December 16, 2012

Condolences





My heart and prayers go out to the loved ones of those lost in Connecticut.  May they rest in peace.




Saturday, December 15, 2012

True and false prophets

 Verses about Prophets:

Matthew 7:16-20         
You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.

Deuteronomy 18:20-22         
But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in my name that I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods, that same prophet shall die.’ And if you say in your heart, ‘How may we know the word that the Lord has not spoken?’— when a prophet speaks in the name of the Lord, if the word does not come to pass or come true, that is a word that the Lord has not spoken; the prophet has spoken it presumptuously. You need not be afraid of him.

2 Peter 1:20         
Knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation.

Revelation 22:18         
I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book,

1 Peter 1:10-12         
Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired carefully, inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories. It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in the things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the good news to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look.

2 Timothy 3:16         
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,

1 John 4:1-6         
Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them. ...

Friday, December 14, 2012

The Truth about Homosexuality

Sadly, for every true believer that loves the Lord and wants for homosexuals and bisexuals to be saved, there is a false Christian who uses the Bible to spread hatred for homosexuals and others who live "alternative lifestyles". Such is the case with Matthew Shepherd. As we all know, Matthew Shepherd is the young man who was killed simply because he was gay. (Though this has lately been disputed.) At his funeral, there were a family of religious people who had signs reading "Matt in Hell", and "God hates f**s". Such ugliness is not what a Christian make. That kind of ugliness and insensitivity is of the devil.

Yes, the Bible does condemn homosexuality. In fact, it is called an abomination. But never has the Bible endorsed such ugly, Satanic behavior as displayed at Matthew Shepherd's funeral. God has never, and never will, once endorse outright homophobia towards homosexuals and bisexuals. We should love the gay, bisexual, and transgendered people because Jesus loves them and died for them.

And yes, it is possible for someone who is gay or bisexual to change. This is not homophobia, it is fact. No one is born gay. Homosexuality is not genetic. It is a chosen act between men and women of the same sex.

Why Writing This Page is So Important
It is important for those of the Christian community to reach out to those who are homosexuals and bisexuals. They need to know that Jesus died on the cross for them just like He did for everyone else. The truth is, homosexuality is not something one is born with, it is a sin, just like adultery, fornication, giving in to lust, and lying. It is important for everyone of us to know this. It is also important for those of the gay and bisexual community to listen. Not everyone who says they are Christian is a Christian; and not every Christian who holds the belief that homosexuality is wrong is not homophobic. This is not a homophobic site.

 
What Does the Bible Really Say About Homosexuality?
Genesis 2:18-25 says, "And the Lord God said, "It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him." Out of the ground the Lord God formed every beast of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to Adam to see what he would call them. And whatever Adam called each living creature, that was its name. So Adam gave names to all cattle, to the birds of the air, and to every beast of the field. But for Adam there was not found a helper comparable to him. And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh in its place. Then the rib which the Lord God had taken from man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man. And Adam said: "This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man." Therefore, a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed."

Also on the fifth day according to Genesis 1, God's plan for His creation was to "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth." Leviticus 18 is written concerning sexual immorality including homosexuality and sleeping with one's relatives. Verse 22 says, " You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination." This verse speaks about homosexuality.

This is not just Old Testament. It is also of the New Testament, or the Covenant of Grace, which we are under. Romans 1:26 says "For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise, also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due."

Homosexuality, not homosexuals, is an abomination to God. God wants us to procreate, and homosexuals cannot procreate. The natural use does not mean that homosexuals are unnatural, but what they are doing is not a part of God's plans. These verses are not inspired by an anti-gay Deity, but by a loving, caring, God who only wants the best for us. These verses certainly are not about in any way, nor implying homophobia or violence against gays, lesbians, and bisexuals. No one is born gay, it is chosen. That is why it is called an "alternative lifestyle", which entails a choice. It is not like being born of a certain race or being male or female. It is not genetic.

Yes, God did create a helper for man, a woman. If this sounds homophobic to you, then you are mistaken. It is not. I understand that homosexuals suffer and are treated badly, and Jesus loves you and understands your pain. Christianity is a religion of love, but it is also a religion about justice and judgement. All of us will stand before God one day and will have to answer for everything we have done in this life. Homosexuality is an abomination to God. It is a sin and the wages of sin is death.


