The Identity Crisis. Sabbath afternoon 10/02/2021

Genesis 1:27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

We are now living at a time in earth’s history where much confusion concerning one’s identity has been introduced. Questions about one’s gender, which in times past were never questioned, have now been permanently inserted into the national conversation and because of the trickle-down effects many of the young and old alike are not sure anymore of who they really are.

The identity crisis is being fueled by several factors, including, but not limited to education in alternative lifestyle philosophies, legislation, precedent coming from stars and persons that are held in high esteem, advertisements, and support from certain members of the clergy, in an effort to foster inclusion.

And whereas, freedom of choice is to be respected, yet the issue is now at a tipping point where it has been introduced in some of the curriculums across the land. In some places children are being forced to study, learn and engage issue.

Thus, when the young, whose minds have not yet been fully developed to discern between right and wrong, and are taught by teachers, who are forced to present these issues, we will be looking at a new generation on the horizon, who would be pregnant with fluid concepts of identity, and society will be adversely affected, to the point of no return.

Gender neutral bathrooms and gender-neutral lines of clothing are now becoming the norm, and it does not stop here because the crisis deepens even more when certain prominent members of society adopt lifestyles and practices that are contrary to what the scriptures teach.

Nothing can be more destabilizing to society if folks are not sure about who they are, for if folks are not certain about their identity, such uncertainty would keep a person in a continuously fluid state, and that sets up them up to try to become whosoever they may choose to be.

As it stands currently, the choices on the menu are endless, for persons can now choose from a wide variety of designations, and some even choose to remain undesignated, so that every day can bring new and different identities, as persons may, or may not choose.

Thus, it is a solemn statement that is made, that we indeed have an identity crisis on our hands which must needs be addressed.

The purpose of the Bible study today is to help folks who have been affected, or who are struggling with their identity, to be certain about who they are, and it will clear up some of the associated issues, since some children are being adversely affected more, and more.

In the spiritual realm, actions are always preceded by our thoughts, and because of this, questions are often posed to different minds, just to get persons thinking or questioning a sacred truth. Before the legalization of alternative marriage occurred across the land the issue was agitated in the public square, and as individuals thought about it, some began to question their own identity.

The tempter will often set a train of thoughts into motion in our minds by simply making a suggestion contrary to what God has plainly stated. God would have us to understand that these suggestions are made via our five senses, which are referred to as the avenues to the soul.

And that’s why we are instructed to guard vigilantly these avenues, by dwelling upon that which is good and right, for once he succeeds in getting persons to even consider the matter in question, it is usually only a matter of time before the suggestion goes through a gestation period.

And then, if it is not signally repulsed and rejected, it blossoms into actions that are contrary to what is written in the Bible, and the end thereof are the ways of death. Evolution began as an idea, then it morphed into a theory, and finally it became the mainstay of science in most public schools and universities.

It all began with a thought and a suggestion being infused into the minds of persons by the tempter, and then it took on a life of its own as it was dwelt upon and regurgitated over and over again.

The same is true of the identity crises we are facing; it began with the imagination of some being infused with alternative ideas to sexual orientation from the tempter in times past, and it has now infiltrated and infected the minds of millions of persons. Let’s read:

Romans 1:20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their own bodies between themselves:

26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:

27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was meet.

28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient.

Therefore, because there is nothing new under the sun, we must trace the beginnings of the identity crisis, and how it has evolved with the passage of time. In the garden of Eden, the suggestion was infused into the mind of Eve by the tempter, that they could be different to what God said were.

God created both of them as human beings, but it was suggested that they could become gods, if they were to choose an alternative path to what God had instructed. And as Eve dwelt upon the suggestion, it took on a life of its own, and she decided to try and re-designate her identity. Let’s read:

Genesis 1:27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

Genesis 2:7 And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.

16 And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat:

17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.

21 And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;

22 And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.

23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.

24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.

Here comes the suggestion, being asserted in such unequivocal terms that Eve is led to question, not only her identity but the truthfulness and intentions of God. Becoming a god would significantly change her identity, “For a spirit hath not flesh and bones”, and according to the tempter, great benefits to all society would accrue as a direct result. Let’s read:

Genesis 3:4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die, 5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.

Their God-given identity was questioned, and thus the prospect that somehow, they were beings other than what God had stipulated, began to take root. Again, in the wilderness of temptation, the identity of Christ was questioned in the tempter’s opening statement, in direct opposition to what God said.

God had revealed unequivocally through The Holy Spirit at Christ’s baptism, that Jesus was indeed The Son of God, but lo and behold, not long after, His identity was questioned as the first temptation of the tempter ensued.

If the devil could just shake Christ’s confidence in His identity, the battle would be lost because being uncertain about who He is, would then place Jesus in a fluid state of mind, and would then render Him vulnerable to temptation, Let’s read:

Matthew 3: 16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him.

17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Matthew 4: 3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God….

Thus, in our day, one’s identity is being tethered to how one feels from one day to the next, not what God has stipulated in His word and because feelings fluctuate, the result is a continuously fluid situation, that has spawned many variations, to the original model set forth in Eden.

There is also the legal factor, by which legislatures have given legal status to variations, and because the identity issue is now prominently in the public square, in high and low places, even some persons who had never even thought to question their own identity, aren’t sure anymore of who they are.

And the issue is coming into our homes, churches, schools, and universities, at an alarming rate and on several different fronts so as to threaten the fabric of society. The minds of young and old are being bombarded with questions and philosophies that spawn a whole lot of confusion, whereas God has made the issue plain.

Therefore, we are going to address some the more important questions pertaining to identity, so that those who are struggling with the issue could have some clarity on the matter.

Question [1] How is one’s Sex to be determined?

A person’s sex is determined at conception, by the genes we inherit from our parents. Chromosomes which hold genes, are the pieces of DNA which tell our cells what to do. In human beings there are 23 pairs of chromosomes, and one pair consists of sex chromosomes. They come in two forms: X’s and Y’s.

Women have two X’s, so that when they share half of each pair of chromosomes with their offspring, the sex chromosome they offer will always be an X. Men have an X and a Y, so that if the father shares an X chromosome with his child, it will make a girl (XX). If he shares a Y chromosome, the child will be usually be a male (XY).

But there are some variations which do occur such as when you have to X’s mingled with fragments of a Y, which could result in a natural imbalance in the individual. This particular situation is not the result of one’s choice, it’s just a happenstance of nature which has occurred in some persons, some more, some less.

We are not going to deal with these variations, we will leave such gray areas in God’s hands, for they are the exception rather than the rule, even though these occurrences are happening more frequently. However, if one is conformed to the natural norms at conception, his/ her sexual identity is medically confirmed to be either male or female.

But because of societal, trends, and popular modes of thought and philosophies, individuals who were born very male or female are now given the option of deciding which sex they want to be. When God created man, He did not create variations, but after man fell these occurrences began to take place both on a scientific level and by deliberate choice against one’s natural grain.

Here is where a great problem can occur, for if after establishing a person’s sex scientifically, beyond the shadow of a doubt, they are then allowed to choose another orientation, the inevitable result would be sexual definition by choice, not by science.

This is where we are headed, since personal choice is made to rule the day, even when it conflicts with established fact and designation from conception. In other words, folks are now permitted to choose their sex, for the process of designation is being taken out of the hands of science.

This leads us to our next point on the issue, for it is a fact that some persons, through no choice of their own, struggle with contrary feelings in their souls. If any person has been the recipient of a verified, and scientific variation, as mentioned earlier, a decision would have to be made on their part.

In such a situation, we strongly advise that persons who are experiencing contrary feelings, through no deliberate choice of their own, should take all such matters to God in prayer, for He alone understands the depth of despair one experiences, as well as the scientific variations which produce such feelings.

But for those who were born very male or female at birth, and who, because of popular sentiment, or an indulgence in extremes have now developed a taste and desire for that which is forbidden, the question that comes next will require straight answers from the word of God.

Question [2] How should persons deal with all natural, or deliberately induced contrary feelings?

It is an indisputable fact that because of our fallen nature, everyone would have to deal with contrary feelings at some point or another, some more some less, and in varying degrees with different desires. Contrary desires striving for the mastery is nothing new, because addictions, and natural and unnatural inclinations are mostly contrary in all persons.

Human nature naturally craves forbidden things and that’s why most kids will choose candy over salad. It is therefore a fact of life, that most of our struggles, even as Christians, will be centered on that which is contrary to God’s revealed will and as such we must avoid changing His designations to suit our cravings.

In other words, if God says a certain desire is wrong, whether it be sexual, drug, or diet related, the first step in overcoming would be to acknowledge it as sin, and then ask God for grace and strength to live victoriously.

But what is taking place currently, with the identity crisis, is that many individuals have concluded that contrary feelings are not wrong because that’s what they feel. And in some instances, the legislature has indeed given the thumbs up to such conclusions, by making our personal feelings the determining factor in deciding whether one is male or female.

Thus, we must be very careful, lest the reasoning of the wily serpent imperceptibly invades our thought processes, because, according to the Bible, there is something such as wrong feelings, even if they may occur naturally. The desire for revenge is a wrong feeling, and joy at the demise of one’s enemies is also a wrong feeling.

The same is true as it pertains to the identity crisis. Persons can experience wrong feelings from time to time, but that does not make those feelings kosha or acceptable just because they might be real. The human family experiences real, wrong feelings on a daily basis, so to make them legal just because they are real would do violence to what the scripture teaches.

In other words, to make the word of God subject to one’s feelings will open the floodgates of vices, and it will be near impossible to put that genie back into the bottle, once it is let loose. The identity crisis can morph into a tsunami of epic proportions if person’s feelings are made to dictate morality. Let’s read:

Ephesians 4:4 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:

17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,

18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:

19 Who being past feelings have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

20 But ye have not so learned Christ; 21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus.

22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts.

Contrary desires which have been cultivated, as it pertains to sexual orientation are included in the above categories. If a person’s feelings and desires are conflicted against God’s revealed will, then the right course of action will be to acknowledge sin for what it is, according to what is written, and then ask God for grace to overcome.

But for persons to claim the freedom of choice as a license to give free reign to one’s contrary feelings and desires is a recipe for disaster, for the entire plan of salvation was engineered to counteract, and to uproot contrary feelings wherever and whenever they may occur. Let’s read:

Colossians 3:5 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry.

God does not condemn anyone for having contrary feelings, what He does is to offer grace and power to deliver us from such desires, if we so choose. The act of David in taking a next man’s wife, constituted his surrender to contrary feelings, and these must be resolutely suppressed by the grace of God, even if the desire is very real and very strong.

No one should question whether contrary feelings are real or strong, for even Paul who wrote several books of the Bible struggled with contrary feelings of his own. This is an ongoing human conundrum, but it must be kept under bit and bridle, lest feeling gain the ascendency over reason and the word of God, as is too often the case. 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.

Romans 13:12 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.

14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

Question [3] How does the grace of God figure into the equation?

The grace of God brings power to the equation so that anyone who desires to overcome may do so through the power of Christ. Different people have different struggles, but the good news of the gospel is that every struggle can be turned to victory when we are connected to the source of power, even The Lord Jesus Christ.

God knows all about our struggles, but He is more concerned about what we do with the remedy that is provided, for there is no battle against the flesh that cannot be won through the power and merits of Christ. To deny this sacred truth would be to deny the efficacy of the gospel, and would render the Christian religion as vanity. Let’s read:

Titus 2:11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.

John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.

13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Persons who are struggling with porn will have to pray. Those who are struggling with drug addiction will have to pray. Those who are struggling with diets and foods will have to pray, and those who are struggling with their identity will have to pray, just like everyone else.

To put it in a nutshell, if you’re struggling for any reason, you will have to pray. Being connected with God means being connected with power, and since there is nothing impossible with God, the identity crisis can be overcome, wherever it may affect us adversely.

We therefore end with passages of scripture that will remind us of this sacred truth, that whatsoever might be our issue, we can be victorious, if we trust in the power of Christ, for this has always been the very essence of the gospel. The passages would be juxtaposed so as to make plain their relevance to each other. Let’s read:

Romans 7: 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?

Romans 8: 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.

4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.

13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.

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

God Bless!

Building Robust Immune Systems. Sabbath Afternoon 09/25/2021

3rd John 1:2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospers.

The current methods of dealing with diseases must be researched and addressed by all who desire to prosper and be in good health. Treating symptoms, instead of ratting out the root cause, makes persons reach for quick fixes that are sold over the counter, or recommended by pharmacists or by physicians as the case may be.

If the tables were turned, and we were to approach the issues from the perspective of root cause, then great suffering, unnecessary expenditure and death would be averted to a very great extent. But since we’ve become the now generation, where any and everything from food, to medicine is delivered by a click, hardly anyone wants to take the time to see what is the root causes of most of our afflictions.

There are habits and lifestyle changes to be made, if we would enjoy great health and longevity, and the complete surrender to Jesus Christ in everything we do will also go a long way in fending off a plethora of sicknesses, if we are disposed to believe in Him.

As was stated before, miracles from God for healing are usually to be the last resort when human effort has done all its best along God-ordained means and methods. God much prefers not to work a miracle if it can be avoided by us doing that which we know to be right and sensible.

But if after doing all we can, we still fall short of accomplishing such healing, God can take up the slack according to His good will. It is not an absolute guarantee in every situation, but the human agent can confidently trust God, knowing that their best was done to cooperate with Him in the particular matter.

God has indeed given us gold in the health message but it contains information and statements that are in some instances, at odds with the mainstream of current modes of thought and action. But it will be discovered that the information given to us was not multiple choice, but rather instructions that would enable us to live way above par.

For starters, we must be reconciled to the fact that most diseases are preventable and avoidable when the right course of action is pursued diligently. The common cold and flu, many cancers, and tumors of all sorts can be avoided if the information given to us were to be appropriated and practiced.

Disease in most cases, is the result of a violation of either physical or spiritual law. Whether it’s done in ignorance or deliberately against what we know to be right, diseases of many sorts can be traced right back to what we did or didn’t do. There are known exceptions, as the Bible teaches, but for the most part it’s a matter of sowing and reaping at play.

The habit of pill-popping drugs is also to be avoided wherever possible for it will be much better to have nature do her work using God-ordained means and methods.

It is true, that in certain instances, recovery would take longer than the over- the counter quick fix, but here is the patience of the saints, meaning that we would derive much greater benefit in the long term, if we were to stay the course with God’s ways and means, wherever possible. Let’s read:

[Ministry Of Healing pp 126] It is true that they (Drugs) sometimes afford present relief, and the patient appears to recover as the result of their use. But in most cases the drug only changes the form and location of the disease. Often the effect of the poison seems to be overcome for a time, but the results remain in the system and work great harm at some later period.

Many of the popular nostrums called patent medicines, and even some of the drugs dispensed by physicians, act a part in laying the foundation of the liquor habit, the opium habit, the morphine habit….

What is a patent medicine, and what is a nostrum?

“Let physicians teach the people that restorative power is not in drugs, but in nature. Disease is an effort of nature to free the system from conditions that result from a violation of the laws of health. In the case of sickness, the cause should be ascertained. Unhealthful conditions should be changed, wrong habits corrected. Then nature is to be assisted in her effort to expel impurities and to re-establish right conditions in the system.”

Covid is not the last pandemic, and it would be wise to couple together with scientific efforts, courses of action that would mitigate disease at the front end, rather than after the fact, as is too often the case. In other words, the hospital serves a good purpose but it would be better not to have to visit, wherever it can be avoided.

Thus, the following is a short list of what we can and should do to build robust immune systems that will enable us to stave off the many diseases that would be coming upon the world. The list would be given in order of priority, so that we can build from the ground up, a sure foundation that would stand the test of plague, pandemic, and pestilence alike.

[1] Having Christ at the center of our lives.

The first and most important factor in building a robust immune system is to accept Christ as Lord and Savior of our lives. This singular action will do far, more, good than all the salad and exercise one may indulge in. The reason for this is that faith can take up the slack in certain situations where diets and foods may fail.

Whatever a person’s situation might be, whether in sickness or in health, for better or worse, we would always be better off having Christ in our lives, since our relationship with God has ramifications in the spiritual as well as the physical realm. This sacred truth is enshrined in the Bible, so that all who read may become partakers. Let’s read:

1st John 5:11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.

John 10:10 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.

Especially will this be the case as we move forward into unchartered waters, where many diseases of all sorts are scheduled to inundate our world. It is true that one who deliberately refuses to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior can reap benefits of His instructions in matters of health. If an atheist were to adopt the health message, he/ she would absolutely be better off.

That’s because the laws and instructions He gives us are good to the very core, for they are based upon eternal principles, and according to the Bible, were ordained to life, and therefore, if an atheist were to make the changes embodied in our health message, he/she would benefit greatly, any which way.

But there are plagues looming on the horizon which even vegans will not be able to survive, and that is why we say that having Christ as Lord and Savior is the very first and most important factor in building a robust immune system. Let’s read:

Psalms 103:1 2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

3 Who forgives all thine iniquities; who heals all thy diseases;

4 Who redeems thy life from destruction; who crowns thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

5 Who satisfies thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

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.

Psalms 43: 5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.

Eating healthy foods, getting sufficient rest and also exercising regularly will only go so far, because the various diseases that are coming upon the earth will require more than diets and foods for persons to be enabled to withstand in the evil day.

Now, it is true that good diets and foods have their rightful place in the greater scheme of things, but when crunch time comes around, diets and foods will fall flat if they’re not coupled together with a living faith in God. It is a fact that many vegans will be lost, for eating good food is not the sole way to withstand disease.

[2] Obedience to all of God’s commandments to the best of our knowledge and ability.

Here is another area of great importance, for it is a fact that there are some who may attempt to take the husk without the kernel, the loaves and the fishes, by rigorously following the laws of health, while disregarding what The Lord has commanded in other areas.

Faith, coupled with obedience constitutes the all-inclusive package, which was designed to strengthen our relationship with God. Thus, if folks were to embrace God in one area, and then exclude Him from the next, an imbalance would be created, through which disease and pandemics will poke many holes.

In other words, as Christ once said, these ought ye to have done, and not left the other undone, for faithfulness in the laws of health would not atone for Sabbath breaking, and conversely, the keeping of the Sabbath would not take up the slack where diets and foods are disregarded.

It is conscientious obedience to all that God has commanded, in every area of our lives, that will render us impregnable to the assaults of satan. This does not mean that we won’t be tempted, it means that we’ll survive the fires and floods that come our way.

In other words, every weak, or missing link in the chain of faith and obedience becomes and open door through which devils can, and would afflict us. There’s something called unnecessary temptations, meaning that we left something on the table that may have invoked temptation. Let’s read:

Exodus 15:25 And he cried unto the Lord; and the Lord shewed him a tree, which when he had cast into the waters, the waters were made sweet: there he made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there he proved them,

26 And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee.

[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.

The soul that is yielded to Christ becomes His own fortress, which He holds in a revolted world, and He intends that no authority shall be known in it but His own. A soul thus kept in possession by the heavenly agencies is impregnable to the assaults of Satan.

Impregnable meaning: a fortified position, unable to be captured or broken into. Unable to be defeated or destroyed; unassailable.

Synonyms include: Bulletproof, indomitable, insurmountable, invincible, invulnerable, unbeatable, unconquerable, unstoppable.

“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.”

We may leave off many bad habits, for the time we may part company with Satan; but without a vital connection with God, through surrender of ourselves to Him moment by moment, we shall be overcome.

[3] Having a clear conscience void of offense to God and man.

A seared conscience does much more harm to our immune system than many realize. This is not usually taken into consideration by some in the medical field, but the Bible teaches us that guilt can weaken our ability to stave off disease that would otherwise not have affected us so adversely.

That’s why Jesus included the forgiveness of our sins in the health message given in Psalms 103, for God knows that the burden of sin will ultimately take a toll on one’s health, if those sins are not repented of and forgiven. Let us observe very carefully, the order in which God’s work of healing takes place, because the work delineated was not written in a vacuum, it was given by inspiration of The Most-High God. Let’s read:

Psalms 103: 2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.

3 Who forgives all thine iniquities; who heals all thy diseases;

4 Who redeems thy life from destruction; who crown thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

5 Who satisfies 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 imputes 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.

5 I acknowledge my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord; and thou forgave the iniquity of my sin.

[4] Cultivating a forgiving spirit.

Regurgitating grudges, and failing to let go of evils done to us is a recipe that often wreaks havoc on our immune systems. Some folks get sick solely from an unforgiving spirit. That old bone that was picked with this or that person, and a refusal to forgive, takes a fearful toll on one’s body, and can literally inhibit folks from fighting off some sickness or disease.

In the most literal sense, forgiving a person often does more for the one who forgives, than the one who is forgiven, as far as one’s health and well-being are concerned. The scripture describes one particular instance where one suffered a heart attack, solely because of an unforgiving spirit. Let’s read:

1st Samuel 25: 35 So David received of her hand that which she had brought him, and said unto her, Go up in peace to thine house; see, I have hearkened to thy voice, and have accepted thy person.

36 And Abigail came to Nabal; and, behold, he held a feast in his house, like the feast of a king; and Nabal's heart was merry within him, for he was very drunken: wherefore she told him nothing, less or more, until the morning light.

37 But it came to pass in the morning, when the wine was gone out of Nabal, and his wife had told him these things, that his heart died within him, and he became as a stone.

2nd Kings 5:20 But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, Behold, my master hath spared Naaman this Syrian, in not receiving at his hands that which he brought: but, as the Lord lives, I will run after him, and take somewhat of him.

22 And he said, All is well. My master hath sent me, saying, Behold, even now there be come to me from mount Ephraim two young men of the sons of the prophets: give them, I pray thee, a talent of silver, and two changes of garments.

25 But he went in, and stood before his master. And Elisha said unto him, Whence comest thou, Gehazi? And he said, Thy servant went no whither.

26 And he said unto him, Went not mine heart with thee, when the man turned again from his chariot to meet thee? Is it a time to receive money, and to receive garments, and olive yards, and vineyards, and sheep, and oxen, and menservants, and maidservants?

27 The leprosy therefore of Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy seed forever. And he went out from his presence a leper as white as snow.

