Samson And Delilah. Sabbath Afternoon. 05/04/2019

The history of Samson’s relationships with women, and the marriages he thus consummated are full of instruction for those who are thinking about tying the knot. His experiences are not unique, but are often repeated to a greater or lesser extent by the vast majority, even among those of us who profess to serve God. But as we observe his history, we will discover some of the common errors that are to be avoided.

A very bright future was set before Samson, for it was stated by God that he would begin to deliver Israel. Thus, from his conception, and on through birth, childhood, and teenage years, circumstances that are favorable to spiritual growth were put into motion, from his diet to his vow as a Nazarene, by which he was under serious obligation to exercise self-denial.

But like so many who have followed in his steps, he did not understand the difference between love and infatuation, for he was attracted primarily to mere externals, and the gold of character and those other important matters, which pertain to happiness and longevity in marriage, were sacrificed all for a pretty face.

Beauty was made to override common sense, and the instructions of God were sacrificed for sensual pleasures, which are fleeting. Those who have thus gotten involved in a marriage relation should try to make the best of their situation, even though those circumstances surrounding their initial decision may not have been ideal.

In other words, if at the first, one married someone because of a pretty face, then when wrinkles, and aging begin to take their toll let them not despair or complain that they acted in haste. In such situations God will grant grace in response to earnest prayers, so that the inner beauty of those persons would be appreciated.

If indeed one made an error in judgment as stated above, then such a person should not make the second mistake by saying a mistake was made. On the contrary, one’s best efforts should be engaged to cultivate that true love, which only comes from God, and in many cases, a change of heart can take place.

For starters, the Bible states that man looks on the outward appearance, and because this is often the case, the weightier matters that could spell success or failure in marriage are often overlooked. External beauty takes different forms because it doesn’t only refer to physiques but includes such things as talent and strength, education and finances, singing and sportsmanship, eloquence and smile.

Now while all of these things are good and not to be condemned, at the end of the day, when the rubber meets the road and the going gets rough, they fail to deliver that resilience, endurance, patience, and understanding that are needed for the marriage to bounce back from the many hurdles, and problems that are often encountered.

A cute smile cannot pay bills and talented musicians might not be able to fix a broken toilet, or mow the lawn. Again, money does not, and cannot buy true love, for when wealth vanishes, as it did for many in 2008 the profession of love was blown away like the chaff in the wind.

Characteristics such as uniform kindness, and that willingness to sacrifice self for the good of the other do not occur by chance, and if a marriage is built on strictly mere externals, it can be in danger of failure. As much as some of us may love to exercise, and be in health, the fact is that if Jesus doesn’t come soon, we will all go the way of the world.

Here is where many persons, like Samson, fall into the snare of the devil, because flattering beauty is often made to drive decisions that are not soberly and prayerfully thought out. That is not to say that a person should marry one for whom there may not be any physical attraction.

But externals should not be allowed to override the weightier matters that will spell success, or defeat, happiness or frustration, after the dust has settled. It is often the case, that after only a few months, or years, persons begin to suffer with buyer’s remorse, as they find out, after the fact, that they have taken the husk without the kernel.

After the euphoria of the marriage ceremony at the altar has faded, and after babies come, and changes in physical appearance begin to take place in both parties, then it is character that will tow the line. Otherwise, those who are only dead set on mere externals will be looking for another pretty face, or a next knight in shining armor to replace that which has faded.

This is one of the main reasons why so many folks in high and low places have married two, three or four times, because they keep on chasing that which will surely fade. Especially is this the case with the rich and famous who may be able to afford the costs of breaking up, and who may not be restricted by such issues as child support.

On the other hand, those who seek to form unions according to the principles set forth in the Bible and who seek to make God first in everything, are given resilience, and grace to weather almost any storm, and even though trials may come, it would be seen that they are enabled walk with a steady, and even tread.

Therefore, the marriage vow should never be taken lightly for it is meant to keep persons happily united in the good times, as well as the bad. A pretty face, and an attractive physique might come down with cancer, as many in Hollywood have discovered, and it is only godly character or genuine love that would keep persons together for the long haul.

The practical matters that will affect your everyday experiences should be considered also, and should never be overlooked on account of external beauty. There are some pretty individuals who cannot cook water to save their lives, and there are others who have spending habits that can threaten your sanity and patience at the same time.

Thus, God advises us to proceed with great caution and prayer making only those decisions that can last a lifetime. It is in these contexts that we will review some of the bad decisions made by Samson, if haply someone may learn these lessons well, and thereby avoid ship-wreck of faith and marriage. The name “Delilah” will be used generically, to represent all of the relationships Samson entered into. Let’s read:

Judges 14:1 And Samson went down to Timnath, and saw a woman in Timnath of the daughters of the Philistines.

2 And he came and told his father and his mother, and said, I have seen a woman in Timnath of the daughters of the Philistines: now therefore get her for me to wife.

This is the first very mistake, and a common one that is made, for at the very outset we observe that Samson disregarded the plain instructions of God pertaining to marriage with unbelievers. God loves unbelievers, for Christ died to save us all, but as a practical matter, a believer and an unbeliever will scarcely see eye to eye on several important fronts.

Being unequally yoked goes much deeper than just mere incompatibility, because it has to do with the operation of two masters under the same roof. The Bible tells us that no man can serve two masters, so if one is in Christ and the other is not, there may be severe pulling and tugging because of the presence of two different invisible forces in the home.

Now, it is true that the Bible cautions those who are in such a situation, not to separate because of this, however, the Christian in such a relationship would need to spend considerable time on his/her knees, so that Jesus may give grace to manage differences in a manner that may ease the heavy burdens and, hopefully bring the other on board.

Samson will not be able to force Delilah to come to church, and even if she does the service to God that is coerced cannot be accepted. Therefore, unless a union of two persons takes place with them being on the same wavelength spiritually, problems are almost certain to arise, for there will be differences in priorities, in eating habits, in financial priorities, and in many other areas where there should be agreement.

For instance, if Samson and Delilah were to run into financial difficulty for any reason, and Samson with his Christian upbringing decides to return his tithes and offerings, whilst bills are piling up, his wife will most likely raise a serious remonstrance at what she may view as being an unreasonable decision. To put tithes before groceries, while her kids need food on the table can trigger arguments of epic proportions.

Samson on the other hand, who has been trained by his God-fearing parents to trust and obey, will be more inclined to walk by faith knowing that God will come through, since he has probably seen this same movie before, and repeated many times over in the lives of his parents and in his own experience.

Delilah, who has not had any such experience may be more inclined to call 911, or the Department of children and families, for with her upbringing, the temporal things, and necessities always come first, with anything pertaining to worship being held in subjection to the mundane things of life. Thus, the one walks by faith, the other by logic. Let’s read:

Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed?

2nd Corinthians 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

Deuteronomy 7:1 When the Lord thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it;

2 Thou shalt make no covenant with them;

3 Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son.

4 For they will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods, so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you and destroy thee suddenly.

Again, at the outset we observe that Samson did not consult the wisdom nor the experience of his parents, for had he done so, they would have given him a million and one valid reasons why he should put the brakes on such a relationship. Close affinity with a partner who does not fear God is often the recipe for disaster, for there will be two masters operating in the same house.

But since Samson was now over eighteen, and had become an “adult” as it is right here in the Sunshine state, and since he currently had his driver’s license and a job, and could vote, the counsel of his godly parents seemed to be not worth considering, since, he thought he knew more, and better than they.

The command to honor one’s father, and mother also includes the instruction to consult with them on important matters that can have life-changing consequences. This is particularly applicable where one’s parents are God fearing, because God honors the disposition of children to take counsel. Let’s read:

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

8 My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother.

9 For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck.

That’s why in Isaac’s case, God seemed to be in a hurry to provide a beautiful wife, both internal and external, complete with character, because, even though he was forty years of age at the time, Isaac deferred to his father’s experienced judgment. This is not to say that Isaac would have been be out of place to make any input, but his attitude is what made all the difference. Let’s read:

Genesis 24:2 And Abraham said unto his eldest servant of his house, that ruled over all that he had, Put, I pray thee, thy hand under my thigh.

3 And I will make thee swear by the Lord, the God of heaven, and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell.

4 But thou shalt go unto my country, and to my kindred, and take a wife unto my son Isaac.

5 And the servant said unto him, Peradventure the woman will not be willing to follow me unto this land: must I needs bring thy son again unto the land from whence thou camest?

6 And Abraham said unto him, Beware thou that thou bring not my son thither again.

10 And the servant took ten camels of the camels of his master and departed.

12 And he said O Lord God of my master Abraham, I pray thee, send me good speed this day, and shew kindness unto my master Abraham.

13 Behold, I stand here by the well of water; and the daughters of the men of the city come out to draw water.

14 And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master.

15 And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah came out.

Another issue Samson encountered, and one that many have yet to meet is that of supposed scarcity of Christian spouses. The argument is often raised that there are scarcely any Christian men or women available, and because of this one has no choice but to go contrary to the scriptural instructions. Let’s read:

Judges 14:3 Then his father and his mother said unto him, Is there never a woman among the daughters of thy brethren, or among all my people, that thou goest to take a wife of the uncircumcised Philistines? And Samson said unto his father, Get her for me; for she pleaseth me well.

In fact, there are millions of God-fearing people, but God knows who and where they are. And if we were to trust in God, and decide no matter what to walk by faith, then in the fullness of time God will provide and when He does you will not be disappointed. It is because we are so prone to doubt and complain or succumb to fore-gone conclusions why it may seem as if there is a lack.

Ephesians 3:20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

21 Unto him be glory.

Matthew 7:11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

12 Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.

13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.

14 And I will be found of you, saith the Lord.

But as is so often the case, Samson was impatient, as if Delilah was the only fish in the sea. Whenever we set rigid timetables for God, we may effectively remove Him from the driver’s seat, for we should never try to force Him into working within our time frames. We are not to worry about passing the age of child-bearing, for that is not an issue with God, but with man. Let’s read:

Job 1:1 There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.

2 And there were born unto him seven sons and three daughters.

Job 42:12 So the Lord blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning.

13 He had also seven sons and three daughters.

16 After this lived Job an hundred and forty years, and saw his sons, and his sons' sons, even four generations.

God dwells in eternity, and his thoughts are not our thoughts, and even though His promises may seem to be prolonged, yet those who trust in Him will be enabled to surmount time constraints.

Thus, God is still able to do the impossible, and if we were to trust Him, without murmuring, then the girl of your dreams, or your knight in shining armor may come riding on a horse named opportunity. Isaac was praying, not murmuring, when the woman of his dreams came riding on her own horse (camel). Let’s read:

Genesis 24:62 And Isaac came from the way of the well Lahairoi; for he dwelt in the south country.

63 And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide: and he lifted up his eyes, and saw, and, behold, the camels were coming.

64 And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off the camel.

65 For she had said unto the servant, What man is this that walketh in the field to meet us? And the servant had said, It is my master. (Your knight in shining armor).

The history of Samson’s marriages should teach us important lessons in waiting upon God. Our moods, and attitudes go a mighty long way in determining whether our prayers will be answered speedily, or if they are prolonged. The children of Israel did enter the land of Canaan after a while, but they could’ve done so forty years earlier, were it not for their continual murmuring and complaining.

Again, it was when the Hebrews raised a song of praise, that God went to work in a frenzy, as it were, scattering far and wide the enemies of His people, and proving once more that when whenever we exchange the spirit of defeat and gloom for the garment of praise and prayer, God goes to work in our behalf. Let’s read:

2nd Chronicles 20:19 And the Levites, stood up to praise the Lord God of Israel with a loud voice on high.

20 And they rose early in the morning, and went forth into the wilderness of Tekoa: and as they went forth, Jehoshaphat stood and said, Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem; Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.

21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the Lord to say, Praise the Lord; for his mercy endureth forever.

22 And when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten.

24 And when Judah came toward the watch tower in the wilderness, they looked unto the multitude, and, behold, they were dead bodies fallen to the earth, and none escaped.

[Messages To Young People pp 53] Satan cannot endure to have his powerful rival appealed to, for he fears and trembles before [Christ's] strength and majesty. At the sound of fervent prayer, Satan's whole host trembles. And when angels all-powerful, clothed with the armory of heaven, come to the help of the fainting, pursued soul, Satan and his host fall back, well knowing that their battle is lost.

Therefore, patience, humility, and deference to all of God’s wise instructions are the keys which unlock heaven’s richest blessings, because His hand is not shortened, neither is His ear heavy, that He cannot bless, save or deliver. Let us therefore trust in Him, knowing that in the fullness of time He will come through for us. We end with a passage of scripture to help us as we look to Him. Let’s read:

Isaiah 40: 31 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

God Bless!

Judgement Day Is Coming. Sabbath Afternoon 04/27/2019

The Bible brings to light several offices with which Jesus is invested, for He is not only Savior and Lord, but He is also King and Judge. Most people prefer to dwell on His capacity as Savior, but in His role of the Judge of all mankind He is hardly recognized or even mentioned. This one-sided perception of Jesus will change soon, as the investigative judgment wraps up in the courts above.

The book of Revelation, as well as several others, do bring to light the fact that Christ, as our Mediator is not biased nor partial in His assessments, neither is He a respecter of persons, as if anyone could curry- favor Him into favorable determinations. The basis of His kingdom is truth, righteousness, mercy and justice, all being blended into one indivisible whole, by which final judgments are to be made either for or against the human agent.

Therefore, it is necessary to lay out in plain simple terms, that which we will all must confront sooner or later. To begin with, there are some misnomers which of necessity must be shaken down from their popular perch for they will greatly impede our basic understanding of what is involved in the judgment.

[1]

God does not permit mercy to interfere with justice.

First of all, individuals who would be saved in God’s kingdom will be saved because of Christ’s death and His righteousness bequeathed to those who believe and obey. Even though some may have erroneously depicted Christ as one-sided in character, as being a God of love, without attributes of justice, yet this is a false representation, and all those who embrace it will be subject to a very great disappointment, and surprise.

God does not permit mercy to interfere with justice, neither does He permit emotionalism to get in the way of executing that which is necessary. When it was time for our salvation to be cemented in stone, Jesus became the recipient of the full extent of The Father’s justice, as He suffered and then died on the cross. This was done, even though The Father felt very sorry for Jesus and suffered with Him.

Again, there are many instances in the Bible where The Lord showed mercy to the sinner, and even the mercy seat was located above the law in the earthly sanctuary. But in every single instance where mercy was dispensed because of sin, it was always against the backdrop of justice, that would be meted out to Jesus Christ in due season. That’s because all sin will be prosecuted to the full extent of the Law, one way or another.

The word “forgive” means to cancel a debt. In one advertisement it is stated that Liberty Mutual does not hold grudges, and they won’t raise your rates for the first accident. Thus, the additional premiums one would have incurred are absorbed by Liberty. At times, individuals who have run deep into debt, and can’t pay, receive some sort of reprieve from the credit card company, by which much of the debt is cancelled.

Again, during the financial melt-down of 2008 some borrowers went under, and loan forgiveness was offered, whereby mortgage debts were cancelled. But, in each and every instance mentioned above, the cost of extending mercy to a person is absorbed by the lender, or the insurance company, because mercy, forgiveness, and the cancellation of debts, always carries a cost.

Thus, God forgives us our debts by transferring the penalties, and the wages of sin to Jesus Christ, who suffered on the tree, and thus forgiveness has been granted to all. But the sin itself must always be paid for in full. Always! In fact, the apostle Paul bids us behold soberly, both the goodness, and justice of God.

In other words, if the forgiveness offered through Jesus is not accepted nor appreciated, the offer of mercy will be withdrawn, and individuals will then have to bear the full brunt of the wages of sin, which will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

After pleading, in tender tones with the people of Noah’s day for 120 years, The Holy Spirit was finally withdrawn, and justice, unmingled with mercy was administered. If the antediluvians had accepted the forgiveness of God, then the justice which their sins had called for would be postponed until Calvary, for God’s mercy is never permitted to interfere with justice. Let’s read:

Romans 11:21 For if God spared not the natural branches take heed lest he also spare not thee.

22 Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.

In the case of Jesus, God’s justice was delivered on the cross, and the strict justice then meted out was leveled at The One who is described in the Bible as being God’s “Darling” and His “Fellow”. Now, if God dealt strict justice to His “Darling” just imagine what the end will be for those who despise His law and His grace. Let’s read:

Isaiah 53:4 Surely, he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows, yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.

5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

10 Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand.

Now, if God dealt as such with Jesus, who knew no sin, then it tells us that due judgment will be meted out in full to those persons who reject the gracious overtures made by God to us in Christ. This sobering aspect of the gospel is hardly ever referenced to by popular, smooth-talking preachers of the day, and it is an aspect of God’s character that the multitudes, in general prefer not to hear. But let’s read:

Hebrews 10:26 For if we sin willfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remains no more sacrifice for sins,

27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation which shall devour the adversaries.

28 He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses.

29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden underfoot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?

31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

[2]

His assessments are impartial and just.

The history of the antediluvian world, and the flood of waters which subsequently engulfed the entire planet, shed light on the accuracy, and impartiality of His assessments, because, after close and factual observation of all the thoughts and actions of men at that time God correctly concluded that only eight persons could justifiably be saved.

Therefore, even though God delights in mercy, yet eight is eight, and nothing else. His assessments are not swayed by sheer numbers even though it was in great sadness that God destroyed the then-known world of approximately 7 billion people. Thus, He destroyed it anyway, because it was the right thing to do at the time. Feeling sorry for persons does not prevent God from doing what is right. Let’s read:

Genesis 7:1 And the Lord said unto Noah, Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before me in this generation.

4 For yet seven days, and I will cause it to rain upon the earth forty days and forty nights; and every living substance that I have made will I destroy from off the face of the earth.

This was one of His “Strange acts” but because it is dirty work, God does not refrain from doing it. The argument was put forth in the days of Noah that it is contrary to God’s character to destroy, and thus, those who should have heeded the warning given, shrugged it off as a gross misinformation campaign on the part of the one who delivered the message.

[3]

Good intentions alone are not sufficient to exonerate anyone.

In the days of Noah there were several other people who were employed in the building of the ark, but many of them either died before the flood, or were buried in the watery grave. Good intentions must be coupled with concrete actions for persons to be saved in the day of judgment, because it is not the hearers, but the doers who will be saved. Let’s read:

Matthew 21:28 But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work today in my vineyard.

29 He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went.

30 And he came to the second and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.

31 Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.

[4]

Sin has to be paid for. Either by Christ, individuals, or satan.

Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

There is no such thing as sin without consequence, and thus, it behooves us to consider carefully God’s gift to us through Christ by which justice, mercy and truth were blended for our salvation. But there are many who may not see the necessity or the urgency in partaking of the proffered gift, and thus, although Christ has paid the debt for the entire world, such persons will have to pay for their own sins.

Thus, with these few pointers in mind, let’s turn to the topic at hand: “Judgement Day Is Coming”. In the days of Moses, and throughout the history of the Hebrews, God had ordained that judges be put in positions of trust to apply the law of God without impartiality. These judges were given the work of administering judgments that were written in the law of God.

And since the conscience of a nation is seated in its laws, it was, and still is, absolutely necessary that the administration of justice be predicated on those principles that are written in God’s word. Therefore, the judges were strictly warned against interpreting or applying the law in a way that would show bias, preference, or respect of persons, or favoritism.

This in turn would assure equal rights and justice for all, so that no individual would have occasion to feel unfairly treated by the courts, and as a direct result, the populace would have great trust in their judicial system. Thus, the judiciary, under God were given a charge to be faithful and unbiased in the execution of judgment. Let’s read:

Deuteronomy 1:16 And I charged your judges at that time, saying, Hear the causes between your brethren, and judge righteously between every man and his brother, and the stranger that is with him.

17 Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God's.

Deuteronomy 16:18 Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the Lord thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with just judgment.

19 Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.

20 That which is altogether just shalt thou follow, that thou mayest live.

2nd Chronicles 19:5 And he set judges in the land throughout all the fenced cities of Judah, city by city,

6 And said to the judges, Take heed what ye do: for ye judge not for man, but for the Lord, who is with you in the judgment.

7 Wherefore now let the fear of the Lord be upon you; take heed and do it: for there is no iniquity with the Lord our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts.

But throughout much of the history of the Hebrews, the taking of bribes, and the practice of preferential treatment based upon race, creed, class, and wealth became a cancer that ultimately destroyed the very fabric of justice, and before long, the right seemed wrong and the wrong seemed right.

Moral darkness was put in place of light, and bitter instead of sweet, and folks became so blinded that a sense of justice was effectively destroyed, and the once-sensitive conscience, became desensitized to the grossest evils. That’s how Barabbas came to be chosen instead of Christ, and those who slew God’s servants thought they were doing Him service. Let’s read:

Matthew 27:15 Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would.

This practice of pardoning a known criminal, for no just reason, did not have its foundation in justice, but was instead an abuse of executive power. But the minds of the people had become so blinded to a sense of justice that the practice had become set in stone, and socially acceptable.

God’s judgement is quite different to the contrary, because His pardoning of known criminals, is always based on justice, for mercy is never to be arbitrarily administered at the expense of justice. Therefore, in every instance where we see Jesus forgiving folks, it was, and is always in the context of the justice that was meted out at Calvary. Not so with the Hebrews who had lost their sense of justice. Let’s read:

Matthew 27:16 And they had a notable prisoner called Barabbas.

17 Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?

20 But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus.

It would be well if the miscarriage of justice ended in the days of Christ, but alas, perverted judgement as a stage 4 cancer, has currently metastasized into an open putrefying wound, a deadly infection that is threatening the stability and viability of government and people alike.

Evils, from which we once recoiled as a nation do not raise an eyebrow anymore, and the practice of telling lies in high and low places, has proliferated to the point where the people have come to accept it as being normal. Fraud, and respect of persons, with favoritism, stalk the streets unrebuked and the truth has succumbed to fake news.

Justice is being made subservient to political, or to financial interests, and it seems as if the fear of God and our sense of right and wrong has now become so benumbed that we have essentially traded Christ for Barabbas. Thus, as a nation, we might be doing well financially, but morally, we’re in the toilet, and therefore the prophet Isaiah correctly describes the current situation in our world. Let’s read:

Isaiah 59:1 Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear.

2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.

3 For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness.

4 None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity.

6 Their works are works of iniquity, and the act of violence is in their hands.

7 Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction are in their paths.

8 The way of peace they know not; and there is no judgment in their goings: they have made them crooked paths: whosoever goeth therein shall not know peace.

9 Therefore is judgment far from us, neither doth justice overtake us: we wait for light, but behold obscurity; for brightness, but we walk in darkness.

10 We grope for the wall like the blind, and we grope as if we had no eyes: we stumble at noon day as in the night; we are in desolate places as dead men.

11 We roar all like bears and mourn sore like doves: we look for judgment, but there is none; for salvation, but it is far off from us.

12 For our transgressions are multiplied before thee, and our sins testify against us: for our transgressions are with us; and as for our iniquities, we know them;

13 In transgressing and lying against the Lord, and departing away from our God, speaking oppression and revolt, conceiving and uttering from the heart words of falsehood.

14 And judgment is turned away backward, and justice stands afar off, for truth is fallen in the street and equity cannot enter.

15 Yea, truth faileth; and he that departeth from evil maketh himself a prey: and the Lord saw it, and it displeased him that there was no judgment.

Therefore, God is about to take matters into His own hands, for if we continue to pervert judgment, if we continue to call evil good, and good evil, then The Lord will have no choice but to intervene, and when He does it will be quite traumatic, because, true to His history, He will not stop until He has made a full end. Let’s read:

Isaiah 59:16 And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore, his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him.

17 For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloak.

18 According to their deeds, accordingly he will repay, fury to his adversaries, recompense to his enemies.

Jeremiah 25:29 Should ye be utterly unpunished? Ye shall not be unpunished: for I will call for a sword upon all the inhabitants of the earth, saith the Lord of hosts.

30 Therefore prophesy thou against them all these words, and say unto them, The Lord shall roar from on high, and utter his voice from his holy habitation; he shall mightily roar upon his habitation; he shall give a shout, as they that tread the grapes, against all the inhabitants of the earth.

31 A noise shall come even to the ends of the earth; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nations, he will plead with all flesh; he will give them that are wicked to the sword, saith the Lord.

32 Thus saith the Lord of hosts, Behold, evil shall go forth from nation to nation, and a great whirlwind shall be raised up from the coasts of the earth.

In lieu of these somber warnings, it is necessary that the truth about the coming judgments be told, for all persons must stand before the judgement seat of Christ. There is a hymn that is sung, “Take my life and let it be”; the truth is that Jesus will take all of our lives one way or the next either for destruction or preservation, but He will take it.

This fact has nothing to do with whether individuals profess to believe in Jesus or not, for we belong to God both by creation, and redemption. And thus, it is not necessary for one to believe in Christ for Him to have jurisdiction over his/her life. Let’s read:

2nd Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that everyone may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men.

Again, many misinterpret God’s grace and mercy as being a weakness in His character, and because He is not willing that any should perish, some people have concluded that He will not do good or evil. But the scriptures caution us against such deductions. Let’s read:

Ecclesiastes 8:11 Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.

12 Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him.

13 But it shall not be well with the wicked, neither shall he prolong his days, which are as a shadow; because he feareth not before God.

Psalms 50:3 Our God shall come and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be very tempestuous round about him.

4 He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people.

5 Gather my saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice.

6 And the heavens shall declare his righteousness: for God is judge himself.

Therefore, after all the lies have been told, after all the drugs have been sold, after all the sexual abuse by clergy and laity, and after all the violence, and after all the distortions of marriage in high and low place, let us always remember that judgment day is coming soon, a day in which the final reckoning will take place, which will forever determine our own destiny. Let’s read:

Ecclesiastes 12:13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

God Bless!

How To Get Out Of Debt. Sabbath Afternoon 04/20/2019

It is a solemn statement that we make, that many of those whose names are enrolled in church registers are becoming more trapped in the financial systems of earth, and therefore, when the mark of the beast engulfs these systems, many who now profess to be Christians will sink down into oblivion. There is still hope, but very drastic and deliberate measures will need to be taken to extricate ourselves from the snares of debt that have been set for our feet.

According to the latest research most of American families cannot handle an unexpected emergency of five-hundred dollars, and according to the New York Fed, Non-housing balances increased by $58 billion in the fourth quarter of the previous year, with auto loans increasing by $9 billion, credit card balances going up by $26 billion, and student loan balances by $15 billion. Thus, household debt stood at 13.54 trillion as of 2018.

And even though there may seem to be resources in abundance, more, and more families are becoming addicted to the snare of plastic, by which many are induced to live beyond their means. As a result, the restrictions imposed by the use of cold cash, have been traded for a sort of dream spending, by which people are enticed to borrow without thought, and the sure result is, that for the most part, many folks become sucked into a bottomless financial pit, from which it is increasingly difficult to escape.

Thus, financial debt is likened unto weight-gain, for it takes very little effort to put on, but tremendous effort to get rid of. It isn’t and never has been God’s will for His people to become trapped in monetary systems which do not bear His stamp of approval. In fact, the habit of borrowing money which we know we cannot pay back will prove the ruin of millions if decided action is not taken.

When we speak of the monetary system, it is to be understood by all, that the system of itself, can be used if godly principles and Biblical instructions are employed to offset the inherent evils those systems are built upon. Since the day that Adam and Eve ate of the forbidden tree most of the inventions of man are tainted with good and evil. Therefore, it is the will of God that we understand the differences and make wise choices that are guided by His word.

For instance, the use of credit is often employed to purchase a home, a new car or any of the big-ticket items which in many instances, as far paying cash is concerned, may be out of reach to the average john doe. Thus, credit can be used for good. But coupled together with that good, comes the evil practice of pre-payment penalty, by which financial institutions often punish consumers for paying their debt early. Now, why should folks be punished for doing right?

Again, credit-card customers who pay all their dues on time each month do not feed the profit margins as those who pay late, and banks profit quite a lot from folks who write bounced checks. In fact, it is quite alarming that banks made over 34 billion in profits just from overdraft fees in the year 2017 and credit-card companies hauled in over 163 billion in late fees in 2016.

Therefore, while much good can be accomplished if the system is used discreetly, very much evil is often the result as the institutions prey on character flaws such as tardiness, covetousness, impulse spending, and general lack of self-discipline. Not one store, car company, credit-card institution, or grocery chain, can force us to spend beyond our means, because the choice is ours.

However, by careful research and observation, it is now firmly established that many use their freedom of choice in ways that cause individuals to become entangled or trapped in financial systems, that can be used for good. Thus, even though Eden is 6000 years in the past, many people are still eating from the tree of good and evil.

The financial institutions are keenly aware of this, and thus, their advertisements are geared towards urging the multitudes to become entangled in their systems, using words and phrases such as call now, hurry, hurry, this sale won’t last, time is running out or just click now, etc.

The sad thing about this situation is that, with our Bibles in hand, many Christians are in a stranglehold of debt, which will become more difficult for us to extricate ourselves from, if we do not make radical changes in our habits and behaviors.