Invitation
If you are a homosexual or bisexual or know someone who is, or if you are a backslider or someone who has never put God first (never accepted Jesus), it is important that you understand that is not too late to be set free. Jesus is not homophobic. Jesus loves you. He died for you and rose on the third day. If you believe with all your heart that Jesus died on the cross and rose again on the third day, please pray this prayer:

"Lord Jesus, I confess I'm a sinner in need of a Savior. I have held wrong beliefs about you and I want to know you. I believe that you died on the cross and rose again. Forgive me of all of my sins. I accept you now as Lord and Savior. I ask that my name be written in the Lamb's Book of Life. Thank you for saving me and setting me free. In Jesus' name, Amen."

You have now entered into a relationship with Jesus Christ and are on your way to Heaven! Get baptized in water and in the Holy Spirit. Water baptism is for the remission of sins and being one with Jesus Christ. (Romans 6:3-4) Baptism alone, however, does not and cannot save us. Those who have baptised and repented are among those who will be saved.

Tell somebody about your new life. It won't be easy and you may lose some friends, but tell somebody. Be a witness for Jesus Christ!


Thursday, December 13, 2012

Parable of the Ten Virgins

Matthew 25:1-13
"Then of kingdom of Heaven shall be likened unto ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Now five of them were wise, and five of them were foolish. Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight a cry was heard: "Behold the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!". Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise, "Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are gone out." But the wise answered, saying, "No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather, to those who sell, and buy for yourselves." And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. Afterward, the other virgins came also, saying, "Lord, Lord open to us.!" But he answered and said, "Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you." "Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming."


Read This! Important Message!
The moral to this parable is to get ready, for Jesus is coming soon. People these days believe that we are living in the latter days, or living in the end times. Let us however be informed, "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only". I do believe that we are living in the last days, but regardless of belief, the final day could come at any time. The signs I am referring to are in the reading of the Word of God, the Bible in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21. Psychics, gurus,or to anyone else other than Jesus Christ do not have the answers to the future we seek. "Take heed that no one deceives you." (Matthew 24:4) The signs of the end times and what will happen in the future are written in the very pages of the Bible. We all need to get ourselves ready. We all need to look out for ourselves, but not at the expense of your fellow man. We as Christians are to let our lights so shine in these days.
The foolish virgins failed to prepare themselves and were not watchful. They failed to realize that we are all living on God's time. He is not living in ours. Getting ready involves being watchful but to endure for those who endure will also be the very ones who are saved. Don't think like the foolish virgins that Jesus is delaying His return, because He is not. "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9) God wants us all to get ready. He loves us and wants us all to spend eternity with Him. Repentance involves going a new direction, but this time, turning towards God. It involves being convicted of your sins by the Holy Spirit and knowing that you and I were born in sin. According to John 3, you must be born again, born of spirit and water, in order to be saved. The wise virgins were spirit filled, true born-again believers who were wise and persevered. The ten virgins represent the church, God's children and Joint-heirs with the Savior, Jesus Christ. To be saved, one must confess the Lord Jesus and believe with all their heart that God raised Jesus, His Son, from the dead. (Romans 10:13)

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

What we Could Learn From Queen Esther


Being a virtuous woman is being a woman of great value. It is a sad fact that there are many women who are lacking in character and virtue. An even bigger shame is that many characteristics of a woman who lacks virtue seem to be lauded by many in society. Characteristics of virtuous women, ironically, are seen as outdated and perpetuating stereotypes of women who would like to be set back decades, for a lack of better terms.

However, in the Bible, there are many examples of a virtuous woman, whether she is a wife, mother, or career woman. Proverbs writes of the virtuous wife of noble character as a woman who is industrious, faithful, trustworthy, loving, unselfishness, and most of all rare. This is in stark contrast to the woman who is adulterous and lacking in respect for herself and others. Few or no things are sacred to her, including family, marriage, God, and country. She is the simple woman who lacks wisdom and understanding and that her ways are towards death and destruction and that is sad. (Proverbs 7, Proverbs 31:10-31)

The Bible illustrates contrasts between the virtuous wife and the one who is simple, lacking in grace and character, and integrity. Proverbs 7 was such a case with the adulteress who is the total opposite of the virtuous wife for she is unfaithful, loud, stubborn, and deceitful. Her way and the way she takes others are the road to hell. She is a negative influence to others and she is not respected, even though she may be beautiful or wealthy or educated. The Book of Esther issues a contrast with the types of women I have just described in the book. Women can either be a great influence, as Esther was, or a negative influence, as Jeresh, the wife of Haman was. This is in contrast to the wife who was not a loyal wife who disrespects her husband or tries to usurp his authority. (Esther 1-2:4, 5:14, 6:12-14, Proverbs 7, Ephesians 5:22-33)