[5] Diets and foods

On the issue of diets and foods, the remnant people of God already know what to do, it is just a matter of doing it. The light that has been shed upon our pathway concerning healthful living is not merely a good suggestion, it is what God has instructed for all who will survive the terrors of the last days.

If we will receive it the plain truth of the matter is that if we are not living in harmony with the instructions given for our day, we will come up to the time of trouble in a very compromised position, that will not permit us to exist during those trying days of earth’s history.

And because of this, many will be laid to rest so as to be saved after the deluge hits. Adequate rest, pure water, plenty of sunshine, a regular exercise regimen, the use of natural remedies, fresh air, temperance, sound nutrition that is in harmony with God’s ideals, coupled together with trust in God make up the whole nine yards of what is to be accomplished in our persons.

Wherever possible, we should make concerted and well-directed efforts along those lines so as to facilitate what God seeks to accomplish in us to prepare us to stand in the time of trouble. It will call for self-denial and sacrifice, but it can absolutely be accomplished, wherever the will is surrendered to God.

This is not an Adventist thing, nor even an Ellen G. White proposal, it is what is written in the Bible, so that no one would misunderstand the plain utterances thereof. To put it plainly, meat of any kind will not be served to God’s people during the time of trouble, so says the Bible. Let’s read:

Isaiah 33: 16 He shall dwell on high: his place of defense shall be the “munitions of rocks”: bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure.

1st Kings 19:2 Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time.

3 And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there.

4 But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, (country living) and came and sat down under a juniper tree….

5 And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat.

6 And he looked, and, behold, there was a cake baked on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head. And he did eat and drink, and laid him down again.

7 And the angel of the Lord came again the second time, and touched him, and said, Arise and eat; because the journey is too great for thee.

8 And he arose, and did eat and drink, and went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights unto Horeb the mount of God. (“The Munition of rocks”)

[Christian Temperance pp 118>119] When God led the children of Israel out of Egypt, it was His purpose to establish them in the land of Canaan a pure, happy, healthy people. Had they been willing to deny appetite in obedience to His restrictions, feebleness and disease would have been unknown among them. Their descendants would have possessed physical and mental strength.

They would have had clear perceptions of truth and duty, keen discrimination, and sound judgment. But they were unwilling to submit to God's requirements, and they failed to reach the standard He had set for them, and to receive the blessings that might have been theirs.

It is therefore up to us to choose to make those necessary changes, and God will grant us grace and power to do so. Whenever we read the plain utterances of scripture, we should avoid trying to reason away what we have read, but should instead ask God for grace to put it into practice.

If the instructions given today are followed, let it be known that it is God alone who gave the information, and it is dispensed to all who are desirous of living in harmony with His revealed will. We will end with a passage of scripture to help us remember that all these things are written especially for us who are living in the last days of earth’s history. 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 stands take heed lest he fall.

13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

God Bless!

Differences Between Faith And Presumption. Sabbath afternoon 09/18/2021

Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

It’s very important, in these days in which we are now living, that we know the difference between faith and presumption, because the two modes of thought and action often resemble each other very closely. Many professed Christians mistake the one for the other, and in doing so, some persons have placed themselves in a compromised position.

By mistaking faith for presumption some folks have brought unexpected harm to themselves and others who in turn have stumbled on the very concept of faith and in some families sharp a divide has opened up as to what constitutes faith or presumption. The current pandemic is a practical example in the here and now, of what we are speaking about.

Some claim that their faith in God will protect them from the pandemic, yet the Delta version has taken a toll where least expected. Others believe that our faith should never lead us to take unnecessary risks, and as a result, the current scientific discoveries are to be incorporated in our practice as being a God-send, since faith without works is dead.

Now, it is true that God at times will work through human agencies to bring relief to suffering humans and even though some may not know it, God is The One who, in some instances is working behind the scenes to bring about His good purposes for us all.

Thus, the question arises very often in the current environment: Is it God’s will that faith in Him alone should sustain us at this time, or should Christians incorporate current science in collaboration with their faith to make the package complete?

We do not propose to have all the answers to these haunting, questions, however, we must make clear from the study of God’s word what is faith and what is presumption. Faith in God always leads a person to obey God to the best of their knowledge, and to the best of their ability.

Faith claims the promises of God, but it complies with the conditions laid down for the fulfillment of those promises. Presumption also claims promises, but it refuses to abide by the Biblical stipulations on which fulfillment is promised.

There are many whose expectations will be severely shaken when it is discovered that God would not be intervening as they expected, and there are others who will defy all odds, and demonstrate in real time that God can certainly be depended upon, to fulfill His word, in unconventional ways and means.

In the book of Hebrews, we find the faith of those in days gone by being exemplified through obedience, such as in the case of Noah, who believed the word of God that a flood was coming. Noah’s faith did not stop at a mere profession; he obeyed, by going to the nearest Home Depot, and buying up all gopher wood he could find.

Thus, when it came time for his faith and reality to converge, his entire household was saved because he believed and acted upon his belief, in accordance with what God had commanded. Thus, obedience is and integral element in anything called faith, which is why the Bible says faith without works is dead.

The works there being referred to is not what man may stipulate in all instances; the works are to be in harmony with what God has commanded, or given us the clearance to do. Abraham also believed God, but his faith took him to the nearest U-Haul outlet, so that he could comply with God’s command that he must leave his native country.

In fact, we would discover in the eleventh chapter of Hebrews, that after mentioning those shining examples of faith, the Bible goes on to mention the obedience to God’s word which followed very close on the heels of the exercise of faith. Let’s read:

Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

Genesis 6: 7 And the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.

8 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.

9 These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.

13 And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.

14 Make thee an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch.

5 And this is the fashion which thou shalt make it of: The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits, the breadth of it fifty cubits, and the height of it thirty cubits.

16 A window shalt thou make to the ark, and in a cubit shalt thou finish it above; and the door of the ark shalt thou set in the side thereof; with lower, second, and third stories shalt thou make it.

Very specific measurements were given to Noah for the building of the ark, and not one of those details could be left out or disregarded, for then, Noah’s expectation of protection from the flood would be dashed in pieces. Three hundred cubits means three cubits and three stories means three stories, and nothing else.

Thus, Noah’s faith in the promises of God converge with his obedience to what God had told him, and the rest is history. As he sat within the ark with his entire family, he could be confident that God would fulfill His part, for he did everything God told him to do, all his ducks were in a neat row, and therefore, he would be sheltered when the storm comes.

In our day, many persons may claim the promises of God, and may look forward with an anticipation and expectation for deliverance, that is not tethered to obedience and because of this, serious difficulties make manifest that they may not have built upon The Rock, but upon the sand.

This is not always the case when troubles arise, but it is a fact that contemporary Christianity may often claim promises in the Bible without complying with the conditions laid down, and for this reason, many instances of dashed hopes do occur.

Some have deliberately presumed to build an ark of their own choosing, utilizing measurements and building materials which God neither recognizes or endorses, and for this reason, the hopes of many will meet with signal disappointment, when faith is tested as it were by fire.

Therefore, in all of the back and forth concerning faith and presumption, and whatsoever one’s ideas may be on these issues, there is one passage in the Bible pertaining to Noah that we must never forget because it puts the icing on the cake, as it were. Let’s read:

Genesis 6:22 Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.

Again, we have the shining example of Abraham, who is often referred to as the father of the faithful. When it was his turn to lead us by example, he also incorporated obedience with God’s promises and commands, and it was based on the fusion of the two that faith and reality converged. 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.

Genesis 12:1 Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee.

2 And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing.

3 And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curses thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.

4 So Abram departed, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran.

5 And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came.

In both instances with Noah and then Abraham, we find these critically important words: “And God said unto Noah”. “And God said unto Abraham”

It is worthy of note that God did not say anything to Noah’s wife, nor to Sarah, for it was left up to them to believe and to participate in their husband’s faith and obedience. In order for both these spouses to benefit from the blessings and promises, they must believe God had indeed spoken to their god-fearing husbands.

And if the spouses had difficulty believing that God gave their husbands such outlandish directives, they could have taken the matter to God in prayer, and He would confirm, wherever He sees fit. As we get closer to the final conflict of the ages, husbands and wives should try to be on the same page, so as not to tear their family apart when crunch time comes.

In addition, we observe that in Abraham’s case, he took Lot, his brother’s son and all the souls they had gotten in Haran, everyone who was free to believe and obey, or to disbelieve and remain.

God had not spoken to any of them directly, but if they knew and believed that the head of the home was a God-fearing man, then they are free to make their own choices. They could obey by faith, and thereby be beneficiaries of the promises fulfilled, or they refuse to obey, and thus forfeit the promise of collateral blessings.

The true faith in God that the Bible recognizes will never lead persons to deliberately disobey God, for this causes a short-circuit of God’s promises. This is clearly exemplified in the case of Eli to whom many great promises were made, on the same conditions of obedience, but when Eli deliberately chose not to comply his professed faith was turned to fake news. Let’s read:

1st Samuel 2:27 And there came a man of God unto Eli, and said unto him, Thus saith the Lord, Did I plainly appear unto the house of thy father, when they were in Egypt in Pharaoh's house?

28 And did I choose him out of all the tribes of Israel to be my priest, to offer upon mine altar, to burn incense, to wear an ephod before me? and did I give unto the house of thy father all the offerings made by fire of the children of Israel?

29 Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering which I have commanded in my habitation?

30 Wherefore the Lord God of Israel saith, I said Indeed, that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me forever: but now the Lord saith, Be it far from me; for them that honor me I will honor, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.

35 And I will raise me up a faithful priest, that shall do according to that which is in mine heart and in my mind: and I will build him a sure house; and he shall walk before mine anointed forever.

These examples bring us to a very important aspect of faith, which has to do with the confidence factor. How does one, against all odds, and against all logic and conventional wisdom have confidence to take a certain course of action, even though it may seem quite perilous and even nonsensical to do so?

What makes Noah and Abraham confident, and is such an attitude built upon mere figments of their imagination, or is it built upon concrete evidences? In order to act upon God’s commands and promises folks must be sure of what they are doing, so how does the certainty factor figure into the equation?

And as we move forward into unchartered territory, with many diseases, pandemics, droughts, storms, hurricanes, water shortages, and crimes of all sorts on the horizon, what must be a Christian’s basis for confidence and certainty in an increasingly troubled world?

For the answers to these questions, we now turn to the Bible, for it instructs us on how confidence and certainty become a living reality in those who walk by faith. David was as the Bible describes a stripling, meaning that he was probable just out of his teens, and had known nothing else but tending to sheep.

He was cute at that age, and after he learned from his brothers of the existential threat posed to the nation because of Goliath, David made King Saul an offer that would make any battle-hardened general recoil with unbelief. David confidently stated that he would be willing to fight the giant singlehandedly and that he was certain that he would win.

Again, we ask the question: “What makes David so confident, and that against all odds?” He has to be making that offer based upon something he knows for sure, and if so, then it is not presumption as king Saul suggested, but faith in real time.

We could almost guarantee, that if it was someone like Mike Tyson who made the offer King Saul would not think twice; but for this cute youth, who had no battle scars or tattoos on his face, to offer to fight the giant seemed to be an absolute, and a foolish mismatch. Let’s read:

1st Samuel 17:2 And David said to Saul, Let no man's heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this Philistine.

33 And Saul said to David, You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth.

In the above passages we will observe two distinct attitudes and perspectives being manifested, one savors of certainty and confidence, while the other savors of fear, and unbelief. Therefore, before we get into the minds of David and Saul, we must see what the dictionary says presumption is:

Presumption: a belief that something is true even though it has not been proven.

Thus, based upon the above definition, we must get into the mind of king Saul, and observe why he is so fearful. Given the circumstances of his life in times past, he has all right to be fearful. Because of Saul’s many refusals to obey the clear instructions of God in times past, he is now void of any assurances that God will be with him in the present emergency.

His fear is justified, for he has no reasonable ground to believe that God would defeat the giant through him, for he is disposed to disobedience, and for this reason, if he dares to face Goliath, believing that he would be protected by God, he would be believing something that isn’t true, and that would constitute an act of presumption.

God never blesses deliberate disobedience. There are times, when a person is in genuine ignorance God may wink, but the Bible clearly states that if I regard iniquity in my heart, The Lord will not hear me. Which means that if one knows something is wrong, and chooses to continue doing so, then it becomes vanity to quote promises confidently. 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.

17 And Samuel said, When thou wast little in thine own sight, wast thou not made the head of the tribes of Israel, and the Lord anointed thee king over Israel?

18 And the Lord sent thee on a journey, and said, Go and utterly destroy the sinners the Amalekites, and fight against them until they be consumed.

19 Wherefore then didst thou not obey the voice of the Lord, but didst fly upon the spoil, and didst evil in the sight of the Lord?

20 And Saul said unto Samuel, Yea, I have obeyed the voice of the Lord, and have gone the way which the Lord sent me, and have brought Agag the king of Amalek, and have utterly destroyed the Amalekites.

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.

Faith on the other hand is quite different for it has confidence and substantive elements, which drive away all fear. Therefore, true faith in God will be a concrete foundation under the feet of those who are disposed to walking in obedience to all that God says, according to the light shed on their pathway.

Fear has torment and uncertainty, while faith has solid foundations of factual evidences, manifested in a person’s experiences with God, and upon which one’s decisions are made with confidence.

Thus, the positive assurance David is manifesting is based upon two things: [1] He obeys God’s voice, and [2] He has many literal experiences with God which he can point to as undeniable evidence of God’s presence with him. Let’s read:

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

It’s worthy of note that if anyone else had dared to make such an offer, such a decision could be placed in the “presumption” column, if they did not have substance and evidence to back up such an offer. If a person claims the promises of God with apparent confidence, he/she had better have substance and evidence to make such claims, or their consequent actions can be presumption.

In fact, when we study the narrative closely, we’ll observe that Saul was cowering in fear, and we are not to criticize him for his feelings, because they are the natural outworking of deliberate disobedience, and a seared conscience.

Thus, we have a dire situation where an existential threat is facing the nation, and some are rightfully afraid and running for cover, while at the same time David is confident about taking on Goliath, for in his mind, he does not view the situation as being risky, but rather as being an opportunity to magnify The name of God.

Thus, we are pressed to ask the haunting question again: What makes David so confident in an obviously dangerous situation? Look closely at the two completely different attitudes in the face of a great risk to the nation. Let’s read:

1st Samuel 17:23 And as he (David) talked with them, behold, there came up the champion, the Philistine of Gath, Goliath by name, out of the armies of the Philistines, and spoke according to the same words: and David heard them.

24 And all the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him, and were sore afraid.

1st Samuel 17: 48 And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose, and came, and drew nigh to meet David, that David hastened, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine.

It has to do with the song of his experience, for his confidence is based upon literal experiences that he had gone through previously with God, and that is why we see him speaking as he did.

His offer is not a boastful, presumptuous proposal, but rather a fact- based one that is the fruit of faith and obedience to all God has commanded, to the best of his ability and knowledge. Let’s read:

1st Samuel 17:34 And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father's sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock.

35 And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him.

36 Thy servant slew both the lion and the bear: and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath defied the armies of the living God.

37 David said moreover, The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the Lord be with thee.

At this juncture, we should pause for a moment of silence ae we read with humble hearts and minds, a passage from the scriptures, which deals directly with faith in God, and the confidence factor. Let’s read:

Revelation 14:3 And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.

Hear the word of The Lord now. It is high time that we begin singing a new song. For too many years a great many Christians may have been walking in the presumption lane claiming the promises of God and expecting deliverance only to be disappointed over and over again.

Some have prayed in apparent earnestness, and in sincerity, yet for all the effort made, it may seem as if faith has suffered defeat. Presumption claims the same promises that faith claims, but it walks in the opposite direction to what God has commanded in His word.

Therefore, as we search our souls, it is imperative to see if there’s any command, or any instruction God gave us, that we know of, yet might have, like king Saul, knowingly chosen to differ on the matter. We are in crunch time mode and if we want confidence at such a time as this, we will need to begin singing a new song.

In every age, and before every cataclysmic event, God has sent His servants to prepare His people for what is to come. Very grave occurrences would be transpiring across the entire globe, with increasing frequency and intensity, and we will need a living faith in God, not presumption to see us through.

We should often recall to mind those many literal deliverances and experiences God has brought us through. These instances should then be used as stepping stones for greater trust and obedience, through which our confidence and certainty in troublous times will be as firm as The Rock upon Whom it is built.

We therefore end with a passage of scripture which should encourage us to trust and obey, for there’s no other way to escape the many snares, delusions, presumptions, and difficulties that will be engulfing our planet, as we move forward into unchartered waters. Let’s read:

Hebrews 10:35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward.

36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

37 For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.

38 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

39 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

God Bless!

God Versus Beast Principles. Sabbath afternoon 09/11/2021

Revelation 14:12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

 It is of critical importance that as persons move into unchartered waters at home and abroad, the basic principles of God’s kingdom, versus the kingdom of the beast be understood. There is a battle currently being waged in every heart for control of the mind, and God’s kingdom utilizes methods that are quite opposite to what the beast uses.

 God’s kingdom has at its core the ultimate good of all humanity, and encourages willing obedience to the commandments of God, based upon love, and an intelligent understanding of God’s purposes for us. It allows us the freedom of choice, and employs methods of resolving difficulties between persons using different currencies than what devils use.

 God’s kingdom repays ingratitude with kindness, it quells violence through peace and reconciliation, it seeks the good of those who hate it, and it provides food and drink, and all the basic necessities of life to all, whether they agree or disagree with God.

 God takes no delight in the misfortunes and demise of His enemies, for He died to save us all. Now, it is true that in certain instances, God has to employ justice, for where mercy and grace may fail, justice must be served, and in His capacity as The Creator of all, it is His prerogative to dispense mercy as well as justice as He sees fit.

 Yet, when God’s track record is closely investigated, we discover that His mercy rules the day, and in all of His dealings with human beings, His actions are heavily tilted towards leniency and kindness. If this were not the case, and if God dealt with us as we deserved, not one of us would be alive today. Let’s read:

Lamentations 3:21 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.

Matthew 5:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy.

44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.

48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

Romans 12:17 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.

19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

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.

17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

Thus, when we observe the general tenor in all of the scriptures, we discover that even though there are times when God had no choice but to exercise justice, yet, these instances are the exception rather than the rule, for His grace and mercies towards us greatly outweigh His jurisprudence, for as the Bible teaches us, God delights in mercy.

 The beast system on the other hand is a kingdom of darkness, which has as its core, operating principle, the use of force, even if persons may be reluctant to subscribe to its agenda. The so-called overtures to subscribe to the beast under a veneer of seeking the greater good are just an initial charade, because noncompliance will be ultimately put down with a heavy hand.

 Satan, who stands at the head of the beast system has no problem with starving folks into submission, if persons do not willingly submit to his bidding, and he won’t hesitate to beat the praise out of unwilling lips. This is because his kingdom is the one that has force as its backbone and any person who disagrees will ultimately feel the ire of the dragon.

 In contrast, we observe in the scriptures where God continued to feed and sustain those antediluvians right up until the day of the flood, for God did not withdraw His blessing and kindness from the earth, just because the overwhelming majority of people had forsaken, and rebelled against Him.

 The basic necessities of food and drink were always supplied on a regular daily basis, and even folks like Cain, and Lamech who introduced the gross practice of polygamy, continued to be beneficiaries of God’s mercies and blessings. God does not starve persons into submission, for all who choose to serve Him are to do so of their own free will.

 Not so with the beast principles, for we have sacred history before us, that when Job refused to yield to temptation, his entire household, together with his animals, pets and servants, suffered from the brute force of devils, and when all these failed of breaking Job, he was afflicted with sore boils from the crown of his head to the soles of his feet.

 Thus, we must be clear as crystal when deciphering the beast principles, so as not to subscribe to them under the various veneers by which they are sold.  It is a fact that intimidations, hecklings, and other forms of nefarious inducements such as bribes are going to be exhausted first whenever the beast may seek to carry out its agenda, but we should always remember this, that at the end of the day, the beast principles would ultimately lead to the use of force. Always! Let’s read:

Revelation 13: 11 And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke as a dragon.

12 And he exercises all the power of the first beast before him, and causes the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.

14 And deceives them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.

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 causes 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 Desire of Ages pp 435] Lucifer desired God's power, but not His character. He sought for himself the highest place, and every being who is actuated by his spirit will do the same. Thus alienation, discord, and strife will be inevitable.

 Dominion becomes the prize of the strongest. The kingdom of Satan is a kingdom of force; every individual regards every other as an obstacle in the way of his own advancement, or a steppingstone on which he himself may climb to a higher place.

 Several instances in the Bible clearly demonstrate the development of beast principles as they were implemented by those under influence of devils. In the area of worship, the use of force reared its ugly head. And at other times, when the faithful would not buckle under pressure, they were fed with the bread of affliction.

In the case of those “Certain Jews” who had refused to bow to the golden image in Nebuchadezzar’s day they were first solicited to do so initially, but when solicitations failed, the use of force was resorted to, as will always be the case when beast principles are espoused. Let’s read:

Daniel 3:9 They spoke and said to the king Nebuchadnezzar, O king, live forever.

10 Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of music, shall fall down and worship the golden image.

11 And whoso falls not down and worships, that he should be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.

12 There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

13 Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Then they brought these men before the king.

14 Nebuchadnezzar spoke and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up?

15 Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of music, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?

16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.

17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.

18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

19 Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: therefore, he spoke and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.

20 And he commanded the most, mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace.

1st Kings 22:3 And the king of Israel said unto his servants, Know ye that Ramoth in Gilead is ours, and we be still, and take it not out of the hand of the king of Syria?  

4 And he said unto Jehoshaphat, Wilt thou go with me to battle to Ramothgilead? And Jehoshaphat said to the king of Israel, I am as thou art, my people as thy people, my horses as thy horses.

 5 And Jehoshaphat said unto the king of Israel, Enquire, I pray thee, at the word of the Lord to day. 6 Then the king of Israel gathered the prophets together, about four hundred men, and said unto them, Shall I go against Ramothgilead to battle, or shall I forbear? And they said, Go up; for the Lord shall deliver it into the hand of the king.