In addition, Christians who are living in the last days of earth’s history will find it quite difficult to escape, (just like Lot’s family), when the mark of the beast overspreads the land, because if we are found to be drowning in debt, the enemy of souls will be all too willing to cut a deal with us. Let’s read:

[The Great Controversy pp 607] As the movement for Sunday enforcement becomes more, bold, the law will be invoked against commandment-keepers. and some will be offered positions of influence, and other rewards and advantages, as inducements to renounce their faith.

Therefore, if anyone listening today finds himself or herself in the unfortunate situation of endless, and revolving debt, the study for this evening can be of great benefit, if implemented in cooperation with God. A well-thought out plan of action must be put in place, no excuses must be made, and no one else must be blamed.

When once we confess our faults to God, and He sets before us a blessing and a curse, let us never return to our old ways, but let us rather determine to live in accordance with the principles God has given us. Some drastic measures, and actions may be required in certain instances, but if we stay the course with Christ, He will grant us the victory. The Bible puts it this way. Let’s read:

Matthew 5:30 And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.

This is what is described as the cold-turkey method. This may trigger severe restrictions in our previous spending habits; it may force us to regroup as far as actual needs versus wants are concerned, or it may force us to start budgeting to live within our means, a work that has too long been neglected, but in the end it will produce results that God can approve.

In other words, we must grab the bull by the horns, stop living in a dream, and then make the necessary changes through the power and grace of Christ. The well-directed, and sustained efforts, on a consistent basis will produce positive results and wherever the freedom from debt is achieved, a heavy burden will be lifted from off many shoulders. Let’s read:

Hebrews 12:7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?

9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?

11 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.

12 Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;

13 And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.

The following therefore are some of the steps one can take in getting out of debt. The pointers would feature prominently the principles and instructions God will have us live by, and the Bible will provide the much-needed promises that accompany all our efforts in doing the right thing.

[1] Pray first, asking God to guide us in the implementation of a workable plan.

Putting God in the driver’s seat, and keeping Him there will assure us of consistency, discipline and success, for whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world. We should try to avoid doing the right thing on our own, for we may be doomed to failure from the get-go. But with Jesus in the vessel, we are assured of victory, for we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Let’s read:

Philippians 4:12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.

8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.

1st John 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world: and this is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith.

Romans 8:37 In all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

[2] Reconcile our outflows with our inflows.

This will call for strict discipline, because too often we spend unnecessarily, on the spur of the moment or in the heat of excitement when there is a sale. At those moments, our imaginary wants which we can do without, have the potential to become the most urgent needs, and before you know it, there we go again in the vicious cycle. No one needs to purchase an item just because it’s on sale, the choice is ours!

If one’s income is $4000,00 per month, everything that pertains to living including tithes and offerings will have to reconciled to that amount. Unnecessary frills and non-essentials would have to be identified, and deep cuts in our spending may have to be made to bring inflow into harmony with outflow.

“Blings” and “things” may need to be surrendered, and the habit of eating out may have to be curtailed or severely restricted, because the fact is that four- grand is four grand, and nothing else. If any person cannot live within their means, such a person would never be debt free, plain and simple. Let’s read:

Proverbs 10:4 He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.

1st Timothy 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.

7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.

8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things.

[A.H pp 393] Deny yourself a thousand things rather than run in debt. Avoid it as you would smallpox. Make a solemn covenant with God that by His blessing you will pay your debts and then owe no man anything even if you live on porridge and bread.

[3] Avoid becoming entangled in the wanton use of plastic.

Emancipation from financial slavery should be the goal of anyone currently entangled in the snare of debt. It has been documented that it is much easier to use plastic than to spend your cold cash, and as a result, many persons spend without thought, that a day of reckoning is coming.

Therefore, if we know that we lack the discipline of restraint, credit cards should be promptly cut up in small pieces and burnt on the altar of sacrifice, for keeping them will do us more harm than good. The Bible recommends the cold-turkey method when we are dealing with dangerous habits, and radical changes in our behaviors will be needed.

Plastic may be used in a number of ways by which much benefit can be accomplished, but if for some reason we discover that in our particular situation it has become more of a curse than a blessing, then it may be time to part ways with that which is hurting us and our families. No one will die because of the absence of plastic, and its confiscation may prove to be the day of new beginnings. Let’s read:

Proverbs 22:7 The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

Deuteronomy 15:6 For the Lord thy God blesseth thee, as he promised thee: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, but thou shalt not borrow; and thou shalt reign over many nations, but they shall not reign over thee.

Psalms 37:21 The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again…

[4] Save for the rainy day.

Whenever money is earned a stipulated percentage should be set aside for times of real emergency, so that ourselves and our families would not go under because of one unforeseen emergency. It is stated that millions of people are just one medical crisis away from financial ruin, and because a cushion is not present, some may inadvertently fall into the cycle of debt.

Thus, proactive measures must be taken wherever possible to avert as much as possible an unforeseen crisis that may arise. This instruction is particularly applicable to those who run their own businesses, where late-paying customers can put the viability of one’s business at risk, especially when there isn’t a cushion.

One’s workers should be paid with monies that are set aside for that purpose, so that if for any reason there is a hiccup in inflow, the business will not go under. Many have thus been forced out of business and have faced financial embarrassments because there is not any cushion on which to fall back on, when the going gets rough. Thus, the instructions God gives to us is wisdom, and should be adopted whenever, and wherever possible. Let’s read:

Proverbs 6:6 Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise.

7 Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler,

8 Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.

Deuteronomy 28:5 Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store.

6 Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out.

8 The Lord shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto.

[5] Be very circumspect when asked to stand security for family members, church brethren, or friends.

A person may be approached with such and such a proposal, with a request to stand security in such and such a situation, and in many cases one’s better nature may move him or her to offer the needed help. This can be done in certain circumstances, but it must always be prayerfully, and carefully thought out, with the risks, the pros, and the cons being weighed in an objective manner.

Very often, the emotional or social attachments are allowed to override sound judgment and sometimes hasty answers or decisions, without prayer can thus prove to be a problem. Therefore, The Lord would have us exercise good discretion in every instance, with mercy and kindness being blended with good common sense, because kindness is never foolish. Let’s read:

Proverbs 6:1 My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, if thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,

2 Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.

3 Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend.

4 Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids.

5 Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler.

Proverbs 11:15 He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.

Proverbs 17:18 A man void of understanding striketh hands, and becometh surety in the presence of his friend.

On the other hand there must be a balance in our method of evaluating each situation, for we should never forget that God delights in mercy. There are times when standing security for someone may be warranted, if and when God directs. There is not a hard and fast rule, written in stone, which forbids standing security, but with prayer, discretion, and sound judgement every case may be addressed.

At such times, we should make certain that we can actually absorb any potential risks without going under, and if so, then we should move forward. Kindness and mercy are hallmark characteristics of God, and Christians are to follow His lead when it is appropriate to do so. Let’s read:

Matthew 5:42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.

Deuteronomy 15:7 If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates in thy land which the Lord thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother.

8 But thou shalt open thine hand wide unto him, and shalt surely lend him sufficient for his need, in that which he wanteth.

10 Thou shalt surely give him, and thine heart shall not be grieved when thou givest unto him: because that for this thing the Lord thy God shall bless thee in all thy works, and in all that thou puttest thine hand unto.

11 For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore, I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land.

Psalms 112:5 A good man sheweth favor, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.

If these scriptural instructions are followed in a consistent manner, with petitions being made to God for wisdom in handling every situation, those who are now trapped in debt will have won a great victory, and thereby will glorify God on the issue of debt. We therefore end with a passage of scripture which encourages us to look and live. Let’s read:

Proverbs 1:2 To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;

3 To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;

4 To give subtlety to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.

5 A wise man will hear and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels.

God Bless!

Remember Lot. Sabbath Afternoon 04/13/2019

Most people, when reading of the story of Sodom, and Gomorrah, the demise of those ill-fated cities, and the one family that was rescued in the process, focus on two main facts: (1) that the sexual sins of those cities contributed largely to their demise, and (2) That Lot’s wife became a pillar of salt. While the two facts are note-worthy, many may not be aware that Lot also contributed in a great measure to the deaths of most of his family.

The reason for this conclusion is that by far, most of the responsibility for the temporal and eternal well-being of a man’s family, rests with the decisions and actions taken by him, since, as the designated head of the home, God has vested him with the welfare of each member of his household, and as such what he allows, and what he does, could spell either weal or woe for those who are under his care.

When God created Adam and Eve, not only did He make the man first, but He gave both of them the instructions regarding the tree of knowledge, good and evil. Yet, even though Eve sinned first, and then solicited her husband in transgression, God called to Adam first, as being the one who bore the brunt of the responsibility. Thus, we will find that husbands, to a great extent are the makers or breakers in their homes.

After the dispute with Abraham’s herdsmen, it was decided that the two families could not live in the same location together because of their vast riches, and the proposal was put on the table that Lot will choose first, either to go to the left or the right, as he saw best. And now, having been granted the first choice by Abraham, he lifted up his eyes and he saw that the plains of Sodom were well watered, and fertile.

Thus, through selfishness, he made a decision that would one day prove the ruin of most of his family and in the process, he would barely escape with his own life. Those families who cause the “fertility” of modern day “Sodoms” to impact their decisions of where they make their homes, and those whose first considerations are the pecuniary advantages to be gained in such and such places, will one day find out that they have put their family at much greater risk.

In choosing a home, the influences which obtain in the area are to be given due consideration as to the effects it will have on the spiritual development of the children, and the family as a whole. But if one’s decision is primarily business-based, then the moral corruption that too often accompanies wealth, may have a demoralizing effect on all, and it can become an uphill struggle to keep the kids from gravitational influences which pull them down.

Therefore, from a strictly business perspective, Lot made a wise decision, but from a spiritual viewpoint it was silly and disastrous. The spiritual must always take precedence in any decision-making by the man because it can prove to be ruinous or uplifting for a family. Let God be consulted first, and if He leads to the city, then follow, but if He leads to the country, as He more often does, then the temporal aspects will also be taken care of. Let’s read:

Genesis 13:7 And there was a strife between the herd-men of Abram's cattle and the herd-men of Lot's cattle: and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land.

8 And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herd-men and thy herd-men; for we be brethren.

9 Is not the whole land before thee? separate thyself, I pray thee, from me: if thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if thou depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left.

10 And Lot lifted up his eyes and beheld all the plain of Jordan that it was well watered everywhere before the Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, even as the garden of the Lord.

11 Then Lot chose him all the plain of Jordan; and Lot journeyed east: and they separated themselves the one from the other.

12 Abram dwelled in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelled in the cities of the plain, and pitched his tent toward Sodom.

God would have every believing Christian study and understand the wiles of the devil, for he works and plots in a well-thought-out and determined manner even though most people view him as ridiculous or stupid. On the contrary, he brings centuries of his own experience to the table, and he studies with fiendish intensity the most effective ways to take us down.

One of his most successful methods is the slow-boil technique, by which he sets in motion a protracted process to get persons accustomed to his systems, then when folks have become either immersed, or ingratiated, he seeks to tighten his stranglehold by suggesting that we can’t live without his systems. It was thus that he enticed Lot, and his family to the brink.

From a farmer and herdsman, Lot slowly became accustomed to the luxurious life of Sodom, for he was immersed in their systems of doing things. The educational systems of Sodom inculcated teachings of alternative lifestyles into the curriculum, and the young children became indoctrinated into same-sex marriage philosophies, from an early age.

Thus, Lot sent his children to be taught error in the public schools of the day, and the peer pressure and familiarity with evil produced the inevitable results. Day by day, as Lot’s kids beheld evil taking root, and being practiced in high and low places, without any remonstrance, they were convinced after a period of time that it was normal, and the once country-bound children became desensitized to evil.

The slow-boil technique is still being used and with alarming success, because the more the celebrities and stars come out of the closet, the more the kids will follow in their train, since the game “Follow the leader” is always employed by our adversary. There was a time in the U.S.A, when alternative lifestyles aroused a sort of righteous indignation.

But over a period of time as prominent stars, clergy, celebrities, and so-called “Role-models” have come out from the closet, other skeletons have followed suit until the LGBTQRSTUVWXYZ lifestyles have now been inculcated into our curriculums, being taught to our children, and they have come to be accepted by most people. It did not happen overnight, nor in a vacuum, for it is satan’s slow-boil system at work.

Thus, he seeks to take down religious, political, and social leaders first, for he knows from experience, that the multitudes will generally follow their lead. This is what he did in ancient Babylon when a false system of worship was to be forced on the people. The most prominent leaders of the nation were first indoctrinated, and the rest followed their lead. Let’s read:

Daniel 3:2 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the princes, the governors, and the captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counselors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.

It is amazing that even Lot himself had become so entirely bedazzled by the luxuries of Sodom that it’s stated in the Bible that his soul was vexed every day by the prevailing evils, and yet, somehow, he could find it within himself to leave. The slow-boil method caused him to become immersed in the systems of Sodom, so that like the infamous “Hotel California” he could check in anytime he liked, but he could never leave, even though he was vexed every day Let’s read:

2nd Peter 2:4 For God spared not the angels that sinned,

5 And spared not the old world, but saved Noah,

7 And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked.

8 For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds.

Christians in our day are at great risk of becoming so accustomed to the systems, that we may find it quite difficult to leave when we need to. The many comforts of life we now enjoy, and the systems we have come to depend on are exerting a “slow-boil” effect on millions, and even though these are not to be condemned, there are a few verses in the Bible we should never forget. Never! Let’s read:

Hebrews 11:8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise.

10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

13 These all confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

In the process of time however, God saw fit to put a check on the unbridled iniquity of those cities, and in response to Abraham’s intercession, holy angels were sent to rescue Lot, and his entire family from the impending doom. Thus, it was, after disclosing their real nature, and their mission, the angels sent Lot out to warn his relatives and daughters, so that they too might make a run for it, before it was too late.

But Lot’s influence over them had been weakened over a period of several years, for they witnessed in his experience, the subtle effects of that luxurious lifestyle of Sodom. Therefore, his decisions, actions and influences of a lifetime will scarcely be reversed overnight, as poor Lot soon discovered. When folks have become utterly immersed in systems that are opposed to God, messages from heaven can seem to be incredulous. Let’s read:

Genesis 19:12 And the men said unto Lot, Hast thou here any besides? son in law, and thy sons, and thy daughters, and whatsoever thou hast in the city, bring them out of this place.

13 For we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the Lord; and the Lord hath sent us to destroy it.

14 And Lot went out, and spake unto his sons in law, which married his daughters, and said, Up, get you out of this place; for the Lord will destroy this city. But he seemed as one that mocked unto his sons in law.

Fathers in our day, who become consumed with the money-making, and business of the day, while they neglect the spiritual development and instruction of their families will discover, that in a real emergency, when a message of impending doom is sent by God, their families will have been so brain-washed by the secular systems, that the message will seem funny, as was the case with Lot’s family.

Which brings us to another important observation in the saga of lot, for even though he was sent with the message, it seems that he himself did not fully embrace or believe it. As those angels of God urged upon him the seriousness of the warning, he began making excuse after excuse, why he should be given more time in Sodom.

His hesitation and lingering showed that his faith had grown dim, living in the midst of continual evil, and wherever faith grows dim, questions about the wisdom of God’s instructions are sure to arise, since the effect of spiritual darkness in certain places is to give birth to skepticism about God’s word. Thus, a host of questions arose in his mind, and inevitably engulfed his wife too.

Questions such as: [1] Why the big rush? Why not give us some time to think it over, or to at least let us pack some of our precious belongings, like our family pictures, our passports, and our cell-phones, just in case we may need to make a last-minute call to Sodom. And certainly, it would be reasonable for such a long journey, to pack some fruit, and at least some Oreos.

Thus Lot, as the head of his household set in motion a train of circumstances which confirmed his wife in unbelief and murmuring, because they both came to view the message of God as being unreasonable. In fact, according to the scriptural record, Lot never left Sodom willingly, but had to be literally dragged out of the city; such was the effect of the slow-boil technique.

In like manner, there are millions who embrace and teach the three angel’s messages, but in their heart of hearts they have not fully believed, or embraced them, because those messages foretell of a looming separation from those systems we have all become accustomed to, when we will have to walk by faith in God alone, without the man-made props we too often depend upon.

Thus, like Lot, when the message goes forth to leave the cities, because of the mark of the beast, many of those who may have preached the three angel’s messages, and have warned others, would be very reluctant to give up the life of ease and luxury that has become the norm. And like Lot’s family, some may have to be dragged out, literally. Let’s read:

Revelation 13:16 And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads.

17 And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

It is also worthy of note that Lot had become so immersed in city living that even when he had to run for his life, he pleaded to move to another city. It is a statement of fact we declare, that most of us as Christians today living in the developed world will be very hesitant, if not entirely hostile to leaving the life of city comforts to head out to the country.

And like Lot, the transition will be very difficult for most of us to endure, for if we cannot live without our cell-phones when we attend church for only a few hours, it will be ten times more difficult to live without them for several months or years. Thus, as was stated before, the slow-boil technique of city living can, and will take a fearful toll if we have not learned to trust in God. Let’s read:

Genesis 19:17 And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that he said, Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed.

18 And Lot said unto them, Oh, not so, my Lord.

19 Behold now, thy servant hath found grace in thy sight, and thou hast magnified thy mercy, which thou hast shewed unto me in saving my life; and I cannot escape to the mountain, lest some evil take me, and I die:

20 Behold now, this city is near to flee unto, and it is a little one: Oh, let me escape thither, (is it not a little one?) and my soul shall live.

22 Therefore the name of the city was called Zoar.

Let no one think that we can suddenly uproot from systems we have become accustomed to, without maintaining a deep relationship with God all along. It takes time, and practice to trust entirely in God, and therefore, those opportunities He has granted us to do so in our probationary time, will be better spent in His word, and upon our knees, instead of surfing the various systems which often distract us from what is looming just on the horizon. Let’s read:

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 160>161] The command was given with startling vehemence: “Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed.” Hesitancy or delay now would be fatal. To cast one lingering look upon the devoted city, to tarry for one moment from regret to leave so beautiful a home, would have cost their life.

The storm of divine judgment was only waiting that these poor fugitives might make their escape. But Lot, confused and terrified, pleaded that he could not do as he was required lest some evil should overtake him and he should die. Living in that wicked city, in the midst of unbelief, his faith had grown dim.

If Lot himself had manifested no hesitancy to obey the angels’ warning, but had earnestly fled toward the mountains, without one word of pleading or remonstrance, his wife also would have made her escape. The influence of his example would have saved her from the sin that sealed her doom.

But his hesitancy and delay caused her to lightly regard the divine warning. While her body was upon the plain, her heart clung to Sodom, and she perished with it. She rebelled against God because His judgments involved her possessions and her children in the ruin. Although so greatly favored in being called out from the wicked city, she felt that she was severely dealt with, because the wealth that it had taken years to accumulate must be left to destruction.

Therefore, in lieu of the history of Lot and the sad demise of his family, let those of us who are now living on the brink of eternity make certain that we learn from his errors, and thereby make straight paths for our feet. While we still live in this world, we can and should use the man-made systems of earth for the furtherance of Christ’s kingdom of righteousness.

However, it’s important and imperative that we do not allow the luxuries and comforts of this earth to eclipse the grandeur of a better world, nor should those who believe in Christ’s soon return, permit themselves to be brain-washed into thinking that it is a long way off, into the future. The very abnormal state of things around us all declare that Jesus is coming soon.

Thus, the following passages from the Bible are to be given due consideration, as we look forward to the future, for if they are understood and applied as God would have them they will serve to balance out the temporal pursuits of life with the blessed hope, the former always being kept in subservience to the latter. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 10:11 Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.

12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

1st John 2:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world the love of the Father is not in him.

16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not

of the Father but is of the world.

17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.

1st Timothy 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.

7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.

8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.

10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

Romans 13:11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.

12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.

God Bless!

Excuse Me Please. Sabbath Afternoon 04/06/2019

Excuses are often given when a person is reluctant or does not want to do that which is required. There are millions of excuses used every day by individuals who do not want to go to work, who desire to get a day or two off of work, and others who do not want to go to church. Reasons given with our excuses run the entire gamut, from the weather to other people to a lack of resources, to a lack of sleep, to a lack of motivation.

Other commonly used reasons include lack of time, not being ready yet, waiting for the new year, and the last-resort excuse, which is used when all others fail, the devil made me do it. Thus, the responsibility for not doing, not being present, not paying and not obeying is generally passed on to other persons, or circumstances, while self is thereby justified in a course of action, other than what is required.

Excuses are also used for cheating on one’s spouse, for lying in certain adverse situations, for not being baptized, for not returning to God that which is due, for not attending church, for arriving late, or for not exercising and for a million and one reasons to keep us from doing that which ought to be done. But it is only when it is virtually impossible for one to fulfill a requirement or pledge that reasons are justifiable.

There’s also a big difference between a valid reason and an excuse, for the former is based on facts, but the latter is based on perceived, or made up facts. Thus, it is important that we be reminded of what an excuse really is. According to the dictionary: It is an attempt to lessen the blame attaching to (a fault or offense); seeking to defend or justify.

Excuses had their beginnings on our planet at the time sin entered the garden of Eden, when the devil tempted Adam and Eve to eat of the forbidden fruit. Then, after succumbing to his wiles, a lot of excuses were given to justify themselves, in a vain effort to relinquish the responsibility for their actions, when questioned by God. Let’s read:

Genesis 3:8 And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden.

9 And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?

10 And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.

11 And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat?

12 And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat.

13 And the Lord God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.

Ever since that fateful day, every son and daughter of Adam has fallen prey to the syndrome of excuse making, some more or less. The tendency to blame others, conditions, the weather, and circumstances makes us creatures of circumstance, and if we don’t gain the victory over this sinful habit, it would prove our ruin in this life, and can eventually keep us from the new earth.

The tendency to make excuses is what caused God to reprove Moses when he had given him assurance that He would be with him as he was to go on his mission to Egypt. With every excuse he raised, God then gave a valid reason why it should not be any concern of his. Yet Moses continued to fabricate excuses until God became weary of listening.

Several aspects and varieties of excuses will be seen as we study Moses’ conversation with God. We will also observe that when we are reluctant to do some required or necessary duty, there is no stopping the amount of excuses which we can come up with. And some of the so-called reasons given range from the seemingly plausible to those which make no sense. Let’s read:

[1] Humble Excuses

Exodus 3:7 And the Lord said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows;

8 And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey.

10 Come now therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt.

11 And Moses said unto God, Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt?

This first reason may seem to savor of humility, for Moses may have considered himself as not being worthy to be sent on such a mission. To go in unto the king of Egypt to ask for the release of the work- force was no small matter. But the very fact that the order came from God should have relieved his mind of any valid concerns, for it is possible to be humble yet willing.

On the contrary, when the prophet Isaiah was given a vision of The Most-High God, he also realized that he was utterly unworthy, for according to his own confession, he was a man of unclean lips. Yet he trusted in God to take care of his shortcomings, so that when the call was made for a messenger, Isaiah was willing, humble, and ready to go on The Lord’s errands. Let’s read:

Isaiah 6:1 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.

5 Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts.

6 Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar:

7 And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.

8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.

There are times when persons are asked to serve, to go on The Lord’s errands or to take up some needed responsibility at church, and like Moses, and Isaiah, persons may feel unworthy of the calling. Yet, even though none of us is worthy, we should avoid the pitfall of giving humble excuses because none of the twelve disciples were worthy when they were sent out.

It’s not our worthiness that God is looking for, it’s our willingness.

Exodus 3:12 And he said, Certainly I will be with thee; and this shall be a token unto thee, that I have sent thee: When thou hast brought forth the people out of Egypt, ye shall serve God upon this mountain.

[2] Excuses based on perceived circumstances.

Exodus 4:1 And Moses answered and said, But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say, The Lord hath not appeared unto thee.

The claim that the people would not believe him was unfounded, for Moses had no such knowledge. To claim that he would not be believed would be to pre-judge the situation, and the outcome, which shows that his faith in God was wavering. There are times when we too may prejudge the outcome of a certain situation, without having hard facts to back up our premonitions.

And even if those facts are true, we may be prone to doubt God’s ability to do the impossible. It is a fact that perceived difficulties are often greater in anticipation than in reality, and excuses that are made on such premises can cause the blessings of God to be turned aside.

The Hebrew’s premonition of the giants in Canaan caused them to wander in the desert for forty years even though God had gone before them and had in fact weakened the resolve of the Canaanites. Thus, the perceived foreboding of an unpleasant outcome prevented the Jews from taking the land, when God was ready and willing to grant them the blessing, a situation that is too often repeated in our own lives. Let’s read:

Numbers 13:31 But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.

32 And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature.

33 And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight.

Numbers 14: 6 And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which were of them that searched the land, rent their clothes:

7 And they spake unto all the company of the children of Israel, saying, The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceeding good land.

8 If the Lord delight in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it us; a land which floweth with milk and honey.

9 Only rebel not ye against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defense is departed from them, and the Lord is with us: fear them not.

Exodus 4:2 And the Lord said unto him, What is that in thine hand? And he said, A rod.

3 And he said, Cast it on the ground. And he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from before it.

4 And the Lord said unto Moses, Put forth thine hand, and take it by the tail. And he put forth his hand, and caught it, and it became a rod in his hand:

5 That they may believe that the Lord God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath appeared unto thee.

6 And the Lord said furthermore unto him, Put now thine hand into thy bosom. And he put his hand into his bosom: and when he took it out, behold, his hand was leprous as snow.

7 And he said, Put thine hand into thy bosom again. And he put his hand into his bosom again; and plucked it out of his bosom, and, behold, it was turned again as his other flesh.

8 And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe thee, neither hearken to the voice of the first sign, that they will believe the voice of the latter sign.

9 And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe also these two signs, neither hearken unto thy voice, that thou shalt take of the water of the river, and pour it upon the dry land: and the water which thou takest out of the river shall become blood upon the dry land.

So far, the Lord has removed any cause for concern or doubt on the part of Moses, for He has given him concrete evidence that supernatural power will be with him on his mission. Yet for some reason Moses is still reluctant to go. Thus, he resorts to what may seem as a logical excuse, one that is often used in a number of situations, right here in Miami.

[3] Excuses of Language barriers.

Exodus 4:10 And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue.

Language barriers are notoriously used as excuses in the sunshine state, and some folks even get upset when individuals from other countries do not speak fluent English. Now, while it is good to be fluent in the nationally recognized language, there isn’t any reason to use language barriers as excuses for not doing that which needs to be done.

There are several ways and means to overcome this common hurdle, for not only do we have God as our Guide in all matters, but we also have several tools at our disposal such as Babbel, and many English to Spanish translations, or, translations to most of the world’s prominent languages, right at our fingertips. With ready access to the internet, there can be no excuse to use language barrier as an excuse for not doing anything.

Exodus 4:11 And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made man's mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the Lord?

12 Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say.

And now, having run out of any plausible excuses, Moses reveals his reluctance in words which show that there is a deeper problem bothering him, that is fueling all of the excuses and reasons he is giving, why he should not be sent. God has taken care of the language barrier issue, He has resolved all the issues of perceived unbelief by the Hebrews, and his issue with unworthiness has been laid to rest. So, what’s next? Let’s read:

Exodus 4:13 And he said, O my Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of him whom thou wilt send.

14 And the anger of the Lord was kindled against

Moses, and he said, Is not Aaron the Levite thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart.

15 And thou shalt speak unto him and put words in his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth, and with his mouth, and will teach you what ye shall do.

It was not the ideal will of God that Aaron should be a co-leader with Moses, for looking into the future, God saw that his influence with the people would lead them into idolatry. Yet, because of the excuse-making on Moses’ part, God allowed what He was not in favor of. The use of secondary methods is a common occurrence with us as Christians, when we fail to discern, and readily obey God’s ideal will.

Aaron became the spokesperson for Moses, but he also became the spokesperson for those who were bent on returning to Egypt. In the idolatry that took place at Mt. Sinai, it was Aaron who gave the go-ahead, for it was discovered that under pressure he became a creature of circumstance, and in his turn, he used excuses for his refusal to do the right thing. Let’s read:

Exodus 32:1 And when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down out of the mount, the people gathered themselves together unto Aaron, and said unto him, Up, make us gods, which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.

2 And Aaron said unto them, Break off the golden earrings, which are in the ears of your wives, of your sons, and of your daughters, and bring them unto me.

3 And all the people brake off the golden earrings which were in their ears and brought them unto Aaron.

4 And he received them at their hand, and fashioned it with a graving tool, after he had made

it a molten calf: and they said, These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.

5 And when Aaron saw it, he built an altar before it; and Aaron made proclamation, and said, Tomorrow is a feast to the Lord.

6 And they rose up early on the morrow, and offered burnt offerings, and brought peace offerings; and the people sat down to eat and to drink and rose up to play.