Many other lessons could be learned from the Book of Esther and that is the role of women. They could be an influence, both negative and positive. It is said that men build the house while women keep the house. This is true. Men are called to be the heads of the household, not emasculated. The man is the head while the woman is the neck. Nothing could be further from the truth with Jeresh who was part of Haman's decision to have Mordecai hanged. Her influence like the influence of any woman could bring about peace and prosperity or ruin and destruction. Women such as Esther used her power wisely, for what she has done has saved the Jewish people. She obeyed Mordecai's instructions not to tell the King that she was Jewish. The rewards of wisdom is just as great as the price paid for being foolish, if not greater. (Esther 8-10, Proverbs 8-9) Another lesson to be learned is that if a person digs a pit for one, they will fall in it themselves. One who sows corruption reaps corruption. In short, what goes around comes around. Haman plotted wickedness against Mordecai and in the end he and his sons were hanged. What was meant for evil, God could mean or use for good. And the Book of Esther is proof of this. (Esther 8-10) The most beautiful woman is a woman who has strength of character, dignity, unselfish and unfailing love. She is a woman who treats people with respect and dignity. She follows the "Golden Rule". She cares for the less fortunate, her family, herself, and most of all God in word, deed, and action. Her way is that of even greater rewards than the world offers, for her rewards are incorruptible. (Esther 8-10, Psalm 57:6, Amos 7:17, Matthew 7:12, Romans 10:9-10, 1 Cor 9:24-27, 2 Cor 5:10, Philippians 1:21-30, 1 Timothy 2, 2 Timothy 4:7-8, 1 Thess 2:19-20, James 1:12, 1 Peter 3:7, 5:1-4, Revelation 2, 21, 22)

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

What is wrong with ecumenism?

Simply put, ecumenism is when Christian denominations come together for the purposes of cooperation amongst the churches. It can also mean different religions coming together for a common goal or goals. On paper, ecumenism is a very good thing. With all of the trouble in the world and all of the anti-Christian rhetoric and persecution in the world, the church should come together.

Ephesians 4:5 states, " One Lord, one faith, one baptism." Aren't all Christians under one God? The problem with that logic is that ecumenism promotes compromise. Not all who say they are Christians really are Christians.
Not all denominations believe in things that go in line with the Lord. For example, some Baptists believe that John the Baptist helped found the Baptist Church. There is no evidence of that in the Bible.

Christians and Buddhists (as well as other religions) are also uniting to find common ground. Not a good idea. "Be ye not unequally yoked with unbelievers:or what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? "(2 Cor. 6:14) Christians are to fulfill the Great Commission as Jesus has said in Matthew 28. We aren't supposed to join with them. Am I saying that we should look down on or hate other who believe or worship differently? Am I also saying that we shouldn't learn or know about other religions? The answer to those questions are no.

We should respect that others believe and worship differently than we do. We should most of all love those who worship and believe differently. We should understand what their religion is about. There is no way that a Born-Again Christian who is trying to lead a Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, or New Ager to Jesus Christ without first learning what their beliefs are. We should not be ashamed, and those who believe in Jesus should not be ashamed. (Romans 10:11).

We who are true Christian believers sinneth not, because we have conquered sin. Jesus died for the sinners. The sinners are the one who are in need of the Great Physician. There is not one person that has not sinned, except Jesus Christ. Those who have not repented of their sins, are still sinning, no matter if they believe in reincarnation or not. Ecumenism is a dangerous thing for a Christian to follow. There is however, true Christian unity spoken of in God's Word. Christian unity is about true believers fellowshipping and "worshipping the Lord in Spirit and in Truth. "(John 4:23)

Monday, December 10, 2012

Hope for the Worrywort and Anxious


This lovely young bride is a symbol of all things made new. The bride is the symbol of the Bride of Revelation 21 and 22. In Revelation 22:17, the Spirit and the Bride says, "Come!" This is directed to Jesus, who refers to Himself as the "Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last....I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and the Morning Star." (Revelation 22:13;16)


The Devil is a defeated foe. There is nothing to fear, not even death. This is not to say we won't have doubts, insecurities, or problems. But even those can be conquered. In the Book of Romans, "We are more than conquerers" because we are "heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together", for we have the Spirit who "helps in our weaknesses" and that He "Himself makes intercession for us wiht groanings which cannot be uttered."