7 And Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of the Lord besides, that we might enquire of him?

8 And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, There is yet one man, Micaiah the son of Imlah, by whom we may enquire of the Lord: but I hate him; for he doth not prophesy good concerning me, but evil. And Jehoshaphat said, Let not the king say so.

9 Then the king of Israel called an officer, and said, Hasten hither Micaiah the son of Imlah.

13 And the messenger that was gone to call Micaiah spake unto him, saying, Behold now, the words of the prophets declare good unto the king with one mouth: let thy word, I pray thee, be like the word of one of them, and speak that which is good.

14 And Micaiah said, As the Lord liveth, what the Lord saith unto me, that will I speak.

16 And the king said unto him, How many times shall I adjure thee that thou tell me nothing but that which is true in the name of the Lord?

17 And he said, I saw all Israel scattered upon the hills, as sheep that have not a shepherd: and the Lord said, These have no master: let them return every man to his house in peace.

26 And the king of Israel said, Take Micaiah, and carry him back unto Amon the governor of the city, and to Joash the king's son;

27 And say, Thus saith the king, Put this fellow in the prison, and feed him with bread of affliction and with water of affliction, until I come in peace.

The disposition to starve, threaten, or harm persons with whom we do not agree is the same outworking of the beast principles. The kingdom of God grants to all individuals the freedom of choice, with natural consequences, but the kingdom of the beast uses coercion to exact compliance from unwilling minds.

 The use of force by the beast is a principle that has been long in development for centuries, and which will culminate in what Revelation 13 describes as a theocracy, that will begin to enforce its dogmas in ways and means that many thought impossible. As was stated before, it will begin to take shape under the cover of darkness.

 Man-made theocracies and democracies are two systems which are, for the most part, essentially at odds in their perspectives and in their operations. In man-made democracies persons enjoy the freedom of speech, and the freedom to worship according to the dictates of one’s conscience.

 But in man-made theocracies, persons are forced to live and worship according to all the dictates of the state. Morality is mandated and the government’s concepts of right and wrong are urged upon the people on pain of various punishments, and in some cases, even death.

 In some such countries, persons are forced to smile when their dear leader is present. Emotions as well as their organic feelings, and convictions of one’s conscience are put under bit and bridle, and those who dare to differ are often ostracized, punished, beaten, and sometimes go missing without a trace.

 The images we saw recently of some women being beaten into compliance in Afghanistan are the same outworking of man-made theocracies, and even if there may be some variations and different levels of force, it’s the same spirit of Revelation 13 at work.

 Here in the land of the free, and the home of the brave we have enjoyed those freedoms which our democracy brings. Folks enjoy freedom of speech, freedom of religion, or freedom from religion if we so choose, and the basic freedom to work for our daily bread is essentially available to all, some more, some less.

But, the scriptures warn us in Revelation 13 of a coming theocracy that will seek to impose its own views and perspectives on its citizens. Morality will be enforced, the dictates of one’s conscience would be trampled upon, and the freedoms we now enjoy will literally go up in smoke.

 Under this new order, mandated worship of the beast would be touted as something that is for the greater good of the citizenry and ultimately, those economic sanctions mentioned in Revelation 13 will be leveled against all those who dare to differ.

 These cryptic statements may seem implausible to some at the moment, but if we were to drill down in to what is looming on the horizon, we would clearly see the use of force as a core operating principle, beginning to take shape.

 To put it plainly, a looming theocracy with several autocratic tentacles is just over the horizon, and as those beast principles begin to pervade every social, religious and economic sector we will find ourselves in a bind that will force persons to make some very difficult choices and decisions.

 In other words, it is coming down to the basics of bread and butter, according to what is written in Revelation. Let’s read:

 Revelation 13:11 And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke as a dragon.

12 And he exercises all the power of the first beast before him, and causes the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.

 The first beast mentioned in Revelation 13 was a persecuting power, which enforced its dogmas on those under its jurisdiction, and which ultimately resulted in the horrors of the dark ages. The state’s interpretation of the Bible was made the standard of godliness for all, and dissenters found themselves having to hide in caves and dens of the earth.

 But since that time, the very same beast principle has dressed itself in new sacerdotal garments, it has gone to department stores, and purchased modern suits and ties, and it has now taken up residence in philosophies, ideologies, and concepts that seem on the surface to have the greater good of the people in mind.

 Whenever, and wherever persons are being denied the basic necessities of life for no other reason than not sharing the same convictions of conscience as do others, there the beast principle will be raising its ugly head, as the book of Revelation declares will be the case in the not too distant future, Let’s read:

 Revelation 13:15 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 causes 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.

 The word “Cause” has very interesting definitions, according to the dictionary!

[1] Something that brings about an effect or a result.

[2] To compel by command, authority, or force.

[3] A person or thing that gives rise to an action, phenomenon, or condition.

[4] To make (something, especially something bad) happen.

 Thus, as we move into unchartered waters in the history of our world, all those who desire or intend to survive the coming theocracy, will have to have other ways and means by which they will live, and according to the scriptures, these ways and means cannot be tethered in any way to the conventional systems we have come to depend on.

 Believing, trusting, and obeying Jesus Christ is the only system that would be able to withstand the onslaught of economic and religious pressures that will be brought to bear on those certain Jews who will dare to differ in their convictions.

 Hence the reason why it cannot be stated enough that we must learn to trust in God now, while there is opportunity to do so, for trusting in Him who is invisible does not happen overnight. It takes time, and an experimental knowledge of The God whom we serve, to confidently relinquish earthly systems.

 To trust in God for everything that pertains to life does not happen quickly, and thus, at every step of advance towards God’s kingdom, our faith would be given opportunity to grow and become strong and durable, because faith that is not tested cannot be trusted.

 Those mighty promise God has given us to live by must be experienced in real time on an ongoing basis, so that whenever the rug is pulled out from beneath our feet, it will be seen that we had built upon The Rock, and not upon the stand.

 The following therefore are the promises that are given in the Bible, to mitigate as much as possible the beast principles, whenever and wherever they will come into play. Let’s read:

 Psalms 91:1  He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the  

Almighty.

2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flies by day;

6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;

10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honor him.

16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

Isaiah 33:15 He that walketh righteously and speaks uprightly; he that despises the gain of oppressions, that shakes his hands from holding of bribes, that stops his ears from hearing of blood, and shuts his eyes from seeing evil; 16 He shall dwell on high: his place of defense shall be the munitions of rocks: bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure. 17 Thine eyes shall see the king in his beauty: they shall behold the land that is very far off.

 Isaiah 4:5 And the Lord will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defense. 6 And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the day time from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.

 Jeremiah 17:7 Blessed is the man that trusts in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. 8 For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreads 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.

 [The great Controversy pp 631] The heavenly sentinels, faithful to their trust, continue their watch. Though a general decree has fixed the time when commandment-keepers may be put to death, their enemies will in some cases anticipate the decree, and, before the time specified, will endeavor to take their lives.

 But none can pass the mighty guardians stationed about every faithful soul. Some are assailed in their flight from the cities and villages; but the swords raised against them break and fall as powerless as a straw. Others are defended by angels in the form of men of war.

 It's about time that we believe God for those days mentioned previously are not in the distant future. In fact, in certain instances the time is here and the place is now. Thus, we will end with a passage of scripture that would enable the true Christian to withstand, and survive the beast principles, when they begin to overspread the land. Let’s read:

 Daniel 12:1 And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, everyone that shall be found written in the book.

3 And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.

                                     God Bless!

By Grace Are We Saved. Sabbath afternoon 09/04/2021

Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

This passage is a gentle reminder of a basic fact of salvation that we must never ever forget. It is quite possible that with the passage of time, and the very routine of doing church, we may forget that it is the grace of God that saves us, and not any good thing we may have done.

Everyone who would pass through the pearly gates when Christ comes would have been saved by grace through faith, without exception. There are those in the Bible, who because of their experience and their understanding at the time, focused heavily on what they did or did not do.

Others have touted their good deeds as the reason why grace and mercy should be granted, and some have enumerated their righteous works in appeals for mercy. As our brethren in Christ, they did so in harmony with their understanding of salvation at the time, and God heard their appeals. Let’s read:

Nehemiah 13:11 Then contended I with the rulers, and said, Why is the house of God forsaken? And I gathered them together, and set them in their place.

12 Then brought all Judah the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the oil unto the treasuries.

13 And I made treasurers over the treasuries, Shelemiah the priest, and Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites, Pedaiah: and next to them was Hanan the son of Zaccur, the son of Mattaniah: for they were counted faithful, and their office was to distribute unto their brethren.

14 Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof.

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?

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.

2nd Kings 20:1In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the Lord, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live.

2 Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the Lord, saying,

3 I beseech thee, O Lord, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore.

These were very noble and righteous deeds that are in no way to be despised or minimized, for it was their zealousness for righteousness and their love for God that prompted the good works. That’s all well and good, but at the end of the day it is God’s goodness and grace to us why His favor is granted and not merely as a reward for good deeds.

There are preachers who have worked untiringly to save souls and some have gone into areas that were hostile to Christianity, and they laid it all on the line for the sake of Christ, and because of this, they will be rewarded for their faithfulness in times to come.

But again, it’s not the good that we have done that warrants us God’s grace and mercy, it is His great love for us, manifested through Jesus, why anyone will be saved eternally.

In fact, when the dust has settled in the earth made new, and we are able to witness in real time, what has been transpiring on this planet, there would be none to boast or claim that they were saved by the works of righteousness.

Everyone, without exception will give the praise and the credit for their salvation to God. This basic truth must never be lost sight of by us, even as we busy ourselves with doing good and right deeds. It is the work of The Holy Ghost in our hearts as we submit to God daily, that produces any good work that will be accepted.

But even then, such works are tainted because they come through human channels. God accepts sincere efforts to do right, but the bottom line is that in and of themselves, they fall way short of perfection, and God can only accept perfection as the way to access eternal life.

This perfection is found alone in Christ, and God has offered it as a free gift to all who will believe. When a person accepts Christ as Lord and Savior, it is not the combination of His righteousness with ours that guarantees us an entry into heaven.

It is His righteousness and perfection alone, even though believers are to grow in His grace and live victoriously by His power. The righteousness of the law must be fulfilled in us also, as it was in Christ, but its fulfilment in us is not our ticket to glory. It’s Jesus alone, from beginning to end, for by grace are we saved.

Hence the reason why the following passages must never be forgotten by those who believe in Jesus for salvation is never something earned, it is something that is received as a gift from God through Christ. Let’s read:

Psalms 14:2 The Lord looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God.

3 They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

Romans 3:1 What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision?

9 What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;

10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one.

11 There is none that understands, there is none that seeks after God.

12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ. nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives 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, then Christ is dead in vain.

Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

Then John delivers the goods in a nutshell so that a child could understand. Goodness without Jesus is not going to get anyone past the pearly gates, for it matters not how many good deeds have been done. An atheist or unbeliever can give his poor neighbor a loaf of bread.

That’s a good thing and we would encourage folks to do so where needed. But the deed in and of itself does not make such a person eligible for eternal life without Christ. This is one of the sacred truths that needs to be dispensed in our day, where so many charities and humanitarian agencies are converged.

Now, there are persons who have done righteously, but who were not aware that it was God working in and through them. These are different to those who deliberately exclude God from the equation and try to enter heaven by their own merits. Not happening under any circumstances. Let’s read:

1st John 5:11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.

God accepts our understanding of things as much as it may be sincere but after great light has been shed on the issues pertaining to salvation, He desires that we should have an intelligent understanding of the matter in question.

Now some may be wondering why our first passage explicitly states: “For by grace are ye saved through faith and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

There are several reasons why the two verses were written in such an explicit manner, and other verses which we will explore will bring to light the truth in the matter.

[1] Persons who earnestly desire to do right are not able to do so on their own without God.

Jude 1:24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,

25 To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever.

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.

A thorough understanding of what Paul is saying is of critical importance if we are not to be fazed by those severe battles that are to be fought against internal and external foes. On this point about foes, it is worthy of note that the internal foes are the more dangerous of the two.

In other words, it’s not so much those temptations that satan will bring that causes us to stumble, it is the latent desires and clamors of the flesh that are the more dangerous, if they are not kept under bit and bridle at all times, through the power and the presence of The Holy Ghost.

There have been many righteous in the days of yore who lived victoriously, and who escaped the snares of the evil one. While this is true, let none of us be deceived into thinking that such victories were a breeze, without severe internal or external conflict.

Case in point was Joseph, who was harassed daily by his boss’ wife. Day in and day out as Joseph came to work, there she was, with various enchantments to seduce, if possible, the young man. But being the righteous person that he was does not mean that Joseph did not experience struggles with the flesh.

What do you do when you know temptations are waiting for you, on the job, and you have no choice but to enter the enchanted ground? There are some of us currently who may go to work, and as the door is opened there is Mr. or Mrs. Potiphar waiting for the right circumstances to converge.

The problem for Joseph was that, as a young man, he had feelings just like anyone else, which occur naturally, being given by God. So how does he say no to his natural feelings, which are clamoring for satisfaction from time to time, especially when the offer on the table is at his fingertips?

Now, we must ask our female audience to take a little timeout so we can reason with our brothers. Do not be offended by this request, because it is a “man thing” we are going to let loose. There are times when as men, we will have to say no in our minds, even though the flesh is saying yes.

The conflicts of Romans 7 have to do with the mind saying no to what we know is wrong, whilst at the same time the flesh is saying a definite yes. On this point it is worthy of note that the cravings of fallen human nature have absolutely no respect for Bible studies, sermons or memory verses.

It is quite possible, that as Joseph fled out of the room from Potiphar’s wife, that his flesh was saying yes. Joseph was in his prime, his engine was firing on all cylinders, and the physical urge to merge can run riot at times resulting physical reactions and the like, even without formal consent from one’s mind.

The flesh is unruly and its clamors can become so strong that desires and truth are pulled in opposite directions. This conundrum is especially severe with men, as it pertains to lust, since Adam fell for what he saw, while Eve fell for what she heard.

That’s also one of the reasons why Paul stated that he finds it a law, that whenever he wants to do the right thing, evil is present with him. In other words, Paul discovered that when confronted with temptation, his mind would be quoting the scriptures whilst the unruly flesh would be pulling him in an entirely different direction.

Doing right isn’t always a breeze, for there are times when mortal battles against our internal foes must be waged, and whenever this is the case, it is only the grace of God that can keep us from falling; that is, if we desire to be kept.

When Jesus was in the wilderness of temptation, He became hungry, and thus the temptations of satan asserted themselves against what Jesus was really feeling on the inside. Pangs of hunger, with belching and gas, clamored to be satisfied, and Jesus had to say no to what His flesh was actually craving for on the inside.

Christ suffered severe hunger before He quoted the scripture which says, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word which proceeds from the mouth of God”. But after quoting those memorable words, the pangs of hunger did not retreat or abate in any way form or fashion.

In fact, there are times when after quoting several scriptures in the hour of temptation, that the force of the temptation could actually increase, hence the reason why we had stated earlier, that the clamors of the flesh have no respect for scriptures, and that is why the battles have to be fought and won within our minds.

Fighting against the flesh with fleshly weapons is a recipe for catastrophic loss, for carnal weapons will only go so far and only last so long. There have been members of “Promise Keepers” who were not able to keep their promises when the heat of the furnace was turned up several notches.

Persons can only resist for so long, without power and grace from God, before the clamors of the flesh drive persons to insanity in the heat of the moment. Like Christ, we will need a living connection with the God of heaven, or else we will buckle under stress.

Thus, if we who are not even close to Christ as far as perfection goes, even dare to overcome on our own we will absolutely be steamrolled by devils, who will tempt us on what the flesh naturally clamors for. In the S.D.A commentary upon this point the clamor of the flesh is described as a military campaign against one’s mind.

As it was with Jesus, the conflict can be very severe at times, but God can keep us from falling, “For by grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

This leads us to the battle for our minds because a temptation seeks to cause the clamors of the flesh to override the law of God in the mind, so that the person in question is brought into bondage through their decision to do wrong.

In other words, if devils can succeed in getting us to satisfy real clamors, contrary to what we may know is right, then the battle in question for the mind will be lost. The following readings would shed light on how this battle unfolds in real time. Let’s read:

Genesis 3: 6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.

[The story of redemption pp 36] Adam regretted that Eve had left his side, but now the deed was done. His love for Eve was strong. And in utter discouragement he resolved to share her fate.

After all, might not the words of this wise serpent be correct? Eve was before him, just as lovely and beautiful, and apparently as innocent, as before this act of disobedience ….. he decided to brave the consequences. He seized the fruit and quickly ate it, and like Eve, felt not immediately its ill effects.

As we close off this first segment with men, before turning to the ladies, it is important to remember that the grace of God is more than sufficient for any emergency. Men, when the sting of lust bombards us, and what we see might prompt us to surrender decision to desire, let it be known that it’s the battle for the mind that is taking place. Let’s read:

1 Corinthians 10:11, 12. “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.”

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 457] Satan well knows the material with which he has to deal in the human heart. He knows—for he has studied with fiendish intensity for thousands of years—the points most easily assailed in every character.

And through successive generations he has wrought to overthrow the strongest men, princes in Israel, by the same temptations that were so successful at Baalpeor. All along through the ages there are strewn wrecks of character that have been stranded upon the rocks of sensual indulgence.

As we approach the close of time, as the people of God stand upon the borders of the heavenly Canaan, Satan will, as of old, redouble his efforts to prevent them from entering the goodly land. He lays his snares for every soul.

It is not the ignorant and uncultured merely that need to be guarded; he will prepare his temptations for those in the highest positions, in the most holy office; if he can lead them to pollute their souls, he can through them destroy many.

And he employs the same agents now as he employed three thousand years ago. By worldly friendships, by the charms of beauty, by pleasure seeking, mirth, feasting, or the wine cup, he tempts to the violation of the seventh commandment.

Brothers, go ahead and quote scripture and if in the heat of the moment we can repeat those memory verses, that is all well and good, but let us always remember that it is the grace of God that sustains us, if we desire and pray to be sustained.

Such prayers for the victory are to be made in the secret audience chamber of The Most-High, in the wee hours of the morning preferably, before the humdrum of work and duty begin to take their daily toll on us. Note well, that Jesus did not pray when He was in being tempted, the time for that had passed. Jesus prayed before the temptations, and therefore, He was strengthened to resist them when they came.

Men, there are times when temptations come so suddenly upon us that there is no time to pray. It is of critical importance for us to be fully loaded with The Holy Spirit before leaving home, because the Christian wins his battles on His knees, long before Mrs. Potiphar arrives on the scene.

We now turn our attention to the ladies. Ladies, we can’t let you off the hook, because the temptations often come to you in a different format from men. Your weakness is generally centered on what you hear, which may arouse your feelings and emotions.

In the garden of Eden, Eve fell for what she heard, and ever since that time, Words and Women have been closely associated. In fact, according to the experts, women use an average of 20,000 words a day, compared to the mere 7,000 that men utter.

Thus, the temptation to overthrow a woman’s mind and her decision making, often comes through the medium of words, as the song says, “tell me lies, tell me sweet little lies. Let’s read:

Genesis 3:1 Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?

2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden.

3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.

4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die.

5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.

Whatever righteousness is accomplished in persons through the power of God, is being achieved in our fallen state, and because human channels are faulty and we all have a sinful history of yielding, the only perfect righteousness that will grant us a ticket to eternity is that which comes through Christ.

Women, just as much as the men are also saved by God’s grace, through faith, for the passage pertains to all, male and female. There are several critically important lessons to be learned from the episode in Eden, and there are red flags that we must look out for, to avoid entering into temptation, unbidden.

Some of these pointers will be enumerated as we study the exposition on the episode in Eden, and as we do so, let us all with humble hearts and minds, understand that the presentation today is meant to enable persons to do wisely and ultimately, to live victoriously, for this is the will of God for us. Let’s read:

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 53>54] 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.

Now was the tempter's opportunity. As if he were able to discern the workings of her mind, he addressed her: “Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?”

But the serpent continued, in a musical voice, with subtle praise of her surpassing loveliness; and his words were not displeasing. Had she been addressed by a being like the angels, her fears would have been excited; but she had no thought that the fascinating serpent could become the medium of the fallen foe.

To the tempter's ensnaring question, she replied: “We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.

By partaking of this tree, he declared, they would attain to a more exalted sphere of existence and enter a broader field of knowledge. He himself had eaten of the forbidden fruit, and as a result had acquired the power of speech. Such has been Satan's work from the days of Adam to the present, and he has pursued it with great success.

It’s because of God’s mercy, and not because of any inherent goodness on our part, why anyone would be saved. God only permits us to be tempted to the extent that we could resist by His grace, but even in such instances of victory, we should never lose sight of the fact that it is the gift of God through Christ that grants an abundant entrance into His kingdom.

Thus, as we end, let’s keep our heads lifted to the skies, let us seek the presence and power of God always, and let us with humble and grateful hearts, make the most of the opportunities God grants to us in Jesus, for it is His grace that enables, provides, and sustains, all those who put their trust in Him.

Therefore, we will end with the very same passage we began with, for we must never ever forget what God has done, and is doing for us in the heavens through Christ. Let’s read:

Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.

9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

God bless!

The Freedom Of Choice. Sabbath afternoon 08/28/2021

John 8:36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

One of the greatest gifts God has given to man is the freedom of choice by which we are free moral agents, to make choices, either good or bad, with consequences. Everything that pertains to this life, our health and wellbeing is centered in the freedom to choose, and even our eternal destiny would also be determined by the choices we make.

We must never lose sight of this fact, for we are not creatures of circumstances, and at the end of the day the choices we make greatly affect what would transpire in our lives. And even though it is true that there are choices that are made by others that will affect us, yet, the freedom to choose and decide is a God given gift, and as such it should be preserved as much as possible.

Our salvation through Jesus, the work of character building, the battles fought and the victories won, and even the work of The Holy Spirit in our hearts, are all accomplished, while leaving our freedom of choice intact, for Christ never forces His grace upon unwilling hearts, and at every step of our advance or retreat, the buck stops with persons.