21 And Moses said unto Aaron, What did this people unto thee, that thou hast brought so great a sin upon them?

22 And Aaron said, Let not the anger of my lord wax hot: thou knowest the people, that they are set on mischief.

23 For they said unto me, Make us gods, which shall go before us: for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.

24 And I said unto them, Whosoever hath any gold, let them break it off. So they gave it me: then I cast it into the fire, and there came out this calf.

There are very important lessons for us Christians living in the 21st century, as it pertains to the habit of making excuses. We are living in a time where, for the most part, conditions and circumstances do not favor spiritual growth, and character building. We are surrounded with a plethora of attractions, and distractions which clamor for our best energies, our best time, and resources.

And every apparently plausible reason is given, so that the good that needs to be done is somehow left on the back-burner. For every good and upright instruction God has given in His word, there can be found a million and one excuses why we cannot or shouldn’t comply. And as a result, we often live our lives excusing the good and cultivating the evil.

Then again, those of us who have set weight-loss goals, will discover that we have a mortal conflict on our hands, because it takes very little effort to gain but tremendous effort to lose. In fact, our bodies often become quite stubborn in resisting any effort in a good direction, and as we get older, the cycle of gaining and then losing will become more difficult to break.

In fact, the habit of making excuses has been shown to be one of the greatest inhibitors of growth in the lives of many. There are individuals who have great potential that lies untapped, because of the habit of making excuses. Others falter in their aspirations, as they attempt little, because of perceived hindrances or because circumstances may not be ideal.

However, if we can only grow, or do our best when circumstances are ideal, then, whenever an adverse situation arises we will buckle and stumble, because the moral fabric of a person’s character is not often revealed in ideal circumstances but in those adverse situations, that stretch us to the limit. This principle applies to both spiritual, and physical training. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.

26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:

27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

But there is hope. One of the very important steps in retracing our steps is to stop making excuses, for as was stated before, even though some excuses we make may seem valid, in most instances they’re still excuses. Therefore, it is important for us not to live our Christian lives, being creatures of circumstance, for this can, and will greatly impede those victories and successes God is willing to grant us.

This will call for stern discipline, resolve, resilience, consistency, unwavering faith in God, and faithful obedience to His every word, even when it may go against the gravitational pull of human nature. It is still possible for us to live like conquerors, for it was never God’s will that His people should be lacking in any aspect of Christian living. Godly aspirations and goals may be achieved and realized by all who take hold of Divine power. Let’s read:

2nd Peter 1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:

4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the

corruption that is in the world through lust.

5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;

6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;

7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.

8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Let us therefore take up the mantle of duty, being careful to follow all the instructions and principles given in God’s word, for His blessings will attend us when we make well-directed and consistent efforts by His grace. We therefore end with a quote from the pen of inspiration. Let’s read:

[Christ Object Lessons pp 331>332] Christ has given us no assurance that to attain perfection of character is an easy matter. A noble, all-round character is not inherited. It does not come to us by accident. A noble character is earned by individual effort through the merits and grace of Christ. God gives the talents, the powers of the mind; we form the character.

It is formed by hard, stern battles with self. Conflict after conflict must be waged against hereditary tendencies. We shall have to criticize ourselves closely and allow not one unfavorable trait to remain uncorrected. Let no one say, I cannot remedy my defects of character. If you come to this decision, you will certainly fail of obtaining everlasting life.

Many whom God has qualified to do excellent work accomplish very little, because they attempt little. reach. Remember that you will never reach a higher standard than you yourself set. Then set your mark high, and step by step, even though it be by painful effort, by self-denial and sacrifice, ascend the whole length of the ladder of progress.

Let nothing hinder you. Opposing circumstances should create a firm determination to overcome them. The breaking down of one barrier will give greater ability and courage to go forward. Press with determination in the right direction, and circumstances will be your helpers, not your hindrances.

God Bless!

God's Gift To Us. Sabbath Afternoon 03/30/2019

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

The primary purpose of God’s Gift is to restore the original image of God in man, so that there may be harmony between The Creator and His children. To forgive us without restoring us makes no sense, for it will be something good without a meaningful purpose. Thus, the nature of the Gift, and what God accomplishes thereby should be understood by all.

But before we can truly appreciate the meaning, and the all-encompassing nature of the Gift, there are a few erroneous beliefs which must be laid to rest permanently, for some of the things we may have come to believe over the years, keep many of us from embracing Christ in His fullness.

In our day, Christianity is vastly different from when the Christian church was first founded, and because of this it has become quite popular, and appealing to the many millions who have embraced it. Pride, politics, and secular evolutionary theories have now been interwoven with it, and a multitude of good works, and disobedience, together with emotionally charged praise, has ruined the fabric of Christianity.

Praise of men has supplanted praise of Christ, and man’s own goodness is now viewed as having some merit. Again, a flurry of church activities has been viewed as a meritorious replacement of a personal relationship with Christ and therefore, millions have taken the husk without the kernel. Therefore, the following is a shortlist of some of the theories, and views to be permanently buried.

[1] Involving oneself in a lot of church activities does not make one a Christian. This includes being able to recite our memory verses, giving out tracts, doing Bible studies, and attending pathfinders, as well as feeding the poor on a regular basis. While all these activities are good, and are to be encouraged, they do not make one a Christian. Let’s read:

Matthew 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Nicodemus used to give bible studies, in fact he had his doctorate in theology, and if he was teaching at one of our prominent universities such as Oakwood, Loma Linda or Andrews he would be correcting your exam papers, and he would frequently be called on to review, or critique those dissertations that are necessary for graduation with your doctorate.

Nicodemus would be called upon to explain those difficult passages in Hebrew, for he was well versed in the scriptures, and in the linguistic nuances that other scholars struggled with. However, with all of the titles attached to his name, and all of his good achievements, his deeds in the spiritual realm, lo and behold, Nicodemus wasn’t a Christian. let’s read:

John 3:1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.

2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.

3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?

10 Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?

[The Desire Of Ages pp 171] Nicodemus was a strict Pharisee and prided himself on his good works. He was widely esteemed for his benevolence, and his liberality in sustaining the temple, and he felt secure of the favor of God. He felt that he needed no change, hence his surprise at the Savior's words. He was irritated by their close application to himself. He wondered that Christ should speak to him as He did, not respecting his position as ruler in Israel.

[2] Being nice does not necessarily translate into being Christlike, for there are many “Nice” people in this world who want nothing to do with Christ, and there are very nice, and mannerly Buddhists, who actually do a great amount of good. There is also such a thing as a nice atheist. Persons may have an excellent moral character, they may be courteous, and well mannered, but again, that’s no guarantee that they are Christians.

[3] Being baptized does not necessarily make one a Christian, because there are millions of Christians the world over, who have been baptized the biblical way, by immersion and who attend church regularly but who are not Christians. Millions of Christians do suffer from a disease called the wet-devil syndrome, which leads one to be baptized without the Spirit of God.

And as a result, the nominal acceptance of Christ does not lead to a renouncing of sin. Instead, the gift of God is used as a charade to cover the basest iniquity, and thus, the rite of baptism is not always an endorsement of The Holy Spirit, very much the same as circumcision was not a guarantee of one being a godly person. Let’s read:

Acts 8:9 But there was a certain man, called Simon, which before-time in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one.

13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,

19 Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.

20 But Peter said unto him, thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.

21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.

22 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.

23 For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.

Matthew 3:5 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, 6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.

7 But: (The word but is used to introduce a phrase or clause contrasting with what has already been mentioned. In other words, many were being baptized, confessing their sins “But”

When he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.

Most of the persons who put Christ to death were circumcised and attended church regularly. Many of them were quite diligent in returning a faithful tithe and offerings, and many had spent lavishly on the building of the temple, but they were not Christians because all of these good things do not necessarily equate to being a Christian.

[4] Being born into a Christian household is good, but it does not make one a Christian. The principles of God’s kingdom should be taught quite diligently, and the sacred truths of the Bible may be adhered to and had in reverence, but all those good things do not make one a Christian.

Being born to God-fearing parents is good but being born again by The Holy Ghost is something entirely different because the two experiences are mutually exclusive. In fact, the children of Christian parents are often subject to much greater internal struggles than the unbelieving, because the gravitational pull of fallen nature is pitted against what they have been taught and sets the stage for a severe mental conflict which is not an issue for the secular mind.

But it is always better to know the truth anyway, because it’s principles tend to goodness and life, and they contribute in a marked manner to great success. Great benefit will accrue to any person who subscribes to the eternal principles and laws, for they are good at their core. But espousing them does not make one a Christian, if the gift of God is excluded from the life. Let’s read:

Romans 7:9 For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.

10 And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.

[5] Doing a lot of right things does not make one a Christian. In many cases prayers are offered for God to “help us” do right, but whilst we will always need help, it is not help we need so much, as a change of heart. In fact, God helps even those who may never believe on Jesus, and who may never have asked for any help because that’s just His nature, to help. God does not do us good because of, but in spite of. Let’s read:

Psalms 68:18 Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the Lord God might dwell among them.

19 Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with benefits, even the God of our salvation.

John 9:1 And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.

3 Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents.

4 I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.

5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.

6 When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,

7 And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.

[6] Stopping doing bad things does not make us love doing good things, for there’s an ongoing tug of war between good impulses and evil inclination. The pharisees of Christ’s day had adopted a theology that weighed right things against wrong things, and if right things outweighed the bad, then one was considered a child of God.

Thus, the severe internal struggles in the human mind between right and wrong needed to be shown by Paul from a Christian’s perspective. Let’s read:

Romans 7:21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.

22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man.

23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?

[7] A nominal belief in Jesus does not make one a Christian either, for the devils believe and tremble. Here in the United States, Christmas is celebrated by the overwhelming majority of people, and many go to extreme lengths and costs, to honor the birth of our Savior. And yet, for all of those efforts, and the expense associated with Christmas, not one person is made a Christian by it.

Loving The Lord and loving His people do not make one a Christian either. While association with God’s people is to be encouraged, it does not add to the gift. Keeping the commandments is good, and it will result in good to those who are thus exercised, but again, the mere keeping of all the commandments does not make one a Christian either.

Matthew 19:16 And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?

17 And he said unto him, if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.

18 He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness,

19 Honor thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.

20 The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?

Therefore, having addressed some of the prominent erroneous views pertaining to the Gift of God to us in Jesus, let’s go into the Bible study. Basically, there are two types of Christianity in existence today, one that is performance driven, the other which is Spirit driven.

The performance driven kind of Christianity accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior, but it also brings personal good works to the table, and places them alongside the Gift of God in Christ, to make up for perceived insufficiencies. This type holds on to good works as conclusive evidence of one’s Christianity, and often becomes quite frustrated and bewildered if for any reason, slip ups occur.

Satan can then use our several faults, and failures to discourage us, for he poses the question, “If you are really a Christian, how can you do such and such things?” If when we do good things we are disposed to feel worthy, and if mistakes are made we tend to feel unworthy, then our Christianity is designated as the performance based brand, and will be subjected to very severe temptations and discouragement if, and when we sin.

The Spirit-driven brand of Christianity also accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior, but it brings nothing to the table to compliment the gift of God. Even after The Holy Spirit has taken up residence in the heart, and good works inevitably follow, this Christianity is not deceived into believing that it has become worthy in any way, over the years.

It avoids keeping track records of how many good deeds were performed, and how many souls have been baptized by its ministry, as evidence of the Spirit working in them. Self is forgotten of, and the closer it comes to Christ, the more unworthy it sees itself. Let’s read:

Matthew 25:34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.

35 For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:

36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.

37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?

38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?

39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

In fact, if over a period of many years, one comes to think of him/herself as being more worthy, because of a long track-record of good deeds, then such a person has essentially begun to lose sight of the Gift of God. Good deeds and baptism are important, and charitable works are a must.

But if they in any way begin to supplant the unique efficacy of God’s Gift to us, if they are looked upon as warranting us any favors from God, or eternal life, something needs to be urgently addressed in the life. What God has given to us through Christ cannot be added to, it cannot be improved, and it cannot be enhanced by any contribution mortals may make, no matter how good or sincere those efforts may be.

The gift of God to us is a stand-alone gift without any attachments or input from the human agent. Nothing can be added or subtracted, for it must be either received or rejected. God had decided on His own, when none of us were even born, to save us through Christ. Thus, when we accept The Gift via our freedom of choice, a supernatural work takes place on two very important fronts:

[1] Christ takes up residence in our hearts through faith, by the permanent indwelling of the Holy Spirit who then empowers us to grow, to live, and to do all that a Christian should do. He also empowers us to live victoriously over every curved ball the enemy may hurl at us.

[2] The gift of God in Christ Jesus, replaces our own righteousness with the merits of Christ, so that our lives are hid with Christ in God. What this means, in the most literal sense, is that even though we live victoriously over every sin through the power of The Spirit, yet we are ever mindful that it is Christ’s life, and His righteousness alone that will ever save us.

Christ’s death, Christ’s life and His righteousness are the focus of the born-again Christian, and by looking to Jesus Christ we will be changed from one stage of development to the next. Thus, our own failures, or shortcomings should not discourage us even though we continue to seek to obey God, because, at the end of the day, it’s all about Christ. Let’s read:

2nd Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law (by law-keeping) then Christ is dead in vain.

Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.

9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you.

Which leads us to the determining factor in whether a person is a Christian or not. As was stated before, the keeping of all the commandments is good, and good charitable deeds are a must, together with all of the virtues mentioned throughout the scriptures.

However, it’s of critical importance that the Spirit of God reign in our hearts, for it’s only when this is the case that anyone, whether preacher, clergy or laity, is considered a Christian, in God’s estimation. Let’s read:

Romans 8:13 Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

This statement raises the prospect of a very serious problem in the Christian churches of today, because in too many instances, members have to prodded, persuaded, encouraged, applauded, brow-beaten, or guilt-tripped into doing right things. Many have to be pleaded with just to share the gospel, while others have to be shamed into taking church duties.

This condition of things points to a fundamental and pervasive problem in the Christian churches:

The Spirit Of God is Absent from many hearts.

When the Spirit of God has taken up residence in the heart, all of the good and right things will follow because His work is to restore God’s image in man. His residence in the heart therefore leads persons to baptism, to good works, to visit the sick, to feed the poor, to distribute tracks, to preach the good news, to take church responsibilities, to be faithful in tithes and offerings, and to live victoriously over every known sin.

Being a Christian therefore, is not so much about doing, as it is about being, and therefore if our own condition is as described previously, we will need to ask God daily for a fresh in-filling of His Spirit so that spontaneous works of Christ’s righteousness will be the natural outflow from a heart in which the Spirit of God dwells. This will not happen by chance, for God does not bypass our choice to force The Gift on anyone, so, we will have to ask for it. Let’s read:

Luke 11:9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.

10 For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?

Therefore, our appeal to us today is not to start doing good or right things, it’s not an appeal to be baptized, or to join in the various schedules and activities of the church; neither is it an appeal to stop sinning; it’s and appeal for us to ask the Spirit of God to take up permanent residence in our heart and then all of the other essentials will follow.

God Bless!

If We Confess. Sabbath Afternoon 03/23/2019

There are promises that are given in the Bible which carry prerequisites, in order for their fulfillment to become reality. When those preconditions are met, the sure results follow, for God is faithful, who has promised. But a strange gospel has surfaced across the land, which teaches its adherents to claim God’s promises while walking contrary to His revealed will and because of this, there is a cycle of expectation and disappointment when promises don’t realize.

Millions have been deceived into a sensational sort of praise which falls short on obedience, and hopes and prayers often remain elusive, and unanswered, since the stipulations in the Bible do not change. It isn’t good enough for us to say we believe, it is also important that what we believe be actually written in God’s word, so as not to become bewildered if things do not pan out.

Therefore, whatever we may believe, let us first make sure that it is written in the Bible, and that God has promised it, so that our expectations can be managed reasonably, for it is not good to look forward to promises which God never made. That passage in the 1st book of John is of that nature, for the promises of forgiveness and cleansing are given on the condition of true confession. Let’s read:

1st John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

This means that whenever the conditions are met in any person, no matter the seriousness of their sin, if it’s not the sin against The Holy Spirit it’s a certainty that God will forgive and put in motion the work of restoration, so that we may avoid the syndrome of never-ending repetition.

In addition, Godly sorrow for sin includes sorrow for wounding Christ and the willingness to bear all the results of our actions. There is a hymnal song that is sung which says: “Jesus paid it all”. This song must be sung with the understanding, for Christ took care of the second death for us. But the other results of sin are usually born by the sinner, especially when others are directly affected.

In some cases God may see fit to institute a reversal of fortunes to a great extent; but in other cases the laws of sowing, and reaping are often permitted to run their natural course. But whether it be reversal of fortune or having to deal with consequences, the one who truly confesses will have his heart set to do right from that point forward. And through the will that is sanctified by The Holy Spirit, he will be able to live victoriously.

Jonah was a prophet of God, and he was sent on a mission to warn the people of Nineveh about their impending danger, on account of the myriad of sins being committed daily in their city. But Jonah chose to do otherwise, and headed for Tarshish, with the vain hope that he could escape the word of the Lord without encountering adverse circumstances.

At the onset of the journey things had seemed to be going pretty smooth for there were clear blue skies, seagulls flew overhead and the white-capped waves beat gently against the hull of the ship. Pleased with his decision, Jonah settled down to sleep, convinced that all would go well because initially, there was no outward sign of impending danger.

This aspect of disobedience is not understood as it ought to be, and many are thus lulled into a false

sense of security. As a general rule of thumb, there is a period of enjoyment whenever sin is committed after which the adverse side effects begin to accrue. Let’s read:

Hebrews 11:24 By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;

25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.

Whenever sin is committed, more often than not, a delay occurs between the act and the after-effects, during which time most people erroneously believe that they have gotten off scotch free. Hours, days, months and years may pass by without an apparent consequence, and many, like Jonah fall into a deep slumber in sin.

When David slept with Bathsheba, he felt good for a while, and for all intents and purposes it seemed as if he had pulled off one on God. Her husband, Uriah, knew nothing, and the soldiers who had been sent to fetch her kept quiet, having received their “Hush money” and David seemed to enjoy the pleasures of sin “For a season”. Then, it was only when Bathsheba stopped having her monthly cycles that David began to worry.

Again, Eve did not die immediately after eating the forbidden fruit, and she reasoned that God must be misguided in His statements to them. In fact, it was because there were no visible outward effects upon Eve, why Adam was convinced that the curse would not be realized because his wife was before him just as beautiful as she was before eating of the fruit.

But there is no such thing as disobedience without adverse consequences, a common deception which constitutes one of the primary delusions of the last days. Somehow, the sin germinates, and sooner or later it bears fruit, in one way or another, and it is quite often the case that innocent persons may get hurt in the process. Let’s read:

Jonah 1:1 Now the word of the Lord came unto Jonah the son of Amittai, saying,

2 Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me.

3 But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord.

Whatever were Jonah’s reasons for going contrary to God’s commands, the fact is that it became sin unto him, and as such it interfered with the normal relationship he had previously with The Lord. Let no one be deceived by smooth-talking preachers into a belief that sin does not carry adverse consequences of some kind. This was the first deception, to which Adam and Eve became casualties.

It is also the very same deception that is causing the ruin of millions of people today, because it has only been repackaged and peddled under a different set of labels. For years folks have freely indulged in the eating and drinking of forbidden food and drink and for all intents and purposes it may seem that what has been proscribed in the scriptures, was written by unlearned men.

Yet, one day we will discover that the overwhelming amount of diseases, and afflictions which affect the human family, can be traced right back to our dining tables. The consequences of our actions may not be readily apparent, but sooner or later the grim truth will be disclosed, because there is no such thing as sinning without adverse consequences.

Thus, as the sailors, and passengers headed out to sea, they expected smooth sailing. After checking in their luggage and loading the vessel with their food and other merchandise they expected to make their journey without any interference from the weather. But not long after setting sail, a dangerous storm of abnormal intensity broke out upon them, but yet, the captain and his crew had no clue as to the real cause.

This brings us to another aspect of Jonah’s sin, for instead of being restricted to the person in question the consequences and results of wrong doing in one person quite often extends to other persons, either directly, or indirectly. In some cases, a material loss may accrue to those who may have had nothing to do with the original decision to sin. That’s just the nature of sin.

Those who indulge in drug abuse, and who decide to overdose on illegal opioids for different reasons, will cause the cost of healthcare and other essential services to go up, and ultimately, others, including you and I will have to pick up the tab in the form of higher taxes. It’s one of the unfortunate byproducts of sinning, and that fact should serve as a deterrent to those who may be thus disposed.

When the universal health-care law was passed in the previous administration, a penalty was imposed on those individuals who did not subscribe, and the term “Pre-existing conditions” was not restricted to persons who were born compromised, but it also included persons who deliberately, or inadvertently indulged in destructive behaviors.

Thus, a person who did all the right things in trying to lead a healthy life, and who was no burden to the system, was required to pick up part of the tab of those who may have chosen to do otherwise. The same thing holds true in our salvation because Jesus picked up the tab for our sins, otherwise we would be eternally lost. The very nature of sin often tends to involve the innocent. Let’s read:

Isaiah 53:5 He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

In the case of Jonah’s sin, material loss was incurred by everyone on board; undue stress about the very prospect of death took its toll, and eventually they lost everything that had been placed on the vessel. All the while Jonah was snoring, down in his cabin, and it seemed for all intents and purposes that the real perpetrator was getting off scotch free. Let’s read:

Jonah 1:5 Then the mariners were afraid, and cried every man unto his god, and cast forth the wares that were in the ship into the sea, to lighten it of them. But Jonah was gone down into the sides of the ship; and he lay fast asleep.

6 So the shipmaster came to him, and said unto him, What meanest thou, O sleeper? arise, call upon thy God, if so be that God will think upon us, that we perish not.

7 And they said everyone to his fellow, Come, and let us cast lots, that we may know for whose cause this evil is upon us. So they cast lots, and the lot fell upon Jonah.

8 Then said they unto him, Tell us, we pray thee, for whose cause this evil is upon us; What is thine occupation? and whence comest thou? what is thy country? and of what people art thou?

9 And he said unto them, I am an Hebrew; and I fear the Lord, the God of heaven, which hath made the sea and the dry land.

10 Then were the men exceedingly afraid, and said unto him. Why hast thou done this? For the men knew that he fled from the presence of the Lord, because he had told them.

15 So they took up Jonah and cast him forth into the sea: and the sea ceased from her raging.

17 Now the Lord had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.

There he was in the whale’s belly, being bleached by the digestive juices, in which he was immersed, and thinking to himself, why did I get myself into this situation. In his predicament, he turns to the God of heaven who is always willing to forgive and grant a new start to those who confess.

Thus, as we study Jonah’s experience and his prayer of confession, important points will be highlighted, so that we too might be instructed on confession, if God forbid, we have fallen into sin. Let’s read:

Jonah 1:12 And he said unto them, Take me up, and cast me forth into the sea; so shall the sea be calm unto you: for I know that for my sake this great tempest is upon you.

Point # [1] “Take me up and cast me forth into the sea”.

True repentance begins with an acknowledgement of one’s wrong and manifests a willingness to bear the consequences of one’s actions. This paves the way for God to forgive and restore, for if folks did not do wrong, forgiveness will not be needed. This is the attitude that was manifested by the thief on the cross, and which opened up to him the gates of heaven. Let’s read:

Luke 23:40 But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?

41 And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.

Jonah 2:1 Then Jonah prayed unto the Lord his God out of the fish's belly,

2 And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the Lord, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice.

7 When my soul fainted within me I remembered the Lord: and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple.

Point # [2] “I remembered The Lord”.

Whenever we are feeling down and out because of our sins, it is critically important for us like Jonah, to “Remember The Lord” and not grovel in despair. Let us hasten to the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy, and grace to help in time of need, for Jesus takes delight in mercy. He encourages all who have fallen to come just as we are, and His grace will be given to make us whole. Let’s read:

Lamentations 3:19 Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall.

20 My soul hath them still in remembrance and is humbled in me.

21 This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope.

22 It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.

23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

24 The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore, will I hope in him.

Jonah 2:9 But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving.

Point # [3] The voice of thanksgiving.

This clearly demonstrates that Jonah accepted the responsibility for his actions. He didn’t blame any other, or global warming, instead he thanks God for His salvation, even though, as a result of his sin he would suffer through bitter experiences. The fact that God stoops low to save us who are unworthy should call forth the deepest gratitude and praise, for He suffered for our sins, who did nothing wrong.

Jonah 2:9 I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the Lord.

Point # [4] I will pay that that I have vowed.

This shows a set determination on Jonah’s part to reverse course. In other words, if God so chooses to give him another chance, he is going to do the best he can, by God’s grace to do the right thing.

And the rest is history, because the very next verse clearly demonstrates God’s willingness to forgive. Jesus is The God of new beginnings, and if sinners confess, with a set purpose of doing right, God will fulfill 1st John 1:9 to the letter, because the process of restoration always begins with true confession. Let’s read:

Jonah 2:10 And the Lord spoke unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land.

Now, it is of critical importance for us to observe what Jonah will do, now that he has confessed his sin and prayed for forgiveness. Will he turn again and do the right thing, or will he continue a wrong course of action after obtaining deliverance? The answer to this question is of critical importance to us because, our course of action after confessing is what will make all the difference. Let’s read:

Jonah 3:1 And the word of the Lord came unto Jonah the second time, saying,

2 Arise, go unto Nineveh, that great city, and preach unto it the preaching that I bid thee.

3 So Jonah arose, and went unto Nineveh, according to the word of the Lord.

The story of Jonah, his prayer of confession, and the forgiveness he was granted, all have great import for us who are living in the 21st century. A pseudo kind of confession has been stalking across the land for many years, where politicians, clergy, lay-people and those in high places only confess when there is no other way out, and even then, many excuses are made, and other people are often blamed for one’s misdeeds.

To confess under subpoena, with the threat of jail time hanging over our heads, with remorse for the adverse results only, is not what the Bible instructs or advises. Godly sorrow for sin, by which a person confesses wrongs for what they are without making excuses, and a willingness to change one’s behavior by the grace of God, is the only type of confession God recognizes.

Therefore, if anyone has sinned, either deliberately or inadvertently, let us ask God to grant us the gift of repentance, so that His salvation to us through Christ may be realized in real time. The work of our restoration will be accomplished through the grace, and power of Christ, coupled together with choices that are in harmony with God’s revealed will, and all who are thus exercised will receive the crown of life if we do not return again to the old ways.

In harmony with this sacred truth, we encourage all of us to make our calling and election sure, by not leaving any stone un-turned but setting our hearts to follow Jesus all the way. We therefore end with a promise which should serve as an incentive to turn again and live, if we confess! Let’s read:

2nd Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

15 Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place.

God Bless!

The Jurisdiction Of God. Sabbath Afternoon 03/16/2019

The jurisdiction of God has to do with not only His Sovereignty and Creatorship, but also His dominion over which He holds sway. His dominion stretches from one end of heaven to the other, it includes the earth and the entire universe. His dominion is also to be reckoned in the hearts of those who serve and obey Him, as well as those who do not, for it is not necessary to love God, to come under His authority.

These statements about the jurisdiction of God are to be understood by all nations and individuals and includes all of the inhabitants of other worlds. The scriptures declare God’s sovereignty over everyone and everything, a fact that is highlighted in the first angels’ message, having very special pertinence to our day, where multitudes have been deceived into believing that we are accountable to no one.

There are nations that are averse to anything that pertains to Christ and there are others that foster religions that are man-made, but this does not stop God from having entire control of the worlds He has created. Whether persons believe in God or not is actually besides the point, as far as His jurisdiction is concerned, and the quicker we understand this, the better it will be for all.

Thus, the Bible teaches us, in both the old and new testaments, that God is The Sovereign King, and in a multitude of passages, it covers the various aspects of His jurisdiction, ranging from taking care of the planets He created, to providing food, raiment, and shelter, and security in a generic sense, to our world because of the problem of disobedience which we have on this planet.

The inhabitants of other worlds are 100% protected by God, but sin has produced some loopholes in our world, thus making us vulnerable to some extent to the assaults of the evil one, and his agencies, as was evidenced once again by the horrific crime recently in New Zealand. This is one of the reasons why the prophet John calls on earth’s inhabitants to worship Him, who made heaven and earth, the sea and the fountains of waters.

In other words, if you’re Catholic, Jewish, Muslim or Christian, you need to listen, and if you’re Buddhist, Atheist, Hindu, Evangelical or a New-ager, you also need to listen too. And even if you are a professed satanist, you would also need to listen to what God is saying to earth’s inhabitants, through the prophet John, because His jurisdiction ultimately engulfs the entire planet. Let’s read:

Revelation 14:6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,

7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

The following therefore are just some of the texts which address the sovereignty, and jurisdiction of God, and they are given with the hope that we will be humble and willing enough to let God be God in everything, for it is too often the case that we don’t realize how much we need God, until we need Him. Let’s read:

[1] His Jurisdiction over all the earth, and the entire universe.