In other words, we as believers have hope because we have a God that loves us to send His "only Begotten Son" (John 3:16), a Son who died for us, and a Spirit who guides us, but does not speak of Himself (John 14). Jesus wants for us to "Come unto Him, all who are labored and are heavy laden, and He will give us rest. Take His yoke upon us and learn of Him, for He is meek and lowly of heart. And we shall find rest unto our souls." (Matthew 11:29-paraphrased)

Worry is deceptive because it is natural, but it truly makes things worse, like hatred. "For whatever is not from faith is sin." (Romans 14:23) From this verse, doubt is the reason, but worry ends up being the result from doubting, which hinders our spiritual growth. There is absolutely nothing to gain from it, nothing, no matter how legitimate the reason.

 Matthew 6:25
Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink ; nor or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?

Philippians 4:6
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and by supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

Sunday, December 9, 2012

Wisdom is a Precious Jewel

Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

That's wisdom in a nutshell. Wisdom should be a characteristic of every believer. If one lacks wisdom, God is the only one who can give it. God will never lie to you. He will never steer was wrong; in other words, He's got all the other bases covered.

Wisdom is definitely a precious jewel. Wisdom will not only make you rich, it will take you places that money cannot even take you. Wisdom is not to be taken lightly. It is valuable, but it has no price. Wisdom will make us stronger. There are many perils to not having wisdom. These perils are from Romans 1:21-32
"21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,
23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.
24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:
25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:
27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,
30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,
31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:
32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened."

Having a lack of wisdom will take one down a long road. Do not allow yourself to be deceived, for real wisdom is about truth. The truth does "make one free" (John 8:36). There is peace with having wisdom. The peace knowing that one has the truth on their side. The real price of wisdom is best described by Job in chapter 28:
"12 But where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding?
13 Man knoweth not the price thereof; neither is it found in the land of the living.
14 The depth saith, It is not in me: and the sea saith, It is not with me.
15 It cannot be gotten for gold, neither shall silver be weighed for the price thereof.
16 It cannot be valued with the gold of Ophir, with the precious onyx, or the sapphire.
17 The gold and the crystal cannot equal it: and the exchange of it shall not be for jewels of fine gold.
18 No mention shall be made of coral, or of pearls: for the price of wisdom is above rubies.
19 The topaz of Ethiopia shall not equal it, neither shall it be valued with pure gold.
20 Whence then cometh wisdom? and where is the place of understanding?"

If you lack the true wisdom with truly knowing Jesus Christ as you Savior, I ask that you please pray this prayer:
"Heavenly Father, I desire wisdom and I now know that wisdom comes from being born-again. Lord Jesus, I ask that you save me. Forgive me of all my sins. I confess you as Savior and Lord and I thank you for saving me. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Saturday, December 8, 2012

The True Meaning of Family

Family is the unit which descends from a common ancestor. It is a group of related people who share much more than just DNA. United they stand, divided they fall. The family unit is the most important unit one can have, except for one, the bond between man and God. No matter how strong the family unit is, the bond between man is God is even stronger, for even family has its limits. Families are made up of fallible people who share blood ties or solemn oaths. But the family of God is an even stronger family, for Christ is the head of the Church. The family of God is the most stable family unit there is for God is our Heavenly Father. "For", Jesus said, "whoever does the will of my Father in Heaven is my brother and sister and mother." (Matthew 12:50)

His word has many things to say about family and how families are to conduct themselves. There are so many things that people are doing out there that they would not do to their own children or would want their children participating in. Yet, too, there are people who are subjecting their families, especially their wives and children to innumerable horrors. Did you know that there were laws that are specific in God's Word against such deeds? In Leviticus, what is written are a few laws concerning sexual activity amongst family members. The punishment for those deeds are as follows, "Do not defile yourselves in any of these ways...Even the land was defiled; so I punished it for its sin, and the land vomited out its and my laws. The native-born and the aliens living among you must keep my decrees and my laws....And if you defile the land, it will vomit you out as it vomited out the nations that were before you." (Leviticus 18:24-28) We are to love our husbands, our wives, our children, and our elders.