There are certain situations where a curtailment of our freedom to choose might seem warranted, but we should be very careful in following God’s lead in such matters because the restricting of our freedom to choose, even for seemingly good reasons, would ultimately produce by-products and consequences downstream that are antichrist in nature.

Case in point is the situation which transpired with Cain, when he chose to bring fruit instead of a lamb, as God had required. God lay before Adam’s family what He required as a sacrifice for sin, but He left them free to choose to comply or not, with natural consequences to follow.

The use of force in coercing the conscience, even if it is for something good, is an antichrist principle, and even though it may be introduced under cover of darkness, as something for the greater good of the human family, yet it will produce repercussions downstream, which will then become quite difficult to reverse.

Several very important points are to be observed in the episode with Cain, for there are very important lessons for governments, nations, and families as it pertains to safeguarding that God-given freedom of choice because when The Son makes us free, choice is always left uninhibited. Let’s read:

Genesis 4: 6 And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen?

7 If thou do well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou do not well, sin lieth at the door.

[1] First and foremost is the fact that God left every member of Adam’s family to make their individual choices.

He would encourage, exhort, warn and counsel, but God never tampers with the freedom of choice, for it is a sacred right He has given to each member of the human family, and as such it must be jealously guarded.

Some persons may accuse Cain of being foolish in his decisions, and that might very well be the case, but God has granted us the right to be foolish, if we so choose. And therefore, just because Cain insists on doing some nonsensical thing, it does not mean that his freedom to choose must be curtailed.

Parents often encounter this conundrum with their offspring who have reached an age of accountability and who might track a different course other than that which is sensible.

Persons might, like the prodigal son, waste their substance on riotous living, and the son or daughter may burn cash on such things that do not satisfy, much to the chagrin of the parents.

Yet, because they are free moral agents just like the parents in question, if they are not living under the parent’s roof, their freedom of choice should not be interfered with for any reason, even though parents may be grieved at their wayward course in life.

This is a red line that must never be crossed, even if the temptation to do so may be very strong. When parents have jurisdiction over their kids, they are responsible for their training and upbringing, as The Lord clearly demonstrated in the episode with Eli.

But when the children have reached adulthood, and are no more under the watch-care of parents, their right to choose must be honored, even if they may do some stupid things. God has granted to all men and women the freedom to be wise or stupid as one may so choose, with consequences.

God respects the choices of the righteous and the vile, and we should too. Like God, in His overtures to Cain, we may counsel, exhort, encourage, and we may even urge a change of direction.

But at the end of the day, their choice must be left untrammeled, for we are never authorized to step ahead of God in such matters of conscience. Some parents would be grieved and others may have a righteous indignation, but the choices of persons are to be respected. Let’s read:

If a Christian and a Buddhist decide to get married, contrary to the directives given in the scriptures, God respects their choices thus made, and in the books of heaven they are recorded as husband and wife. The gospel never compels anyone to serve or obey God. Never! Let’s read:

Joshua 24:14 Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord.

15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell, but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

Hebrews 11: 13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.

15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.

John 6:66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?

68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.

Being loaded with The Holy Ghost does not prevent anyone from choosing either good or bad. If we are inclined to choose good, The Holy Spirit will enable us to do so. But if we deliberately choose to do evil, God does not prevent us from doing so.

There is a passage in the Bible which goes like this: “Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling”. This passage must never be understood to mean that God keeps persons from sinning against their will, for if He were to do this, like Balaam, when the restraining power of God left him, persons will just go back to doing what they had purposed originally, and in certain instances, they may even go deeper into sin.

God keeps us if we choose to be kept, but in most cases, He does not put a righteous bridle on us so that if we decide to sin, an angel would stand in the way with flaming sword drawn in his hand, to block or prevent us from doing so. This isn’t how it works!

When David fell for Bathsheba, God did not stop him from having that rendezvous, even though he was alerted to the dangers through some of his advisors. Jesus also did not prevent Peter from cursing out the maid in the courtyard.

Jesus warned, He encouraged, and He prayed for Peter that his faith would fail not, but to actually prevent Peter from using bad words is an absolute non-starter for everyone who serves and obeys God must do so from their own free will. Any forced, or robotic obedience is absolutely rejected. Let’s read:

Deuteronomy 11:26 Behold, I set before you this day a blessing and a curse;

27 A blessing, if ye obey the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you this day.

28 And a curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of the Lord your God, but turn aside out of the way which I command you this day, to go after other gods, which ye have not known.

Deuteronomy 30:19 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore, choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.

This leads us to a very important consideration as it pertains to the freedom of choice for it is a fact that that the choices of some can adversely affect others in ways that can be quite difficult to reconcile.

[2] Freedom of choice also brings the risk of collateral damage.

In the current environment in which we are living, there are some persons who have chosen not to be vaccinated, and by so doing it is stated that they are endangering the lives of others by their choices. So, what should be the next move in such a situation.

Should such persons be cut off from society, from goods and services in an effort to “Cause” them to buckle? Should mandates be instituted against such since as the experts say, they are a risk to society?

And what about their basic needs, such as food and drink? Should they be deprived in different ways of their jobs, access to the amenities of life, and goods and services, that are readily available to all others who may choose differently? Let’s read:

Matthew 5:45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.

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.

Who is the “US” being referred to in the previous passage? Is it only God-fearing Christians who are trying their best to serve and obey God, or does the passage include the Taliban and Vladimir Putin?

Now, it is truly understandable why those in high places are under pressure to take mitigation efforts since our backs are against a wall, and even though we are trying to beat the virus, it keeps lingering on and on. We understand this.

But there is another follow-up question: If society decides on a particular course of action as pertains to a religious matter that is touted as being for the greater good, should the conscience of those who beg to differ be coerced into compliance through very stringent economic sanctions?

Freedom of choice produces the risk of collateral damage, and as we move forward decisions would have to be made as to how far we are willing to go in the mitigation of such circumstances. Just for your information, sin produces collateral damage in both man and beast, because of the bad choices some may make, and it continues to do so to this very day.

Therefore, the issue of our freedom of choice, with all of its inherent risks of collateral damage and the appropriate mitigation efforts would be a matter of grave concern for all, sooner or later, according to the scriptures. Let’s read:

Genesis 4:8 And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.

But even this adverse consequence must not move persons to restrict the freedom of choice. Justice is to be meted out where warranted, and the rights of others ought to be respected but as we observe the model given in Genesis, we see that God refrained from making make Cain a robot of obedience, after killing Abel.

Not only does God leave Cain’s freedom of choice intact, He also does not level economic sanctions against him by cutting off his access to resources and services, enjoyed by other human beings. God lets Cain know of the natural results of his sin, but He permits sunshine and rain to fall on Cain’s land.

We ought to be wary of anything that savors of the forcing of one’s conscience, even if it be something that is good. Salvation has been made free to all on our planet, and it is an indisputable fact that society will greatly benefit if all were to follow Jesus.

But just because this is the case, believers should not compel anyone else to serve Christ. Let every person be persuaded in their own minds, but never should the practice of coercing the conscience be made a part of any evangelizing efforts, for this will ultimately lead to persecution of some sort. Let’s read:

Daniel 3:28 Then Nebuchadnezzar spoke, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God.

29 Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort.

The tendency to level economic sanctions against a person in the attempt to coerce their freedom of choice is a tactic that savors too much of the beast system of Revelation 13. Even though such action may be touted as being for the greater good of the people, yet at its core is the use of force, a principle that is mostly opposed to Christ’s kingdom.

Sin by its very nature will cause collateral damage, some more some less, for as the Bible states, death came upon us all as a result of Adam’s choice. Yet, it is a sacred right, and even Adam would make some mistakes later on in life, but his freedom to choose was never revoked. Let’s read:

Romans 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.

14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression.

15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.

This is one of the downside risks to our freedom of choice, because, either knowingly or inadvertently, the bad choices we make, do take a toll on others.

For many years second hand smoke from cigarettes has caused untold damages to both the living and the unborn, to the tune of approximately forty- something thousand deaths each year. Persons who never touched a cigarette have been laid to rest as a result of the habits and choices of others.

Like Abel, some innocents have died in the process, and many more will succumb for years to come, yet the smoking of cigarettes has never been absolutely prohibited in this country, and even though it is well documented that such a practice is harmful to one’s self and others, it remains a free choice for persons.

In the current environment where the issue of some putting others at risk, is the reason why economic privileges are being restricted and persons are being fired from their jobs, it is important for us to have some context, so as to better understand the issues at hand. Let’s take a look:

CDC: Cigarette smoking remains the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. Cigarette smoking kills more than 480,000 Americans each year.

In addition, the United States spends more than $300 billion a year on smoking-related illness, including more than $225 billion in direct medical care for adults and $156 billion in lost productivity.

Question: Should smokers then be sanctioned, lose their jobs, and be deprived of certain privileges that are available to all Americans because they do harm to themselves, to others, and to the economy?

Now, the surgeon general might choose to put the image of a coffin on each box of cigarettes, and the health experts may lecture to persons until they are blue in the face, yet, while tobacco remains legal, persons do retain the freedom to choose to smoke or not.

Thus, we must ascertain why God does not inhibit our freedom of choice, even though at times it may cause real grief to ourselves and others. The reason is that choice is the key that opens the door for man to depart from God, but it is also the same key that reopens the door, if man chooses to return to God.

The same David who deliberately chose to do what he did with Uriah’s wife, also used that freedom of choice to request a clean heart and the renewal of a right spirit within himself.

Nebuchadnezzar chose to defy the God of heaven, by building an image of gold, but he used the same freedom of choice when he acknowledged that God was right, and that his way was perverse. It was the very same freedom of choice at work in both cases.

Saul, before he became preacher and prophet had deliberately chosen to persecute the newly formed Christian churches, but when he was accosted on the road to Damascus, he used the same freedom of choice to utter those memorable words: “Lord what will thou have me to do?”

Therefore, even though the freedom of choice given us by God as a sacred gift, carries with it the risk of potential evil, it could, and is often used to restore our relationship with God and man, and for this one reason, our freedom to choose should be jealously guarded under all circumstances.

Thus, it is a solemn statement that we make, that our freedom to choose will come under increasing pressure from various forces and entities, claiming to be working for the greater good of humanity.

This might actually be true, for no one is to judge the motives and intentions of another, but those verses of scripture, written in Revelation 13 warn of a time, in the not too distant future, when freedom of choice will be upended, for all those who desire to retain access to goods, foods, and services.

This is not the case just yet, but we are seeing the sprinkling of what has been predicted, that would surely metastasize into heavy showers as mandates for the greater good, become the springboard for restricting our freedom of choice.

Such actions will then put the true Christian in a predicament where he or she will have to decide whether the freedom of choice given us by God is worth surrendering in exchange for our economic privileges, or whether it is worth it to retain our freedom of choice at all costs. Let’s read:

Revelation 13:16 And he “causes” 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.

Momentous scenes are at hand, and the battle for the mind continues, and in various ways and in very ingenious methods, and for seemingly good reasons it is predicted that our freedom of choice will be at stake in the final conflict just before Jesus puts in His appearing.

Let us therefore be wise, understanding what the will of The Lord is, and let us hold fast to the faith in Christ that is to sustain us during these difficult days of earth’s history. We will close with a passage of scripture which should alert us to the urgency of the moment, because the days are coming soon, when the just shall live by faith alone. Let’s read:

Joel 3:14 Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision.

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, and the strength of the children of Israel.

God Bless!

Apocalyptic Prophecies. Sabbath afternoon 08/21/2021

Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;

26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.

Those graphic images and videos we saw this past week, of persons clinging to that military aircraft as it taxied down the runway, will forever be etched in our minds, just like those vivid images of 9/11 will always haunt the memories of our nation. As people jumped out from the ill-fated twin towers in New York city, and as persons fell from the airplane this week, we got a glimpse of what our first scripture is saying to us.

Those cryptic words, “Men’s hearts failing them for fear” are being literally fulfilled in real time, even as we speak. Even though we are taught in scripture to always cultivate a cheerful outlook on life, yet, no one in their right mind could deny that things have gotten decidedly worse for our planet, over the last two decades.

National debt is skyrocketing, Covid is shaking down millions, healthcare workers are getting weary of a retrogression in virus cases, wildfires are raging out of control in so many places, severe drought takes its toll on man and beast, politicians are threatening economic sanctions against vaccine hesitant people, and suicide rates are climbing substantially higher in young and hold, than in former years.

Added to this we are facing the prospect of national unrest, because of the sharp divide in perspectives as it pertains to the handling of the many variants that are wreaking havoc across the nation. Could it be just a coincidence, that so many distresses are converging at the same time? Or is it a harbinger of something very ominous on the horizon?

Sooner or later persons will have to conclude that the troubles that are coming upon the world are not mere temporary aberrations, but are the fulfillment of that which is written in the Bible. Even though many in the secular realm may hate to admit it, yet it’s a fact that the frequency and intensity of events over the past two decades are very abnormal, even for our world, which has seen its share of wars and calamities.

Like the Philistines, who were at a loss for reasons, why adversities and destructions piled upon them, some experts in our day have unwittingly tried to explain current events along strictly scientific lines, without referencing those apocalyptic prophecies given in the Bible, which plainly state that current events do portend a cataclysmic end to normalcy, as we know it.

Back then the Philistines had set their own personal parameters to verify whether the devastation which had ravaged their country was a capricious blip, that just happened out of the blue by chance or whether it was the God of heaven trying to reach them. They then put the matter to the test to ascertain the real cause of their troubles, and they did receive a clear confirmation, according to their own standard that they had set. Let’s read:

1st Samuel 6:2 And the Philistines called for the priests and the diviners, saying, What shall we do to the ark of the Lord? tell us wherewith we shall send it to his place.

3 And they said, If ye send away the ark of the God of Israel, send it not empty; but in any wise return him a trespass offering: then ye shall be healed, and it shall be known to you why his hand is not removed from you.

4 Then said they, What shall be the trespass offering which we shall return to him? They answered, Five golden emerods, and five golden mice, according to the number of the lords of the Philistines: for one plague was on you all, and on your lords.

7 Now therefore make a new cart, and take two milch kine, on which there hath come no yoke, and tie the kine to the cart, and bring their calves home from them.

8 And take the ark of the Lord, and lay it upon the cart; and put the jewels of gold, which ye return him for a trespass offering, in a coffer by the side thereof; and send it away, that it may go.

9 And see, if it goeth up by the way of his own coast

to Bethshemesh, then he hath done us this great evil: but if not, then we shall know that it is not his hand that smote us: it was a chance that happened to us.

12 And the kine took the straight way to the way of Bethshemesh, and went along the highway, lowing as they went, and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left; and the lords of the Philistines went after them unto the border of Bethshemesh.

However, unlike the situation with the Philistines of old, the adversities that are coming upon the world are not of God’s doing, for He has given us grace for grace through the merits of Christ, and as the direct result each member of the human family is become a recipient and beneficiary of God’s love some more some less.

At the same time we should also note that God’s grace would not always reverse the laws of cause and effect, which in many cases, are permitted to run their natural course, and as a result, many of the apocalyptic prophecies written in the Bible are just a concise delineation of what man has done or is doing to himself.

Case in point is the issue of devastating droughts all over the world, from Greece to Russia, and from the Midwest to Africa. All over the world, the same cry for water is being made, because the reservoirs and dams which were formerly fed by snow packs, year- round, have now become so severely depleted that hydropower plants had to shut down, and water is currently being trucked into California as a result.

Question: Is it God that is doing these things to the human family? Or are we just reaping the fruits of our own doing? The correct answer to these two questions will shed great light on why apocalyptic prophecies were written the way they were. Let’s read:

Isaiah 24:4 The earth mourns and fades away, the world languishes and fades 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.

In the above passage the prophet Isaiah, in pointing out the reasons for what comes next in the chapter, says that the reason for the distress is that we have “transgressed the laws”. Question: Which laws is the prophet referring to?

Answer: Not only is the prophet referencing the Ten commandments, written with the finger of God, he is also referring to dietary laws, agricultural laws, environmental laws, social laws and godly principles that were given to make the world run efficiently as possible.

But we have cast out as archaic and irrelevant many of the statutes and instructions given to the human family by God, and as a result the Bible predicts that our chickens will be coming home to roost, sooner or later.

Those soothsayers, and smooth-talking preachers who declare peace and safety, will have a very rude awakening, when they realize too late that every word in the Bible was given to guide our feet in the ways of righteousness and peace. Let’s read:

1st Thessalonians 5:3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.

Jeremiah 6:14 They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace.

And conversely, any departure from it is written will eventually be visited with the natural consequences if there isn’t a change of direction in persons. Thus, the prophet Isaiah alludes to these consequences in the apocalyptic prophecies, and because there will always be a remnant who choose to serve and obey God, mitigations are included, so that all who will, may find a refuge, while the opportunity still lingers. Let’s read:

Isaiah 4:5 And the Lord will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defense.

6 And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the day time from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.

Thus, the overwhelming majority of the apocalyptic prophecies given in the scriptures do not delineate anything that God is doing to us. In most cases, the prophets are just stating the natural results of our departures from that which is written for our own good.

Now, it is true that in Revelation 16, God will act in a decisive manner in the seven last plagues that are to be poured out upon the earth, but until that time when human probation will be permanently closed, the bulk of troubles will be the inevitable results of what we have done to ourselves, in departing from God’s ideals that are written.

Climate change and global warming are the direct results of a constant violation of the agricultural and environmental laws given us by The God of heaven, which, if they were followed, would have staved off very much of the drought, wildfires, heat, storms, and the resulting devastation we are seeing today.

Hurricane Harvey, which devastated Texas dumped about thirty three trillion gallons of water in just a matter of days, and in the last two decades we have broken records for tornadoes, hurricanes, and rain, in so much that, that some are proposing that we add a category 6 to the Sapphire Simson scale.

The Lord would have us to understand that after He created the earth, He put in place the principles of replenishing, by which man, beast, and the entire environment we live in could be rejuvenated on an ongoing basis. Therefore, any earthly system which does not include the principle of replenishing would certainly be doomed to fail.

Re·plen·ish: To fill something up again. To put back, refill, fill up, recharge, reload, top up, restore a stock or to supply to a former level or condition.

Antonyms: Empty, deplete, drain, eliminate, bleed, exhaust, void.

This overarching principle of replenishing applies to the entire spectrum of human activity, from our physical bodies to farming, from the use of water, to eating, from breathing, to sabbath keeping and it applies to financial resources where putting back or saving for the rainy day are offshoots of the same principle.

The reason why our national debt will continue to skyrocket is not because God is doing something to us, it is because the principles of replenishing have for all intents and purposes been disregarded, and, as a natural result, the well would run dry sooner or later, for we will not be able to print our way out of the disaster that has been in the making for years.

As we read, we’ll observe in the following passages that closely intertwined with the laws of God is the principle of replenishing, for it is an undergirding necessity for continuity to be guaranteed. Without it, resources will be depleted and famines, droughts and distresses of all sorts will ensue. Let’s read:

Genesis 1:28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moves upon the earth.

Malachi 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

Proverbs 11:24 There is that scatters, and yet increases; and there is that withholds more than is meet, but it tends to poverty.

25 The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that waters, shall be watered also himself.

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.

Leviticus 19:9 And when ye reap the harvest of your land, thou shalt not wholly reap the corners of thy field, neither shalt thou gather the gleanings of thy harvest.

10 And thou shalt not glean thy vineyard, neither shalt thou gather every grape of thy vineyard; thou shalt leave them for the poor and stranger: I am the Lord your God.

Now, as it pertains to the issue of climate change, and the horrible droughts and the wildfires we are currently witnessing, some of us may be wondering which specific laws are we referring to, which have resulted in the tragedies of nature. We do not have to look very far, for they are written right there in the scriptures. Let’s read:

Leviticus 25:2 Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye come into the land which I give you, then shall the land keep a sabbath unto the Lord.

3 Six years thou shalt sow thy field, and six years thou shalt prune thy vineyard, and gather in the fruit thereof;

4 But in the seventh year shall be a sabbath of rest unto the land, a sabbath for the Lord: thou shalt neither sow thy field, nor prune thy vineyard.

5 That which grows of its own accord of thy harvest thou shalt not reap, neither gather the grapes of thy vine undressed: for it is a year of rest unto the land.

Allowing the earth to replenish itself via a one-year sabbatical rest, would make way for the trees, earth and vegetation to be rejuvenated, and would put a one year pause on lumbering. This in turn would allow the greenhouse gases trapped in the earth’s upper atmosphere to be removed, because trees remove carbon dioxide from the air, they store it in the soil and in themselves, and then release oxygen back into the air.

But with the insatiable demand for lumber and farm land for cattle, forests the world over have been cut down with little regard for God’s laws and the earth has not been allowed to rest, and the profit coming from many such industries has driven companies to use earth’s resources indiscriminately.

Also, with the onset of the industrial revolution, and our consequent heavy dependence on fossil fuels, greenhouse gases have skyrocketed and as a result, the thinning of earth’s upper shield has been greatly accelerated. Therefore, the apocalyptic prophecies pertaining to our day were written in the context of what man has mostly done to himself, and not what God is doing to man. Let’s read:

Isaiah 24:6 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.

Another of the apocalyptic prophecies pertaining to the last days is the proliferation of false prophets in Christendom and beyond. Back in the days of old, heathenism was at swords points against anything that savored of Christianity. But after the heinous persecution of the dark ages subsided, heathenism dressed itself in sacerdotal garments, walked right into the church, and took a front row seat.

Then, with the diabolical blend of Christianity and heathenism, the way was paved for false prophets to arise as it were from obscurity, armed with many smooth doctrines and teachings that contradict the word of God. Morality was made subservient to the clamors of the flesh, and absolute truth was made a relic of the ancients.

In addition, these false preachers and televangelists discovered that if they told persons what they want to hear instead of what they need to hear, a thriving business which brings in billions annually would be the result, and thus, church has all but become a business enterprise, rather than the Christ centered mission to save souls which God originally intended it should be.

Thus, it’s not because of anything that God does or has done why the multitudes are being led astray in false paths by would-be business men who have embraced theology. God ordains some to preach, and He permits others to preach, but as a general rule of thumb, those who are ordained of God are always in the minority. Always! Let’s read:

Matthew 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. 25 Behold, I have told you before.