Colossians 1:16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him.

17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

Isaiah 40:15 Behold, the nations are as a drop of a bucket, and are counted as the small dust of the balance.

17 All nations before him are as nothing; and they are counted to him less than nothing, and vanity.

18 To whom then will ye liken God? or what likeness will ye compare unto him?

21 Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth?

22 It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in.

26 Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth.

28 Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.

[2] His Jurisdiction over every intelligent being, men, angels and “Others”

Ezekiel 18:4 Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.

Hebrews 1:1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,

2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;

7 And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire.

14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?

Psalms 103:20 Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.

21 Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.

22 Bless the Lord, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the Lord, O my soul.

Jude 1:6 And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.

Acts 17:24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;

25 Neither is worshiped with men's hands, as though he needed anything, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;

26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;

27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us.

28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said,

For we are also his offspring.

[3] His jurisdiction over the day to day operations on earth.

Psalms 104:1 Bless the Lord, O my soul. O Lord my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honor and majesty.

3 Who layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters: who maketh the clouds his chariot: who walketh upon the wings of the wind.

4 Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire.

5 Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed forever.

6 Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a garment: the waters stood above the mountains.

9 Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over; that they turn not again to cover the earth.

10 He sendeth the springs into the valleys, which run among the hills.

11 They give drink to every beast of the field: the wild asses quench their thirst.

13 He watereth the hills from his chambers: the earth is satisfied with the fruit of thy works.

14 He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth;

16 The trees of the Lord are full of sap; the cedars of Lebanon, which he hath planted; (Maple syrup)

18 The high hills are a refuge for the wild goats; and the rocks for the conies.

19 He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knoweth his going down.

20 Thou makest darkness, and it is night: wherein all the beasts of the forest do creep forth.

21 The young lions roar after their prey and seek their meat from God. (The discovery channel)

23 Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labor until the evening.

24 O Lord, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches.

25 So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts.

26 There go the ships: there is that leviathan, whom thou hast made to play therein.

27 These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give them their meat in due season.

28 That thou givest them they gather: thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good.

29 Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled: thou takest away their breath, they die, and return to their dust.

[4] His jurisdiction over the rise and fall of nations.

Genesis 15:13 And he said unto Abram, Know of a surety that thy seed shall be a stranger in a land that is not theirs, and shall serve them; and they shall afflict them four hundred years;

14 And also that nation, whom they shall serve, will I judge: and afterward shall they come out with great substance.

This passage and others like it are very important to our study today, because Egypt, being a professedly atheistic nation had declared that they didn’t know, or care to know about The God of heaven. Thus, the declaration made by pharaoh to Moses represented a callous disregard for God, yet Egypt was a subject of God’s jurisdiction, as He later demonstrated in real time. Let’s read:

Exodus 5:2 And Pharaoh said, Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go.

Exodus 6:1 Then the Lord said unto Moses, Now shalt thou see what I will do to Pharaoh: for with a strong hand shall he let them go, and with a strong hand shall he drive them out of his land.

2 And God spake unto Moses, and said unto him, I am the Lord.

3 And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of God Almighty, but by my name Jehovah was I not known to them.

Exodus 12:29 And it came to pass, that at midnight the Lord smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sat on his throne unto the firstborn of the captive that was in the dungeon; and all the firstborn of cattle.

30 And Pharaoh rose up in the night, he, and all his servants, and all the Egyptians; and there was a great cry in Egypt; for there was not a house where there was not one dead.

31 And he called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, Rise up, and get you forth from among my people, both ye and the children of Israel; and go, serve the Lord, as ye have said.

32 Also take your flocks and your herds, as ye have said, and be gone; and bless me also.

33 And the Egyptians were urgent upon the people, that they might send them out of the land in haste; for they said, We be all dead men.

Daniel 2:20 Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his.

21 And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding.

22 He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.

Daniel 4:17 This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.

Nebuchadnezzar who had a problem with pride and who was in the habit of taking the glory to himself, had to learn his lessons the hard way, because even though he was not a Christian or a godly person, yet he was made to understand that the jurisdiction of God extends to, and over those peoples and nations who have never entered into any formal agreement with God, for that is beside the point in the context of which we are speaking.

Nebuchadnezzar took the credit for his building skills, and his architectural work, not considering that these were gifts given him by The Most-High. He reveled in the fact that the nations were made subject to him, but he did not stop to consider that it was Jesus, working behind the scenes to bring to pass His good purposes. Therefore, he was forced to be a vegetarian for seven years, until he understood that God rules in the kingdoms of men. Let’s read:

Daniel 4:14 He cried aloud, and said thus, Hew down the tree, and cut off his branches, shake off his leaves, and scatter his fruit: let the beasts get away from under it, and the fowls from his branches.

15 Nevertheless leave the stump of his roots in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts in the grass of the earth.

16 Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him.

17 This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the Most-High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.

Isaiah 45:1 Thus saith the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut;

2 I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron:

4 For Jacob my servant's sake, and Israel mine elect, I have even called thee by thy name: I have surnamed thee, though thou hast not known me.

5 I am the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me:

6 That they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am the Lord, and there is none else.

Thus, it is in the context of God’s entire jurisdiction over all the earth, that He is also the Judge over all the earth, and to whom we all must give account one day. The nations that are averse to Christ, and persons who are deceived into believing that their lives are theirs to live, with accountability to no one will one day soon realize that this is absolutely not the case, as was clearly demonstrated in the demise of Belshazzar who misunderstood God’s jurisdiction. Let’s read:

Daniel 5:1 Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his lords and drank wine before the thousand.

3 Then they brought the golden vessels that were taken out of the temple of the house of God which was at Jerusalem; and the king, and his princes, his wives, and his concubines, drank in them.

4 They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold, and of silver, of brass, of iron, of wood, and of stone.

5 In the same hour came forth fingers of a man's hand and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaster of the wall of the king's palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote.

6 Then the king's countenance was changed, and his thoughts troubled him, so that the joints of his loins were loosed, and his knees smote one against another.

7 The king cried aloud to bring in the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers. And the king spake, and said to the wise men of Babylon, Whosoever shall read this writing, and shew me the interpretation thereof, shall be clothed with scarlet. 8 Then came in all the king's wise men: but they could not read the writing, nor make known to the king the interpretation thereof.

9 Then was king Belshazzar greatly troubled, and his countenance was changed in him, and his lords were astonied.

13 Then was Daniel brought in before the king.

17 Then Daniel answered and said before the king, Let thy gifts be to thyself, and give thy rewards to another; yet I will read the writing unto the king, and make known to him the interpretation.

18 O thou king, the Most-High God gave Nebuchadnezzar thy father a kingdom, and majesty, and glory, and honor.

19 And for the majesty that he gave him, all people, nations, and languages, trembled and feared before him: whom he would he slew; and whom he would he kept alive; and whom he would he set up; and whom he would he put down.

20 But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly

throne, and they took his glory from him.

21 And he was driven from the sons of men; and his heart was made like the beasts, and his dwelling was with the wild asses: they fed him with grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven; till he knew that the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he appointeth over it whomsoever he will.

22 And thou his son, O Belshazzar, hast not humbled thine heart, though thou knewest all this;

23 But hast lifted up thyself against the Lord of heaven; and they have brought the vessels of his house before thee, and thou, and thy lords, thy wives, and thy concubines, have drunk wine in them; and thou hast praised the gods of silver, and gold, of brass, iron, wood, and stone, which see not, nor hear, nor know: and the God in whose hand thy breath is, and whose are all thy ways, hast thou not glorified.

24 Then was the part of the hand sent from him;

25 And this is the writing that was written, Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin.

26 This is the interpretation of the thing: Mene; God hath numbered thy kingdom and finished it.

27 Tekel; Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting.

28 Peres; Thy kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians.

The first angel’s message addresses the jurisdiction of God, and as such His prerogative to judge nations and individuals. The message is to be sounded in our day, when the leaders of the nations are prone to thinking that God is irrelevant. God’s word, the instructions and laws He has given therein are being dragged in the dust, and as we see the deterioration of society in high and low places, it becomes even more urgent that the messages to be sounded. Let’s read:

Revelation 14:6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,

7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

Our turn is next!

The issues associated with the jurisdiction of God are not nearly understood as they should be, and it is now necessary to uncover what is at stake. Jesus Christ, who made the worlds, and who redeemed us with His precious blood, has given us the freedom of choice, with consequences. Nations and persons are free to choose Jesus, and His word, or to reject Him.

If persons be wise and choose Christ, they will come under His wise rule and will be covered when things start to go downhill rapidly. However, those folks who spurn their golden opportunity, will remain under the rule of another master, and thus, they will be powerless to escape his stranglehold, when he will be permitted to do so. The servant of The Lord puts it this way. Let’s read:

[The Desire Of Ages pp 324] When the soul surrenders itself to Christ, a new power takes possession of the new heart. A change is wrought which man can never accomplish for himself. It is a supernatural work, bringing a supernatural element into human nature. A soul thus kept in possession by the heavenly agencies is impregnable to the assaults of Satan.

But unless we do yield ourselves to the control of Christ, we shall be dominated by the wicked one. We must inevitably be under the control of the one or the other of the two great powers that are contending for the supremacy of the world. It is not necessary for us deliberately to choose the service of the kingdom of darkness in order to come under its dominion.

We have only to neglect to ally ourselves with the kingdom of light. If we do not co-operate with the heavenly agencies, Satan will take possession of the heart, and will make it his abiding place. The only defense against evil is the indwelling of Christ in the heart through faith in His righteousness.

Unless we become vitally connected with God, we can never resist the unhallowed effects of self-love, self-indulgence, and temptation to sin. We may leave off many bad habits, for the time we may part company with Satan; but without a vital connection with God, through the surrender of ourselves to Him moment by moment, we shall be overcome.

Without a personal acquaintance with Christ, and a continual communion, we are at the mercy of the enemy, and shall do his bidding in the end.

Which leads us to the core of our study, addressing the issue of jurisdiction. Jesus and His disciples are presently entering the country of the Gadarenes, a demon possessed man charges at them suddenly, and the disciples scatter abroad, leaving Jesus alone to deal with several issues which pertain to jurisdiction. Let’s read:

Mark 5:1 And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes.

2 And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,

3 Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains.

4 Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces neither could any man tame him.

5 And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones.

6 But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him,

7 And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not.

9 And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.

10 And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country.

The words “Besought Him much” and “Out of the country” means that they were literally begging Jesus not to displace them, for they had taken up residence, not only in the domain of the heart of the possessed man, but also in a geographical area of that country. Even though some may not be aware, there are many places on the earth where legions of evil angels have been entrenched, and hate to be displaced.

But Christ, who created this world, and who has entire jurisdiction over our planet, can, and will displace them, whenever He sees fit to do so. On the contrary, there are times when He may see fit to leave them where they reside, especially if our freedom of choice will be used in harboring their presence. Let’s read:

Mark 5:11 Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding.

12 And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them.

Again, the words “Besought” and “Send us” denote the entire jurisdiction Christ holds over principalities and powers, as well as His sole authority to settle territorial disputes. This is one of the main reasons why we need to pay attention to what John writes in the 14th chapter of Revelation, for John makes mention of Christ’s territory, as well as the domain of the heart. Let’s read:

Revelation 14:7 Worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

Mark 5:13 And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea.

If as a nation, and as individuals we allow our day of grace to expire, without choosing Christ as Lord of our hearts, then He will permit evil spirits to take up permanent residence, and the rest will be history. It is the most solemn prospect before us because with all the evil we are now witnessing, The God of the universe is saying to us we haven’t seen nothing yet. Let’s read:

Revelation 16:13 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet.

14 For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.

[The Great Controversy pp 614] A single angel destroyed all the first-born of the Egyptians, and filled the land with mourning. When David offended against God by numbering the people, one angel caused that terrible destruction by which his sin was punished. The same destructive power exercised by holy angels when God commands, will be exercised by evil angels when he permits. There are forces now ready, and only waiting the divine permission, to spread desolation everywhere.

Therefore, let none who have heard or read and understood these truths, take God’s grace through Christ for granted, for it behooves us to make good on the opportunity He has provided. Let’s not wait until there’s a rush for the door, when millions will discover too late that God’s forbearance has a limit, for the time of His salvation is fast closing. We end with an appeal from Christ to us personally. Let’s read:

Hebrews 3: 7 Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, Today if ye will hear his voice,

8 Harden not your hearts.

12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.

13 lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end;

15 While it is said, Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

God Bless!

21st Century Sabbath-Keeping. Sabbath Afternoon 03/09/2019

Since that time when the seventh day Sabbath was instituted on the earth at the end of creation week, it has remained unchanged by God, and even in our day it is meant to be kept holy. However, during the antediluvian era, men became more averse to God, and as a result, the effect and purpose of the 7th day Sabbath was to a large extent lost upon them. But it is still binding upon all people, for it was given to all, not only to the Jews. Let’s read:

Genesis 2:1 Thus, the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them.

2 And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.

3 And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.

Mark 2:27 And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath.

28 Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.

Then, after the flood, God decided to take a people unto Himself through whom He purposed to have a knowledge of Himself and His law, preserved in the earth. Then the Jewish nation was born, and it was the purpose of God that they should be the shining example on a hill, for other nations to observe, and emulate, as those nations beheld both the wisdom and beneficence of The Creator.

The Jewish nation was therefore established as a theocracy, with God at the head of the nation, and His servants under Him, carrying out His revealed will. Thus, the Sabbath became integral part of Jewish life and culture, and other nations came to view the nation as peculiar, even though at times, idolatry took a fearful toll on the fabric of Judaism.

However, the fact that they were peculiar in their principles, laws and judgments was well established in the minds of the nations who could not but admit that something about them was quite different, and this is just as God would have it, for as stated before Israel was to be a specimen nation, leading others to love and obey the God of heaven. Let’s read:

Deuteronomy 4:2 Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you.

5 Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the Lord my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it.

6 Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely, this great nation is a wise and understanding people.

7 For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the Lord our God is in all things that we call upon him for?

8 And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?

Esther 3:8 And Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, There is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed among the people in all the provinces of thy kingdom; and their laws are diverse from all people; neither keep they the king's laws: therefore it is not for the king's profit to suffer them.

1st Samuel 4:5 And when the ark of the covenant of the Lord came into the camp, all Israel shouted with a great shout, so that the earth rang again.

6 And when the Philistines heard the noise of the shout, they said, What meaneth the noise of this great shout in the camp of the Hebrews? And they understood that the ark of the Lord was come into the camp.

7 And the Philistines were afraid, for they said, God is come into the camp. And they said, Woe unto us! for there hath not been such a thing heretofore.

8 Woe unto us! who shall deliver us out of the hand of these mighty Gods? these are the Gods that smote the Egyptians with all the plagues in the wilderness.

9 Be strong and quit yourselves like men, O ye Philistines, that ye be not servants unto the Hebrews, as they have been to you: quit yourselves like men, and fight.

The Jewish nation was formerly incorporated as a theocracy when at Sinai, the people entered into a solemn covenant with God to be His peculiar people and to obey His commandments. After stating what part each party would play, the covenant was then ratified through the sprinkling of blood, and Israel became the first nation with God as their official Head. Let’s read:

Exodus 19:3 And Moses went up unto God, and the Lord called unto him out of the mountain, saying, Thus shalt thou say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel;

4 Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto myself.

5 Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine.

6 And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.

7 And Moses came and called for the elders of the people and laid before their faces all these words which the Lord commanded him.

8 And all the people answered together, and said, All that the Lord hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the Lord.

Exodus 24:7 And he took the book of the covenant and read in the audience of the people: and they said, All that the Lord hath said will we do, and be obedient.

8 And Moses took the blood, and sprinkled it on the people, and said, Behold the blood of the covenant, which the Lord hath made with you concerning all these words.

It is worthy of note that as a nation, the U.S.A has never officially entered into any such covenant with God, for even though we often use the phrase “One nation under God” it doesn’t carry the same weight nor the same meaning as that which took place at Mt. Sinai. It is critically important then, for persons who enter into a covenant relationship with Christ, to understand that it is something personal, and not national.

Therefore, the remnant church of God in the 21st century consists of individuals who have made a personal commitment to Christ, and as such they congregate with others who have made a similar commitment. But as far as nationally goes, it is not, and will never happen, for the Bible outlines in no uncertain terms what the primary characteristics are, of the true church in our day. Let’s read:

Rev. 12:17 And the dragon was wroth with the woman and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

As a nation we uphold some of the commandments, and others we leave on the back-burner. The taking of human life in a wanton, or premeditated manner is illegal in every state across the land and it is now a crime for individuals to lie to congress, as some unfortunate persons have been discovering lately.

However, in America, same-sex marriage is legal, and a married man who has one or more mistresses isn’t viewed as being a criminal per se. The drinking of alcohol is also legal at certain ages, and unclean meats that have been proscribed by God are now fair game across the land. Therefore, the notion of one nation under God is a misnomer.

When God commanded the Jews to keep holy the Sabbath, it was not only on a personal level, but on a national level as well, for it was the entire nation collectively that had entered into the covenant relationship. This is certified by the words spoken by God through His servant Moses, as He explained some of the details of proper Sabbath-keeping. Let’s read:

Exodus 16:22 And it came to pass, that on the sixth day they gathered twice as much bread, two omers for one man: and all the rulers of the congregation came and told Moses.

23 And he said unto them, This is that which the Lord hath said, Tomorrow is the rest of the holy sabbath unto the Lord: bake that which ye will bake to day, and seethe that ye will seethe; and that which remaineth over lay up for you to be kept until the morning.

24 And they laid it up till the morning, as Moses bade: and it did not stink, neither was there any worm therein.

25 And Moses said, Eat that today; for today is a sabbath unto the Lord: today ye shall not find it in the field.

26 Six days ye shall gather it; but on the seventh day, which is the sabbath, in it there shall be none.

27 And it came to pass, that there went out some of the people on the seventh day for to gather, and they found none.

28 And the Lord said unto Moses, How long refuse ye to keep my commandments and my laws? 29 See, for that the Lord hath given you the sabbath, therefore he giveth you on the sixth day the bread of two days; abide ye every man in his place, let no man go out of his place on the seventh day.

30 So the people rested on the seventh day.

A deeper study of the passages above and the other texts pertaining to Sabbath observance, reveal that as a theocracy, God is the one who put the national systems in place, and as such, He promised to take care of those systems miraculously over the sacred hours of the Sabbath, so that all could keep it holy.

For instance, He put the food systems in place on a national level, so that every issue pertaining to food was managed by God during the year, and over the Sabbath hours. This is very important as we lay the foundation for questions pertaining to 21st century Sabbath observance. Let’s read:

Israel’s Food Systems

Exodus 16:23 And he said unto them, This is that which the Lord hath said, Tomorrow is the rest of the holy sabbath unto the Lord: bake that which ye will bake to day, and seethe that ye will seethe; and that which remaineth over lay up for you to be kept until the morning.

24 And they laid it up till the morning, as Moses bade: and it did not stink, neither was there any worm therein.

Leviticus 26:3 If ye walk in my statutes, and keep my commandments, and do them;

4 Then I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit.

Deuteronomy 7:14 Thou shalt be blessed above all people: there shall not be male or female barren among you, or among your cattle.

Exodus 34:21 Six days thou shalt work, but on the seventh day thou shalt rest: in earing time and in harvest thou shalt rest.

The food industry is huge in America, but God did not promise to manage it the same way He did with Israel, even though, as stated in the Bible He still provides for man and beast. But micromanagement, which included the miraculous preservation of food, and the micromanagement of the weather, to bring the right amount of rain at the right time, is not part of any treaty now for we have no national covenant with God.

Hence the reason why nature seems to be turning out of its course so often, for when rain comes, as it did with hurricanes Maria, Harvey, and Michael, it’s often an overwhelming amount of torrential rain, which in many cases, does more harm than good. These occurrences are scheduled to become much more frequent and devastating, as we drift further, and further away from God. Let’s read:

Isaiah 24:4 The earth mourneth and fadeth away, the world languisheth and fadeth away, the haughty people of the earth do languish.

5 The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant.

6 Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate: therefore, the inhabitants of the earth are burned, and few men left.

Israel’s National Security Systems

Deuteronomy 7:17 If thou shalt say in thine heart, These nations are more than I; how can I dispossess them?

18 Thou shalt not be afraid of them: but shalt well remember what the Lord thy God did unto Pharaoh, and unto all Egypt;

19 The great temptations which thine eyes saw, and the signs, and the wonders, and the mighty hand, and the stretched-out arm, whereby the Lord thy God brought thee out: so shall the Lord thy God do unto all the people of whom thou art afraid.

20 Moreover the Lord thy God will send the hornet among them, until they that are left, and hide themselves from thee, be destroyed.

21 Thou shalt not be affrighted at them: for the Lord thy God is among you, a mighty God and terrible.

23 But the Lord thy God shall deliver them unto thee, and shall destroy them with a mighty destruction, until they be destroyed.

For example:

Joshua 10: 6 And the men of Gibeon sent unto Joshua to the camp to Gilgal, saying, Slack not thy hand from thy servants; come up to us quickly, and save us, and help us: for all the kings of the Amorites that dwell in the mountains are gathered together against us.

7 So Joshua ascended from Gilgal, he, and all the people of war with him, and all the mighty men of valor.

8 And the Lord said unto Joshua, Fear them not: for I have delivered them into thine hand; there shall not a man of them stand before thee.

9 Joshua therefore came unto them suddenly and went up from Gilgal all night.

10 And the Lord discomfited them before Israel, and slew them with a great slaughter at Gibeon, and chased them along the way that goeth up to Bethhoron, and smote them to Azekah, and unto Makkedah.

11 And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, and were in the going down to Bethhoron, that the Lord cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword.

Exodus 34:23 Thrice in the year shall all your men-children appear before the Lord God, the God of Israel.

24 For I will cast out the nations before thee and enlarge thy borders: neither shall any man desire thy land, when thou shalt go up to appear before the Lord thy God thrice in the year.

Even though in His mercy, God still, to some extent protects us, yet as a nation we don’t have a national security agreement with The Lord, and as such, we will at times become vulnerable to our internal and external foes. Case in point was 9/11, when out of the blue, terrorists descended upon the nation, and three thousand souls were lost. Again, these things are scheduled to become more disastrous, as we drift further away from God. Let’s read:

Matthew 24:7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows.

2nd Timothy 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.

2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,

3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,

4 Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.

Israel’s Healthcare Systems

Deuteronomy 7:15 And the Lord will take away from thee all sickness, and will put none of the evil diseases of Egypt, which thou knowest, upon thee.

Exodus 23:25 And ye shall serve the Lord your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee.

26 There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfil.

Psalms 103:2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.

3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

Psalms 105:37 He brought them forth also with silver and gold: and there was not one feeble person among their tribes.

Nehemiah 9:21 Yea, forty years didst thou sustain them in the wilderness, so that they lacked nothing; their clothes waxed not old, and their feet swelled not.

As a nation we have no health care system that has God as the provider for we have put our own health care systems in place, we have substituted natural remedies with drugs of all sorts, we are eating any and everything, with little regard to God’s laws and principles, and we have introduced eastern modes of thought and action, including transcendental meditation, hypnosis, and ayurvedic medicine.

False prophets have also taken up the slack, for in too many cases, where conventional medicine has failed, multitudes are turning to spiritualistic, and professed faith healers, while transgressing the laws of health given by God for our own good. In fact, to a large extent, our healthcare systems health have greatly diminished God’s input.

Thus, as we have delineated previously, the systems of earth are essentially stacked against God, and as a result it has become quite difficult, or impossible for our nation to keep the Sabbath. As a matter of fact, it is even impossible to keep Sunday, since the various systems of earth call for continuous work to manage and protect the systems we have in place.

Yet God still has a people upon the face of the earth who keep all of His commandments, including the Sabbath, and He is now calling as many as would be willing, to identify themselves with His people, lest they be consumed in the cataclysmic events soon to unfold. God’s purpose and His appeal in this matter are specifically stated in both the old and the new testaments. Let’s read

Isaiah 56:2 Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil.

3 Neither let the son of the stranger, that hath joined himself to the Lord, speak, saying, The Lord hath utterly separated me from his people: neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I am a dry tree.

4 For thus saith the Lord unto the eunuchs that keep my sabbaths, and choose the things that please me, and take hold of my covenant;

5 Even unto them will I give in mine house and within my walls a place and a name better than of sons and of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off.

6 Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the Lord, to serve him, and to love the name of

the Lord, to be his servants, everyone that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant;

7 Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.

Revelation 18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.

5 For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.

Revelation 14:9 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand,

10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation.

11 And they have no rest day nor night who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.

12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

Very few Christians the world over have even a faint glimpse of the grave issues before us. We have read of them over and over again but very few of us have captured the magnitude, and the dangers which lie ahead. The mark of the beast is scheduled to split the planet in two, thus making a clear distinction between those who serve God, and those who only profess to serve Him in words.

The mark of the beast, which undoubtedly centers around the issue of worship, will call for a radical departure from the easy-going Christianity of the day, because those who decide to keep the Sabbath in the 21st century will at some point be called upon to disconnect themselves entirely from all earthly systems, and trust in God for everything.

Therefore, Sabbath-keeping is not a national issue anymore, but is a personal issue between a person and his/her God. In the gospels Christ demonstrated and stated in His own words that it is lawful to do well on the Sabbath. But because we all have been inundated, and become accustomed to man-made systems, the word “Well” has taken on a life of its own and can now be construed to include almost every type of work.

In our man-made systems of the 21st century the “Essential services” are not restricted to nursing or caring for the sick anymore. Security services are essential, water-management is essential, garbage disposal is essential, fire rescue is essential, and the management and monitoring of the electrical grid is essential.

And it does not stop there, for all of the supporting elements which ensure these important services are also deemed essential. This will include the banking sector, and insurance companies, because persons and hospitals will need to pay for services; the fuel industry will also fall under the banner of Essential because ambulances, fire trucks, security vehicles, and aircraft involved in the essential services will need fuel to operate.

And mechanics will need to be on the job, in case of the failure of an engine. Thus Sabbath-keeping in the 21st century will need to be done by a personal decision, which will undoubtedly put folks at odds with the systems that are arrayed against the God of heaven, and as such it will require faith in God to keep the Sabbath Holy.

These are just some of the issues before us, and they will intensify until they culminate in either the seal of God, or the mark of the beast. Let no one be deluded about the serious nature of the issues, for the Bible, as well as the prophet for our day have stated that the issue of worship will soon engulf the entire world, with commandment-keepers facing the ire of the dragon, and the rest facing the 7 last plagues. Let’s read:

Revelation 12:17 And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

Revelation 13:11 And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.

12 And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.

15 And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.

16 And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:

17 And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

18 Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.

[The Great Controversy pp 622] It is often the case that trouble is greater in anticipation than in reality; but this is not true of the crisis before us. The most vivid presentation cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal. In that time of trial, every soul must stand for himself before God.

In closing, let us not hesitate in aligning ourselves with the kingdom of Christ, for no one is promised tomorrow, and the decisions we make today, can make a difference for eternity. We end with an appeal from the Lord Himself. Let’s read:

Romans 13:11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.

12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.

God Bless!

Keys To Marriage Longevity. Sabbath Afternoon 03/02/2019

The marriage vow that is taken at the beginning of the sacred union includes cryptic words such as “For better or for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, till death do us part. Most people do not fully understand the extent and the far-reaching import of such a commitment, and in most cases, it is only after the euphoria of the moment has passed and the rubber meets the road, that a realization of the meaning of the vow sets in.

Then, in very many instances, after the passage of time, the nuts and bolts start to come loose, which often leads to marriage remorse, a syndrome that causes a settled cloud to hang over the relationship. It is God’s will that the union for life between a man and his female wife, should continue to grow, and blossom over the entire life of the marriage, with a deeper understanding, and better communication, being hallmarks of the experience.

Therefore, there are some pointers, some dos and don’ts which, if observed carefully and prayerfully, will go a mighty long way in cementing the marriage relationship. Just as truth is progressive in nature, so the marriage should be marked by a continuous advancement in love, humility, kindness, security, and everything that will build up, instead of tearing down.

To grow closer, and more intimate in marriage must be the goal of each spouse, and the commensurate actions are to foster such goals. Whatever separates or causes uneasiness, whatever causes disturbance, or causes spouses to have second thoughts, should not be left to percolate for any length of time, but should be addressed in a God-fearing manner, with the aim of seeking a resolve as quickly as possible.

The following therefore are some keys to fostering longevity and happiness in marriage. Some Biblical instructions and references will be given, so that we may learn from the experiences of those who have gone before. Therefore, we will start with the dos.

[1] Love must be expressed in word and deed.

1st John 4:8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

It’s not what we say, but what we do that matters most, and thus, if longevity in marriage is to take place, deeds of kindness, and due consideration are essential and should find expression in our everyday experience, not like Santa Claus who comes once a year. This will call for deliberate action, and at times may involve self-denial, but it is nonetheless a very essential component.