Concerning elderly family members,"Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord."(Leviticus 19:32) God intended for these laws to be obeyed. In the end, the families and communities will be stable when we followed these laws. Concerning how children are to view their parents, "Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has comanded you, so that you may live long and that it my go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you." (Deuteronomy 5:16) Concerning children, "Sons are an heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born of one's youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame, when they contend with their enemies in the gate." (Psalm 127:3-5) "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord."(Ephesians 6:4) Concerning husbands and wives, "Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is hte head of the Church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy cleansing her by the washing with water through the word and to present her to himself as a radiant church without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish but holy and blameless. In the same way husband ought to love their wives as their own bodies He who loves his wife loves himself."(Ephesians 5:22-28) If every family obeys what is written in the Bible, then families will be much more stable and much more cohesive.

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Narrow Road

Jesus told us about entering by the strait gate, but sadly a few find it.  It is so sad that only a few people will make it to Heaven.  It will be a sobering time standing in front of God only to realize one of two things: we have to stand in front of a God who knew us or one who "never knew us".  Let us repent before it is too late.  Jesus is the only Way to Heaven.

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Biblical Unity in the Church

Acts 2:1-12 1When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them. 5Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. 7Utterly amazed, they asked: "Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans? 8Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language? 9Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome 11(both Jews and converts to Judaism, Cretans and Arabs-we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!" 12Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?"

The church is stronger when there is unity. There definitely is strength in numbers. Paul writes it best in 1 Cor 1:12-15, "What I mean is this: One of you says, "I follow Pau"; another, "I follow Apollos"; another, "I follow Cephas"; still another, "I follow Christ." Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized into the name of Paul? I am thankful that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius, so no one can say that you were baptized into my name." The church is definitely divided, whether by race, creed, language, color, geography, and denomination. The first century church at Pentecost as written in Acts 2 was a mix various races, colors, and ethnicities, worshipping the Lord together. There was no barrier then and there should not be one now. The church is better when there is unity, "one Lord, one faith, one baptism."--Ephesians 4:5

We will have our disagreements, but the message is clear. It comes from 1 Cor 8:6. It says, "6yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live." If there is one God, then why so many denominations? Because of man's disagreements and man's traditions, not God's traditions. God's word is clear on a divided church. In Acts 4:24, the believers worshipped the Lord together, "When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. "Sovereign Lord," they said, "you made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and everything in them." It would be beautiful if all believers regardless of race, class, color, and age would worship the Lord together in holiness.1 Cr 6:17 writes, "But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with him in spirit." Wouldn't it be nice if all believers united themselves with the Lord, for those who are believers are to be one with Him in Spirit? Paul writes in Ephesians 4:3-4, "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Ther is is one body and one Spirt-just as you were called one hope, when you were called-" Paul also writes of the need for every believer, one part, in the entire body of Christ in 1 Corinthians 12-31.

1Ths. 3:12May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.

Monday, December 3, 2012

Temptation is a part of a believer's life

Temptation is a part of a believer's life. God cannot tempt us, but Satan can. Evidence of this is writen in James 1:12-15, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death." While temptation does happen, it does not mean that a person will automatically sin just because he or she is tempted.

Take Jesus for example. He was tempted of the devil in Matthew 4 and Luke 4, "Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. 2After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread." Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. "If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down. For it is written: " 'He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.' "Jesus answered him, "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. "All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me." Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'[d]" Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him."

In times of temptation, we must stand strong against the enemy. The Book of James say that we should only submit to God, to resist the devil and he will flee. 1 Pet 5 writes that the devil is a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. We are living in a time of spiritual warfare and the devil is very busy. I cannot stress that we must stand strong against the devil. We ask God not to "lead us into temptation." Matthew 6:13 because the enemy is a cunning liar and will use the past to tempt us back into our lives of sin. He will do anything to thwart God's plan. But the devil is a defeated foe. 1 John 4 says, "Greater is he who is in me than he who is in the world." We can resist temptation, but the enemy is a determine foe. Stand strong in the Lord. Ephesians 6 talks about the weapons of warfare that we can use against the enemy as well as Matthew 4 and Luke 4. Temptations are everywhere, but you and I can overcome them.

Sunday, December 2, 2012

Honesty is truly the best policy

An honest person would not lie no matter the cost. You and I could trust them. They are noble to a fault. Sadly it seems that people such as this are rare. That assumption I am hoping is an incorrect one, because an honest person is much needed in this world today. There are people who lie, cheat, and use people to get what they want and they seemingly get away while honest people are being hurt for their honesty. There are also people who are honest for not so honest reasons. They tell the truth to get back at someone or to blackmail someone. Is that the kind of person who should be a role model? Wouldn't you want someone who is honest to be a role model? Obviously you would.