The fake healers, who for many years were shaking down their congregations across America, using stop and frisk methods, were somehow nowhere to be seen or found as the current pandemic spread its deadly tentacles across the nations of earth.

At this time above all others, Americans could have really used their services, if they were genuine, but we did not hear a single word from them, since they were missing in action, for some strange reason.

As thousands lay dying in hospitals, nursing homes, and in various makeshift medical facilities that had sprung up in various locations because of the sheer volume of patients, the false healers in Christendom should have been present to perform miracles, just as the purported to do in former years.

And if they could blow on persons, and cause them to collapse on the ground, certainly they could blow again and cause Covid to disappear. But ironically, they too were running for cover, and some had to close up shop as Covid and Delta revealed that they are no respecter of persons.

Again, it’s not The Lord that is doing something to us, it’s the apocalyptic prophecies being fulfilled, as the principles of cause and effect take their natural course. Let’s read:

Jeremiah 2:21 I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran: I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied.

22 But if they had stood in my counsel, and had caused my people to hear my words, then they should have turned them from their evil way, and from the evil of their doings.

Jeremiah 27:14 Therefore hearken not unto the words of the prophets that speak unto you …. for they prophesy a lie unto you.

15 For I have not sent them, saith the Lord, yet they prophesy a lie in my name; that I might drive you out, and that ye might perish, ye, and the prophets that prophesy unto you.

Another of the apocalyptic prophecies given in the scriptures has to do with the turmoil and unrest that will be gripping the nations of earth. We are in a volatile state, both at home and abroad, and even though efforts are being made to right the ship, it is still taking on lots of water, for the nations are on edge, and the folly of some is being made manifest in decisions that cause much more problems than are solved. Let’s read:

Matthew 24:6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.

7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in different places.

8 All these are the beginning of sorrows.

The Taliban is now on the move in Afghanistan, and much adversity, and bloodletting would result, the likes of which will make the most hardened criminal cringe. Obviously, mortal man does not have the solutions to this earth’s problems, and sooner or later persons would have to confront a stark realty, that maybe, just maybe, the end of all things is drawing near.

Therefore, in lieu of what is certainly taking place as it pertains to the fulfillment of apocalyptic prophecy in our day, God desires that a certain mindset will pervade the believer because looking at and hearing all of the bad news could really take a toll on one’s outlook, if there are not promises of hope to bring balance to the equation.

God does not desire that His people should panic, nor is it His will that we should be lumped together with everyone else, some of which do not live with the lively hope of the resurrection and the earth made new. In fact, what may seem to the secular mind as a harbinger of doom, should be to the remnant, heralds of the morning, for both light and gross darkness are on the horizon. Let’s read:

Isaiah 21:11 The burden of Dumah. He calleth to me out of Seir, Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night?

12 The watchman said, The morning cometh, and also the night.

Thus, the outlook for the believer should not ever be centered on a mad rush to survive, because it’s not survival but surrender that is required. Neither should we be consumed with doomsday bunkers in neverland, or hoarding precious goods to last many years into the future.

The focus and the outlook for the remnant should consist of fulfilling the great commission as best we can, living godly and exemplary lives, and seeking to save as many as so desire, while the door of mercy is still open. Loaded with The Holy Ghost and with the health message, the remnant should be leading the charge on several fronts, to let persons know that the gospel offers spiritual and physical well-being.

Seminars and webinars on healthful cooking as well as healthful practices, including a regular exercise regimen should be set in motion since the right arm of the gospel ought to be employed as an entering wedge to reach hearts and minds.

These efforts on our part are not be theoretical in nature; instead, the remnant are to lead by example so that deep a conviction of the facts may rest upon the gainsayers while the Holy Spirit etches the truth deep and indelibly into the conscience. Thus, as we end, instead of us focusing on the fulfillment of the apocalyptic prophecies, let us instead cultivate a positive outlook, for prophecy and promise would soon converge.

We’ll end with several passages of scripture which teach us what our current duty and practice should be, and if we ask God to keep our minds stayed on Him, we would not be sucked into the vacuum of fear that is now gripping persons, the world over. Let’s read:

Luke 21;28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draws nigh.

31 So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.

2nd Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,

12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?

13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.

14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

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 fulfil the lusts thereof.

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!

The Gold You Don't Know You Have. Sabbath afternoon 08/14/2021

Hebrews 3:10 Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do always err in their heart; and they have not known my ways.

Let us begin with a true story. Recently, someone called me to find out if I could change the oil on a 2020 Lamborghini Urus. Without stopping to think about it carefully, I said yes, absolutely, and it was only afterward that I realized what I had gotten into because this was no ordinary vehicle.

But because God has taught us to think along “Yes” veins of thought, I spontaneously answered in the affirmative. This mode of thought stems from the study of certain passages of scripture which teach us that there is nothing impossible with God, and another says that all the promises of God in Christ Jesus are “Yes”.

Thus, I began to search for the relevant information on my program which delivers the most recent data on almost all vehicles sold in the United States. But lo and behold, Lamborghinis were nowhere to be found, since they are high-performance specialty vehicles.

This conundrum I found myself in seemed to be a call to prayer, for whenever the Christian is faced with challenges and difficulties, there goes another opportunity to seek out The God of the impossible. And so, I prayed and asked God for wisdom to deal with the situation, since the customer was pressing me to do the work.

The Lord then led me to research the matter on the internet to see if perchance, anyone had posted a video of how to perform the work, but it was like wandering in the wilderness for forty days, because not a single video could be found.

In fact, some of the information and the tidbits that were posted about the vehicle in question, actually contained stories of individuals who had taken their Lamborghini to the dealer for an oil change and who were hit with a pretty hefty price tag. Finally, I decided to call the dealer, since they would at least be able to give me some guidance on pricing.

But yet again I hit a brick wall, because the dealer never divulged any pertinent information, since, as far as they are concerned, owners of Lamborghinis should never ask how much an oil change costs. So, I had to pray again for wisdom, and this time The Lord led me to investigate what type of engine the Urus came with, if perchance I may be able to cross reference it.

And bingo, there it was, it carried a 671-horsepower dual turbo engine, which also comes in the Audi RS Q8, and which was referenced in my program as can be observed in the following information:

2020 Audi SQ8 Quattro V8-4.0L Turbo

Service Tables, TSBs, Diagrams, Parts and Labor, Maintenance, INFORMATION SYSTEMS & COMPONENTS, Accessories and Optional Equipment, ALL Diagnostic Trouble Codes, Body and Frame, Brakes and Traction Control, Cruise Control Engine, Cooling and Exhaust, Cooling System, engine, Exhaust System, etc.

Thus, armed with the information I needed, I went to the auto parts store that sells German parts, only to be told, after they searched diligently, that they do not sell any parts for Lamborghinis. So, The Lord put it in my mind to ask them if they sold parts for the Audi SQ8, and lo and behold they did, so I was finally able to get the parts I needed, which were the exact parts as the vehicle in question.

But the difficulties were not finished yet, because the actual work had to be done. And because it was a challenge, I saw the present situation as another call to prayer. Thus, I will just share with you a text message exchange with a good friend of mine, who I asked to pray for me as I worked.

Me: Hello ….! Pray for me! I’m working on a 2020 Lamborghini Urus. Reply: Bro what is your problem? That is presumption, no prayers for you! However, God directed my steps, the work was completed, the auto parts store is now selling the Lamborghini parts as a result, and the rest is history.

The Bible study this evening is not about my friend, nor is it about the Lamborghini, nor is it about the prayers that were made to God about the situation at hand; it’s about the parts store, that actually had in their inventory the parts for the Lamborghini but which they did not know that they had.

Like the parts store in question, many of us do have gold in our possession, yet, we may not know what we have. It is a solemn statement of fact, that the resources, gifts, and treasures given to us in Christ, and which are at our disposal, have in many cases, scarcely been tapped, and for this reason, many of us have come to accept as the norm, a relationship with God that is way below par.

The Gold that we have in our possession, and yet may not know that we have is power. Whatever is read in the Bible, such as the methods, principles, laws, and statutes are all a dead letter without the power to activate and put into practice. Knowledge without power becomes a vanity that may relish and drool for things that are essentially out of one’s reach.

For instance, if one is struggling with addictions, he or she may read the Bible from cover to cover about what should or should not be done. And there are a plethora of dos and don’ts to be found, but without power to activate the knowledge thus gleaned, the person will be relegated to wishful thinking.

This predicament is referenced by the apostle Paul, who struggled with latent tendencies that strove for the mastery. Let’s read:

Romans 7:15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not but what I hate that I do.

16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.

18 For to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.

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.

Most of our youth who have gone astray actually know what is the right thing to do, because the seeds of truth have been already sown in their hearts, since they were young. The prodigal son did not need a Bible study on what to do in desperate times, for that knowledge he already had, and thus he knew his way back home.

What is needed in the case of the young and the restless, as well as the older, is the realization of the power that is available, and which has already been dispensed to every individual who has, or has had a relationship with God, for if persons do not know that they have power, they would not access it.

Therefore, as we examine the gold that is already in our possession, and which we may not have known we had, let’s endeavor by the grace of God to put it to use, in overcoming foes from within and without.

This power comes through the presence of The Holy Spirit, who brings all the energy, will, and resources needed for us to live victoriously. The power to deal with any, and every situation will be highlighted, so that we may be aware of what God has granted to us through the third Person of The God-head. Let’s read:

[1] The Power to live a Christian life.

John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

2nd Corinthians 10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;

5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.

Christians have been given power to stop bad habits dead in their tracks. Like Paul, some of us will often experience the gravitational pull of fallen human nature in our persons, but the power to stop desire from germinating into harbored thought and action is readily available at our fingertips.

The secular philosophy which teaches that in every situation, time must be allotted for persons to wean themselves off of this or that bad habit, is a virtual admission of a lack of awareness of the power that has been given to us through The Holy Ghost.

Even though there are situations where elapsed time might be necessary between addictions and victory, yet we should never believe that this is the only way to overcome.

The scripture teaches us unequivocally that power has been given to us in Jesus to pull the plug on bad habits, at short notice, as in today for tomorrow. This is absolutely possible if we access the “Gold” we may not know we have. Let’s read:

Matthew 5:30 And if thy right hand offends thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee.

2nd Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

[2] The power to witness to others.

No need to get cold feet when speaking to someone about Jesus, and no reason to be afraid, or nervous about the possibility of being rebuffed when we are witnessing. The presence of The Holy Ghost grants us power and boldness to speak forth the words of truth and soberness regardless of the consequences or outcomes.

Those preachers who might choose the easy path of least resistance, by using smooth words to palliate the sinner, when it’s fitting that a person be made aware of their danger, are not powerful preachers as they may seem to be. They may scream, shout, and perform a whole lot of antics, but at their core they are in most cases weak time-servers.

In fact, it is because of a virtual lack of Holy Ghost power, why some professed preachers often find it necessary to resort to the external manifestation of miracles, to make up for the shortfall in substantive teaching. A proliferation of miracles in any ministry that is devoid of those vital truths of the Bible, is a sign of weakness, not of power.

When persons are loaded with the power of The Holy Spirit, all of the antics, rebuffs, resistance from itching ears, and persecutions, are actually turned into incentives for witnessing, for, as Jesus Himself said of the gospel, “The gates of hell shall not prevail against it”. Let’s read:

Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Acts 4:7 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?

8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,

9 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;

10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.

11 This is the stone which was set at naught of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

Acts 24:24 And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.

25 And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.

Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spoke unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

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.

Acts 8:5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.

6 And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spoke, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.

7 For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed.

8 And there was great joy in that city.

Acts 6:8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.

33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.

[3] The power over all diseases.

This one is huge, because not only does God desire that we should prosper and be in health, it is His will that His peculiar people should be depositaries, and dispensaries of great health and well-being across the entire globe. Especially is this the case now and into the future, where diseases and sicknesses of all sorts are scheduled to afflict the human family.

The good news of the gospel is all encompassing in its scope, and must of necessity include power to fend off most, if not all types of diseases in those who believe. Where human effort and research may fail, Holy-Ghost power is given to take up the slack according to God’s will, so that there is no need for persons to suffer unnecessarily, as if there is no God in heaven. Let’s read:

Matthew 10:1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.

Luke 10:19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Ephesians 6:16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

As was stated several times before on this forum, Covid has many brothers, and family members that would be emerging from the shadows from time to time, and sooner or later the increase of pestilences across the entire globe will cause science to run out of bullets.

This will then create dire need and will set the stage for what the prophetic word has declared will most certainly come to pass. Devils will literally take the stage in real time, to presumably combat the onset of diseases of all sorts, and because peoples’ backs will be against a wall, it would seem as the only and logical way to go. Let’s read:

[The Great controversy pp 624] As the crowning act in the great drama of deception, Satan himself will personate Christ. The church has long professed to look to the Savior's advent as the consummation of her hopes. Now the great deceiver will make it appear that Christ has come.

In different parts of the earth, Satan will manifest himself among men as a majestic being of dazzling brightness, resembling the description of the Son of God given by John in the Revelation.

The shout of triumph rings out upon the air., “Christ has come! Christ has come!” He heals the diseases of the people, and then, in his assumed character of Christ, he claims to have changed the Sabbath to Sunday, and commands all to hallow the day which he has blessed.

For many years the remnant people of God have for all intents and purposes gotten accustomed to a system of health and well-being that is mostly man-made in its structure and purposes. The free use of drugs, instead of natural, God-ordained remedies have for the most part become a mainstay of our concepts and practice of health.

And the tendency to treat symptoms, instead of us going to the root cause of diseases has set the stage for drug dependence, without which, many of us are not able to live. But we have turned a corner, and our practice will need to be more aligned with our faith so that God’s will and not man’s will would rule the day, as it pertains to health and well-being.

God has given us “Gold” in the health message, in that the use and practice thereof will stave of many diseases and adverse conditions that afflict persons. Also, the natural remedies God has provided, would in many cases not produce the harmful side effects that are too often associated with the use of drugs.

God has put within the body mechanisms for it to heal itself in many cases, and even though nature’s workers might be a bit slower than over the counter drugs, yet the final products will be much more in harmony with God’s will for us.

God’s ideal diet of fruit, vegetables, nuts and grains, coupled together with faith, clean water, sunshine, regular exercise, restful sleep, fresh air, and a clear conscience would go much further in fostering great health, than most quick fixes that are sold in a drug store.

God’s power to heal is often coupled together with what He recommends, very much the same as when human doctors would prescribe their medicines, in conjunction with their expertise in healing the body. Let us therefore reach for the gold, that we may not know we have, so that we may, like the parts store in our testimony, be able to share it with the world.

In harmony with the presentation, we will end with a passage of scripture that should prompt us to duly consider our mitigation strategies moving forward, as we face the prospect of ongoing disease that will multiply in frequency and intensity. Let’s read:

Jeremiah 8:21 For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me.

22 Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?

God Bless!

Dear Doctor Fauci! Sabbath afternoon 08/07/2021

Psalms 91:7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. 9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the Most-High, thy habitation; 10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

Dear Dr. Fauci! I am writing to you because we are now almost two years into the pandemic, and the Covid virus and its attendant mutations are showing no signs of slowing down, despite well intentioned efforts on the part of many professionals who have been tasked with mitigating the spread, the severity and the consequent fallout of the pandemic.

On the contrary the Delta variant seems to be much more problematic than the original, and despite the efforts of all who are engaged in administering any available solutions, it seems as if progress is being stalled out for one reason or another.

We have listened often, and very carefully to many of your discourses and interviews on the matter and we firmly believe that you are doing your best in the interest of the nation. And even though there are those who have tried to dissuade or discourage you, we believe that your team is doing its best given the available science and data on the matter.

We would like to encourage you to keep trying, and we will lift you up in prayer, that you may be guided with wisdom and discretion in trying to mitigate the fallout from this disease that has now taken millions of lives, not only here across America but across the entire globe.

However, we would like to draw your attention to something that may warrant research, and it may, be, that with these potential discoveries much light can be shed upon a level of science that has, up to the present, not been explored, and which has for many years been elusive to experts in your field.

Two illustrations from the word of God will be given and then, in the interest of honest good will toward the nation that is still reeling from the virus, we will make three reasonable proposals, if perchance it may be of benefit to you in your ongoing research.

Even though it may not be feasible or possible to try to implement this research, as it pertains to public policy, yet, it may be that the additional research on remedial and preventive actions would allow folks to fend off future incursions of diseases of this sort.

The first illustration is taken from the book of Daniel where three Hebrew boys, together with several others, were taken captive by the king of Babylon, who deliberately sought out the best and brightest minds among the Jews. They were to be tasked with learning and understanding sciences, languages and all the conventional knowledge that was available back then. Let’s read:

Daniel 1:3 And the king spoke unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes;

4 Children in whom was no blemish, but well favored, and skillful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans.

Thus, in harmony with their high calling, they were appointed what was considered back then to be the healthiest food available, even that which the king himself ate. However, contrary to the conventional wisdom on the matter, they requested a simple diet of legumes and water, or, more specifically, fruit, vegetables, nuts and grains which was in harmony with God’s ideal set forth in the book of Genesis.

But their request set off an uneasy back and forth between themselves and the chief cook, who was tasked with providing them, the very best diet. And thus, things escalated to the point where it came to a head. In other words, the Chef was certain he was knowledgeable in diets and foods, and Daniel and his companions were also certain that they knew of the best dietary.

So, what does one do when there may be different opinions on such an important matter, where both parties adamantly believe they are right? To solve this conundrum the three Hebrews made the most reasonable offer that would appeal to everyone’s better judgment.

They would put the matter to the test in real time, and thus let the chips fall where they may. If it was proven that the Chef was right, then they would be happy to acquiesce, but if not, then the resulting data would be able to guide Melzar, the Chef in his culinary decisions moving forward.

There was no need for them to enter into heated arguments, nor was it necessary for one to defame the other, as is currently too often the case. It was such a reasonable proposal, to which both parties could comfortably agree that they decided to put the matter to the test, and the rest is history. Let’s read:

Daniel 1:5 And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king.

8 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore, he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.

10 And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? then shall ye make me endanger my head to the king.

Those words: “Your faces worse liking” uttered by the Chef implied that the Hebrews’ proposal would be detrimental to their health, that it would cause them to perform below par, that it would endanger their lives, and make them more susceptible to Babylonian diseases and pandemics, worse yet, it could put the Chef’s own life in jeopardy.

Furthermore, if one were to follow the Chef’s logic to its natural end, the dietary plan proposed by the Hebrews would also adversely affect their ability to excel academically thus placing their careers as well their education on the line.

Dr. Fauci, anyone can easily understand the Chef’s concern, for according to conventional wisdom, it was the very best that he was offering to the three Hebrews. However, from the resulting data, Melzar would be able to draw a rational conclusion. And so said so done. Let’s read:

Daniel 1:11 Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,

12 Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink.

13 Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenance of the children that eat of the portion of the king's food: and as thou seest, deal with thy servants.

14 So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days.

15 And at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king's meat.

16 Thus Melzar took away the portion of their meat, and the wine that they should drink; and gave them pulse.

18 Now at the end of the days that the king had said he should bring them in, then the prince of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar.

19 And the king communed with them; and among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: therefore, stood they before the king.

20 And in all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the king enquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm.

Thus, the resulting data from this research revealed a few startling facts which probably had the Chef scratching his head for many days. [1] The test proved that the Chef had inadvertently been feeding the king inferior food all these years. [2] The diet proposed by the Hebrew boys actually caused them to perform ten times better academically.

[3] They were in a much healthier condition than those who in error, had subscribed to conventional wisdom on the matter in question.

This reminds us of a type of unconventional wisdom on diets and foods which Daniel and his companions had probably researched and had practiced in their earlier years. Let’s read:

[Counsels On health pp 229] Flesh was never the best food; but its use is now doubly objectionable, since disease in animals is so rapidly increasing. Tuberculosis, cancer, and other fatal diseases are thus communicated. The liability to take disease is increased tenfold by meat eating. The animals are diseased, and by partaking of their flesh, we plant the seeds of disease in our own tissue and blood. Then, when we are exposed to prevailing epidemics and contagious diseases, the system is not in a condition to resist the disease.

The next illustration is taken from the 1st book of kings, where the nation of Israel had been led deep into a form of science that taught its adherents that the sun and the moon gave their light, and the snow and rain fell upon the earth, on their own, without any intervention or interference from God.

In consequence, a withering drought, with all of its attendant evils came upon the nation, and disease and destruction took its toll upon man and beast, with fearful mortality, very similar to what we are now witnessing today.

Thus, after the nation of Israel had been ravaged by drought and pestilence, it reached a tipping point, and, like the three Hebrews of Daniel chapter 1, a reasonable proposal was made by Elijah, one that should appeal to the better judgment of the people, and depending on the outcome, they would know what course to pursue. Let’s read:

1st Kings 18:21 And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.

22 Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the Lord; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men.

23 Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under:

24 And call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the Lord: and the God that answers by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken.

25 And Elijah said unto the prophets of Baal, Choose you one bullock for yourselves, and dress it first; for ye are many; and call on the name of your gods, but put no fire under.

26 And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear us. But there was no voice, nor any that answered. And they leaped upon the altar which was made.

28 And they cried aloud, and cut themselves after their manner with knives and lancets, till the blood gushed out upon them.

29 And it came to pass, when midday was past, and they prophesied until the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that there was neither voice, nor any to answer, nor any that regarded.

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.

45 And it came to pass in the mean-while, that the heaven was black with clouds and wind, and there was a great rain. And Ahab rode, and went to Jezreel.

Dear Dr. Fauci, in the two previous illustrations the science of the day, and the conventional wisdom of the experts back then was pitted against a different type of science and knowledge which was espoused by the three Hebrews and also Elijah, and when put to the test in public view, the results could not be reasoned away, nor gainsaid.

Therefore, in lieu of this, we are suggesting the following reasonable proposals to you and your team, and when the chips fall where they may, it might be discovered that certain scientific facts that would normally pertain to your everyday John Doe, does not necessarily apply in all instances to those persons who truly believe in God, and who obey His laws, methods, and principles of health.