Much time should be taken to observe and to study the peculiar characteristics of each other, and then efforts should be made to foster the good and help with overcoming the weaknesses in both. We must remember that Mr. and Mrs. perfect do not live on earth, for Mr. perfect is in heaven, and as such, well directed efforts are to be made in cultivating such an environment in the home where each other will feel loved.

It is not necessary to wait until Valentines to bring flowers, and it is not necessary to wait until one’s birthday or wedding anniversary to do something special, because, while special occasions should be celebrated, genuine deeds of kindness, done out of the blue, and throughout the year, will go much further than the formatted expressions of tradition.

For instance, the wife will usually appreciate if the husband will cook at times or do those things that are often done by her, such as washing and folding clothes. To help in practical ways with the everyday duties of life especially at those times when spouses may need it most, goes a long way in cementing the relationship, and establishing in one’s mind that the other really cares about him/ her. Let’s read:

Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.

[2] Speak in loving tones.

What we say is just as important as how we say it, and there are times when how we say it would be much more important. The tendency to raise one’s voice when disturbed, acts as gasoline upon flames, which once ignited can become quite difficult to put out. Fighting fire with fire produces more fire, and thus, the tone of one’s voice often goes a long way in the reception of what is to be said. Let’s read:

Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

It is a good thing to have Christ in our hearts at all times, but especially when sensitive matters are to be discussed, we should pray for wisdom, and the right tones, so that a peaceful, Christlike resolution would result. The argumentative spirit must be put away, and the craving to have the last word would be better subdued, wherever it will foster peace or reconciliation between spouses. Let’s read:

Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice.

[3] Share

We are living in an age where me first philosophies have invaded the minds of millions, and there is a tendency to enter into prenuptial agreements so as to protect one’s assets from the other. But if wives and husbands have to protect themselves against each other, then the question is, why get married in the first place?

Independence of thought, and action in marriage does not foster mutual trust, for it tends to keep spouses at bay, from crossing certain lines. There are times when one, or the other will need to take the initiative in financial or other matters, because important principles may need to be implemented. However, the intentions, and the end goal should always be to share with each other, the temporal and spiritual blessings of life.

After God created Adam and Eve, He called both of them Adam, meaning that the two are one in every aspect of the marriage experience. This includes the mutual sharing of God’s blessings, including, but not limited to finances. The term “Mutual funds” should not only be restricted to investments but also to the marriage, where husbands, and wives share in the wealth, because separation often starts at the bank. Let’s read:

Genesis 2: 24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.

Genesis 5: 2 Male and female created he them; and blessed them, and called their name Adam, in the day when they were created.

Let not past bad experiences, or failures in matters of finances cause any to become tight-fisted, for we all have made mistakes, some more, some less. It is the will of God that restoration be the end goal as it pertains to financial, or other errors, and therefore, spouses would have to trust, and help one another, to learn how to manage temporal goods for practice makes perfect.

In the parable of the faithful steward we observe that The Lord gave him some funds to practice with. And it’s quite possible that in his investments, and financial decisions, he may have erred along the way, for a good investor is not risk-averse. The issue is not so much with the monetary mistakes that one may make along the way, but with the recovery and lessons learned from past experiences.

If past financial errors are used as stepping stones in the recovery process, and if husbands, and wives do not adopt the “one strike and you’re out” mode of thought, then a careful consideration of past errors done with a humble, teachable spirit can produce results that far outweigh previous mistakes. Let us not therefore be weary in well-doing, but like Christ be willing and ready to forgive. Let’s read:

Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

But just as there are dos, there are some don’ts we must be mindful of, for very often, negative actions and thoughts may cause alienation between some husbands and wives. Even though we should all be forgiving, yet forgiveness should not be viewed or used as a blank check to do things that cannot be helpful in anyway. There are some definite don’ts we should avoid at all costs.

[1] Husbands and wives should never criticize each other in public.

Whatever the faults or failures may be in the other person, husbands and wives should guard jealously the reputation and character of each other. This is an area which needs much attention, because hurt can be done inadvertently when the weaknesses or mistakes of either is exposed to public view.

Even when a valid criticism is to be made, we will be well served to take care of it privately, for spouses are to always be a formidable, united front. Another error that is sometimes indulged is that of making a husband or wife the subject of “jokes”, especially in the public square. This should be avoided, because persons can be embarrassed, and wounded in the process.

Whatever happens to the wife should be taken very personally by the husband, and vice-versa, and thus any public embarrassment, or humiliation via jokes can take a toll on both. The standards and practices of the world should never form a part of our actions because in many cases, they are contrary to sound, biblical principles. Let’s read:

Ephesians 5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;

2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor.

3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;

4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.

15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,

16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

17 Wherefore be ye not unwise but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

[2] Domestic violence between husbands and wives is off-limits and constitutes a red line that should never, ever be crossed.

Husbands should never ever hit, or wound their wives for any reason, for this is dead wrong. It is true that at times persons may become angry, and tempers may flare up when heated arguments take place, but to resort to physical violence is off-limits, according to the scriptures, and according to the laws of the land.

The use of force is a core principle of satan and if it is adopted by any spouse via physical abuse, for any reason, great damage is done not only to the body, but also to the psyche of the one thus harmed. In some cases, the damage done both physically and mentally may never be reversed, even if the person is forgiven; that’s how serious it is.

Husbands, if for any reason the wife hits you in her anger, under no circumstances should you retaliate with physical violence, for whenever this is done, a disproportionate use of force will be the result. In other words, let not her anger provoke you to then respond in kind, for retaliation is not the currency of heaven. Try to diffuse the situation without violence for this is good and acceptable with God. Let’s read:

Ephesians 4:26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.

27 Neither give place to the devil.

Ephesians 5:23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body.

25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.

29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:

[3] Where the raising of the children is involved, husbands and wives should not contradict each other.

Spouses should speak often with one another so as to be on the same page, especially when it comes to the raising of children, because too often, the wife may say one thing, and the husband another. This is productive of confusion in the minds of the children who are keen to figure out the differences. Then if one is lenient and the other strict, one is viewed as a savior, while the other is viewed as a devil.

The principles and laws that govern the home must be discussed and agreed upon in private, between the husband and wife, and then presented to the children as a united front. In this way spouses can avoid double-standards from taking root in the home, and the wife’s word will carry just as much weight as the husband’s.

In closing, if husbands were to treat their wives as queens, in most cases, wives in turn will treat their husbands as kings, for the wife is a reflection of her husband. It is the will of God that the family, which is the foundation of all society, should be a well-knit unit, contributing to the moral and spiritual fabric of the communities in which they live. Thus, we close with a brief commentary coming from the servant of The Lord. Let’s read:

[Christian Education. pp 219] The best test of the Christianity of a home is the type of character begotten by its influence.

May God help us to implement these instructions.

God Bless!

The Gospel In Precis Form. Sabbath Afternoon. 02/23/2019

While it is good to study the word of God, with all of the revelations He has seen fit to give to His people, we should never forget that the great commission is to be front and center of all our efforts and because of this, the preparation of the gospel of peace must be done in a manner to make it as easily digestible as possible without compromising it, so that people would be able to easily assimilate, and understand clearly that which is presented.

But never should our efforts at evangelizing cause unwarranted doubt, or perplexity in the minds of those who listen. A clear, distinct “Thus saith The Lord” without long, wearisome explanations, must be the goal of every presentation or study. It is true that we can’t prevent doubt and skepticism in every instance, however, the manner of teaching should not contribute in any way to undue perplexity.

This is because the average Christian does not study the Bible enough, as he/she ought to, let alone the secular mind that is filled with movies, electronics, sports, and gadgets. Thus, in a bustling world that is teeming with every conceivable distraction, it is of the utmost importance that our sayings be yea, yea, or nay, nay. In other words, the gospel for our time should be prepared in precis form, whenever such preparation is warranted.

Otherwise, we will find that our studies will become philosophically charged, without them reaching the heart, or calling folks to repentance. The perplexing themes which will call for deep thought, and careful prayerful research, would better be left for times at which persons are not in a rush, or where there are no time constraints like ten or fifteen minutes. The word of God must never be rushed down, just like the fast-food systems of earth.

Time must be given to reflect, to reinspect, to read and re-read, to investigate thoroughly, and most of all for practical application, for wherever studies are done merely for philosophical reasons, the Spirit of God is usually absent. The golden nuggets of truth do not lie on the surface but must be carefully dug out as hidden treasure. Then the faithful servant is to condense it in precis form, for whenever those opportunities for witnessing arise.

But to try to explain Daniel chapter 7 while at the bus stop, or at a roti shop with music blaring in the background, will do a disservice to the truths that are contained therein. Therefore, the gospel must be prepared for expedited delivery, both in precis form, and for those instances where we may have much more time to spare. The wise man put it this way. Let’s read:

Ecclesiastes 12:12 And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.

13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

Ephesians 6:14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.

Especially in our day should the pertinent aspects of the gospel be prepared in precis form, for we are given three specific messages, or three aspects of the gospel to focus on, in our efforts to prepare the world for Christ’s second coming. Here in America, where Christmas is celebrated by most people, the fact that Christ came to this earth to die for our sins is generally known and accepted.

Thus, in most cases, it may not be necessary to start our emphasis on that point, depending on the type of person/ persons we’re interacting with. However, it is important to establish this through questioning so that a sure foundation may be laid for the other important truths to follow. Christ, as The Savior is not generally the problem, for this has been pretty well-established by all protestant denominations.

But as a general rule of thumb, most people are big on Jesus but small on obedience, and therefore, the importance of the three angel’s messages must be explained thoroughly to those who do not know. It is Christ as Lord that needs to be focused on, for it is the area of the gospel which is most despised. Love has been the focus of televangelists and the popular preachers of the day.

Praise is big in most Christian circles, as is evidenced by the vast amounts spent on music, concerts, and every other conceivable attraction associated with praise. Then again, Christians, and evangelicals are all but obsessed with having The Holy Spirit, to the point where speaking in tongues has become a sort of badge of honor, a certain kind of certification, of the authenticity of one’s Christianity.

But, according to Christ, “One thing thou lackest”; the obedience part of the gospel has been left on the back-burner for way too long, since it has been squelched, suppressed, and signally dismissed by the false doctrine which states that God’s law has been abolished, and as such, has no binding force upon modern Christians.

Therefore, the focus of the three angel’s messages given in Revelation chapter 14, calls the attention of earth’s inhabitants to those essential truths of the gospel that have been neglected. And that is the reason why the remnant, who will be delivering the three angel’s messages primarily should be laser-focused on the obedience aspect of the gospel, to bring back equilibrium to the equation.

Where there is no law, there can be no sin, because sin is the transgression of the law. And then, if there is no sin, man’s need of A Savior becomes obsolete, and in consequence, the preaching of the gospel is a dead letter to obdurate hearts, which feel no guilt. Thus, the three angel’s messages cut through all the morass of false doctrines and misinterpretations for they go to the crux of the matter, and delineate our obligations, and missing links in precis form.

When one goes to his/her doctor for a specific issue the physician will most often just ask a few basic questions, so as to ascertain that the fundamentals are in place. But once that has been established, the specific health issue would become the focus of any further investigation.

Just so it is with the gospel in our generation. After a preliminary determination of the fundamentals is made, there is no need to waste time on topics and issues which gender strife more than anything else. The bulls eye of obedience to all of God’s laws is to be presented in a simple format, so that those who already have faith in Christ, can be aware of their missing link.

In other words, the gospel’s bottom line is to be condensed and presented in such a clear, concise manner so as to leave no doubt about what is required by God. It is thus that Revelation 14 presents the gospel for our generation, focusing on those points such as true worship, God’s Creatorship, and the need for obedience, on the part of those who claim Christ as Lord. Let’s read:

Revelation 14:6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,

7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

8 And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.

9 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand,

10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation.

The following therefore are the crucially important points God desires that we focus on, as we come in contact with our fellowmen. As was stated before, once the fundamentals of faith are understood, we are to preach the messages given for our generation featuring those aspects of the gospel highlighted in the previous verses.

[1] Fear God

To fear God does not mean to be afraid of Him, for perfect love casts out all fear. It means to respect Him, to reverence Him, to love and serve Him by obeying His laws and commandments, including the fourth, which has been woefully neglected by most of Christianity. It also means to stand firm for truth, and the principles of God’s kingdom against all odds at times when it isn’t convenient to do so. Let’s read:

Job 2:3 And the Lord said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause.

Job had just lost most of everything he owned and held dear, for in a very short space of time he lost his life savings, most his assets and investments, in addition to being bereft of his children, yet he did not give up in despair, no cast away his confidence in God. In this Job “Feared God”. The same was true of Abraham, after being instructed by God to give up his most precious son. He also feared God. Let’s read:

Genesis 22:11 And the angel of the Lord called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I.

12 And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou anything unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me.

In our generation, the fear of God is conspicuously absent from the thoughts and actions of too many. God is served and obeyed by persons only when it is convenient to do so, or when it doesn’t interfere with some favorite idol, or our wallets. Whenever the gospel calls for sacrifice or self-denial, whether it be in food, money, time, or marriage, the fear of God is too often tossed out the window.

Just like it is in marriage, the Christian will have ups and downs, good times and bad times, highs and lows, sunny days and rainy days, but those who fear God will manifest a resiliency and steadfastness in keeping his commandments, and that against all odds. Let’s read:

Psalms 112:1 Praise ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments.

Ecclesiastes 8:12 Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him:

13 But it shall not be well with the wicked, neither shall he prolong his days, which are as a shadow; because he feareth not before God.

[2] Give Glory To Him

To give glory to God means to live a life that is in harmony with His character, by choosing to allow His Holy Spirit to write the principles of His kingdom

in our hearts. It also means giving God the credit for all of our accomplishments, whether in temporal or spiritual lines, because all the good that we may do comes from God. Let’s read:

1 Corinthians 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

Acts 12:21 And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them.

22 And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.

23 And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms and gave up the ghost.

Herod was smitten in public because he craved the applause and accolades of men. As he delivered his speech, the multitudes would take up a chant of praise and adoration because of the choice words used. The same problem plagued king Saul, because when David, through God was victorious in war, he was applauded for his bravery and victory, and the women would come out with timbrels and dances singing, “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands”.

This praise of another greatly aggravated king Saul, and he complained publicly that the glory and credit he believed was due to him, was going to David. It is because of this insatiable caving for praise, and the applause of individuals, why Saul was led to commit murder, for wherever there is envy and jealousy, we will find every other type of evil. Let’s read:

1st Samuel 18:6 And it came to pass as they came, when David was returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, that the women came out of all cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet king Saul, with tabrets, with joy, and with instruments of music.

7 And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.

8 And Saul was very wroth, and the saying displeased him; and he said, They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom?

9 And Saul eyed David from that day and forward.

In our day there are some who insist on taking the credit for their accomplishments, and who become upset if praise is lavished upon another. God is not brought into the equation, let alone acknowledged for His mercies. Again, there are others who seem to feed off of applause, which becomes intoxicating and causes its subscribers to say and do some very strange things.

It is a very dangerous thing to praise or applaud the sayings and doings of men, for whenever one loses sight of his dependence on God, a terrible fall will occur sooner or later. We should cultivate the habit of giving God all the glory for everything good, for whatsoever we are, or do is because of Him, and comes through Him.

This fact is not understood by many especially when it comes to temporal achievements, and because of this, the credit is very often usurped by the human agent. Hence the reason why The Lord saw it fit to highlight this aspect of the gospel in our generation where pride, and self-boasting are fast becoming dominant themes. Let’s read:

Acts 17: 24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;

25 Neither is worshiped with men's hands, as though he needed anything, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;

28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

Isaiah 40:13 Who hath directed the Spirit of the Lord, or being his counselor hath taught him?

15 Behold, the nations are as a drop of a bucket, and are counted as the small dust of the balance.

17 All nations before him are as nothing; and they are counted to him less than nothing, and vanity.

21 Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth?

22 It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers;

that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in.

23 That bringeth the princes to nothing; he maketh the judges of the earth as vanity.

[3] Worship Him.

This aspect of the 1st Angel’s message is the one that should concern pastors, priests, bishops, clergy and laity, for it is the issue which sparked the great controversy in heaven, and which will close it. The issue came to our planet through the fall of Adam, and the devil has done violence to Christianity, in greatly distorting our understanding of worship.

For starters, worship has much more to do with our obedience than our praise, for if God had to choose one above the other, He would choose obedience in a heartbeat. This is what king Saul misunderstood about worship for he went to great lengths to offer sacrifice, but he came up short on obedience.

When instructed by God to do certain things, Saul did “Most” of them, but he left out those portions he did not necessarily agree with. Thus, when he was confronted by the prophet Samuel, he lauded the commands he had obeyed, and the ones he had refused he made excuses for, thus causing Samuel to institute a much-needed correction, on the issue of worship. Let’s read:

1st Samuel 15:10 Then came the word of the Lord unto Samuel, saying,

11 It repenteth me that I have set up Saul to be king: for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my commandments. And it grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the Lord all night.

13 And Samuel came to Saul: and Saul said unto him, Blessed be thou of the Lord: I have performed the commandment of the Lord.

14 And Samuel said, What meaneth then this bleating of the sheep in mine ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear?

15 And Saul said, They have brought them from the Amalekites: for the people spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen, to sacrifice unto the Lord thy God; and the rest we have utterly destroyed.

22 And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king.

In our day, the issue of true worship is front and center of the 1st angel’s message, because of partial obedience by most of Christendom. It is a fact that most Christians obey some of God’s commands. But there are other commands that are left on the back-burner. Case in point is the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, which brings to light the Authorship of the decalogue.

There are many sincere Christians who are indeed honest, who do not steal nor bear false witness, and there are millions more who observe the sanctity of God-ordained marriage, and who believe faith and family are cornerstones of a society where Biblical laws and principles will produce positive outcomes.

That is all well and good, but there is one missing link, and as stated before, we will deliver the gospel in precis form. Christ has nowhere in the scriptures, suggested, advised, commanded or encouraged any person to make the first day of the week a sabbath. The Lord’s day has always been the 7th day of the week and it will continue to be throughout eternity.

Therefore, without argument, without going into a long, detailed explanation of beasts and the seals in Revelation; without displaying many cryptic charts, and symbols some may not grasp or understand, here is the gospel for contemporary Christianity in precis form: The 7th day Sabbath needs to be kept, with all of the other laws of the decalogue, “for he that is guilty of one is guilty of all”.

Good intentions are good and charitable actions are much to be encouraged, but if any, living in the last generation who being convicted by the word of God and The Holy Ghost, deliberately tramples upon the fourth commandment, their names will be removed from the Lamb’s book of life, for God will not take a willfully disobedient person to heaven. Let no one be deceived on this matter, for it proceeds directly from the throne of God. Let’s read:

Exodus 20:8 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.

9 Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work:

10 But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:

11 For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day and hallowed it.

2nd Chronicles 36:15 And the Lord God of their fathers sent to them by his messengers, rising up betimes, and sending; because he had compassion on his people, and on his dwelling place.

16 But they mocked the messengers of God, and despised his words, and misused his prophets, until the wrath of the Lord arose against his people, till there was no remedy.

20 And them that had escaped from the sword carried he away to Babylon; where they were servants to him and his sons until the reign of the kingdom of Persia.

21 To fulfill the word of the Lord by the mouth of Jeremiah, until the land had enjoyed her sabbaths: for as long as she lay desolate she kept sabbath, to fulfill threescore and ten years.

Nehemiah 13:15 In those days saw I in Judah some treading wine presses on the sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses; as also wine, grapes, and figs, and all manner of burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the sabbath day: and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals.

16 There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of ware, and sold on the sabbath unto the children of Judah, and in Jerusalem.

17 Then I contended with the nobles of Judah, and said unto them, What evil thing is this that ye do,

and profane the sabbath day?

18 Did not your fathers thus, and did not our God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this city? yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the sabbath.

19 And it came to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the sabbath: and some of my servants set I at the gates, that there should no burden be brought in on the sabbath day.

Luke 4:16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read.

Revelation 14:9 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand,

10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation.

12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

Therefore, with the gospel to our generation given in precis form, with the main sticking points clearly pointed out by the omniscient eye of God, then let all who are honest in heart, all who love and serve The God of heaven, obey His voice and His laws, for love to God is not measured merely by praise but by obedience. That said, we will end our discourse with four important passages of scripture. Let’s read:

Revelation 18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.

John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

Isaiah 58:13 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable; and shalt honor him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words.

14 Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.

Ecclesiastes 12:13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

God bless!

The 144,00 Made Simple. Sabbath Afternoon 02/16/2019

The issue of the 144,000 has puzzled some of us for years, and others are perturbed at the prospect that only this group will be translated to heaven without seeing death. Then again, there is the question of how many will be saved when Jesus comes, and the great multitude which, John could not number only seems to add to the mystery. Others claim that the number must be figurative, while others believe it must be literal.

Whatever the conclusion drawn we must remember that God is not the author of confusion, for Jesus is the One who instructed us that our sayings be yea, yea, or nay, nay. Therefore, according to Jesus’ own instruction against confusion, we should not end up with two or three schools of thought on the matter.

Neither is it the will of God’s that several different renditions or interpretations on the matter exist, because, wherever multiple schools of thought are to be found, there we will be certain to have private interpretations. This is just as the devil would have it for multiple interpretations are one of his primary weapons in getting folks confused. That is the reason why so many different versions of the Bible exist, and it is the very same reason why hundreds of Christian denominations exist.

Thus, as the remnant people of God, we should try to avoid harboring differing strands of beliefs, and different methods of interpretation, for this cannot and will never be the will of God. In order for us to present a united front to the world, it’s necessary for us to follow the wise instruction given by Paul to the newly minted Christian church, which suffered the baleful effects of different schools of thought on so many matters. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.

11 For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.

13 Is Christ divided?

1st Corinthians 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.

40 Let all things be done decently and in order.

Therefore, several pertinent issues about the group of 144,000 will be clarified, and the preparation that is to take place will be observed, for we should not study the word of God for mere contention, or for information, but to do God’s will. God has already made the issue quite simple, so that there is no need for us to stumble or walk in darkness on this point. Thus, we will study the issue point by point, question by question, and answer by answer.

Point # [1] The seal of God is His stamp of approval, placed upon those who sincerely keep all the laws of God, through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The reason why no one will see the seal is because it isn’t possible for us to see The Holy Spirit. It’s also of critical importance for us to understand that the mere keeping of the Sabbath, in and of itself, never makes one eligible for the seal of God, because the Sabbath, or any other day for that matter, has never saved anyone. Never has, never will.

In fact, many Sabbath-keepers will be lost, for the day is not a Savior. Only those who have submitted themselves to Christ, and in whom The Spirit of God has taken up permanent residence, will be sealed. Church membership, Sabbath days, vegan diets, and the whole nine yards are important, but they do not save anyone, they never have, and they never will. We are saved by grace through faith in Christ alone, who gives us His Holy Spirit to empower us to obey His every word. That’s the gospel in precis form.

Point # [2] The 144,000 is a literal number. John saw two groups, one he could count, and the other he could not count. The scriptures must be studied line upon line, precept upon precept, therefore, as the days of Noah were, so also shall it be when The Son of Man cometh. During the period that had elapsed between Adam’s sin and the flood, many faithful souls, beginning with Abel were laid to sleep, for they never lived to see the fulfilment of Noah’s preaching. Yet they will be saved.

Then, according to current estimates, there were living at the time of the flood, approximately 7 to 8 billion people, but only eight were kept alive without seeing death, during the deluge. In the last generation, there are approximately 7 plus billion people alive, so if 144,000 escape alive, we will be doing pretty well. The rest of saints will be put to sleep just before the ordeal, yet they will be saved in God’s kingdom. Let’s read:

[The Great Controversy pp 648>649] Upon the crystal sea before the throne, that sea of glass as it were mingled with fire,—so resplendent is it with the glory of God,—are gathered the company that have “gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name.” [Revelation 15:2.]

[Early Writings pp 141] ] heard the voice of God like many waters, which gave us the day and hour of Jesus’ coming. The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake. When God spoke the time, He poured upon us the Holy Ghost, and our faces began to light up and shine with the glory of God, as Moses’ did when he came down from Mount Sinai.

[The Great controversy pp 648] With the Lamb upon Mount Zion, “having the harps of God,” they stand, the hundred and forty and four thousand that were redeemed from among men; And they sing “a new song” before the throne, a song which no man can learn save the hundred and forty and four thousand. It is the song of Moses and the Lamb—a song of deliverance.

None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the song of their experience—an experience such as no other company have ever had. “These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth.” These, having been translated from the earth, from among the living, are counted as “the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb.” Revelation 15:2, 3; 14:1-5.

“These are they which came out of great tribulation;” they have passed through the time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation; they have endured the anguish of the time of Jacob's trouble; they have stood without an intercessor through the final outpouring of God's judgments. But they have been delivered, for they have “washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”

Point # [3] When the servant of the Lord says that the Sabbath is the seal of God, she is referring to the consummation of the work in the heart by The Spirit of God, who writes His entire law into our consciences, including the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. A professed Sabbath-keeper who continues to bear false witness, or commit adultery, will not receive the seal of God, for the Sabbath cannot save anyone.

He who offends in one point is guilty of all, thus, the Sabbath commandment, which contains God’s name, His office, and the territory over which He rules, will be one out of ten commands which the faithful are to keep. It has to do with an intelligent understanding of God’s laws, they being kept with a willing heart and mind, not as an obligatory yoke just to be saved. Let’s read:

[Maranatha pp 200] Just as soon as the people of God are sealed in their foreheads—it is not any seal or mark that can be seen, but a settling into the truth, both intellectually and spiritually, so they cannot be moved—just as soon as God's people are sealed and prepared for the shaking, it will come.

Point # [4] Being sealed does not necessarily mean one will not die, for even though John mentions the 144,000 as being sealed, we should understand that he is doing this for emphasis in the context of what he is seeing in vision, but that does not mean that only 144,000 will be sealed. In fact, anyone who will enter into God’s kingdom must be sealed, and thus, those who die before the time of trouble will also be sealed.

This is not rocket science, because, as was stated before, being sealed does not necessarily prevent a person from dying. Jesus was sealed and He died, so were all the apostles, and millions of other faithful Christians, who all passed through the portals of the tomb. Indeed, anyone who will be saved, must first be sealed, period. Let’s read:

John 6:27 Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.

2nd Corinthians 1:21 Now he which establisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God;

22 Who hath also sealed us and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.

Ephesians 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

Point # [5] All the righteous, from Adam down to the very last saint who dies just before the time of trouble, will be alive to see Jesus in His glory. The first resurrection will take place just before the Son of man is revealed, and therefore, the concern that only 144,000 will be alive when He comes, can be safely laid to rest. 144,000 will be translated, the rest will be resurrected, but all will be alive to see the great event for themselves. Let’s read:

1st Thessalonians 4:15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

Revelation 7:4 And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.

1st Corinthians 15:51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,

52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

Job 19:25 For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:

26 And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God:

27 Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold.

[Last Day Events pp 222>223] I saw that she [Mrs. Hastings] was sealed and would come up at the voice of God and stand upon the earth and would be with the 144,000. I saw we need not mourn for her; she would rest in the time of trouble.—Selected Messages 2:263 (1850). There are living upon our earth men who have passed the age of fourscore and ten.

The natural results of old age are seen in their feebleness. But they believe God, and God loves them. The seal of God is upon them, and they will be among the number of whom the Lord has said, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord”.

But there is a much deeper problem that lies under the surface, and needs to be addressed, for if it isn’t understood, when the shaking comes, it will blow away millions of us, like dry leaves on the summer threshing floor. There is way too much questioning, bickering, and hesitation before we believe and obey God. We require detailed explanations, that must conform to logical modes of thought, and our personal opinions.

There is also a tendency to consult conventional wisdom, before we accept a plain thus saith The Lord. This attitude is not going to cut it for the time of trouble ahead, because according to the prophet Joel, the 144,000 is a battalion of well-trained and disciplined soldiers, and as such, they obey first and ask questions later, if they have any questions.

There is a form of irreverent quibbling pertaining to revelations God has given His servants, and even some of the young have taken it upon themselves to question the wisdom of God in sending us many instructions through His servants. Those who were to continue on this route will have to be put to rest before the time of trouble, for it is a living faith and commensurate action that will be needed in those perilous times.

The Lord Jesus was greatly impressed by the faith manifested by the centurion, prompting Him to exclaim that He had not found so great faith in Israel. It was the centurion’s understanding of how authority works, and his willingness to accept that format, which caused his faith to shine forth in so distinct and radiant a manner. Let’s read:

Matthew 8:5 And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him,

6 And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented.

7 And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him.

8 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.

9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.

10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.

11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.

12 But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

[Early Writings pp 271] Said the angel, “Look ye!” My attention was then turned to the company I had seen, who were mightily shaken. I was shown those whom I had before seen weeping and praying in agony of spirit. The company of guardian angels around them had been doubled, and they were clothed with an armor from their head to their feet. They moved in exact order, like a company of soldiers.