However we live in a world where it seems that dishonesty reigns, let it be known that God sees what the wicked do. The wicked may think that their deeds won't either hurt anyone if they aren't caught or that they are prospering, thinking they have nothing to worry about. But Revelation 21:8 says differently. "But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars-their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death." Liars-dishonest people- will have plenty to worry about in the end if they don't repent. They will not prosper in the afterlife because they have not repented of their deeds.

An honest person is a person with integrity. A person others can respect. A person he or she can count on. An honest person is a person with character. An honest person is not one who gives false witness. One who is honest knows and practices the Ten Comandments. Deuteronomy 5:20 says, "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor." One who is truly honest is truly godly. Honest, godly people serve an honest God, one "who does not lie" (Titus 1:2). God is not a God of contradictions, despite what critics may say or think. "His works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he." (Deuteronomy 32:4). An honest person is also considerate of others and what God has done for him or her. All of God's promises are true. There is no left or right to His promises. He is 100% Faithful and True. You can count on God. He is one to be reverenced and feared. We are to imitate Christ, for Jesus Himself walked in integrity. He was honest and never lied. He was honest at the cost of His life. He suffered greatly for us, despite the fact that He did nothing wrong. He was tempted, yet never gave in. He was mocked, spat upon, and executed, yet kept his integrity till the very end. Let us all consider what Jesus has done and thank Him. He sacrificed His life for us and God rose Him from the dead. Let us be as those "whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart" (Psalm 15:2) Let us read from his word, for His word is truth. In His word is correction, reproof, and wisdom. God would never mock you or make a fool out of you. He will be with you every step of the way. Consider the words of Psalm 25:5 "guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long."

I cannot stress enough how much God expects from us in the area of honesty. I can only do my part and tell you the punishment for those who are dishonests in their daily dealings. Rev 21:27 says, "Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life." God does not take these things lightly. This is serious business and it is not a joke. These words are clearly written in the word of God. His word states, clearly, in Rev 22:15 "Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood." This message is clear for all of us. No one is immune. For yourself, be honest with yourself. If you have not been honest in word or deed, repent. Repentance means to turn from living our own way to living the way God intends us to live. We serve an honest and faithful God. Call on Him today.

Saturday, December 1, 2012

The Lord's Prayer

"Our Father in Heaven hallowed by your name, you kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one."--Matthew 6:9-15

"Father, hallowed by your name, you kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation."--Luke 11:2-9

Matthew and Luke gave accounts of what Jesus said concerning prayer. In Matthew's account, Jesus teaches that we should pray like those who are hypocrites because of their show of outward prayer, but rather pray in secret and he or she shall be rewarded openly. What Jesus meant was that prayer is not to be taken lightly. It is a serious, deep, spiritual conversation between a believer and the Lord. In prayer, you are talking about not just your needs, but your secrets and your fears. God wants us to openly share with Him and talk to him. We are to reverance, or show respect to, the Lord in our prayers. The prayers begin with our Father because we are addressing ourselves to Him, our God, our Heavenly Father.

In Luke's account after he teaches the disciples how to pray He gives them a parable about a man who is in need of bread from a friend. Jesus' message is to "Ask, seek, and knock" For those ask receives, for those who seeks will find, and for those who knock the door will be opened. He gives this parable to teach them to pray in faith and never give up. Keep in mind that God will answer prayer, but one has not because they don't ask according to His will. If we ask anything in His name, He will do it.-- New Testament verses paraphrased. God is a generous God who loves us, His Children. He will give good gifts and not evil to His children.--Luke11:13-14 paraphrased.

The third commandment according to Exodus 20 states, "You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses His name." It is apparent that God takes his name seriously and that he is a Jealous God; He is not to be mocked. He is to be honored and revered. He will return and He will rule someday. He is God. He is Lord. Whatever God's will is on earth, the same will be in Heaven. His promises are sure and true. Daily he will provide for us so that we won't have to worry about what we need. God can do it. Not only does God forgive us, he also expect us to forgives others for if "we do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." "For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever, amen. God is worthy of praise for He is the Lord, Deliverer, and Savior. Jesus overcame the evil one and one day, death and the enemy will be destroyed. Praise Him.