The proposals are designed to address your specific concerns as pertains to the Delta variant, and the unexpected and the unprecedented spread across all age groups, in the vaccinated and unvaccinated. One of your primary concerns is that unvaccinated people are posing a risk to the population, and by their hesitancy, are actually putting the lives of all others at risk.

Now, while it is true that the current CDC data on this question is incontrovertible in the majority of cases across the land, we are proposing to you that this might not necessarily be the case, with certain persons who have followed the counsels given us by God, and who exercise a living faith in Him.

Another concern of yours Dr, Fauci, is that a person can be an asymptomatic carrier unknowingly, and thus may become an existential threat to persons with whom they interact. Again, whilst this might be true with the majority of people, we propose that this may not necessarily be the case with a true Christian who believes in, and obeys God to the best of his or her knowledge.

In fact, it may be discovered, that a truly believing Christian, who embraces the promises, principles, and dietary laws of the Bible are not a risk to society but are actually an asset, in that the lifestyle, habits and principles practiced could then be shared with the greater populace for their benefit.

Thus, to clear up any misgiving, misunderstanding, or questions on these matters, like the 3 Hebrews, and Elijah, we now make the following reasonable proposals, and let the chips fall where they may, then everyone may come to reasonable conclusions accordingly.

Proposal # [1] We propose that your teams would seek out a Christian who is verified to be trusting in God by obeying all His laws, including dietary, and who has not yet been vaccinated. Ask such a person for God’s permission to be tested, and if permission is granted, place such a person in an environment where the Delta variant is rife.

Keep the person in question in that environment, for several days, without masks or any protective gear, mingling freely with patients who are known to be infected with Covid, and when satisfied, have the person tested for viral load, and check to see if any trace of the virus can be detected in his or her nostrils or elsewhere.

Proposal # [2] We propose that you observe that person for several days, so that if any virus was contracted, symptoms can appear, then place that person in the company of unvaccinated people, to see, if as is currently held, the person in question becomes an asymptomatic carrier.

If and when these two simple proposals are put in place, the results would be made plain for all to see, and the information gathered can then be studied so as to help the general population in building up a rugged immune system, together with faith in God, so that we may be better prepared to fend off any future viruses which would certainly arise.

Sir, in conclusion, we would like you to know that we sincerely wish you all the best in your efforts to mitigate the variants that are upon the land, and we hope and pray that your research and the resulting data may serve as a guide moving forward, just as it was with the chief Chef of Babylon.

To those of us who listened in as we spoke with Dr. Fauci, we would like you to know that The God of heaven has given us promises and mitigations for this very time in which we are now living, and thus, it behooves everyone of us to investigate closely, the means, methods, promises and laws, that have been given to us for our best good. Let’s read:

Psalms 103: 2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.

3 Who forgives all thine iniquities; who heals all thy diseases;

4 Who redeems thy life from destruction; who crowns thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

5 Who satisfies thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

Psalms 1:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most-High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

3 Surely, he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flies by day;

7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the Most-High, thy habitation;

10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

God Bless!

Christ's Wilderness experience. Sabbath Afternoon 07/31/2021

Luke 4:1 And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness.

This first and direct encounter with the adversary of souls, after Christ’s baptism contains very important points for us to consider in our own battles against invisible foes. The history of Christ’s wilderness experience is fraught with instructions, so as to guide us when we too are tempted.

There are also issues for us to consider in gaining the victory, just as Jesus did, because He set us an example so that we can be behave intelligently, as it pertains to the battle for our minds. Foremost in this encounter is the fact that Jesus didn’t presume or volunteer to be tempted. Let’s read:

Matthew 4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.

Jesus was led by The Spirit of God to be tempted, as should always be the case if and when we too are to be tempted. Wherever possible Christians are under sacred obligation to strictly avoid every unnecessary encounter with devils, for this is presumption, and consequently, can lead to defeat.

When we knowingly place ourselves on enchanted ground, without God bidding us to do so, where the forces of darkness are firmly entrenched, then our vulnerabilities would certainly be exploited, and the result is most often defeat. Jesus, in His model prayer asked God “to lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil”, which tells us that known, unnecessary temptations are to be shunned under all circumstances, except God bids us, as He did with Christ.

Persons who have drinking problems must avoid all venues where liquor is being served and consumed, because a tremendous gravitational pull would be exerted against such individuals. Again, South Beach on a Saturday night will be a poor choice for those who are struggling with porn, because the fires of lust will be kindled by scenes of nudity and flirting.

And there are also intellectual temptations that are tailormade for deep thinkers. To enter, unbidden by God into debate with a known clairvoyant, or with a philosopher who is a known skeptic, infidel, or who is an avowed atheist or satanist, will open the door for devils to take control of our minds.

Such discourses are generally productive of evil, for we cannot win any argument with devils, since they are much more intelligent, and knowledgeable than we are. It will be much better for us to put our little tails between our legs, by avoiding such encounters, for the Bible warns Christians against getting into a debate that only fosters strife. Let’s read:

2nd Timothy 2:23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strife.

24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,

25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

When an earnest seeker for truth asks us questions, we may respond in the positive by bringing to bear those passages of scripture that would shed light on the topic in question. But for us to enter into debate just for argument’s sake would accomplish nothing, for not a single soul was ever saved by argument. However, from time to time, as we grow in grace it becomes necessary for our faith to be tested. In the case of Jesus, it was to gain the victory in behalf of man, why the wilderness experience was necessary. In Job’s case it was to clear up grave misconceptions and insinuations put forth by satan, and also for Job to grow.

In our case it may be to certify our decision to go all the way in obeying Christ through deliberate choice because anyone who enters into a relationship with The Lord must do so willingly, not being pressured or coerced to serve Him. But whatever may be the case, let it always be said that if we are tempted, it was The Spirit who led us.

Another point for us to consider is that the devil is an opportunist, and he will tempt us at our weakest points, just as he did with Christ who was, up to this time, at His weakest point physically. After fasting for forty days and nights, the lack of food had taken its toll and acute pangs of hunger came upon Christ with intensity. Let’s read:

Matthew 4:2 And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungered.

Every true Christian should be keenly aware of his or her strengths and weaknesses, nor for bragging rights, nor for buckling under temptation, but so as to have an intelligent understanding of our constant need of Christ. We are often tempted at our weakest point, for the devil doesn’t usually waste time tempting us on the things which have no appeal. If there is no desire existing in the heart, then temptations lose their sting, and any effort on the point in question would most likely be futile. Hence the reason why we must be aware of our weak points.

Devils have an accurate account of each temptation which was brought to us in bygone years, and which ones we succumbed to. And thus, they would often reference this hitlist whenever they are frustrated with a person’s faithfulness, or whenever they are permitted to tempt us.

There are temptations which faze us, which may not faze others. With some food is a biggie, where some may struggle with some dietary indulgence such as ice cream, candy, chocolate, or twinkies. These may not be sinful in and of themselves, but because we may have a sweet tooth, we can be tempted to go overboard in indulgence.

Others, like David are not fazed by ice cream, but girls or sensualism may shake them down. It is the will of God that we guard well the avenues of the soul, especially on those weak points by which the assaults of devils may gain ascendency. Let’s read:

1st Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.

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.

Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.

James 1:12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am  tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with  evil, neither does He tempt any man.

14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

Another important point for our consideration, in Christ’s wilderness experience, is that Jesus did not give a reasonable answer for His current condition, even when pressed by the devil. By those words “If thou be The Son of God” satan insinuated that the God of heaven would not allow His Son to suffer the pangs of hunger Jesus was experiencing.

Even though some may not be aware of it, this is one of the most common temptations brought to Christians especially, and with too great success. In his reasoning satan suggests that a divine being who claims oneness with God could never be brought so low as to be emaciated with hunger.

The servant of The Lord, in writing her exposition on the matter, expounds on the ways and means that were employed to unsettle the faith of Christ in His Father and in Himself. That often-repeated phrase “Where is God” which often comes after tragedies such as 9/11, is an echo of the very same mode of thought, uttered in the wilderness.

The reasoning is that if Jesus is one with God certain experiences and conditions would be off limits. And in our own experience, we may also be tempted to question our relationship with God, as Job did. We may be tempted to think that because we are the children of the Most-High that certain situations should never befall us.

This diabolical reasoning is often peddled in the preaching of the health/wealth gospel, where the adversity that befalls a Christian may be credited to a questionable relationship with God. But Christians and unbelievers do suffer adversity from time to time, just like anyone else.

The difference with Christians is that they are being led by The Spirit, and as such, whatever might come our way, be it good, bad or in between, it should be under the guidance of The Holy Ghost. Jesus was led by The Spirit, and as such whatever befell Him, was under the supervision of God.

But for us to think of ourselves as being above the adversities which affect other folk, just because we believe in God, would be a gross misunderstanding of what the scriptures teach on this point. We do have a refuge in Christ, but at times we would pass through the fire and the flood, in our journey to the kingdom.

The fairytale type of Christianity that is void of any adversity or disappointment is not what the Bible teaches. After listing the stunning victories and acts of the faithful in times past, the book of Hebrews reminds us that there were “others”, meaning that other believers had trials of no ordinary character, yet their faith in God was as solid as a rock. Let’s read:

Hebrews 11:32 And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephtha; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:

33 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions.

34 Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.

35 Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:

36 And others had trial of cruel mocking and scourging, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:

37 They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;

38 (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.

Abraham was being led by God when, in obedience to His word, he packed up everything he had and moved to the land of Canaan. But not long after, his entire encampment was threatened with starvation in so much that he was led by The Spirit to relocate temporarily in Egypt to weather the storm. Let’s read:

Genesis 12:9 And Abram journeyed, going on still toward the south.

10 And there was a famine in the land: and Abram went down into Egypt to sojourn there; for the famine was grievous in the land.

Thus, it was with Job, when His friends reasoned that God would never permit a faithful, god-fearing man, to suffer as Job was suffering. And then the very next logical suggestion would be to question the status of his professed relationship with God. This reasoning is an echo of those words “If thou be the Son of God”. Let’s read:

Job 4:1 Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered and said,

7 Remember, I pray thee, who ever perished, being innocent? or where were the righteous cut off?

8 Even as I have seen, they that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same.

[D.A pp 118>119] Would God treat His own Son thus? Would He leave Him in the desert with wild beasts, without food, without companions, without comfort? He insinuates that God never meant His Son to be in such a state as this. “If Thou be the Son of God,” show Thy power by relieving Thyself of this pressing hunger. A divine being would be able to sustain his claim by working a miracle; “if Thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread.” Such an act of creative power, urges the tempter, would be conclusive evidence of divinity. It would bring the controversy to an end.

This brings us to one of the issues we will have to grapple with as those prophecies predicted in the Bible are being fulfilled. The demand for conclusive evidence is what satan was clamoring for from Jesus and it is often the case that we will be tempted to provide conclusive evidence for what we believe.

The question is: Should it be necessary for Christ to provide conclusive evidence, and is it necessary for us to also give conclusive evidence for a particular course of action God has instructed us to pursue?

One of the issues the remnant people of God would have to confront in these last days is the prospect of not being able to give a logical, satisfactory answer for the ways and means God has instructed us to employ, in dealing with the various adversities that are scheduled to overspread the world.

Logic is often tailored to be the diabolical enemy of faith and whereas we are instructed to give to every man a reason for the hope that is in us, there is not any guarantee that such reasons will make sense to an unbelieving mind.

Working a miracle just to prove His Divinity in this situation would accomplish nothing, for miracles, in and of themselves do not prove anything, because turning stones into bread is something devils may be able to do, at least apparently.

Thus, as a general rule of thumb, persons who may clamor for a sign before they believe would almost always need more miracles to continue believing, instead of taking the evidence of scripture as final confirmation, that’s why Jesus referred satan to “It is written.”

Furthermore, there are persons who would never believe, no matter how many miracles, signs, and explanations God may give. Some of the people in Christ’s day required a sign, just like satan clamored for miracles, but conclusive evidence did nothing to sway their minds in the direction of believing. Let’s read:

John 6:11 And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would.

12 When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.

13 Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.

14 Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.

29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.

30 They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work?

31 Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.

Mark 15:31 Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save.

32 Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him.

There are some who might be struggling with the issue of the current pandemic, who might desire some sign from God in order to believe. But if God were to send an angel from heaven to heal many persons, there are doubts that could still arise. Thus, some may question whether the word of God, its promises and its assurances are sufficient for us to lean on, at such a time as this, or whether we should have back up, just in case.

Almost two years ago we raised the prospect of mandatory vaccinations across the U.S. as a result of Covid and his brethren stalking the land in high and low places. In those early discussions, the role of the church, and its subsequent actions were then brought into question, since we would be facing the prospect of following the leader, as directives come down from persons in authority.

But now as premonition and reality have converged, we could find ourselves in difficult positions in some cases, for the question will be: Should a Christian be forced to accept something in the name of science, if it has not been fully approved by the appointed agency tasked with such approval? And would the church then be forced to adopt such mandates in harmony with rendering unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s? And consequently, will persons be required to provide conclusive, rational evidence for their course of action if it is contrary to conventional wisdom on the matter in question?

Every one of us would have to make an individual choice in the matter, because we must know God for ourselves, just as Christ had known The Father as He endured the wilderness experience. It is worthy of note in the current situation, that one’s compliance will be tied to economic privilege, and the ability of some to work in certain instances.

Christ did not offer a rational explanation for His condition in the wilderness, and we may not be able to give a reasonable answer for the course of action we may pursue. However, if we are being led by The Spirit, that’s all that really matters, for at the end of the day, living under the guidance of The Spirit will make all the difference when the dust has settled.

Therefore, as our own wilderness experience begins to loom large on the horizon, it is the will of God that the course of action demonstrated by Christ should be adopted and followed by all who believe. Believers are not to place themselves unbidden into temptation and we must be led by The Spirit of God every situation.  

Yet, the words of Christ in the wilderness should be ours as we endeavor to navigate and mitigate those adversities which would certainly be coming our way. In response to that first wilderness temptation Jesus uttered words of immortal truth which should form the basis for all our actions and decisions. Let’s read:

 Matthew 4:4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.

                                    God bless!

Drugs, Sex, And Marijuana. Sabbath afternoon 07/24/2021

Isaiah 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

The battle that is taking place in the spiritual realm is a battle for the mind because it’s there where our decisions take place. Judgement, discretion, and the abilities to discern between right and wrong, truth and error, all take place in the mind, and therefore, anything that will damage the frontal lobes and the gray matter in our brains is made readily available.

Some might wonder why we keep referring to the X-perts in questionable terms; it is because some of their recommendations and suggestions are often contrary to that which is written, and even though some of them might be quite sincere, they could inadvertently become agents of evils, whenever they are not guided by God.

For clarification, there is nothing wrong with getting a Bachelors, Masters, or Doctorate, if one is able to preserve the God factor in the process for according to the sacred record, Daniel and his 3 companions were led by God to higher learning in the schools of Babylon. There is nothing inherently wrong with it.

Yet, for all the science, mythology, arts, languages, math, and philosophy they studied, the God factor was never permitted to be interfered with and thus, their hybrid of secular education, together with the study and embrace of the sacred oracles, did not make the knowledge of God subservient to what they had been taught in the universities of the day.

Instead, whenever their secular education clashed with the scriptures, the wisdom of man was held in subjection, and thus, God could use them in their educated capacity to speak and witness to princes and kings, in a manner that would not compromise truth or duty.

Having said that, God-faring parents in our day are faced with challenges of no ordinary character, for while it is still good for kids to reach for the stars in their educational pursuits, yet, more and more, and ever so often, certain secular modes of thought and some of the philosophies now being disseminated to students, are posing existential threats to faith, and truth.

And therefore, if we are not very careful, the God factor will be threatened existentially, to the point of no return, if one’s faith in God, and belief in His word are not held supreme in one’s mind. Bit by bit and ever so subtly, laws, concepts, suggestions and clamors of the carnal mind are being incorporated into the learning systems of the day.

Parents are now faced with the prospect of children being educated in same-sex relationships, as well as gender neutral philosophies. Thus, whenever any of these concepts are juxtaposed with the legalization of marijuana and wine, we’ll have a toxic mix on our hands because how can parents teach their children properly when the laws of the land, and the secular philosophies are sanctioning evil? Let’s read:

By Ryan Nobles and Clare Foran, CNN Updated 2:08 PM ET, Wed July 14, 2021

The Senate Majority Leader and a group of other Senate Democrats introduced draft legislation on Wednesday that would decriminalize marijuana at the federal level by striking it from the federal controlled substances list. It's significant for a Senate majority leader to back such a measure, and the move highlights the evolving politics of cannabis policy. At a news conference, the majority leader vowed to "use my clout to make this a priority in the Senate."

Marijuana is now legal in forty-six states, and if the current proposed legislation passes, parents will be facing the grim prospect of not being able to warn children of the inherent dangers of smoking pot and when this is added to the legislation of certain drugs and readily available, highly addictive pain killers, the battle for the mind can be lost.

The “X-perts” have for very many years suggested the legalization of marijuana, and various lobbying groups have taken up the call for legislators to pass laws that would permit both the medicinal, and the recreational use of the drug even though it’s known to produce hallucinations and many questionable behaviors and dangerous side effects of all sorts. Let’s read:

Schizophrenia: a long-term mental disorder of a type involving a breakdown in the relation between thought, emotion, and behavior, leading to faulty perception, inappropriate actions and feelings, withdrawal from reality and personal relationships into fantasy and delusion, and a sense of mental fragmentation.

Schizophrenia linked to marijuana use disorder is on the rise, study finds. By Katie Hunt, CNN Updated 4:18 AM ET, Thu July 22, 2021.

Schizophrenia is a chronic, severe and disabling mental disorder. Its symptoms may include delusions, thought disorder and hallucinations. No cure exists, so doctors try to manage the symptoms with medications and therapy.

But, just like all other harmful indulgences coming from the tree of good and evil, its so-called benefits are being paraded up front, and persons fall for the science and research which seem to suggest that it would be positively good for the human family, on many different levels.

May we here say that evil is always advertised and sold under the banner of having some benefit, for it’s very rare that perpetrators of sinful indulgences will come out plainly and say “This thing will kill you for sure”.

Again, as we see how some drugs are advertised it’s usually with persons smiling, and touting the great benefits thereof, whilst in the fine print below, the adverse effects which such companies are forced to reveal, are written in the smallest possible lettering, in so much that folks may have to use a magnifying glass to read the truth in the matter.

Several over the counter drugs affect the mind in very adverse ways, ranging from suicidal thoughts to various hallucinations, delusions, and giddiness. In addition to this, drugs are often sold in the form of liquors, weed, candies, cookies, milkshakes, and the result is basically one and the same in many too instances.

The mind is altered, strange thoughts and desires arise, and individuals are driven to do things they would not do, under normal circumstances. Thus, while marijuana may offer some relief from pain on the one hand, it affects the mind adversely on the other.

spiritous liquors may give a temporary relief from one’s troubles, but when the hangover comes, and reality sets in, persons are in a worse condition than before, and the fallout continues. Therefore, with a little good comes a ton of evil, and before you are aware of it, persons become hooked, often for life.

Therefore, as we address the topics of drugs, sex, and marijuana, we will investigate what effects are produced in the mind, how such indulgences often lead to persons making unwise and sometimes fatal decisions, and how we must avoid becoming swept up in the snares that are being laid for the feet of the unwary, in these last days.

Question: Can unbridled sexual indulgence including pornography, cause a rational thinking person to do something irrational? Answer: Yes. Absolutely!

2nd Samuel 11:2 And it came to pass in an evening-tide, that David arose from off his bed, and walked upon the roof of the king's house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look upon.

3 And David sent and enquired after the woman. And one said, Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?

4 And David sent messengers and took her; and she came in unto him, and he lay with her; for she was purified from her uncleanness: and she returned unto her house.

5 And the woman conceived, and sent and told David, and said, I am with child.

In this instance, the sting of unbridled lust caused David to put his entire career on the line. His noble deeds of kindness towards Saul, when the king was seeking his life, his heroic deed in slaying Goliath by the power of God, and many of those sacred Psalms he wrote while in the wilderness of Engedi, all these good accomplishments were lost sight of as it were, in a moment of time.

David did not stop to reason, that somebody would know something at some point in time, for the wife of Uriah would have to pass through the royal court on her way to that unfortunate rendezvous. Thus, because someone will always snitch, it wouldn’t be possible to completely cover up the issue.

Furthermore, David didn’t stop to think about what effect his actions would have upon those under his jurisdiction, who looked up to him as a role model, and who trusted his integrity for many years. All of these things went out the window, as the force of unbridled lust took a hold on him.

The same is often true in our day, for there have been instances where certain politicians who had a stellar record previously, were presumably hiking, far up in those Appalachian Mountains. And your everyday John Doe, who has become hooked on porn, can also be made vulnerable to doing some irrational things that could greatly alter his or her after history.

And we must never be deceived into thinking that these problems only belonged to David, Solomon, and Herod, for even God-fearing men can succumb to the same bewitching power, if they are not very careful. Hence the reason why, when Paul wrote to those early Christians, he warned them not to think that just because they believed in Jesus, that they were invulnerable to temptation on this point.

The battle for the mind is not a pagan thing only, it is a Christian thing, and much more so if one tries to fend off foes from without and within. That is why a Christian husband and his wife who are still sexually active, would order their steps with sound wisdom and discretion, not assuming that the other could be invincible. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 7:5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.

Satan only needs one weak link in the chain of one’s character or habits, to undo the entire person, and therefore, if inordinate sexual activity of any sort is one’s pet rock, it will inevitably find its way into the mind, and will grip the frontal lobes with fingers of iron, from which it will become very difficult to escape.

This leads us to our second issue of drugs, for after hearing the unwelcome news, David finds himself in a very difficult position, because according to what is written, Uriah could legally take David’s life, a dire prospect from which David would fain turn away.

Thus, because his back is now against a wall, he will resort to strategy, if by any means, he could get the husband of Bathsheba to sleep with her, for if this were the case, then the child would obviously be credited to them, since DNA testing was many years away. But all of his efforts fail miserably, and he is left only one more option, to turn to the use of drugs to try to interfere with Uriah’s rational thought process.