Their countenances expressed the severe conflict which they had endured, the agonizing struggle they had passed through. Yet their features, marked with severe internal anguish, now shone with the light and glory of heaven. They had obtained the victory, and it called forth from them the deepest gratitude and holy, sacred joy. I heard those clothed with the armor speak forth the truth with great power.

It had effect. Many had been bound; some wives by their husbands, and some children by their parents. The honest who had been prevented from hearing the truth now eagerly laid hold upon it. All fear of their relatives was gone, and the truth alone was exalted to them. They had been hungering and thirsting for truth; it was dearer and more precious than life. I asked what had made this great change. An angel answered, “It is the latter rain, the refreshing from the presence of the Lord, the loud cry of the third angel.”

Therefore, in preparation for the cataclysmic events before us, it is necessary for us to cultivate a heart and mind that is ready and willing to obey God’s every word. Peter obeyed the word of Christ when called to walk upon the water, yet Peter didn’t stop to reason, or question, and consult with science, or physics, and the myriad of man-made systems and modes of thought which often inhibit the exercise of faith. He obeyed, and the rest is history.

The same is true for us who are living in the last days; a willing heart, and a ready mind, together with a humble heart and a teachable spirit, is what is most needed. In other words, if God says it, we believe it, and that settles it, period. Therefore, in closing, we are reminded that the primary purpose in God giving us His Holy Spirit, is to facilitate, and enable obedience to His every word. Let’s read:

Acts 5:32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

God Bless!

Husbands, Love Your Wives. Sabbath afternoon 02/09/2019

In our day and age, it has become increasingly more difficult to preach the plain truth, for preachers and teachers of the word are often pitted against forces that are antithetical to the word of God. With the onset of liberalism, and independent thought and action, the original roles and positions of men and women are either being quickly eroded or reversed entirely. And the sure result is an unprecedented rise in single parent homes, where one parent has gone missing in action.

Loneliness is gripping the nation as a plague, and there are many who are currently married, living under the same roof, but who are actually leading single lives. Others, who have staked out certain positions rigidly, without room for negotiation on points that are non-salvific, have lost their spouse to divorce.

Many spouses have been alienated for the simplest of reasons, and the spark that once animated their marriage has gone out permanently. Again, there is an increasing tendency to reject the very concept of submission to each other, and the inevitable result is that many are living separate lives, even while still being married. Divorce, for any and every reason is also taking a fearful toll, because just like fast-food, it has become the choice of first resort when things do not turn out as expected.

Thus, for the purposes of this study, we will focus on the instruction given in the Bible, for men to love their own wives, and not be bitter against them. It would seem natural for men to do so, for a man will not hate one whom he loves. Thus, the question is, “Why did God see fit to place an exhortation in the scriptures, for something that ought to be occurring naturally?”

The answers to this, and other questions are found in the scriptures, which should inform our thoughts and actions. When God made Adam, He designated that Eve should be his one and only wife, and that whatever adjustments were needed after sin, would be taken care of between the two, with God as their leader. Foreign interference from external forces as it pertains to the marriage relation was not a part of God’s plan, even though because of sheer necessity, it became common practice.

Thus, the first step in reversing the current order of things is for us to take a good look at God’s ideal for us. To begin with, for a Christian husband to love his wife, he must first love God, for if God is not at the center of the relationship, it will be less than ideal, or it will collapse sooner or later in most cases.

This is one of the reasons why the current divorce rate in Christian circles is pretty much the same as in secular circles. It has to do with the issue of both persons being in Christ, from whom the love of God is dispensed to the human agent. Love that is born of God does not occur naturally in the human heart and must be implanted by the indwelling of God’s Holy Spirit. Let’s read:

1st John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.

8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed?

If we desire the love of God to be manifest in our marriages, we’ll have to take the initiative in being loving, even at times when it may be difficult to do so. Generally speaking, marriage does not consist of only ideal circumstances, for there are times when difficulties will arise, when unreasonable demands are made, when unnecessary funds are spent, when arguments arise, and when the temptation to do as one pleases, without regard for the other, will seem to be an attractive option.

There are times when spouses will spend more than is needed, for things that may seem unnecessary to the other, but God’s love should still be cultivated. Because of these, and other varying circumstances, the exercise of love on the part of the husband will call into action certain qualities, and characteristics which many of us need to develop by the grace and power of God, for as it is with any other noble trait, practice makes perfect.

However, even though the emphasis of this study will be on husbands, we will discover that the words and instructions are generic in nature, meaning that they can and should be adopted by wives, wherever possible. The reason why the onus is being placed upon men in particular, is because someone has to take the initiative, and as such, the God-ordained head of the home should be at the forefront of any efforts to foster and maintain a sound relationship.

When Adam and Eve sinned, God called Adam into question first, even though his wife was first in the transgression, thereby showing that the bulk of the responsibility rests upon the shoulders of the father in all matters that pertain to spiritual and physical well-being. Some men may not know this, and may be in danger of shirking their responsibilities, or in some instances, relegating their duties to the wife, who in most instances, already has a whole lot on her plate to deal with.

Thus, the following are some important points for us to grasp, and the accompanying passages in the scriptures should guide our thoughts and actions, even as we seek to live within God’s ideal. These worthy goals may not be a breeze, they may not be politically correct, and they may come at the cost of severe self-denial, but let’s buckle up our shoes and submit ourselves to God, for we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

Pointer # [1] Husbands should seek to make their marriage as bullet-proof as possible, for the devil is hell-bent on destroying marriages and families, which form the foundation of society.

We are never to assume erroneously, that because one is a Christian, he/she cannot fall. Another fatal mistake is to conclude that good moral character is sufficient on its own to keep one’s marriage intact. If this was the case in every instance, then David would not have stumbled over Bathsheba, for as far as the Biblical records show, one of his wives had the best character one could hope for. Let’s read:

1st Samuel 25:3 Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and she was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance.

18 Then Abigail made haste, and took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five sheep ready dressed, and five measures of parched corn, and an hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, and laid them on asses.

23 And when Abigail saw David, she hasted, and lighted off the ass, and fell before David on her face, and bowed herself to the ground,

24 And fell at his feet, and said, Upon me, my lord, upon me let this iniquity be: and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak in thine audience, and hear the words of thine handmaid.

28 I pray thee, forgive the trespass of thine handmaid: for the Lord will certainly make my lord a sure house; because my lord fighteth the battles of the Lord, and evil hath not been found in thee all thy days.

30 And it shall come to pass, when the Lord shall have done to my lord according to all the good that he hath spoken concerning thee, and shall have appointed thee ruler over Israel;

31 That this shall be no grief unto thee, nor offence of heart unto my lord, either that thou hast shed blood causeless, or that my lord hath avenged himself.

32 And David said to Abigail, Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, which sent thee this day to meet me:

33 And blessed be thy advice, and blessed be thou, which hast kept me this day from coming to shed blood, and from avenging myself with mine own hand.

39 And when David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, Blessed be the Lord, that hath pleaded the cause of my reproach. And David sent and communed with Abigail, to take her to him to wife.

41 And she arose, and bowed herself on her face to the earth, and said, Behold, let thine handmaid be a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.

42 And Abigail became his wife.

It is true that good a character should become the cornerstone of any marriage, but we must always remember that godly character is not usually born overnight. It takes time, self-denial, discipline, trials, temptations, and a string of victories for one’s mind to become set in stone, as it pertains to him, or her being consistently faithful.

Thus, in an effort to make his marriage bulletproof as possible, husbands, and wives should pray every day, for grace to help in time of need. The husband should take the initiative in spiritual things, for he is the priest of his home and as such, he is responsible for the religion and practice of his family. There are times when Christian wives may not be sufficiently motivated in spiritual things and because of this the husband must take up the slack.

Thus wisdom, intelligence, and good understanding should be incorporated with sterling character, in order that the marriage be bullet-proof. In addition, Jesus must be sought out daily by both, so that the strength and will-power that is needed to run the marathon of married life, will be imparted to us on a continuum. Trying to keep one’s marriage, and family together, without God, is a very tall order in most cases. Let’s read:

Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Pointer # [2] There can be no love without submission, and no submission without love.

Ephesians 5:22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body.

24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.

25 Husbands love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.

This particular instruction is often quite difficult to swallow in our day where independence of thought and action has replaced the teachings of the Bible. The very thought of submitting often stirs up the spirit of resistance in the human heart, as if there is something inherently wrong with it. Let’s say here that the Christian path is filled with paradoxes, for we live by dying, we win by losing, and we resist the devil by submitting to God.

However, it is by the administration of Godly love that submitting is made easier, and pleasurable, for if a woman feels loved, in the truest sense of the word, she will usually do and dare for her husband. But there are limits to this particular instruction, for the wife is not required to submit to her husband, if doing so would cause her to disobey God.

God must come first in all of our considerations, for it is He who has created us, and then bought us with a price. Therefore, if some request of the husband will put the wife squarely at odds with what God has commanded, she should not do it. On the other hand, if a husband’s request does not cause her to commit sin, she should concur wherever possible, for this is how the church of Christ is structured.

Even though we are given the freedom of choice by God, to do good or evil, His church is built upon the premise of submitting to Him in all things, and we know that He never asks us to do anything that is not for our best good. Likewise, due consideration should be made when decisions or requests are on the table. If the request in question will foster unity, peace, and faithfulness, and if it will help in making the marriage more bulletproof, then it should be done.

The Bible teaches this instruction unequivocally and it needs to be understood thoroughly, for when we observe the way love is measured, we discover that it’s not measured by praise but by obedience. When satan approached Eve in the garden, he offered her praise, but obedience to God was put on the back-burner. Similarly, love between a husband and wife will become a fallacy, without the biblical ingredient of submission, in accordance with God’s word. Let’s read:

John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

James 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

[P&P 53] The serpent continued, in a musical voice, with subtle praise of her surpassing loveliness; and his words were not displeasing. Such has been Satan's work from the days of Adam to the present, and he has pursued it with great success.

Pointer # [3] Physical appearance matters too.

Husbands are not fall into the error of thinking that the physical aspects of married life are of little or no importance, or that it can be shunned without any adverse effects. The principle of love, in action, will move us to be in the best shape possible, for it will have only good effects on the marriage. But quite often this issue is despised or neglected as being of little importance.

We often loose much by not studying the ways of God, and very often we stumble by not combining scriptural instructions with good commonsense. It is true that with the passage of time we will age, some sooner, some later, but while it’s possible everyone, including husbands and wives should seek to be in the best healthy, and physical shape possible, and again, the husband must take the lead, wherever he can. This is not a figment of someone’s imagination, it is scriptural. Let’s read:

3rd John 1:2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

Deuteronomy 7:14 Thou shalt be blessed above all people: there shall not be male or female barren among you, or among your cattle.

15 And the Lord will take away from thee all sickness and will put none of the evil diseases of Egypt, which thou knowest, upon thee.

Psalms 105:37 He brought them forth also with silver and gold: and there was not one feeble person among their tribes.

Therefore, since we have seen that the physical and spiritual aspects are inextricably intertwined, let us study the “Ways of God” on the matter of physical appearance. God’s ways are discovered by studying what He does, because they give us great insights into His thoughts and actions, and they often shed great light on why He does certain things the way He does.

Abraham is old and well stricken in years, but his son Isaac is only forty years old, in the prime of his manhood, and is looking for a wife. Abraham does the right thing by praying first, and instructing his servant not to take a wife from among those who do not fear God. The servant goes on his way, he prays to God for guidance, and God goes before him and makes a special choice.

And the rest is history, for as we have stated before, what God does, sheds great light on how He thinks. Will he choose someone who has sterling character, but no physical appeal, or will He choose someone with the best of two worlds, since as Jesus stated in the new testament, “God knows how to give good gifts unto His children?” Let’s read:

Genesis 24:2 And Abraham said unto his eldest servant of his house, that ruled over all that he had, Put, I pray thee, thy hand under my thigh.

3 And I will make thee swear by the Lord, the God

of heaven, and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell.

2 And he said O Lord God of my master Abraham, I pray thee, send me good speed this day, and shew

kindness unto my master Abraham.

13 Behold, I stand here by the well of water; and the daughters of the men of the city come out to draw water.

14 Let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master.

Obviously, this servant’s focus was squarely set on character, which is a good and upright thing, for without it, physical beauty becomes vain. But God who knows what He is doing, chooses someone who has it all, the spiritual as well as the physical, because as far as God is concerned, physical attraction plays some role in keeping husbands and wives content. Physical attraction is not the main or ultimate keeper of the marriage, but every little bit will help in making the marriage more bulletproof. Let’s read:

Genesis 24:15 And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah came out, who was born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham's brother, with her pitcher upon her shoulder.

16 And the damsel was very fair to look upon.

17 And the servant ran to meet her, and said, Let me, I pray thee, drink a little water of thy pitcher.

18 And she said, Drink, my lord: and she hasted, and let down her pitcher upon her hand, and gave him drink.

19 And when she had done giving him drink, she said, I will draw water for thy camels also, until they have done drinking.

The deductions that are made from these passages show the mind of God, as it pertains to the spiritual and physical aspects of marriage, for it was not Isaac who made the pick, it was God. If a sterling character was all that was needed, then He would not go to such lengths to choose someone who was physically attractive too.

[Temperance. pp 43] Let none who profess godliness regard with indifference the health of the body, and flatter themselves that intemperance is no sin, and will not affect their spirituality. A close sympathy exists between the physical and the moral nature. The transgression of physical law is the transgression of God's law.

Our Creator is Jesus Christ. He is the author of physical laws, as He is the author of the moral law. And the human being who is careless and reckless of the habits and practices that concern his physical life and health, sins against God.

Husbands and wives are obligated to be in the best shape possible, for as long as possible. This aspect of the marriage often goes a long way in helping to stave off temptations that often appear suddenly. To conclude that character alone means everything may apply in certain instances, but the bulk of all historical evidence shows that leading a healthy life will improve the marriage relation.

In addition, God Himself calls for us not only to be in shape spiritually, but also physically, because what we do to our bodies, directly affects the soul. In fact the emotions, feelings, thoughts and decisions are all centered in the body, and that’s why the physical aspect of our being should never be neglected. The husband again must take the initiative, if for any reason the wife may be less motivated. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

There is one more pointer that needs to be studied, for is often not appreciated for its value. Husbands who endeavor to love their wives, even as Christ loves the church, should make every effort to be involved wither activities, whenever and wherever possible, for there is strength in numbers, and it is often the case that temptation asserts itself more strongly when one is alone than when the two are together.

Pointer # [4] Do as much as you can, “Together”.

Pray together, eat together, workout together, study the word together, go to church together, and sit together, grieve together, rejoice together, shop together, sleep together, worship together, bank together, talk together, and sing together. The more activities done together, the more bulletproof the marriage will become; and again, the husband is to take the initiative, whenever and wherever he can.

In the garden of Eden satan said not a single word to Adam, but to Eve, who was alone by herself, he was able to deceive, for if her husband was present, he would have immediately detected the danger, and the Bible confirms this by stating that Adam was not deceived. Great harm is often done when husbands and wives are not “Together”. Let’s read:

[P&P pp 53] The angels had cautioned Eve to beware of separating herself from her husband while occupied in their daily labor in the garden; with him she would be in less danger from temptation than if she were alone. On perceiving that she was alone, she felt an apprehension of danger, but dismissed her fears, deciding that she had sufficient wisdom and strength to discern evil and to withstand it.

In closing, whatever we may do, and whatever the situation might be in our marriages currently, God is calling on husbands the world over to take up their mantle of God-given responsibilities, loving in spite of, not because of, and ever seeking to make the marriage as sacred and bullet-proof as it should be. We therefore close with a gentle reminder. Let’s read:

Colossians 3:19 Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.

God bless!

The Close Of Probation. Sabbath Afternoon. 02/02/2019

Come when it may, the close of human probation will occur when most of earth’s inhabitants are not looking for it, and by default, will not be ready for it either. For one reason or another, many who have professed faith in Jesus and have gone along for the ride, have allowed their faith to grow dim, and as a result the love of many has waxed cold. This is a sad condition which does not occur in a vacuum but is the result of a long, protracted process.

Over a period of time, the first love which animated our zeal to serve Jesus in all things, wanes, and very many have permitted the things of earthly value to usurp the first place in our affections. Then again, some of us may have allowed the cares of this life to choke out the word, by having our priorities mixed up, to the point where our best energies, and the main focus of our thoughts center on the temporal, to the neglect of the spiritual.

Another reason why the close of probation will be a complete surprise to others, is because the smooth sermons which lull the unwary into a false sense of security, have replaced those cutting truths which call for repentance and self-denial. The multitudes generally prefer to listen to those cute, comfortable sermons, which do not disturb the conscience, and which often contain jokes which may seem “funny”.

Thus, many who present a generic, watered-down form of the gospel, sound more like Saturday night live, than the preaching of John the Baptist, who in his sermons called for real and permanent change. This regrettable state of affairs has also affected the remnant people of God, for many are choosing their place of worship based solely on positive vibrations, good music, or the personality of the preacher.

For many different reasons, and under one pretext or another, the diabolical purpose of the enemy is being fulfilled, for most of earth’s inhabitants are now in a deep slumber from which many will awake only when it is too late. Therefore, in the parable of the sower, The Lord shows us the dangers some will encounter, even when our interest has been peaked at times on themes of salvation. Let’s read:

Matthew 13:3 And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;

4 And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up.

5 Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth.

6 And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.

7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them.

8 But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.

18 Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.

19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.

20 But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and quickly with joy receiveth it;

21 Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.

23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.

Matthew 6:21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

In addition, the scriptures also clearly state that the close of probation will occur suddenly, beginning at the house of God, and then extending to the masses of people who reject God’s call. Even the five wise virgins were asleep when the Bridegroom came at midnight, thus demonstrating again, that things will come to an end when we least expect. Several texts confirm this to us, and we will do well to take heed, whilst we can. Let’s read:

1st Peter 4:17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?

Mark 13:34 For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.

35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning:

36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.

37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

1st Thessalonians 5:2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.

6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

Those folks who are waiting until the last minute to repent, when there is to be a rush for the door, will be sadly disappointed, because a deep relationship with Christ is not born overnight. It takes time to trust in God, to become familiar with His ways, and His word, and it takes a lifetime for the work of The Holy Spirit in us to produce mature, well-balanced Christians. As a general rule of thumb, this does not take place suddenly. Hence the reason why the next passage is so important. Let’s read:

Hebrews 3:14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end;

15 While it is said, Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

Thus, the close of probation for many will take place in pretty much the same way as it did for Achan, for just as the issues of his sin, concealment, and finally a forced confession from unwilling lips caused him to be eternally separated from God, just so will the many millions who have made excuses, or who have postponed the day of grace, end in separation from God.

In our study today, we will not delve into the time factors for the close of probation, because only God knows when that will be. In addition, the focus on time may lead some to put off their day of grace for a convenient season in the future. Instead, we will deal with the reason why probation closes for some persons, even whilst they are still alive, the various situations which unfold during probationary time, and the lessons we should learn from persons who were separated from God.

Therefore, as we study Achan’s experience, let us pay close attention to how his sad end unfolded, so that we in our day would not repeat the same fatal errors. A clear command was given by God that the spoils from the campaign against Jericho, shouldn’t be appropriated for personal use. In the clearest, and simplest words the instruction had been given, for the city, its inhabitants, and all their belongings were accursed. Let’s read:

Joshua 6:17 And the city shall be accursed, even it, and all that are therein, to the Lord: only Rahab the harlot shall live, she and all that are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent.

18 And ye, in any wise keep yourselves from the accursed thing, lest ye make yourselves accursed, when ye take of the accursed thing, and make the camp of Israel a curse, and trouble it.

19 But all the silver, and gold, and vessels of brass and iron, are consecrated unto the Lord: they shall come into the treasury of the Lord.

Whenever God gives such a clear instruction in His word, those who disregard it do so at the peril of their own souls, because, even though God is quick to forgive, and delights in mercy, yet, the fact that we deliberately went against His word, casts a cloud on our consciences, and may cause us to hesitate in the important work of confession and repentance.

After Achan committed his sin, God gave him time for due consideration and reflection if by any means his disturbed conscience would drive him to repent, because according to the story, several days must have elapsed since the sin was committed, during which time Achan was given ample opportunity to confess in private.

Had Achan done so, he might very well have been spared the agony and humiliation which occurred later in the public square. But instead of doing this, he dug his heels in and conspired with his family to conceal the wrong, a fact that is borne out in the statement that says he hid the “stuff” in his tent.

The mere fact that we have sinned does not make us ineligible for the grace of God. Instead, it should drive us to the throne of grace, with a realization of our need of help. The problem occurs when we try to cover our sins or try to make excuses for them, or worse yet, to blame others or circumstances for our failures.

Whenever we take this route, those sins remain unforgiven in the books of record, and if they are never addressed, they will finally be exposed in the public square, because it must be made manifest to the universe why certain persons are excluded from heaven. During our probationary period, sins that are confessed and forsaken are hidden from view by the blood of Christ, but sins that aren’t confessed are laid bare to the eyes of heavenly intelligences. Let’s read:

Psalms 51:1 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.

9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.

Acts 3:19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.

Proverbs 28:13 He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.

Revelation 16:15 Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.

Again, the “Stuff” Achan refers to was not merely one item but several items, and as such, would have required cooperation, and knowledge of the wrong on the part of his family members. His entire family became implicated with his sin, because they were made privy to it, and said nothing. Their silence, and inaction was an act of cooperation by default, as far as God is concerned, for those who have knowledge of wrong-doing and do nothing about it, do become participators by default.

Some Christians, in reading of the history of God’s dealings with ancient Israel, have concluded that the God of the old testament was severe, and that Jesus Christ of the new testament was a much more loving and lenient God. Nothing can be further from the truth, because the God of the old testament was Jesus.

Furthermore, these persons may overlook the fact that God gave ample opportunity for Achan and his family to confess their sins in private. In our own Miami Dade county, if one is travelling with others in a car filled with drugs, and knew it not, that fact will not be sufficient to avoid them being arrested.

The fact that Achan’s family knew of the crime, put the close of their probation on the line too, for if confession was made when forgiveness would have been granted, the thirty-six men who lost their lives later on, would be alive with their families. It wasn’t necessary for the situation to reach a crisis, if only he had confessed when he had opportunity to.

In our day of probation, whenever we may become aware that we have committed sin, we also should avoid waiting to confess, because with the passage of time, it always become more and more difficult to do so, since human nature generally always seeks to justify a wrong course of action.

It is not necessary to wait until the end of the day to confess our sins, for if our conscience is pricked at 11:00 am, because of some misdeed on our part, 11:00 am is the best time to confess and forsake. But for known sin to rest in our conscience for any length of time, will most likely cause it to seem less sinful, and before you know it we may either excuse it, or forget about it altogether.

In our day of probation that’s exactly what is taking place in the lives of many, including some professed Christians who once were disturbed by certain sins. There was a time when “alternative” lifestyles were frowned upon by the clergy, and certain skeletons were confined to the closet. But with the passage of time, and because of a refusal to confess our sins, it has now become politically incorrect, and at times even dangerous to say a word against such sins.

Thus, like Achan and his family our day of probation is swiftly drawing to a close, and those, who for fear of ridicule, or financial persecution, continue to say nothing; those who prefer to sit in silence, as goods are being hidden in Achan’s proverbial tent, will find out sooner or later, that probation will close at such a time, and manner when we least expect. Let’s read:

Ecclesiastes 8:11 Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.

12 Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be prolonged;

13 It shall not be well with the wicked, neither shall he prolong his days which are as a shadow; because he feareth not before God.

Days pass by, and God waits in vain for Achan to confess, but to no avail, and because of his sin, the military campaign which the Hebrews had ventured upon without prayer, fails miserably. In utter defeat they return to the camp, with thirty-six men of their number missing, and the obvious question is raised: “If God be with us, why then did we suffer such a terrible loss?” Let’s read:

Joshua 7:7 And Joshua said, Alas, O Lord God, wherefore hast thou at all brought this people over Jordan, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us? would to God we had been content, and dwelt on the other side Jordan!

8 O Lord, what shall I say, when Israel turneth their backs before their enemies!

9 For the Canaanites and all the inhabitants of the land shall hear of it, and shall environ us round, and cut off our name from the earth: and what wilt thou do unto thy great name?

10 And the Lord said unto Joshua, Get thee up; wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face?

11 Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant which I commanded

them: for they have even taken of the accursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled also, and they have put it even among their own stuff.

12 Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, but turned their backs before their enemies, because they were accursed: neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you.

13 Up, sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves against tomorrow: for thus saith the Lord God of Israel, There is an accursed thing in the midst of thee, O Israel: thou canst not stand before thine enemies, until ye take away the accursed thing from among you.

14 In the morning therefore ye shall be brought according to your tribes: and it shall be, that the tribe which the Lord taketh shall come according to the families thereof; and the family which the Lord shall take shall come by households; and the household which the Lord shall take shall come man by man.

The fact that God told Joshua to bring the tribes in the “Morning” means that there was yet time for Achan to come forward voluntarily, for it was still possible for his repentance and confession to take place. True, at this point, like the thief on the cross, he may have permitted the matter to go too far to avoid the physical consequences, but if he was to take the initiative, like the thief on the cross, he might be saved eternally.

During our probationary period, there may be sins that we may have to suffer the literal consequences for in this life, yet if we confess and forsake them, they will not debar us from being saved eternally in God’s kingdom. But if we wait, and wait, and wait until it is too late, then like Achan, things will reach a point of no return, and the door of mercy will be forever shut. Let’s read:

Joshua 7:16 So Joshua rose up early in the morning, and brought Israel by their tribes; and the tribe of Judah was taken.

17 And he brought the family of Judah; and he took the family of the Zarhites: and he brought the family of the Zarhites man by man; and Zabdi was taken.

18 And he brought his household man by man; and Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, was taken.

19 And Joshua said unto Achan, My son, give, I pray thee, glory to the Lord God of Israel, and make confession unto him; and tell me now what thou hast done; hide it not from me.

20 And Achan answered Joshua, and said, Indeed I have sinned against the Lord God of Israel, and thus and thus have I done.

This confession was of the Judas, and Esau variety, for it consisted of a regret for unfortunate results, rather than regret for sinning against God and man. Godly sorrow for sin does not generally wait until exposure to confess, nor does it focus merely on the consequences of sin. Instead, like the thief on the cross, it manifests a willingness to suffer the justice that is due in the temporal realm, while at the same time appealing to God’s mercy. Let’s read:

1st Chronicles 21:17 And David said unto God, Is it not I that commanded the people to be numbered? even I it is that have sinned and done evil indeed; but as for these sheep, what have they done? let thine hand, I pray thee, O Lord my God, be on me, and on my father's house; but not on thy people, that they should be plagued.

Matthew 27:3 Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,

4 Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.

Hebrews 12:16 Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.

17 For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.

In our day of probation, some err by waiting too long, until emails and phone records are exposed to public view, before confession is made. Others, like Achan remain silent as “Joshua” investigates wrongs which they may be fully aware of, and which family members and friends may be privy to.

It is of critical importance then, for us to come clean and upfront with God, acknowledging any known sin and asking for pardon while grace is still granted. For years, we may have known of some cherished sin of ours, hidden from human view, but known only to God and ourselves. Day by day, week by week, month by month, and year by year, the Spirt of God may plead with us to confess and forsake.

But like Achan, we too sometimes choose to bury the sin in the midst of our tents, to try to quiet our consciences, all the while, the days of our probation drag on until the golden opportunity is passed, and we are left without shelter.

Because of the rapid developments taking place all around us, on several different fronts, it is quite likely that our day of probation is closer to closing than many realize, and thus, it is important that we do not put off for any future time, that which we know should be done to day.

In lieu of this prospect, we urge each and everyone to make the best of God’s grace, while it still lingers, for as stated before in several passages, it will end when we least expect it to. We therefore end with a passage of scripture which should encourage us to make our move today. Let’s read:

2nd Corinthians 6:2 For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.

God bless!

Good Conflict Resolution. Sabbath Afternoon 01/26/2019

One of the difficulties we face in our fallen human nature is that of how to resolve conflicts, without becoming alienated. Conflicts have often arisen in the church, at home, on the job, in religious circles, and in political environments. Even among the disciples of Christ, there were times when they had to grapple with the age-old problem, for they found themselves sometimes, brooding, and venting their displeasure at one another.

And accusations, whether true or false often drives us apart, and because we often prefer to justify our opinions and actions, it becomes even harder for a breakthrough to occur. Again, when tempers flare, and harsh words fly left and right, the stage is often set for even more conflict, while the devil stirs the bitter brew in the background, hidden from human view.

Retaliations and acts of revenge do not help either, for they add toxic ingredients to already simmering tempers, which are like time bombs, only waiting, and ready to explode at the least provocation. This tit for tat tendency is particularly dangerous, for it can often escalate into irreconcilable differences in which former friends, associates, and even brethren may choose to go their own separate ways.

Whenever the lines of communication are broken down strange things begin to happen, for wounded pride often drives us into our corner, where we may huff and puff at each other, whilst the issues which have caused alienation, remain untouched on the back burner. Estrangement is the by-product of the work of evil spirits, for it’s one of the main signature characteristics manifested whenever, and wherever God’s Holy Spirit is absent.

Thus, because The Spirit of God is being gradually withdrawn from the earth, we will observe within our ranks, and even in the public square, the utter inability of man to resolve differences on his own, and that is because true, and lasting unity can only come from Christ, through the indwelling of God’s Holy Spirit, a fact which applies across the board, including marriage.

If persons are led to merely “Tolerate” each other, then the conflict has not been truly resolved. When quarrels are truly healed by The Spirit of God, both parties embrace each other with open hearts, with the best of intentions, and with a willingness to help each other in any way they can, coupled with a firm resolve not to cause hurt anymore. Thus, toleration is the counterfeit of true, godly resolution.

Again, wherever, and whenever conflicts are not resolved speedily, and according to the scriptural methods, people will get hurt; some emotionally, some financially, some physically and some socially. The very nature of the principles of satan’s kingdom is to cause hurt in some form or another. This truth is clearly set forth in the scriptures. Let’s read:

James 3:14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.

15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.

16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.

17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.

Once husbands and wives stop speaking, the lines of communication are broken down, and the longer the impasse lasts, the more difficult it becomes for a resolution to occur, because human pride balks at the prospect of being humbled. Thus, some people who are currently married, and live under the same roof, are actually leading single lives, all because of a lack of communication.

It is important then for us, who are living in these turbulent times, to embrace and practice the Lord’s instructions on “Good Conflict Resolution” so that the estrangement that is taking place all around us will not produce a trickle-down effect. One of the shining examples given in the scriptures, of good conflict resolution, has to do with a dispute which arose between Abraham and Lot, concerning real estate.

Somehow, when in poverty and adversity folks tend to get along more, but when riches increase, there’s a tendency for alienation. That is because both the rich and the poor often suffer from covetousness, a problem that can trigger animosity, if not dealt with in a godly manner.

Abraham had been abundantly blessed by God, and Lot, who had traveled with him, became a partaker of the blessings. But after a while, their flocks and herds increased to the point where available grass and pasture was becoming an issue, for there were insufficient resources to support both households in the same area.

As a result, the herdsmen of both Abraham and Lot often found themselves squabbling over grass, and the situation reached a boiling point, where the two parties had to confront the issue, lest it turned into violence. As we read of the incident, there would be several important lessons, and instructions, on how we too may peacefully resolve our differences, with no lingering animosity or bad feelings. Let’s read:

Genesis 13:1 And Abram went up out of Egypt, he, and his wife, and all that he had, and Lot with him, into the south.

2 And Abram was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold.

5 And Lot also, which went with Abram, had flocks, and herds, and tents.

6 And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together: for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together.

7 And there was a strife between the herd-men of Abram's cattle and the herd-men of Lot's cattle.

Lesson # [1]

Being a Christian does not mean that we will never have any conflicts, for we are all born with a fallen human nature that exerts great gravitational pull on persons even after we may have begun the process of conversion. This is what Paul was referring to as he correctly described the internal struggles facing us, between right and wrong, good and evil, which every Christian would experience on some level or another. Let’s read:

Romans 7: 19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.

21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.

22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:

23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

For Abraham to do the right thing, he would have to make a deliberate decision in favor of righteousness because it’s easier to go with the natural flow of my rights, rather than to surrender to the other person, the benefit. We would often find that in pursuit of conflict resolution, we will have to go against our natural grain.

Genesis 13:8 And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herd-men and thy herd-men; for we be brethren.

Lesson # [2]

In resolving conflict, we should value our friendship and harmony more than material or pecuniary gain. In other words, if friendship, and peace would cost Abraham financially, then he will bear it cheerfully. Reconciliation, as a general rule of thumb, usually involves loss to one, or either party, and therefore, God instructs us as His people, to be willing to bear the cost, because this is what Christ exemplified, as He bore the cost of our reconciliation to God, bodily in His own person. Let’s read:

Isaiah 53:5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Ephesians 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,

2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

3 Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Genesis 13:9 Is not the whole land before thee? separate thyself, I pray thee, from me: if thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if thou depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left.

10 And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered every where, before the Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, even as the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar.

11 Then Lot chose him all the plain of Jordan; and Lot journeyed east: and they separated themselves the one from the other.

Lesson # [3]

In resolving some conflicts, we may need to give up our rights for the sake of peace and friendship. The prevailing disposition to stake out our position, and entitlements, and to rigidly stand our ground, is not the way Abraham saw fit to deal with the delicate issue. The promise of the land of Canaan was made to Abraham, not to lot, and therefore, by right, the first preference should be deferred to him.

But if he were to exercise his right in the matter, by taking the best and most fertile of the land, it would almost certainly spawn a new round of bad feelings since lot could view the action as being selfish. Thus Abraham did the Christlike thing by surrendering his rights for the sake of the brotherhood, and the rest is history, because the results of that one, singular experience produced ripple effects for centuries to come.

And in the resurrection, all of lot’s family with the exception of himself, will be found on the other side of the wall, with Hitler, Judas, and Bin Laden, for as many will realize, the way we handle, or mishandle conflicts, can trigger repercussions that may vibrate to eternity. Hence the reason why the following set of instructions on good conflict resolution is of great importance to those who desire to reflect Christ. Let’s read:

Romans 12:14 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.

17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink.

21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

We are often tempted to “Go low”, especially when our “Rights” are interfered with, and the prevailing tendency is to stand our ground in defense of what may be rightfully ours. But if we were to deal in the same currency as those who attempt to trample our rights, if we were to deal in the currency of “Tit for tat”, we would have adopted satanic principles, and methods, and by so doing we will virtually hand him the victory.

The children of The most High are to adopt royal principles and methods, thereby demonstrating in our persons, the loveliness, and the glory of God’s character, but too often we fail of giving the world a shining example of what the grace of God can do in the heart. Revenge, retaliation, grudges, tit for tat, argumentative spirits, and alienation, all proceed from one and the same source, and therefore, we will have to make deliberate decisions, about which course of action we will pursue when thus tempted.

A truly forgiving spirit is not incident specific, by which we pick and choose who or what to forgive. It is an ever-present attitude, implanted by The Holy Spirit, being diffused as bright beams of light, and dispelling the darkness, whenever, and wherever the need to forgive may arise. But some Christians have sadly put a threshold on who and what we are willing to forgive. These things should not be, for it is the will of God that we adopt the principles, and methods of royalty. Let’s read:

Luke 6:35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.

36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.

1st Peter 3:8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:

9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

10 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile

Genesis 13:14 And the Lord said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward:

15 For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed forever.

16 And I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth: so that if a man can number the dust of the earth, then shall thy seed also be numbered.

17 Arise, walk through the land in the length of it and in the breadth of it; for I will give it unto thee.

Lesson # [4]

It is worthy of note that God waited until after the matter was resolved to say something. As the effort at reconciliation was taking place, The Lord listened silently in the background, taking note of the words, attitudes, and decisions of both parties. Abraham in his words and actions sought to diffuse the volatile situation, even if it involved personal loss. Lot on the other hand sought to take advantage of the old man, by which his materialism and greed were exposed.

Then after Abraham submitted to God’s will, God’s ways, and God’s methods, God opens His mouth to speak, and the rest is history, for he then reiterated to Abraham that all the land of Canaan would surely be his. There is a great lesson in the timing of God’s words to Abraham, after the matter was resolved, for we often expect God to intervene in our behalf, right there and then, to deliver, or vindicate us in a signal manner.

In other instances, we believe that God is taking too long to execute justice, and we may become quite impatient and even upset at God in delaying justice, forgetting all the while that God delights in mercy, and therefore, we as His children should also take delight in being merciful too. The following passage should inform our oft impatience with God. Let’s read:

Hebrews 10:35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.

36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

After the passing of this incident between Abraham and Lot, it became manifest that the reconciliation initiated by Abraham was of the heavenly kind, for it was he who prayed that Lot’s family be spared the fiery deluge that was soon to engulf Sodom, and it was the very same Abraham who went after the invaders who had taken Lot’s family hostage, with the other citizens of the city.

Too often, our forgiveness and reconciliation savors of merely tolerating the person who infringed on our so-called rights, and too often there remains an unspoken uneasiness, every time we encounter the individual. God is in the business of full restoration, and as His children, we should rejoice greatly when tensions among brethren, family, communities, or governments are resolved.

Thus, we will close with two important passages of scripture, which should help us on the issue of good conflict resolution, for it is the will of God that we both adopt and practice them by His grace, for you never know, we might be the only Jesus that those with whom we associate, may see. Let’s read:

Proverbs 24:17 Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:

18 Lest the Lord see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.

Isaiah 32:17 And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever.

God Bless!

The Secret Of success. Sabbath Afternoon 01/19/2019

Beyond the shadow of a doubt, God intends that to anyone who obeys and follows Jesus, success in the true sense of the word will be the inevitable result. The secular world views success as primarily being rich and famous, but the Bible tells us that is a one-sided view, for if a person is wealthy and famous, yet loses his/her soul at the end of the day, such a life would be a catastrophic loss. To be rich, famous, and sick is not ideal either. Let’s read:

Mark 8:36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?

37 Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

Therefore, true success according to the scriptures, incorporates several features, with each one being important, and contributing to an indivisible whole, according to the grace and will of God. For instance, the spiritual, and moral nature of man come first, with health, and the temporal aspects coming after, for if one is in an unhealthy condition always, it will be difficult to enjoy the fruits of one’s labor.

However, if for reasons beyond a person’s control, or because of unavoidable circumstances, one was not able to succeed in the health and the temporal aspects of life, but was enabled by the grace God to maintain the spiritual, then at the end of the day, it will be said of such persons, that they lived life to the best of their ability, with immortal life, and the eternal inheritance as the end result.

Thus, it is important that we understand the right balance, as set forth in the scriptures, for The Lord is greatly honored in our lives when that balance is made manifest. Several passages in the Bible, in the old and new testaments confirm this. Let’s read:

3rd John 1:2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

Proverbs 10:22 The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.

Psalms 103:2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Psalms 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

Deuteronomy 28:1 And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe and do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the Lord thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth:

2 And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God.

3 Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field.

4 Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep.

5 Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store.

6 Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out.

9 The Lord shall establish thee an holy people unto himself, as he hath sworn unto thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments of the Lord thy God, and walk in his ways.

10 And all people of the earth shall see that thou art called by the name of the Lord; and they shall be afraid of thee.

It becomes obvious, even to the casual reader, that true success is directly linked to the keeping of all of God’s commandments. Someway, somehow, God’s laws are inextricably tethered to success, and thus, the question becomes, “What is our problem, why it seems as if the perfect balance evades the majority of professed Christians? Why is it that so many are in a state of imbalance, when The God of the Bible has clearly set forth the inevitable result of living by His word?

The answer, to a large extent, lies in the common practice of partial obedience, where persons adopt some of the instructions and laws given in the Bible, while at the same time disregarding, or avoiding the others. As a general rule of thumb this leads to one-sided success where the spiritual may be flourishing but the health and temporal aspects are lagging. Or otherwise, some may become healthy and wealthy, but like the rich young ruler in the scriptures, a true relationship with God is lacking.

Whatever may be our understanding of the Bible, it is evident that partial obedience is the root cause of most of our inadequacies. This problem is also to be seen in the way governments and counties operate, for it is a problem that runs the entire spectrum of our experiences, on a private and public level. For instance, in all states across America, it is a crime to steal and to kill, and these laws did not originate with man, but are derivatives coming from the great moral law of ten commandments. Let’s read:

Exodus 20:13 Thou shalt not kill. 15 Thou shalt not steal.

But in the same law we are told not to bear false witness. However, as it currently stands, the law against lying is adopted in most instances only when it is convenient or when a person may be facing dire consequences for not telling the truth. For instance, it is a serious crime to lie to the F.B.I or to congress, as some unfortunate persons have been finding out lately, but to lie to one’s spouse, or to make several false statements in advertisements, is not generally looked upon as being wrong.

Again, the latter six of the ten commandments may be adopted to a greater or lesser extent, but the first four which govern our relationship to God, are often left on the back-burner. For instance, the 4th commandment delineates in no uncertain terms, that the earth was created in six working days, and then God instituted the Sabbath as a day of rest for man.

However, for all intents and purposes, that law has been thrown out by most Christians, and we have instead adopted the first day of the week, and in consequence, evolutionary tales have now become standard in our curriculum. Thus, on the one hand we are big on “Thou shalt not kill”, but we are small on “Remember the Sabbath day” and creation, and as a direct result, success on all fronts are evading us. Let’s read:

Isaiah 58:13 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable; and shalt honor him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words:

14 Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.

However, because it is not within the domain of any man to coerce the conscience, the needed reforms, as it pertains to the spiritual aspects especially, will have to begin with the individual. This is what the apostle James was referring to, as he wrote about partial obedience, because when persons or nations espouse some godly laws and despise the others, it will not, and cannot go well. Let’s read:

James 2:10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.

11 For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.

This conundrum will inevitably lead to a one-sided form of success where the nation may be financially viable, but the moral and spiritual aspects are in the dust. Wherever the commandments of God are only adopted partially, partial success will follow, and if on a personal or national level the Biblical principles are espoused in entirety, balanced success on every front will be the result; it cannot be otherwise, for the mouth of The Lord has spoken it. Let’s read:

Deuteronomy 4:5 Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the Lord my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it.

6 Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the

nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.

7 For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the Lord our God is in all things that we call upon him for?

8 And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?

Many persons are now perplexed at what is taking place nationally, and many more are alarmed at the inability of leaders to resolve what may seem as a simple problem. And it may seem to many more, as if God is not listening to the prayers and concerns of those who may be falling into dire straits because of the national impasse. The solution is quite simple, if it is adopted on a personal level; and if it is done on a national scale, the clouds will be lifted. Let’s read:

2nd Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

15 Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place.

Thus, it is against this backdrop that we will proceed to our study for today. It has been stated over, and over again on this forum, that the moral law of God takes preeminence over natural law, for the laws in the natural world are subject to the moral law, and they fall under its jurisdiction. Thus, whenever the moral law is disregarded, either individually or on a national scale, the other laws which are operating downstream become discombobulated.

This is what took place during the reign of Ahab and Jezebel, who had led the nation of Israel deep into idolatry. The moral laws of God lay in the dust, idols and atheistic theories had overspread the land, and in direct consequence, the natural laws governing the yearly seasons were interfered with. Many folks view this as something God “Did” unto Israel, as opposed to the natural consequence that always follows deliberate disregard of God’s moral law.

Because the prophet Elijah was sent to deliver the startling message, some have concluded that it must be something God “Did”. It is true that God controls all laws, whether moral or natural, for they are all subservient unto Him, and they do not run on automatic. Yet we must remember that there are also laws of sowing and reaping, so that if a person or a nation sows “Corn” they will reap corn.

Jezebel and Ahab had led ancient Israel into callous disregard of the commandments, and the inevitable results followed. Their economy took a hit, and dust storms appeared out of nowhere, and the lack of rain, together with the unrelenting heat waves took a fearful toll on man and beast. The poor animals, and beasts of burden, who looked to man for help were sadly disappointed as they saw their grass and grain wither into nothingness.

Then, when Elijah was sent to confront Ahab, the real cause of the national disaster was disclosed, as it will be, sooner or later in the land of the free and the home of the brave. One of the delusions of the last days is the erroneous conclusion held by some, that the spiritual and the temporal aspects of life are disconnected. Nothing can be further from the truth as we have read previously in the scriptures. Let’s read:

1st Kings 18:17 And it came to pass, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said unto him, Art thou he that troubleth Israel?

18 And he answered, I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father's house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim.

Proverbs 14:34 Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.

Isaiah 24:3 The land shall be utterly emptied, and utterly spoiled: for the Lord hath spoken this word.

4 The earth mourneth and fadeth away, the world languisheth and fadeth away, the haughty people of the earth do languish.

5 The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant.

6 Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate: therefore the inhabitants of the earth are burned, and few men left.

Just as soon as Israel saw, and acknowledged their errors, and turned from the prevailing idolatry, the other laws downstream of the great moral law were marshalled back into line, and the seasons, which had come and gone reliably in former years, began to resume their regular cycles. The laws of gravity, and the laws of ten commandments have One and the same source, for God is the Author both, and the lesser is affected by the greater. Let’s read:

1st Kings 18:36 And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word.

37 Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may

know that thou art the Lord God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again.

38 Then the fire of the Lord fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench.

39 And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The Lord, he is the God; the Lord, he is the God.

41 And Elijah said unto Ahab, Get thee up, eat and drink; for there is a sound of abundance of rain.

45 And it came to pass in the meanwhile, that the heaven was black with clouds and wind, and there was a great rain.

There are great lessons of success in the history of the rise and fall of nations, some of whom obeyed the moral law, and were blessed, and others who disregarded and thereby incurred a curse. In these times of uncertainty, where everything seems to be out of whack, where health seems to be evading millions, and where imbalanced success threatens the fabric of society; isn’t it high time that we take a second look at Christ who gave us the great moral law?

One cannot espouse Christ, and at the same time reject His law for the two are inextricably combined as a complete whole. To claim to believe in Jesus must mean something tangible, for our love to Him is never measured by praise, but by obedience. Let us then take an introspect look at ourselves, and if we discover that we have come up short in some areas, let us do the right thing, and surrender our hearts to Christ, so that the spiritual, health, and temporal aspects of life may be well-balanced and fine-tuned.

We therefore end with a passage of scripture which will help us to see the importance of obedience to all of God’s commandments, and the results which will naturally accrue to those who thus subscribe to His wise instructions. Let’s read:

Jeremiah 17:5 Thus saith the Lord; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord.

6 For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited.

7 Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is.

8 For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.

God Bless!

Preparing For The latter Rain. Sabbath Afternoon. 01/12/2019

It is obvious, even to the casual observer, that we are now living in those turbulent last days of which Christ and the bible prophets spoke so much of, for it seems as if every evil trait of character in man is being pushed to the extreme. But at the same time there is to be an outpouring of latter rain, to bring every noble characteristic in believing Christians to maturity.

Thus, good and evil, truth and error are to be fully developed in those who subscribe to either Christ or satan. To put it plainly, the latter rain is given to bring God’s work of salvation in the hearts of men to a close. Therefore, as we approach the final hour in which the destiny of all people will be decided, it will be seen that extremes in everything are going to be the order of the day, from extreme evil to extreme righteousness. And the same extremes will be observed in nature too. Let’s read:

Joel 2:1 Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand;

2 A day of darkness and of gloominess, a day of clouds and of thick darkness, as the morning spread upon the mountains: a great people and a strong; there hath not been ever the like, neither shall be any more after it, even to the years of many generations.

11 And the Lord shall utter his voice before his army: for his camp is very great: for he is strong that executeth his word: for the day of the Lord is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?

17 Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?

23 Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month.

28 And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:

29 And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit.

30 And I will shew wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke.

31 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of the Lord come.

32 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the Lord hath said, and in the remnant whom the Lord shall call.

Joel 3:14 Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision.

15 The sun and the moon shall be darkened, and the stars shall withdraw their shining.

16 The Lord also shall roar out of Zion and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the heavens and the earth shall shake: but the Lord will be the hope of his people.

Thus, in preparation for that which is just upon the horizon, it will become necessary for us to study the outpouring of the early rain which took place on the day of Pentecost, and the events, the preaching and the rapid conversions to the truth which occurred under the auspices of the Holy Spirit. Much of that which then transpired is to be repeated, but with a much greater intensity than many anticipate.

As the followers of Christ waited in expectation, the minds of all who were willing were refocused from prioritizing the temporal pursuits of life, to ministry, and through prayer, fasting, and unity, a singleness of purpose was developed, by which The Holy Spirit was able to use the believers for the spread of the gospel in all the world. And as a result, the scripture record shows that the salvation through Christ was taken to every inhabitable place on the planet.

Similarly, through prayer, fasting and unity, the very same singleness of heart and purpose should be the goal of those who are really interested in the saving of souls, for whom Christ died. However, as it’s now the case, large portions of our time, and resources are devoted to temporal pursuits, and therefore, we will need to be refocused on the mission Christ gave

to us.

In addition to being refocused, there is a whole lot of bickering, and infighting that must be put away. The seeking for the highest place, and the back and forth between those who may not agree on certain truths, must be ironed out, so as to pave the way for working of The Holy Spirit, for as the scripture says, two cannot walk together, unless they agree. Let’s read:

Acts 1:13 And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James.

14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication.

Acts 2: 46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,

47 Praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

But there are some essential truths we should keep in mind, as preparation for the latter rain is being made. The conversion of persons to Christ and the truth is never accomplished by mere preaching, or teaching only, although these are necessary. The work of The Holy Spirit on the heart is of very much greater importance, than any scriptural argument we may present.

There are those who are not presently familiar with the specific truths for our time, but who are sincere in heart. Thus, when the latter rain is given, many of those who now sit in darkness will arise and shine in the darkest hour of human history. But at the same time, we should be aware of the fact that there are many persons who will never ever choose to obey God.

Evidence upon evidence may be given and line upon line, and precept upon precept, yet, if persons are disposed to doubt, and cavil, nothing that God can do in heaven, or in earth will convince them to turn their lives over to Christ, that they may be saved. It is of critical importance that we understand that the outworking of the latter rain, will result primarily in leading the honest in heart to Jesus.

It is against this very backdrop that we’ll study the issue of Divine appointments, in the context of the latter rain. Even though God desires that all persons come to a knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus, it isn’t realistic to expect that everyone who hears will acquiesce, a fact that is reflected in the intelligent prayer of Christ, as He prayed for the disciples who would be sent out as laborers in His vineyard. Let’s read:

John 17:1 These words spake Jesus, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee.

2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.

6 I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.

9 I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine.

17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.

19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.

20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee.

Cornelius was such a person, who feared God, who prayed regularly, who gave alms, who manifested much Christ-like traits of character, but who sat in darkness, as it pertains to the essential truth of the gospel. The work of character-building took place in his heart steadily, as he acted upon those truths he became aware of. And bit by bit, over a period of time, Cornelius came to be born of The Spirit, with only one essential element missing, that of being born of water.

Thus, under the outpouring of the early rain, those whose hearts were open to the promptings of God’s Spirit, and who were willing to obey, were led to the foot of the cross and were baptized. There was no need for argument, for no soul was ever won by an argument. There was no need for long Bible studies on doctrinal beliefs with Cornelius, all that was missing was that one piece of the puzzle, that of baptism.

Therefore, as we study the experience of Peter and Cornelius, great light will be shed on our pathway as it pertains to the work that will take place under the outpouring of the latter rain. As we study the Bible, several important pointers will be highlighted, as it pertains to divine appointments, to the end that we may pray, and act in accordance with God’s will, as Jesus did. Let’s read:

Acts 10:1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,

2 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and

prayed to God always.

3 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius.

4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.

5 And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter.

6 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.

Point # [1] Specific instructions are given to link the one who is being saved to one who knows the truth. This is not a hit or miss job, where scatter-shots are fired at random from the Bible in a generic fashion, to multitudes who couldn’t care less about obeying God, for the Bible specifically states that The Lord added to the church, “Such as should be saved”. So, here again is the instruction on divine appointment, for the sake of line upon line. Let’s read:

Acts 8:26 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.

27 And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,

28 Was returning and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.

29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.

30 And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?

31 And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.

32 The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:

33 In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.

34 And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?

35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.

36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?

37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.

Acts 9:3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:

4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?

5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

10 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord.

11 And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,

12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.

Acts 10:9 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour:

10 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance,

11 And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending upon him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth:

12 Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.

13 And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.

14 But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.

15 And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.

19 While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee.

20 Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.

Point # [2] Under the latter rain, very many persons will be cleansed already, who only need one piece of the jigsaw puzzle to be put into place. They have already accepted Christ as Lord and Savior, and they have already been cleansed through obedience to all the truths they have known. Yet, the issue of the 7th day Sabbath was dark to their understanding. To such, who did not have clarity on the matter in their experience previously, the light of present truth will shine radiantly.

Acts 10:30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,

31 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.

32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter;

33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.

34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.

48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord.

[3] God’s last message of mercy to the world in our generation will not be carried by argument or back and forth on controversial points. The Spirit of God is not into argument, but into submission. Thus, it is to those who are willing to obey God, that His Spirit will be given. When the prophet Joel says that God will pour out His Holy Spirit upon all flesh, it never meant that all flesh will accept God’s offer of grace.

Some will only allow The Holy Ghost externally, but not internally, where He seeks to reside, and in this the true children of God will be made manifest. It is of critical importance that religious prejudices, and biases be now put away, for God has many persons in different religious organizations who are willing to obey Him but are currently in darkness. Thus, the Holy Ghost will be given to bring to maturity, souls who are willing to obey God. Let’s read:

Acts 5:32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

[4] It’s God who will give the increase. The seed has been sown, the work of The Holy Spirit in the heart has been going on silently and protractedly, all the arguments in favor of Bible truth have been made, and now, as the latter rain is being given the honest in heart will respond in the positive. Let’s all keep in mind, that the human agent must never take credit for any soul that is converted to Christ, for we are just instruments in His hands, doing what He gives us power to do. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 3:6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.

7 So then neither is he that planteth anything, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.

It is worthy of notice, that on the issues of Divine appointment, we’ve read over and over again that “The Spirit said”: To Peter, to Cornelius, to Paul, to Ananias, to Phillip, and to so many others. The voice of God was obviously distinguishable to those who were active partakers of the early rain, because it was specific instructions, and directions that were being given out by The Holy Ghost.

The same will be true under the latter rain, because in our day, God will speak to those who are willing to listen and obey. This fact about the latter rain is clearly stated by the prophet Joel. Let’s read:

Joel 2:11 And the Lord shall utter his voice before his army: for his camp is very great: for he is strong that executeth his word.

There are many in the church who do not have the salvation of souls as their primary objective in life, who may be witnesses for Jesus only when it may be convenient, or when it does not involve personal loss. Unless such persons become fully surrendered to God they will be shaken out and left by the way.

Then again, there are many other voices we allow in our minds, which obscure, and confuse the voice of God, so that very often when He speaks, we end up going to Eli, instead of to Christ. Numerous projects, inventions and aspirations, originated by the enemy of souls have been allowed by us to occupy valuable space and time which should have been devoted to God, and to a humble, prayerful study of His word.

The Lord is now calling the soldiers of the cross to take up the mantle of service in earnest. Let quality time be set aside each day for communion with God in the stillness of the night, or morning. Then, as we go forth to our labors, to interact with others, our lives will be a savor of life unto life and The Lord will add to the church daily, such as should be saved.

With these objectives in mind, let the preparation for the latter rain continue undisturbed, because it is high time for us to awake out of slumber, and the time is at hand. We will end with an exhortation to help us in achieving these goals. Let’s read:

Romans 13:11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.

12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness and let us put on the armor of light.

13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.

14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof.

God Bless!

Avoiding Private Interpretations. Sabbath Afternoon 01/05/2019

It’s pretty amazing, that among the many Christian denominations, evangelical churches and protestant organizations, everyone without exception claims to use the Bible as the basis for their faith and practice and yet there are thousands of different beliefs and interpretations abounding today, which may seem to emanate from the very same source. The Bible is referenced as the basis for good practices as well as bad. And doctrines that are diabolically opposed are said to come from the same scriptural source.

Passages of scripture are used in support of a wide-ranging list of practices, which run the entire gamut from eating and drinking anything, to believing that Christ died to set us free from the law, so that there is no restriction or self-denial now required by them who believe in Jesus. Thus, we have a toxic mix of liberal views, as well as stringent interpretations, which go from one extreme to the other, and any place in-between.

For instance, one prominent theologian from a well-known seminary in the United states, wrote not too long ago, that under the new covenant, the dietary restrictions given in the old testament forbidding the use of pork and other unclean foods, has been lifted, setting believers free to eat everything their hearts desire. What’s amazing is that several biblical texts were referenced in support of such a view. Let’s read:

1st Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:

5 For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

Romans 14:1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.

2 For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.

3 Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.

13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.

14 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean.

15 But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.

16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of.

Taken at face value, these passages will make our health message a farce, for if we were to go with a cursory reading of the Bible alone, it seems to any logical thinking person that the scholar from that seminary has presented scriptural and conclusive evidence. And thus, the subscribers to that form of interpretation can now apparently safely ask God’s blessing on “Anything” from oysters to cockroaches and cannibals may also say grace before meals since anything means anything.

Again, the same Bible is used to justify the keeping of the Sabbath, as well as Sunday-keeping, with the references of support coming from the very same source. Thus, many Christians are referred to the Bible, both to obey, and to disobey God, depending on the scriptural passages used. As we study today, we will realize that the phenomena will only deepen unless the honest in heart can settle on the Biblical methods of interpretation.