Like so many in the industry in our day, David knew that one’s ability to reason is adversely affected by the use of liquor, and therefore, he reaches into his refrigerator, and pulls out a bottle of Johnny walker if perchance he may win the battle for Uriah’s mind. Let’s read:

2nd Samuel 11:6 And David sent to Joab, saying, Send me Uriah the Hittite. And Joab sent Uriah to David.

8 And David said to Uriah, Go down to thy house, and wash thy feet. And Uriah departed out of the king's house, and there followed him a mess of meat from the king.

9 But Uriah slept at the door of the king's house with all the servants of his lord and went not down to his house.

10 And when they had told David, saying, Uriah went not down unto his house, David said unto Uriah, Camest thou not from thy journey? why then didst thou not go down unto thine house?

11 And Uriah said unto David, The ark, and Israel, and Judah, abide in tents; and my lord Joab, and the servants of my lord, are encamped in the open fields; shall I then go into mine house, to eat and to drink, and to lie with my wife? as thou livest, and as thy soul liveth, I will not do this thing.

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 went not down to his house.

Leviticus 10:9 Do not drink wine nor strong drink, thou, nor thy sons with thee, when ye go into the tabernacle of the congregation, lest ye die: it shall be a statute forever throughout your generations:

10 And that ye may put difference between holy and unholy, and between unclean and clean.

Putting difference between holy and the unholy obviously has to do with one’s ability to distinguish and differentiate between right and wrong, good and evil. When one’s mind becomes beclouded by the use of drugs, marijuana and liquor, the sense of discrimination and discernment is greatly impaired, and as a result such persons often do foolish things that they often regret for life.

Case in point was Belshazzar, who because of the use spiritous liquors, made the fatal mistake of blending that which is holy with that which is vile. As the Johnny walker black began to take its toll on his mind, he lost his sense of right and wrong, and he sent for the vessels which had been dedicated to the service of God.

But little would he know that by such an act, while under the influence of wine, that he would close his own probation, with no possibility of forgiveness or repentance. It is a solemn statement that is made, that there are certain lines that must never ever be crossed, for some of them are points of no return. Let’s read:

Daniel 5:2 Belshazzar, whiles he tasted the wine, commanded to bring the golden and silver vessels which his father Nebuchadnezzar had taken out of the temple which was in Jerusalem; that the king, and his princes, his wives, and his concubines, might drink therein.

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 spoke, and said to the wise men of Babylon, Whosoever shall read this writing, and shew me the interpretation thereof, shall be clothed with scarlet, and have a chain of gold about his neck, and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.

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.

The writing on the wall was Mene, Mene Tekel Upharsin and it was written in Aramaic, which at that time was in fact one of the everyday languages of Mesopotamia, and therefore, the question is why could not any of Babylon’s translators and linguists, interpret the hand writing?

At this point, the DJ had stopped playing, and that familiar song: red, red, wine faded in the distance, and in its stead, a solemn silence and an ominous foreboding took hold of the party because what had just taken place seemed to foreshadow a grim day of reckoning. Let’s read:

Daniel 5:24 Then was the part of the hand sent from him; and this writing was written.

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.

That was back then, but in our day there are literally thousands of drugs being made readily available to the young and the old, prominent among which is marijuana, known by other names such as Cannabis, weed, and ganja.

We must be crystal clear concerning this drug, for it is dangerous to the frontal lobes, and because it has been found to produce hallucinations and delusions the minds of those who indulge freely in it cannot be trusted to make sound judgments, let alone to recommend anything to any person in the name of doing good.

Persons will discover in these final days of earth’s history, that we have to be very careful from whom we take advice, and if it is known that one is a user of Cannabis, all the more caution must be exercised, because thoughts and suggestions coming from the mind that is hallucinated, produces evils in others who may be deceived thereby.

One night, whilst playing at a carnival party with Gregory Isaacs, we were contacted to do the band music for him. But before coming onto the stage to the roar of the crowds, the singer virtually set the stage on fire with weed, and those poor musicians were then engulfed in a cloud of smoke, that set the stage for mass hallucinations.

It is worthy of note that when closely observed, the push to legalize marijuana was laced with research touting its benefits as a pain reliever, and because so many individuals suffer with chronic pain, it was seen as benefit to the human family.

But, just as it was in days of old, so it continues to be, for some good is usually marketed with a ton of evil and before you know it ganja moved from being a pain reliever to being a recreational drug, to now being legalized in almost every state in the country.

Satan knows exactly what he is doing, because he understands better than we do, that if something evil has some good laced with it, persons are more likely to morph toward the evil with the passage of time, and thus, he always markets darkness with just enough light to give it plausibility.

But blending 1% poison with 99% orange juice does not render the poison fit for consumption. On the contrary, it is more likely to be taken unawares by those who may not be the wiser.

Thus, with proper marketing, and with the backing of the legislature, a multitude of hallucinated, and deluded minds are set to proliferate across the land, becoming the norm, and like with every other good and evil mixture, we would be paying a very heavy price for many years to come. Thus, saith The Lord.

The following excerpts were taken from studies done by The National Institutes of Health.

“While marijuana use is prevalent among the adolescent population, research has shown that there can be devastating effects on health and well-being. A review of the literature shows that marijuana use can have a negative impact on physical health, psychological well-being, and multiple psycho-social outcomes. Adolescents who used marijuana more frequently and began using marijuana at an earlier age experienced worse outcomes and long-lasting effects.

According to the “Monitoring the Future” 2014 survey results from a large sample of high school students in the United States, marijuana use was found to be the most commonly used illicit substance with 35.1 percent of high school seniors reporting use in the past year.

Roughly two-thirds of high school seniors reported not considering regular marijuana use to be harmful, despite much research that has proven otherwise. About 12 percent of people over 12 years old had reported marijuana use in the past year, with especially high rates of use among youth.

Marijuana has been found to be an addictive substance with increased chances of addiction for those who begin using as teenagers and especially among those who smoke marijuana daily. Undoubtedly, the most concerning issue regarding recreational marijuana use are the numerous adverse effects impacting adolescent youth and those effects that may lead to long-term consequences for development.

Marijuana use has been associated with increased risk of motor vehicle accidents, health problems, psychiatric symptoms, and poorer educational outcomes. Marijuana is also commonly referred to as the ultimate “gateway drug” leading to increased chances of using other illicit substances. These adverse effects can be extremely harmful to the health, safety, and emotional well-being of the nation's youth.”

Thus, because the time is now and the place is here, we are left no choice but to deliver the goods as is written in the Bible. Even though the grace of God is readily available to all persons, the raw fact of the matter is that when one’s mind has been damaged by marijuana, there are after-effects that may linger on for many years.

The natural laws of sowing and reaping are in most cases allowed to run their natural course, and even though repentance and change may be embarked upon, the damage has already been done. Thus, we are to understand that prevention is better always than cure.

However, the Bible does offer hope to anyone who may be caught in the snare of the devil and thus, we would encourage all who may be entangled therein to pray like never before. It is also mandatory in instances of addiction, that the adversely affected persons do not continue to associate with those who are doing weed, because the gravitational pull of friends and habit can lead ultimately, to a relapse.

Therefore, in harmony with the urgency of the time we’ll end our discourse with a grim reminder, that we have been purchased with the precious blood of Jesus, and as such, it is our sacred duty, and moral responsibility to keep our minds and bodies in the best possible condition, while at the same time, not parleying with evil in any way shape or form. Let’s read:

Proverbs 1:10 My son, if sinners entice thee consent thou not.

15 My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path.

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.

God bless!

When Shall These Things be? Sabbath afternoon 07/10/2021

Matthew 24:3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?

4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.

Many persons who once scoffed at those end times events predicted in the scripture are now rethinking their perspectives, because try as we might it seems as if the inevitable is gradually placing a choke-hold on the entire globe, regardless of whether persons will believe or not, for the fulfillment of prophecy is not dependent on whether folks believe.

From the disturbed weather patterns which cause a change in the frequency and severity of storms, to the rapid increase of crime across the land and then to the utter intransigence of the political landscape, all of these problems, converging at the same time, tell us that the coming of Christ is nearer than when we first believed.

Added to the mix, we have the ongoing emerging strains of the virus, which will continue to mutate, and cause additional headaches on a personal and national level. And while it is important for us not to immerse ourselves in the negative news of the day, it is also important for us to be cognizant of what is taking place.

The reason for this is that the Bible tells us when we see these things coming to pass, we should look up, knowing that our redemption draws near. In other words, the increase of irresolvable problems across the earth, are actually heralds of the morning, for it is a fact that the darkest hour of the night comes just before dawn. Let’s read:

Isaiah 21:11 The burden of Dumah. He calleth to me out of Seir, Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night?

12 The watchman said, The morning cometh, and also the night.

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.

Luke 21: Luke 21: 25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;

26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.

28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

One of the important pointers to remember, as we consider the topic: When Shall These Things Be, is that America is the focal point of the fulfillment of end-time events. It’s not China, nor Russia, nor is it any Muslim country or even Israel; it’s America that will be the last super power upon the earth, prior to the second coming of Christ. Let’s read:

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.

13 And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men,

14 And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.

Even though the entire world will be engulfed, yet, it is the land of the free, and the home of the brave that will take center stage, and as such, the adverse developments taking place here are to be studied closely. In other words, the place is here and the time is now.

Another pointer that is given in scripture is that of the increase in frequency and severity, as far as the events foretold will be occurring.

Just as a woman in labor pain groans, because of the increasing labor pains and severe contractions just before she is delivered of her child, just so the earth would be experiencing contractions, cramps, and pains, prior to the end of all things. Let’s read:

1st Thessalonians 5:2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.

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.

Thus, just as the Bible has predicted, many of those signs given by Jesus and the prophets are now being fulfilled in real time, and some reporters unwittingly make reference to that which is written in the Bible.

But, together with the increase of earth’s problems are the mitigation efforts God has put in place for everyone who believes. Jesus does not predict bad news without providing a way of escape for all who will believe and obey His word.

The flood came, but the ark was provided. Sodom was destroyed, but a way of escape out of the city was provided. Similarly, as we consider events of

the last days, we would observe from the scripture that provision and protection will be granted to any, and every person on the planet who would choose to believe the written and The Living word of God.

God knows the end from the beginning, and He has forewarned us in His word of the very things we are now seeing taking place across America and indeed, the entire world. Therefore, the following facts are just a snapshot of what is currently underway, and it will spiral out of control with the passage of time.

Again, the adverse situations outlined below will be juxtaposed with passages of scripture, containing predictions and mitigation, where applicable so we all could see clearly that God has not left us without any hope, but instead has provided a way of escape for all those who will believe. Let’s read:

[1] Water is disappearing in the West – and not just during the summer. By Hannah Gard, CNN. The West’s historic drought has many impacts, including water shortages, more severe wildfire seasons and unprecedented heat waves, to name a few.

Snow runoff is a critical fresh water source around the world; around a sixth of Earth’s population uses runoff for drinking, farming, power and other uses, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

A snow drought in the West appeared early last winter, according to the National Integrated Drought Information System. The paltry snow-pack, paired with well-below normal rainfall and extreme heat, is at the core of the region’s water-supply concerns.

On Thursday, the US Drought Monitor reported 93%

of the West is in drought, the most expansive drought in that region in modern records. Michael Dettinger, a hydrologist for the US Geological Survey, said this year’s snow-melt runoff was bad on several fronts.

The first was the snow drought itself. By April 1, winter precipitation was just 50% of normal, and the snow that did fall contained 40% less water than it normally does. The second problem was that the air in California has been so dry, the runoff evaporated before it reached the reservoirs.

Isaiah 33: 15 He that walketh righteously, and speaketh uprightly; he that despiseth the gain of oppressions, that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes, that stoppeth his ears from hearing of blood, and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil;

16 He shall dwell on high: his place of defence shall be the munitions of rocks: bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure.

[2] Cattle are competing against grasshoppers for food in the West's historic drought.

The bugs are winning. By Rachel Ramirez, CNN Updated 10:43 AM ET, Fri July 2, 2021.

Grasshoppers, which thrive in hot, dry weather, have been defoliating trees and competing with cattle for food, and the bugs are winning. Ranchers are selling cattle "due to poor forage conditions and a lack of feed," according to the latest US drought monitor.

Agriculture officials plan to aerially spray more than 2.6 million acres of Montana grasslands with insecticides in an attempt to kill grasshopper populations. That's an area larger than both the state of Delaware and Rhode Island combined.

"The problem with insecticide treatments is that it could actually worsen grasshopper outbreaks in the future by harming natural enemies or grasshopper competitors which, under natural conditions, serve to limit pest grasshoppers," Selvaggio said.

"Climate change may bring us more grasshoppers in the future in increased frequency, duration or severity," she said.

Joel 1:17 The seed is rotten under their clods, the garners are laid desolate, the barns are broken down; for the corn is withered.

18 How do the beasts groan! the herds of cattle are perplexed, because they have no pasture; yea, the flocks of sheep are made desolate.

19 O Lord, to thee will I cry: for the fire hath devoured the pastures of the wilderness, and the flame hath burned all the trees of the field.

[3] Unprecedented heat, hundreds dead and a town destroyed. Climate change is frying the Northern Hemisphere. By Angela Dewan, CNN Updated 3:58 AM ET, Sun July 4, 2021

The tiny town of Lytton has come to hold a grim record. On Tuesday, it experienced Canada's highest-ever temperature, in an unprecedented heat wave that has over a week killed hundreds of people and triggered more than 240 wildfires across British Columbia, most of which are still burning.

Lytton hit 49.6 degrees Celsius (121.3 degrees Fahrenheit), astounding for the town of just 250 people nestled in the mountains, where June maximum temperatures are usually around 25 degrees.

This past week, however, its nights have been hotter than its days usually are, in a region where air conditioning is rare and homes are designed to retain heat. Scientists have warned for decades that climate change will make heat waves more frequent and more intense.

That is a reality now playing out in Canada, but also in many other parts of the northern hemisphere that are increasingly becoming uninhabitable.

Roads melted this week in America's northwest, and residents in New York City were told not to use high-energy appliances, like washers and dryers — and painfully, even their air conditioners — for the sake of the power grid. In Russia, Moscow reported its highest-ever June temperature of 34.8/95 degrees on June 23, and Siberian farmers are scrambling to save their crops from dying in an ongoing heat wave.

And in Iraq, authorities announced a public holiday across several provinces for Thursday, including the capital Baghdad, because it was simply too hot to work or study, after temperatures surpassed 50c/ 122 F degrees and its electricity system collapsed.

"So we've seen these unprecedented temperatures — records being broken not just by a few degrees, being absolutely smashed," Bentley said.

Isaiah 4:5 And the Lord will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defense.

6 And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the day time from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.

Psalms 121:1 I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.

2 My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.

5 The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand.

6 The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.

7 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul.

6 And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the day time from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.

[4] Biden's Fourth of July celebrations clouded by a gnawing concern over the Delta variant of Covid-19.

By Kevin Liptak and Kaitlan Collins, CNN.

Even as a crowded South Lawn represented scenes of celebration across the country, concerns about the continuing spread of the virus remain strong inside the administration. In private meetings, Biden has questioned advisers about the broader impact the highly contagious variant could have on the US, according to people present.

In a sign that the pandemic is far from over, officials also said the administration plans to extend the public health emergency declaration for the pandemic .... and foreign travel to countries where the Delta variant is resurgent, including the United Kingdom, is still on hold as officials hope to avoid new cases coming in to the US.

Global Covid-19 death toll surpasses 4 million. By Deidre McPhillips and Nectar Gan, CNN Updated 11:49 PM ET, Wed July 7, 2021.

More than 4 million people around the world have died of Covid-19, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. In total, three countries account for more than a third of all global deaths. The United States, which has the highest number of fatalities at 606,000, accounts for 15% of the global total, followed by Brazil and India.

The Delta variant, a more transmissible and possibly more dangerous strain of Corona-virus, is also contributing to an increase in cases in some countries and regions. In the US, the Delta variant now makes up more than half of all new infections, according to estimates from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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.

Psalms 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

[5] At least 150 people fatally shot in more than 400 shootings over the Fourth of July weekend. By Emma Tucker, Omar Jimenez and Kristina Sgueglia, CNN

At least 150 people were killed by gun violence in more than 400 shootings across the country during the 4th of July weekend as major cities nationwide confront a surge in violent crime, according to data compiled by the Gun Violence Archive.

The data, which includes the number of shooting incidents and gun violence victims nationally over a 72-hour period from Friday through Sunday, is still evolving and will be updated.

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, truce-breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good.

Daniel 12:1 And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.

Psalms 91:4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

You will notice that for every distress, perplexity or danger, the Bible gives us promises of God to lean on. One thing it does not do is to suggest the use of man-made efforts, such as doomsday bunkers, and hoarding as mitigation strategies. But it does enjoin faith and obedience as the only way to survive.

And we can go on, and on, and on, but it will do us no good to be overwhelmed with prophecies that predict doom, if there’s no way of escape. This leads us to that cryptic statement that we have repeated ever so often on this forum. Here it is:

One day soon, in the not too distant future, all those who have accepted Christ as Lord and Savior will be mighty glad they did so.

The reason for this statement is that the Christian’s refuge is not to be found in man-made solutions, or in hoarding precious goods and groceries. Our hope is to be centered in Christ, who desires that through believing and loving obedience, we may come to an intelligent understanding of His character, and thus be found in a relationship with Him.

It is not the will of God that any individual should perish, or suffer through the terrors of the last days, for He has made ample provision in Christ so that if any person desires to be saved, they can make their move now, before there’s a rush for the door.

The time will come when there would be a famine in the land, a famine for the unadulterated word of God and many people shall run to and fro searching for answers, but the truth will become a very scarce commodity. Thus, the following steps can and should be taken urgently, by all who earnestly desire the knowledge of God, as it is in Jesus.

[1] If you have been procrastinating and putting off your soul’s salvation for another day, do not delay any longer. No one is promised tomorrow, and your window of opportunity that is opened today can be closed with very short notice, as took place in the collapsed towers on Miami beach. Let’s read:

Hebrews 3:12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.

13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

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

[2] If persons have been sitting on the fence, in the valley of decision, it is now high time to make your move. In the spiritual realm there is no such thing as middle ground, for everyone is either in God’s camp or in the domain of devils. Therefore God’s call goes out: who is on The Lord’s side, let him or her take a firm, definite stand for Jesus Christ, by believing and obeying His word. Let’s read:

Joel 3:14 Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision.

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, and the strength of the children of Israel.

Revelation 22:12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

14 Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.

[3] If persons have already accepted Christ as Lord and Savior, and for some reason may be thinking of giving up or turning back, think no more, because your ticket and seat to glory will be taken by those who will be coming in at the eleventh hour, if you turn your back on Christ.

This represents the most earnest exhortation for every baptized member of God’s family to stay the course with Jesus, until faith and reality converge. Disappointments, and discouragements must never be allowed to quench our faith, and thus, The Lord says to us, hang in there for just awhile. Let’s read:

Hebrews 10: 35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward.

36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

37 For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.

38 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

Hebrews 10: 23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)

25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,

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

Thus, in lieu of the perilous times in which we live, it behooves us to live soberly, and righteously in this generation, not digging ourselves deeper into those systems of earth, but looking forward to that great day when Christ will make all things new.

We therefore end with two passages of scripture which should help us to keep our eyes on Jesus, so that we would not become distracted, and dismayed as we consider when shall these things be. 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.

14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

Luke 21:34 And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.

35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.

God bless!

Conditions Of Answered Prayer. Sabbath afternoon 07/03/2021

Isaiah 65:24 And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.

Some Christians may often become bewildered as to why their prayers are not being answered, or if they are answered, why does it take so long. We might not be able to give an explanation in every situation, but what we do know is that there are certain conditions for answered prayer which are to be fulfilled in order to expect results.

Prayer is one of the vital lines of communication between God and man, and therefore it’s important that those channels be clear and unobstructed at all times. Our consciences must not be seared with any known or deliberate sin and asking in harmony with God’s will is a must, but, because folks are climbing Jacob’s ladder, we may not get these prerequisites right every time.

So, God has gone ahead and made provision for the situations where we may ask incorrectly by allowing His Holy Spirit to make intercession for us according to His will. This facility clears up the inconsistencies, the misunderstandings, and the inexperience that may plague the believer from time to time, so that we can still ask with confidence.

Thus, whatever may be our situation, and whatever may be our level of spiritual growth, let it be known that we can always ask, because folks would never, know if they never asked. Even king Saul, who was pregnant with deliberate sin asked; it’s true that he did not get an answer, but at the very least he could ask.

Thus, no one can or should be deprived of the bare minimum of asking. Even the devils understand this basic truth, for even though they are the diabolical enemies of Christ, yet from time to time they do ask and believe it or not, they even get answers.

On one such occasion, when they were just about to be evicted from a certain human house in which they were residing, they made a request of Jesus if they could go into the swine. And Christ answered in the positive and gave them leave, and the rest is history.

This leads us to the very first condition of answered prayer, which is the bare minimum:

[1] Asking!

Whatever may be our understanding of God, or of how spiritual things work, it would never hurt to ask anyway, for you can never go wrong with asking, for according to the scriptures, the very first step in us receiving any answer to prayer is to ask.

The same will be true of getting re-employed in our booming economy, because now that it is opening back up and there’s more hiring than firing, the very least persons can do is to apply, because, whether yea or nay, you won’t get an answer, or a job, if you never applied.

Some won’t receive if they never asked, and it is a solemn truth, that many avoidable challenges, and burdens and frustrations abound, because we never asked. Thus, we encourage everyone to ask anyway. Let’s read:

Matthew 7:7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.

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

9 Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?

10 Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?

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?

Asking calls for humility in the human agent, for it demonstrates our dependence on Jesus to provide. Too often, we hesitate to ask until the last minute, only after becoming frustrated and exasperated. It is God’s will that we ask up front, so that He could guide us through the maze of possibilities that may be before us.

[2] Believing.

The very next condition of answered prayer is to believe. This one is huge, for very often our prayers may go unanswered, because we doubted that God would or could do such and such for us. The gold standard for believing is not to limit God in anyway, by restricting His power to mere finite limitations.