As a matter of fact, the unity that is so much sought after by the ecumenical movement will of necessity have to exclude the remnant people of God, for two cannot walk together unless they be agreed and the unity which Christ spoke so much of, must never be purchased through compromise, for unity, in and of itself is often achieved through collaboration with good, as it can be with evil, therefore we ought to know the difference. Let’s read:

Romans 14:5 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.

6 He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.

8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.

10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

Then again, the same Bible is used in support of the Ten Commandments, and it is used in nullifying the same. On the one hand, a sincere seeker for truth may be led by pastors and televangelists to believe that God’s law was nailed to the cross, and as such, is no longer binding upon men. Others, at the other end of the spectrum point to the very same source as concrete evidence that the Ten commandments are still in force today. Let’s read:

Colossians 2:14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.

16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days:

17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.

Acts 20:7 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.

1st Corinthians 16: Now, concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye.

2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.

Luke 4:16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read.

Acts 13:42 And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath.

43 Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.

44 And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God.

The phenomena continue into the area of life after death, for some Christians point to the scriptures in support of the natural immortality of the soul, while others are adamant that all persons remain in their graves until the first or second resurrection. Thus, the Bible is often used to refute or sustain opposing doctrines, depending on which passages are used. It is now a common belief among so many Christians, that the body, and soul are to distinct entities that are separated at death. Let’s read:

2nd Corinthians 12:1 It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.

2 I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven.

3 And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;)

4 How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.

Luke 16:19 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:

20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,

21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: more-over the dogs came and licked his sores.

22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;

23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.

24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.

25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.

26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.

Ecclesiastes 12:5 Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail: because man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets:

6 Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern.

7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.

Ecclesiastes 9:5 For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not anything, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten.

6 Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished; neither have they any more a portion forever in anything that is done under the sun.

And we can go on and on and on, for depending on what we’re looking for, and according to our heart’s desire, there seems to be scriptural support in favor of it, or otherwise in refuting the same issue to the contrary. But one thing is certain, the problem of private interpretation is a nagging one, and if it isn’t addressed head on, it will wreak havoc on millions of unsuspecting Christians, as it has in ages past. Let’s read:

On ALCOHOL

Deuteronomy 14:26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the Lord thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household.

1st Chronicles 16:2 And when David had made an end of offering the burnt offerings and the peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the Lord.

3 And he dealt to every one of Israel, both man and woman, to everyone a loaf of bread, and a good piece of flesh, and a flagon of wine.

2nd Samuel 11:12 And David said to Uriah, Tarry here today also, and tomorrow I will let thee depart. So, Uriah abode in Jerusalem that day, and the morrow.

13 And when David had called him, he did eat and drink before him; and he made him drunk: and at even he went out to lie on his bed with the servants of his lord, but he went not down to his house.

By the way, modern science, and dietary research strongly suggest that the first interpretation that’s in favor of wine and other alcoholic beverages is the correct one, for several glasses of wine per week are now recommended as essential to health. Thus, it is increasingly difficult, and well-nigh impossible for Christians, or politicians to kick the habit, since they have scripture and science as back up. But, as have happened earlier on in our study, the Biblical pendulum swings once again in an entirely opposite direction. Let’s read:

Proverbs 20:1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.

Proverbs 23:29 Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?

30 They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.

31 Look not thou upon the wine when it is red,

when it giveth his color in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.

32 At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.

33 Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.

Isaiah 5:11 Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame them!

12 And the harp, and the viol, the tabret, and pipe, and wine, are in their feasts. but they regard not the work of the Lord, neither consider the operation of his hands.

22 Woe unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink.

What many persons may not know, is that satan is a diligent student of the scripture and is much better acquainted with the correct interpretation than are many theologians, and scholars. Thus, he seeks to mask God’s will behind disconnected utterances, or to quote only those passages which on the surface, may seem to favor his designs, when, if the correct, Biblical methods were employed under the auspices of The Holy Ghost, an entirely different picture will emerge.

Therefore, for the purposes of this Bible study, we’ll take the most common “Private interpretation” that deals with the natural immortality of the soul; we’ll break it down, and analyze it using scripture, logic, and sheer common sense, so that the perfidy of the false doctrine may be exposed for what it is. Then we will examine the Biblical truth pertaining to the same matter, so that the honest in heart may draw reasonable conclusions.

The passages of scripture most commonly used in support of the natural immortality of the soul, is to be found in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, in which Lazarus is purportedly transported by the holy angels at death to heaven, whilst the rich man is taken to hell, where he receives his just dues. As we read, let’s consider the following passages, lest we fail of drawing right conclusions. Let’s read:

2nd Peter 1:19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts.

20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

Isaiah 28:9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts.

10 For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little.

Luke 16:19 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:

20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,

21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: more-over the dogs came and licked his sores.

22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;

23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.

24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.

25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.

26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.

27 Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house:

28 For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.

29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.

30 And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.

31 And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

Parable | Definition of Parable by Merriam-Webster

Parable noun:

par·a·ble | \ˈper-ə-bəl, ˈpa-rə-\

Definition of parable: a usually short fictitious story that illustrates a moral attitude or a religious principle.

According to Merriam/Webster, a parable is an allegorical story with a point, and thus, it should not be pressed to a strictly literal interpretation in all of its points, especially where some features seem to be logically, or reasonably suspect, and in some of the instances, to be insane. Thus, we will begin by breaking it down along strictly logical lines so that the incredible features may be sniffed out. Then we will break it down along scriptural lines so that the truth of the matter may shine forth radiantly.

I personally have been to the homes of some of the rich and famous, and in every instance, I have never ever seen any wealthy person, allowing a beggar to live at their doorstep, let alone a beggar with oozing sores, with dogs licking his wounds. The sight would be too revolting for residents and guests alike, and it’s highly unlikely, that a person in such a condition will ever have free access to rich neighborhood.

And across America, from the homes of Pit Bull and Dwayne Wade in Miami, from Snoop Dogg to the wealthy Warren Buffet, and from Bill Gates to Mark Zuckerberg, there is not a single instance in which a wealthy person will allow a beggar full of sores, with stray dogs licking his wounds, to be at their front gate continuously. No not one!

For instance, we were once invited to play music at the home of Julio Iglesias, in that wealthy part of Miami beach, where the rich and famous, including Oprah Winfrey, have residences. To begin with, we had to first get past the guard gate and Julio Iglesias had to be on the phone personally, to grant access, and we had to present verifiable I.Ds to the guard, before we could enter. It is highly improbable that a rich man would have a beggar full of sores at his front door.

Again, in the parable, the rich man is purportedly able to have a conversation with Abraham, which brings into question the sheer proximity of heaven to hell. Are the two so close, so that two persons may converse, especially since a normal person’s intelligible voice begins to fade around 180 m (590 ft 6.6 in). Now, if heaven and hell are just merely a few hundred feet apart, wouldn’t Abraham, and Lazarus also get burned?

Again, according to what Abraham says during the exchange, “between us and you there is a great gulf fixed”. Now if Abraham describes it as a great gulf, then how can the two be speaking, especially when one is being burnt to death? Is it true, reasonable, normal, or even logical, that a wicked person will be conversing casually with another whilst he is being burned? It makes no sense whatsoever, and thus, along strictly logical lines, the parable cannot be construed to be literal in every aspect.

Now, we will break it down along scriptural lines. There was another literal Lazarus, one who was a friend of Jesus, and who died because of some issue he was suffering with. And if there was any Lazarus who would be a prime candidate for transport to the pearly gates at death, it would be this one, for it is stated in the Bible that Jesus loved him. Jesus gets the bad news that his friend Lazarus has died, thus, after two days He sets out on the journey, to bring him back to life. Let’s read:

John 11:1Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.

3 Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.

5 Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.

6 When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was.

14 Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.

15 And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him.

17 Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the grave four days already.

38 Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it.

39 Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.

43 And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.

44 And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.

Obviously, if the body and soul are separated at death, as the doctrine of natural immortality says, then Jesus would have called down Lazarus’s spirit from heaven to be rejoined to his dead body. But none of this took place, for everything pertaining to his resurrection took place on the earth. And Christ Himself also remained in the grave, until the order for resurrection was issued. Nothing, and no entity from heaven was called down to rejoin body and soul. Let’s read:

Matthew 27:57 When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple:

58 He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered.

59 And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,

60 And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.

John 20:1 The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre. 11 But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre, 12 And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.

13 And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him. 15 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.

16 Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master. 17 Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father.

Now brethren, if Jesus did not ascend to heaven at death, neither could poor Lazarus in the parable, for Lazarus could never be greater, or more important than Jesus, and therefore, the doctrine of natural immortality is a big hoax, designed specifically by satan, to offer a false sense of security, and to deceive folks into believing there’s no judgement.

The parable of the rich man and Lazarus was given by Christ to illustrate the spiritual truth, that there is a day of rewards coming, a day in which the evil and the good will receive their just dues and as such we ought to live with the consciousness, that what ever we sow, we are going to reap. Let us therefore live soberly, and righteously in this generation, for the judgment day is fast approaching, in which each individual will receive the results of their doings, whether it be good or evil.

We therefore end with two passages of scripture which portray these sobering truths. Let’s read:

2nd Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that everyone may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

Revelation 20:12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

He that hath ears to hear, let him hear what The Spirit saith unto the churches.

God Bless

A New Year's Outlook. Sabbath Afternoon 12/29/2018

This past year has been one of unprecedented acts, incidents and developments which have sent signals that the coming of Jesus draws near, for the nations of the world cannot continue much longer on their current trajectory. Several developments took place which point us to the soon return of Jesus Christ in the heavens, and ought to guide our outlook for this coming year. Europe seems to be fracturing, thus bringing many years of mutual cooperation to an end, if the Brexit initiative goes through.

There has also been a rattling of the nations, where former friends have become foes, and instability in the world at large is now your everyday experience. Political gridlock is the order of the day, and crimes of hate and crimes against humanity have now risen to levels not previously seen. The unending opioid epidemic continues to wreak havoc across America and the deadly Ebola virus is again on the rise in the democratic republic of Congo.

Sex scandals continue to rock church congregations, and skeletons once thought safely buried, are now falling out of closets at an alarming rate. The faith, and confidence of many church-bound folks is being severely shaken anew, with revelations of scandals of no ordinary character. Clergymen who were once confessed to by parishioners, are now in dire need of confession themselves, and the roles of the two in the confessional box now seem to be reversed.

Hurricanes have intensified with increasing ferocity, and abnormally heavy rainfall has now added to the toxic mix, displacing millions, and draining needed resources to dangerously low levels. Wild fires also increased, with the worst and costliest taking place this year in California. All the while, millions across the land seem to bask in irrational exuberance, as if things must continue as they have in years gone by.

Stock markets around the world are in turmoil too, for after coming off an unprecedented, rapid rise to 26,828.39 set on October 3, 2018 the Dow Jones industrial has since then plummeted precipitously falling nearly 4000 points in less than three months; and the wild swings in financial markets reflect the instability and uncertainty being experienced by the nations.

Financial delusions have gripped millions, for many folks have not yet considered that the spiritual and temporal are uniquely and inseparably combined, with one affecting the other. Jezebel and Ahab had erroneously concluded that their sins, and idolatry would not affect the economy adversely, but sacred history shows us that disobedience to God’s moral law inevitably results in famines, pestilences, and disasters of all sorts. Let’s read:

Deuteronomy 28:15 But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee:

16 Cursed shalt thou be in the city, and cursed shalt thou be in the field.

17 Cursed shall be thy basket and thy store.

Isaiah 24:4 The earth mourneth and fadeth away, the world languisheth and fadeth away, the haughty people of the earth do languish.

5 The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant.

6 Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate: therefore, the inhabitants of the earth are burned, and few men left.

And the carnage continues, for what goes up must come down and the higher the climb, the lower will be the fall, because throughout the history of every nation, there has been cyclical highs and lows, and times of plenty have often been followed by times of empty.

Investigations into fraud and malpractice continue, with many more on the horizon, as the baton, and hammer are passed on to a new congress. Political impasse, and grandstanding have taken a national toll on the populace this past year, with no end in sight. Thus, we are opening this new year, not on a high note of peace and prosperity, but with a sense of uncertainty and instability brewing at our doors.

It is against this backdrop that our outlook for the new year must be shaped, because, as Christians, who look forward to the coming of a better world, governed by a stable, reasonable, and merciful king, we are not to be found groveling in our political or financial woes; instead we are to look up, knowing that our redemption draws nigh, and as such, every person who has espoused Christ should plan to take proactive steps in hastening His kingdom.

Do not be deceived, no man has the answers to our most pressing problems, for try as we might to free ourselves from one problem, a greater one appears, and instead of digging ourselves out of the rut we’re digging ourselves further into the mire. This is why Christians are under the most solemn obligation to impact our dying world for the better, for the Bible holds the key to man’s restoration, and it is found only in Christ. Let’s read:

Isaiah 43:10 Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.

11 I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no savior.

12 I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, that I am God.

Isaiah 45:21 There is no God else beside me; a just God and a Savior; there is none beside me.

22 Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else.

John 10:9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.

10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

Therefore, seeing that God has given to us believers the ministry of reconciliation, it will be well for us to take an introspect look at our plans, purposes, and aspirations, to see if we are fulfilling the purpose for which we have been called by Jesus. If we are only consumers, expecting great sermons, great concerts and a flurry of church activities which cater only to ourselves, then we will fall far short of God’s ideal will for us.

Instead we should be asking God to show us where we can make a marked difference in our world, for the upliftment of His kingdom, and for the benefit of humanity. This is the perspective that should run pervasively in our thoughts, producing concrete and commensurate actions to the glory of God. Inactive Christians do more harm than good according to the words of Christ, for satan will always find work for idle hands to do. Always! Let’s read:

Matthew 12:30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.

Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.

Luke 10:1 After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come.

2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth laborers into his harvest.

In harmony with this mandate given to us by Jesus Himself it is high time that we take up the mantle of faithful and willing service in the Lord’s vineyard. This is not to be done in a half-hearted, or slipshod manner, as is to often the case, neither should it be done impulsively, without well-directed effort, after one of those soul-stirring sermons.

Instead, our work should be the result of prayerful surrender to God, for use in His service as He sees best. It must be a well-thought out sustainable plan, under the direction and guidance of God, so that we can help to advance the interests of His kingdom, by reaching out to those who are in darkness. In other words, every true Christian, facing the headwinds described above, and looking for the soon return of Jesus, should be involved in ministry of some sort.

The following passages, therefore, are the scriptural instructions on how this may be accomplished, for through prayer, a united front, and well-directed effort on the part of believers, there is nothing that God cannot do, for the salvation of souls. Christ is calling on us to use the resources, talents, and gifts He has given us, for in-reach and outreach, but for more of the latter, for it is God’s will that all men should come to a knowledge of the truth.

Everyone is not called to do the exact same thing, for the gifts of The Spirit are diversified in nature, so as to minister to the several needs of those in need. Bible workers, elders, and preachers are not more important than those who have been given the gift of prayer; and deacons and administrators have an equal responsibility according to their several ability as was the case in the early church. In other words, Dorcas used her gift of sewing to reach people, just as much as Paul used his gift of preaching to save souls.

But whether by preaching, by sewing, or by tent-making, one main purpose and goal pervaded the minds of the believers, just as it should in our day, that the gospel is to be taken into all the world, in our neck of the woods, and to every inhabitable place on the planet. Thus, with this far-reaching scope of Christ’s mandate to us, let no one conclude that there is nothing that I can do. Let’s read:

Ephesians 4:8 When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.

11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ:

Now, some of us might be prone to say that the above list does not include me personally, for I’m not a prophet, pastor, teacher or an evangelist. It is not necessary for us to be any of those things, for the Bible goes on to mention several other areas in which we can serve effectively, thus contributing to the advancement of God’s cause in the earth. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 12:1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.

4 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.

5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.

6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.

7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;

9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;

10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:

11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?

30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?

One of the main problems associated with the fulfillment of Christ’s mandate is that only a few people try to do everything in the church, making inefficiency and inconsistency a hallmark of too many congregations. On the other hand, some of us often succumb to the temptation, that if no one wants to do it, then I must, and before you know it, elders have become seamstresses, prayer warriors, janitors, cooks, and board members, all in one incoherent, jumbled mix.

This will inevitably lead to premature fatigue, with some members often going to the other extreme by taking no responsibilities whatsoever. Therefore, in order for there to be a smooth, cohesive running of all the wheels, we should inquire of God: “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” And then, with a firm purpose, trusting in the power and energy of God, we should set our minds and our hearts to do God’s will consistently, for the long haul.

This will then cause us to show up faithfully at the prayer meeting if only two or three people attend, without becoming down-couraged. Our service is not to be based on accolades, or how many people attend, even though we should encourage others to do so. In other words, our motivations and energies will come from a different source, other than praise and numbers.

Again, many become idle because they have not yet figured out their gift. That’s not a problem, because we can start with what we naturally like to do best, without having to be prodded to do so. Some have a natural gift of cooking, then cook for Christ’s sake, and win souls to His kingdom via pots and spoons. Others have a knack for visiting the less fortunate, or for prayer, as the case might be. Then, do it for Christ’s sake.

All God asks of us is that we commit to a consistent, dependable service and He will bring us into contact with everyone whom He seeks to save through our ministry. But if our service is left up to spontaneity, when we feel to do it, then it becomes difficult for God to use us in an efficient manner.

Therefore, the call of duty goes out to all who have become idle, to those who are missing in action, to those who are sitting on the fence and also to those who are consumers only. The place is here, and the time is now, that we engage the world proactively in our several capacities so that the coming of Christ may be hastened.

As was stated before, there is no such thing as a Christian without a gift; thus, we are to take up the mantle of duty, doing faithfully what God wants us to do, and the Lord will add to the church daily, such as should be saved. With this outlook for the new year in mind, let us be encouraged with these passages of scripture which should prompt us all to immediate action. Let’s read:

Romans 13:11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.

12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.

Matthew 10:7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.

Matthew 24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

God Bless!

How To Lose Weight. Sabbath Afternoon 12/22/2018

As the holiday season takes shape, and people are wondering what to give, it will be in order for us to consider that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Ghost, and it’s the best gift we can offer to God, for He is not satisfied merely with material gifts. Those wise men who brought frankincense and Myrrh to Jesus at His birth, also gave Him their lives, without which the material gifts would have meant nothing.

Thus, to give Jesus our entire lives, fulfills the true essence of the gospel, and this truth is borne out in several passages of scripture, where God requires a more complete sacrifice than mere externals, which includes the entire person. Furthermore, the Bible teaches us that we are bought with a price, and as such, we ought to glorify God both in our body and mind. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore, glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

1st Thessalonians 5:23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

The purpose for healthy living, for exercising and for dieting and being fit, is not to display our bodies at south beach to receive the accolades of people, but rather to render God and to our fellow men, quality service for as long as possible. The “long life” which God promises to those who obey was not meant to be a life of ease, pleasure and inaction; instead, the example of Jesus should be our model, as He went about doing good, using His physical powers for the upliftment, and benefit of the human family.

Thus, the health message we espouse ought to be the means whereby people are helped in practical ways, and our service is not to be hindered by the common diseases the average John Doe may suffer from. As was stated previously, a peculiar people should have something peculiar about them, and therefore, we are under solemn obligation to live, and make manifest to the world, what we preach.

It is God’s will that His people should prosper and be in health, even as our souls prosper, because the redemption purchased for us on Calvary, addresses the restoration of the entire man, not only the area that deals with the spiritual. In addition to this, it is important for all to remember that whatever affects the physical body, ultimately affects the mind, for the two are an indivisible whole. This fact is clearly demonstrated in the following passages. Let’s read:

Psalms 103:2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

Psalms 32:1 Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.

2 Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile. 3 When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long.

A close sympathy exists between the physical and moral nature of man, the one affecting the other. Therefore, the study on how to lose weight is just as much a part of the gospel as any other part, for it is the will of God that our bodies and minds be always consecrated to Him in entirety. Thus, the Christian should seek to honor God at the pulpit and at the table. With this in mind we will delve into several important pointers which will enable us to lose the extra weight and remain in a healthy condition.

[1] Prayer.

With the Christian, the first step in losing weight is not to study diets and foods, nor to turn to weight watchers for counsel, because God has given us the mighty Counselor in Christ Jesus. While the wisdom of this world may at times be helpful, in weight-loss, yet it is important for us at the outset to have Jesus in the driver’s seat, if our purpose is to maintain a successful regimen.

There are valid reasons why prayer must be the first step, for whenever people place themselves under the guidance of God, everything else downstream will usually fall into place. One of the most nagging problems we encounter is that of being consistent, for according to recent studies, 80% of those who start an exercise regimen at the new year, lose their steam by February. Some of the reasons given are a lack of continued motivation, or a lack of will power or it may be a change in one’s life circumstances.

That’s why prayer is the first and ongoing step, for will power, consistency, drive, and motivation to do the right thing all comes from God, for the Christian. It is Christ who imparts that indomitable spirit that does not take defeat for an answer, but instead is able to surmount hurdles, challenges, and varying circumstances that will certainly be a part of our experience.

To maintain a weight-loss program is quite difficult to do without Christ because we will often find that the on again/off again syndrome takes a toll. Thus, the more this occurs, is the more our morale will be weakened, to the point that we lose the confidence to achieve our goals. Especially does the difficulty to be steadfast increase when we are in social settings, where the temptation to indulge appetite might be stronger because of the gravitational pull of friends.

Principle does not take holidays, so, whether in a social environment, or on the couch watching TV, we will be given both the strength, and motivation to resist. Christians aren’t supposed to be creatures of circumstances, for God can enable persons to be consistent and motivated, whether we live in the sunshine state, or whether we live in the Rockies.

God’s power is not regional in nature but is rather available to all who will persist in prayer, bringing every challenge, and difficulty to Him for resolution, and following His guiding cloud wherever He leads the way. Again, this is why we reiterate, that the very first step in weight-loss for the Christian must be prayer. Let’s read:

Isaiah 40:30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall.

31 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every-thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

The Problem of Feelings.

If we depend on our feelings for motivation, we are destined to fail, guaranteed. There are those days when we wouldn’t feel good, there are days when it’s cold and rainy outside, and there are oftentimes when workout partners will not show up. The Spirit of God who works within us to will and to do of His good pleasure will give us both the strength and will to carry on with a steady even tread, in spite of the vicissitudes we may face.

Let it be known that anything good that is worth us accomplishing, will be met with stiff resistance from our own bodies, for it is always easier to go with the flow downstream than to swim upstream towards a worthy goal. Again, a change in our diet may trigger withdrawal symptoms, and the first days of exercise may cause us pain. But we should press on, trusting in Christ and doing the right thing, for in due season we will reap if we faint not. Let’s read:

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Patience.

One of the challenges some will encounter likes in being impatient, for we currently live in the “Now” generation, where the desire for quick results has become the norm. Most popular diet plans now on the market have that one element of quick results as a selling point. And very many people have been deceived into believing that there’s a magic wand out there that can undo years of weight gain.

Thus, many people become discouraged in the food fight, because the fad diets didn’t deliver on their promise. Small increments add up to great gains, for Rome wasn’t built in one day, and climbing Jacob’s ladder takes place round by round. If we are looking for some magic pill to lose weight, it’s not going to happen. For the Christian, it takes continued prayer, sweat, appropriate diet, and well-directed sustained efforts to achieve worthy goals.

Thus, those advertisements on TV which promise rapid and unrealistic weight-loss are to be avoided, because of dire side effects both to body and mind. In fact, losing weight, by itself is not a worthy goal; instead we should all aim for a permanent lifestyle change that can be sustained over the long haul. It takes time to put on weight, and it will take time to lose it all, let no one be deceived about this. Let’s read:

Hebrews 10:36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

Responsibility through choice.

The laws of sowing and reaping apply equally to diet and weight-loss, for we will get out of diet what we put into it. We consist of what we eat and whatever is taken into the stomach, of that will our blood, and flesh consist. Good food makes good blood, and bad food makes bad blood.; it’s that simple.

It was proven in Daniel’s day, and again through studies done in our day, that a diet of fruit, grains, vegetables, and nuts are superior in making good blood. That’s one of the main lessons taught after his companions and himself were put to the test. Let’s read:

Genesis 1:29 And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.

Genesis 3:18 And thou shalt eat the herb of the field.

The choices we do make are our own responsibility and the accompanying results are also ours. The same God who created fruits, and grains, created oysters and crabs but there is to be a differentiation in what is best suited for food, and what is not. Now that we have the knowledge before us and the facts upon which we can make rational conclusions, the choice is ours, because God honors our freedom of choice, even when it goes against His ideal will. This truth is clearly stated in His word. Let’s read:

Deuteronomy 12: 20 When the Lord thy God shall enlarge thy border, as he hath promised thee, and thou shalt say, I will eat flesh, because thy soul longeth to eat flesh; thou mayest eat flesh, whatsoever thy soul lusteth after.

21 Thou shalt kill of thy herd and of thy flock, which the Lord hath given thee, as I have commanded thee, and thou shalt eat in thy gates whatsoever thy soul lusteth after.

22 Even as the roebuck and the hart is eaten, so thou shalt eat them: the unclean and the clean shall eat of them alike.

23 Only be sure that thou eat not the blood: for the blood is the life; and thou mayest not eat the life with the flesh.

The truth is that because of the freedom of choice we may also eat the blood too, for there will be no angel to prevent anyone by force, from eating what they choose. Crabs, oysters, and blood all fall in the forbidden category, yet God permits folks to eat of these freely, even though it’s not His will. However, the laws of actions and consequences do follow their natural course, often with little, or no interference from God, especially when the light from His word is streaming live on the matter in question.

No one can force anyone to eat anything that will exacerbate the problem and there’s no valid excuse to deviate from our goals. The choice is completely ours. Fast food chains can advertise, they can solicit, or they may entice us with mouth-watering images of such foods that cause us to drool uncontrollably; but they cannot force one item of junk food down our throats. With our own hands, and mouths we’ll either succumb or resist, because the choice is ours. Let’s read:

Acts 10: 9 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour:

10 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance,

11 And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending upon him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth:

12 Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.

13 And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.

14 But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.

16 This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.

Why does Peter continue to resist the voice of God, even after he was advised not to call anything from the sheet unclean, and why after three times he still refuses to eat? It is because the choice is ours, for the kingdom of God does not have the use of force as a core principle, and thus, the choices we’ll make are our own personal responsibility.

Daily exercise.

When God took the children of Israel out of Egypt, He caused them to do a whole lot of walking, for it was a part of His plan in getting them to maintain a healthy way of life. Moses was a mountain climber, and everyone, both old and young were caused to do significant amounts of aerobic activity by walking thousands of miles over a forty-year period. This in turn helped to produce the inevitable results. Let’s read:

Psalms 105:37 He brought them forth also with silver and gold: and there was not one feeble person among their tribes.

Nehemiah 9:20 Thou gavest also thy good spirit to instruct them, and withheldest not thy manna from their mouth, and gavest them water for their thirst. 21 Yea, forty years didst thou sustain them in the wilderness, so that they lacked nothing; their clothes waxed not old, and their feet swelled not.

Therefore, in our day when so many of us are now logged in behind the computer for most of the day, and where sedentary work has for the most part led many to sit for hours on end behind the desk; in our day, where online shopping has caused very many to stop going to the mall, thus avoiding a whole lot of walking; in our day where grocery chains are now delivering goods inside our homes, and drones are dropping purchased items in our backyards;

In our day, where the existence of Uber Eats and Grub Hub has resulted in many thousands being couch-bound, and where elevators, and escalators have taken over from stairs; in our day, more than ever before, we will need to revisit the exercise plan God put the ancient Hebrews on, for it is warranted now more than ever.

Every little bit counts, and even if we may not be able to do forty-five or thirty minutes per day, as the case might be, it’s been shown by studies done recently, that even fifteen minutes would make a big difference.

Daily exercise is necessary for a number of reasons; for weight-loss, for blood circulation, in preventing clogged arteries, in avoiding muscle deterioration, and immobility, in avoiding arthritis, in building our immune system, in keeping our blood sugar down, in burning fat, in being able to enjoy a restful sleep, and in a host of other beneficial ways, daily exercise was, and is a part of God’s plan for weight-loss and well-being.

There are literally no down sides to exercising, if it is done appropriately and regularly, because it formed a fundamental part of God’s original plan for man, even before weight-loss was an issue. Then after sin entered our world, it became even more important in removing poisons, and impurities through sweat, and keeping our minds from evil. Let’s read:

Genesis 2:15 And the Lord God took the man and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.

Genesis 3:19 In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken.

Ecclesiastes 5:12 The sleep of a laboring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much.

Therefore, if we’ll purpose in our hearts to put into place a reasonable, sustainable, and achievable goal of weight-loss and well-being, the aforementioned points will need to be prayerfully considered, and by the grace of God, success will be the inevitable result. As Christians we are to glorify God in body as well as in mind, and therefore, as we seek to do so, it’s fitting that we should encouraged in The Lord, with words expressing His best ideal for us. Let’s read:

3rd John 1:2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

God Bless!