Where in one situation persons may only see a few possibilities, God sees a thousand, for there is never a want or lack on His path for ways and means to do what He determines to accomplish. God is not finite as humans are, and He does not think along human modes of thought, for there is nothing impossible to Him. Therefore, if for some reason there isn’t a way out, He will make a way out.

This is one point that the devil often tempts us on, and sadly, with great success, for he presents to us limitations, restrictions, and doubts so that persons become bogged down with only humanistic ways and means. Thus, we have to declare unequivocally that there is always a way out, while the possibility of any escape exists. This understanding is of critical importance when employing the shield of faith in the day to day experiences of the believer.

At times we have battles to fight and there may be some thorny issues which persist for years. And it’ll seem as if we are caught between the devil and the deep red sea, with old pharaoh in the rear, and the ocean before us. Yet, for the believer there’s always a way out. Let us repeat so that you hear correctly: There is always a way out! Always!

In fact, God was not at a loss for ways and means when He chose to lead His people through the red sea, for this was not the only way of escape. God could have caused those Egyptians to turn back in dismay without doing anything.

But He deliberately chooses to lead all the Hebrews through the red sea for specific reasons, and that is because He had determined kill two birds with one stone as it were; [1] To baptize them all at once and [2] To shake down pharaoh and his army once and for all, that’s all. Let’s read:

1st Corinthians 10:1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;

2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea.

Exodus 15:3 The Lord is a man of war: the Lord is his name.

4 Pharaoh's chariots and his host hath he cast into the sea: his chosen captains also are drowned in the Red sea.

5 The depths have covered them: they sank into the bottom as a stone.

9 The enemy said, I will pursue, I will overtake, I will divide the spoil.

10 Thou didst blow with thy wind, the sea covered them: they sank as lead in the mighty waters.

Therefore, whatsoever may be our prayer request, it is of critical importance for us to believe, that God is able, and that He will make a way according to His good will. Answers to prayer are contingent upon us believing and greatly affects the outcome according to the scriptures. Let’s read:

Matthew 9:27 And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou son of David, have mercy on us.

28 And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, Lord.

29 Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you.

Mark 9:20 And they brought him unto him: and when he saw him, straightway the spirit tare him; and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming.

21 And he asked his father, How long is it ago since this came unto him? And he said, Of a child.

22 And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him: but if thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.

23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

[3] Asking in Jesus name.

Question: What does “In Jesus name” really mean?”

This issue must needs be addressed because great confusion over the meaning of the phrase exists. It is true that many things are asked and done in the name of Jesus in our day, yet we must understand that merely mentioning Jesus name after a petition does not necessarily make that request or deed in His name.

According to the scripture, true Christians can make requests and they often do things in Jesus’ name. It is an indisputable fact, demonstrated and certified in the Bible.

But devils and false prophets can also make prayer requests, and they often perform healings in “Jesus’ name.” In fact, there have been answers to prayers on certain occasions, in the most literal sense, that had absolutely nothing to do with Jesus.

Therefore, it is of critical importance that we know the difference between “In Jesus’ name” and those counterfeits that often abound in Christendom. The passages which follow demonstrate that there are litmus tests which must be applied in discerning the good from the evil. We’ll begin with the positives. Let’s read:

Matthew 18:19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.

20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Mark 9:38 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.

39 But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me.

Mark 16:17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;

18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

John 14:13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

14 If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it.

John 15:16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.

The counterfeits

Matthew 24:4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.

5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.

2nd Thessalonians 2:8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming.

9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,

10 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.

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

10 To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God.

11 And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.

Thus, we ask the question again: What does it mean to ask or do something in Jesus name?

To ask in Jesus’ name means to ask in harmony with His will, according to what God has promised, being guided by The Holy Spirit in our requests, walking in harmony with God’s revealed will as best we know how, and being willing to receive any answers God will give.

This fourth of July, as we celebrate the birthday of the nation, friends and families would gather for the barbecue and cookouts, which were in short supply last year due to the pandemic. And in some cases, a blessing, in Jesus’ name will be asked upon the food that is to be consumed.

That’s all well and good. But if the menu contains any forbidden foods that are proscribed in the Bible the prayer will not be answered, for it contravenes God’s revealed will, and as such, His blessing would not rest upon such violations. To put it plainly, such a prayer will not be answered.

Again, when praying in Jesus’ name, any known sin will have to be confessed and forsaken first, so that the prayers will not be hindered. This is just one of the litmus tests that are to be applied in our day, if persons need to know if some preacher or healer is operating in Jesus’ name.

When persons deliberately walk contrary to any of God’s commandments, doing so puts him or her at odds with God, and the lines of communication will be clogged, unless confession is made. This is one of the sacred truths which must be clearly understood in our day, for many prayers are lifted by those who have knowingly disregarded God’s law. Let’s read:

Psalms 66: 18 If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.

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.

Proverbs 28:9 He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.

1st Kings 22:2 And it came to pass in the third year, that Jehoshaphat the king of Judah came down to the king of Israel.

3 And the king of Israel said unto his servants, Know ye that Ramoth in Gilead is ours, and we be still and take it not out of the hand of the king of Syria?

5 And Jehoshaphat said unto the king of Israel, Enquire, I pray thee, at the word of the Lord today.

6 Then the king of Israel gathered the prophets together, about four hundred men, and said unto them, Shall I go against Ramothgilead to battle, or shall I forbear? And they said, Go up; for the Lord shall deliver it into the hand of the king.

There’s only one problem, king Ahab had innocent blood on his hands, by colluding with Jezebel to get Naboth’s vineyard. In addition to this, he permitted the grossest idolatry and wickedness to flourish in his kingdom. So now that he is preparing for battle, is he really expecting God to bless him?

It’s worthy of note that Ahab fulfilled at least some of the previous conditions we spoke about earlier, for he did ask, and he did believe, but the important component of not deliberately cherishing a known sin was missing. Therefore, his prayers could never receive a favorable answer. Let’s read:

1st Kings 22:7 And Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of the Lord besides, that we might enquire of him?

8 And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, There is yet one man, Micaiah the son of Imlah, by whom we may enquire of the Lord: but I hate him; for he doth not prophesy good concerning me, but evil.

This is where the true believer’s prayers and those who fall for presumption part ways. Like king Ahab, there are many people living today who will just like to believe that God will grant a favorable answer to their requests, even though they may know of sins that are being countenanced by themselves.

Then, to quiet disturbed consciences, some will pay the false prophets of the day to speak those smooth words which promise prosperity, health, and God’s favor. Like Ahab, some folks hate the servant of God who calls for repentance and change where needed before God’s favor and blessings are restored.

But God means what He says, and the conditions for answered prayer given in the scriptures have never changed one iota. In other words, if we regard sin in any form, or if known wrongs are not confessed and forsaken then if we pray, we may get an answer but it will not be one that guarantees God’s blessing.

God does not bless deliberate disobedience, and it is an empty and unreasonable expectation to pray for His blessing, if there are known wrongs to be corrected, confessed, and forsaken. Let’s read:

1st Kings 22:14 And Micaiah said, As the Lord liveth, what the Lord saith unto me, that will I speak.

17 And he said, I saw all Israel scattered upon the hills, as sheep that have not a shepherd: and the Lord said, These have no master: let them return every man to his house in peace.

20 And the Lord said, Who shall persuade Ahab, that he may go up and fall at Ramothgilead? And one said on this manner, and another said on that manner.

21 And there came forth a spirit, and stood before the Lord, and said, I will persuade him.

22 And the Lord said unto him, Wherewith? And he said, I will go forth, and I will be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets. And he said, Thou shalt persuade him, and prevail also: go forth, and do so.

23 Now therefore, behold, the Lord hath put a lying spirit in the mouth of all these thy prophets, and the Lord hath spoken evil concerning thee.

[4] Asking correctly.

James 4:3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.

It is God’s will that believers cultivate an intelligent understanding of His will and purposes. Praying for something that will not honor God, or that will be a danger to ourselves and to others is not generally in harmony with God’s will. The apostle lists praying amiss as one of the reasons why prayers are often unanswered.

For example, if a person were to pray for a winning lotto ticket, that request would fall into the “Amiss” category because get rich quick schemes are mostly banned in the Bible. Again, if one prays for anything or anyone, to fulfill an illicit desire or craving which may foster pride, vices or bad habits, those too will fall under the heading, “Amiss”. Let’s read:

Proverbs 28:22 He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.

Proverbs 13:11 Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labor shall increase.

1st Timothy 6:9 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.

[5] Acting upon the request.

After any prayer request is made, persons are to act upon the request, looking for the ways and means in which it may be fulfilled. Persons who only pray and do nothing in harmony with their prayers would soon cease to pray because in every aspect of man’s relationship with God, cooperation with Him is an absolute essential.

After praying for a job or for employment, we are to send in our resumes to numerous companies until we get an answer. After praying for good, health we are to examine our groceries, and our refrigerators to see if there is anything “Amiss” that may hinder our prayers.

After praying for an individual, we are to go looking for that person to see where we can be of help or of benefit to him or her. The gospel commission as it is given by Christ does not start with the word pray, it starts with the word go, and therefore, even though prayers are essential, yet the cooperation aspect is of critical importance to the saving of souls.

Thus, in all of life’s experiences, where our prayer requests are made to God, the eye of faith will be on the lookout for ways and means to facilitate the answers we are seeking. This is not merely a good suggestion, it’s a must. Let’s read:

Mark 2:3 And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four.

4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay.

5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.

10 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,)

11 I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.

12 And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.

Faith without works is dead, and because of this, there will always be something for us to do in our efforts to cooperate with God in having our prayers answered, no matter how minuscule or insignificant such cooperation may seem to be.

Those Hebrews who were bitten by fiery serpents, and who prayed for healing, were required to look upon the uplifted serpent, and they would live. Naaman was required to dip seven times in Jordan, in response to his request. The ten lepers who had requested healing had to go show themselves to the priests. Let’s read:

Luke 17:13 And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.

14 And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.

Therefore, we reiterate that in most instances there will be something for us to do to cooperate with the Lord in having our prayers answered. It may be the confession of sin, obeying some directives He gives, or it may involve addressing lifestyles and habits to deal with the current pandemic.

But whatsoever it may be, let it be known that if prayers are to be answered, there are conditions to be met, and when they are, we may look forward in confidence to God fulfilling His promises to persons in due season.

We therefore end with a passage of scripture which will encourage us all to pray, because it is one of the primary means that God has ordained for questions, requests, and answers to be resolved between God and man. Let’s read:

James 5:14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.

15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he has committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.

16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

17 Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.

18 And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.

God Bless!

The Spirit Of Unbelief. Sabbath afternoon 06/26/2021

Hebrews 3: 18 And to whom swore he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not?

19 So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.

Throughout the history of our world, persons who have truly believed in God have always been in the minority. That is not something new, for from the time sin entered in the garden of Eden, the spirit of unbelief has been passed down to every generation, some more some less.

And as we get closer to the end of earth’s history, a very strong undercurrent of doubt and unbelief will grip persons with iron fingers from which it will be very difficult to escape. Most of the difficulties we experience in surmounting hurdles, challenges and problems in life, are indeed the result of unbelief.

For the record, God has given to His people a very different way of life, in contrast with secular modes of thought and action. The way true Christians are to approach difficulty is quite different to how the secular mind will deal with the same problems, and often with greatly varying results.

The weapons of our warfare are not carnal nor are they visible to the naked eye, for they are spiritual in nature. Very many of the challenges we’ll face in the spiritual realm, such as bad habits, illicit desires, self-control, and unbelief, are intangible. Therefore, our approach to subduing these issues will require invisible strategies.

There are several ways to cross the red sea. You can sail across, fly across, or persons can walk across by faith. There are several ways to deal with infectious diseases, financial difficulty, weight-loss, addictions, mental health problems, infertility, and any other issue that may arise from time to time.

Faith in The Living God is the key by which all of the supernatural resources of heaven are unlocked, and for all those who truly believe, we will discover that although we would have problems, just like anyone else, yet the methods that God instructs us to use will move mountains, and defy logic, where secular methods would often fail miserably.

We are facing an invisible foe and if we desire to be conquerors in the battles of life, we will have to use invisible weapons. That’s, why the Bible lists several key weapons in the Christian’s arsenal which cannot be touched, interfered with or hacked. Faith, prayer and belief, together with obedience, and the sword of the spirit are just a few to mention.

But when employed against the visible and invisible forces of darkness, they produce amazing results, in contrast to carnal methods. But, for all intents and purposes history teaches us that the majority of the professedly Christian world prefers to employ those methods that are approved or recommended by the secular mind.

One day when Christ was in His own hometown, He desired to do some mighty work, but He could not, for something prevented Him from doing so. If I told my son to carry out the garbage, and he came back and told me that he did not, that answer suggests that he may have made a deliberate decision not to.

But if he came back and told me that he could not carry out the garbage that would suggest that some issue, some hindrance, or obstacle, prevented him from doing so, and by implication, it means that he tried but failed in his attempts to comply.

In Jesus’ case He wanted to work mighty miracles in the town where He was, but something hindered Him. Therefore, the Bible does not say that He “did not”, it says that He could not, which means that He was restricted in His efforts to do so. Let’s read:

Mark 6:2 And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands?

3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him.

4 But Jesus, said unto them, A prophet is not without honor, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house.

5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk and healed them.

Jesus is actually itching to bless His people, but our unbelief hinders Him to a great extent, and whereas in certain instances, where miraculous deliverance would have greatly honored His name, our unbelief often throws cold water on His efforts, and golden opportunities to lift up the name of Christ are often lost.

There are several reasons why the majority of folks who name the name of Jesus suffer unnecessarily because of unbelief, and these reasons will need to addressed at the root cause, for great changes in our approach to last day events would need to be incorporated into our thoughts and actions. Some of the more prominent reasons are listed below.

[1] The methods of faith.

One of the sticking points in the exercise of faith is the method that God might employ. Whenever the method of faith contravenes norms, there unbelief often rears its head, for it can be difficult to wrap our heads around something we are not used to, or something that might go contrary to conventional wisdom.

For instance, if in the Hebrew’s attempt to cross the Red sea, God were to park a Carnival cruise line ship near the shore most of them wouldn’t have had any problem with that. But to walk across is an entirely different story, for the mental roadblocks to doing so would be logic, science, and a lack of precedent.

Naaman would gladly have preferred to take one of those pharmaceutical concoctions, with names that cannot be pronounced, rather than dip seven times. It was the sheer simplicity of the method Elisha had given that irritated him, but if he were instructed to undergo some complex intricate medical procedure, he would not have batted an eye.

On this issue of the methods of faith persons should never conclude that God is giving us uncanny ways and means for the sole purpose of humbling human pride. This is an entirely erroneous view, for we are to remember that we have become accustomed to doing things in ways God never originally intended.

God never originally intended that boats should be used for travel. Airplanes and cruise liners, cars and other modes of transport that we’ve now become accustomed to, which pollute the atmosphere were never in God’s plan originally because all travel was meant to be accomplished in a manner that would be environmentally friendly.

There would be no ships, no airplanes, no rockets in heaven, nor cars nor any motorized vehicles, and if we are to ask an holy angel how to cross the Red sea, they would show us entirely different ways that would transcend our current knowledge of travel.

Thus, its not to make us look stupid why God often employs strange methods of faith; it’s just to show us that there are different, better, and easier ways of doing things using the methods of faith which in many instances might seem illogical to us. When it came time for Elijah to cross the Jordan, he took his mantle and smote the water, and he walked across on dry land.

Again, when Jesus determined to cross the sea of Galilee to rescue His disciples from the storm, His preferred method was walking, and therefore, the methods of faith may often cause some Christians to drawback in unbelief, for in many cases those methods are not conventional by any means.

When the multitude became hungry after listening to Christ’s sermon, He asked Phillip how they would get bread to feed the people. This question by Jesus was deliberately meant to test Phillip’s faith, but as is too often the case he resorted to those restrictive methods that only fall within known human norms.

The eye of faith which would grasp unseen realities and thus take hold of Omnipotence, was never even considered and thus, like the Hebrews of old, Phillip unconsciously limited the power of God through his unbelief, and Jesus was grieved in spirit. Let’s read:

John 6: 5 When Jesus then lifted up his eyes, and saw a great company come unto him, he saith unto Philip, Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?

6 And this he said to prove him: for he himself knew what he would do.

7 Philip answered him, Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little.

8 One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, saith unto him,

9 There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?

Thus, the methods, the ways, and the means God may employ from time to time may seem stupid to the unbelieving mind but when we study the sacred record, we would observe that the heroes of faith apparently did mostly “stupid” things according to the so-called wisdom of man. Let’s read:

Hebrews 11: 6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

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.

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;

26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward.

29 By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.

30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.

31 By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.

Joshua 2:1 And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot's house, named Rahab, and lodged there.

15 Then she let them down by a cord through the window: for her house was upon the town wall, and she dwelt upon the wall.

Hebrews 11:32 And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephtha; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets,

33 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions.

34 Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.

35 Women received their dead raised to life again.

[2] A lack of Precedent

Precedent meaning: An earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances.

Many would-be Christians would stumble and fall when it comes time to believe and act upon certain instructions coming from God, for which there are no precedents. Wherever there has been at least one prior instance we can point to, where God did something great in the past, this fact often gives our faith a boost, and we begin to sing that song: “He’ll Do It Again”.

That is all well and good, but whenever there isn’t any precedent, no historical record to lean on, then unbelief often rears its head again. We are almost certain, that if previously someone had passed their menopause for years and then had had a child, then Sarah would not have laughed when God said she would have a son in her old age.

But, because there wasn’t any precedent, no prior instance of this science baffling occurrence, Sarah thought that what God said sounded funny. It ain’t funny! Again, if it had rained at least once before the flood, those antediluvians might have thought twice about making fun of the predictions of Noah.

But because it had never rained before, what Noah predicted sounded like a big joke, and the spirit of unbelief found fertile ground in most hearts, being backed up by research, data, and a total lack of any known precedent.

Thus, it is a solemn statement we make, that the spirit of unbelief often looms large when there is no historical precedent for us to lean on. Let’s read:

Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

Therefore, according to the raw data given in the Bible, the overwhelming majority of believers are actually prone to unbelief and the root cause of this is our preference for carnal methods. In fact, when we observe the ratios given in the scriptures, we are confronted with bone-chilling figures as it pertains to the spirit of unbelief. Let’s read:

Noah: 8/ approximately 7 billion. Gideon: 300/ 32,000. Joshua and Caleb: 2/ 10. David: 1/ the entire army. Jonathan: 2/ 600. Daniel: 4/ approximately 20,000, and in 1844: 50/ half a million.

But God has given us unmistakable proof that the spiritual ways and means He has instructed us to use do work, and if they are employed a brand, new day will dawn in our relationship with God. Let’s read:

2nd Corinthians 10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh.

4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;

5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.

Ephesians 6: 10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

11 Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

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;

16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 2 For by it the elders obtained a good report. 6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Numbers 13:17 And Moses sent them to spy out the land of Canaan, and said unto them, Get you up this way southward, and go up into the mountain.

18 And see the land, what it is, and the people that dwelleth therein, whether they be strong or weak, few or many;

19 And what the land is that they dwell in, whether it be good or bad; and what cities they be that they dwell in, whether in tents, or in strong holds;

20 And what the land is, whether it be fat or lean, whether there be wood therein, or not. And be ye of good courage and bring of the fruit of the land.

23 And they came unto the brook of Eshcol, and cut down from thence a branch with one cluster of grapes, and they bare it between two upon a staff; and they brought of the pomegranates, and of the figs.

We were just wondering what they are going to focus on when they give their report. Just wondering!

Numbers 13:26 And they went and came to Moses, and to Aaron, and to all the congregation of the children of Israel, and shewed them the fruit of the land.

27 And they told him, and said, We came unto the land whither thou sentest us, and surely it floweth with milk and honey; and this is the fruit of it.

28 Nevertheless the people be strong that dwell in the land, and the cities are walled, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there.

30 And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.

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.

The ratio of words of unbelief, as opposed to words of faith stands at 26/172. Then the servant of The Lord writes something that should concern all of us, as it pertains to our human nature, and the spirit of unbelief, for it will become evident, that our minds are naturally, heavily tilted towards unbelief, instead of faith. Let’s read:

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 390] If only the two men had brought the evil report, and all the ten had encouraged them to possess the land in the name of the Lord they would still have taken the advice of the two in preference to the ten, because of their wicked unbelief.

[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 293] The history of the wilderness life of Israel was chronicled for the benefit of the Israel of God to the close of time. The record of God's dealings with the wanderers of the desert in all their marching to and fro, in their exposure to hunger, thirst, and weariness, and in the striking manifestations of His power for their relief, is fraught with warning and instruction for His people in all ages.

The varied experience of the Hebrews was a school of preparation for their promised home in Canaan. God would have His people in these days review with a humble heart and teachable spirit the trials through which ancient Israel passed, that they may be instructed in their preparation for the heavenly Canaan.

Thus, in order for us to dispel the spirit of unbelief permanently, we should understand that we must focus on the positives in life. And even though in the scriptures good and evil, victory and defeat are presented, yet, in every situation, God will have us to look on the brighter side.

Doing so would greatly improve both our outlook, and perspectives so that a solid resilience would be our experience. It is a law of human minds, that by beholding we become changed, therefore, if we’re mostly dwelling on negatives, we will become more negative and unbelieving. Let’s read:

Matthew 13:24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:

25 But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.

26 But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also.

36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.

The parable was about the sower who sowed good seed, but when the disciples ask for an explanation, their focus is on the tares, and nothing is mentioned of the wheat. Thus, fallen, human nature naturally gravitates towards the negatives, not the positives, and that’s why the overwhelming majority of what the media presents is bad news.

In reporting on Covid, the numbers of the dead are tabulated daily, but scarcely anything is said of the untold millions who have survived. Mass shootings are counted daily, the dire results of climate change are showcased, and the rapid increase of crime is often featured prominently on the news. Thus, when they are finished with you, with all the bad news, some folks may go looking for a condo in some monastery or convent, being too scared to even live or breathe.

A phenomenon that often takes place in the lives of many Christians is that when one prays often about some problem the problem only seems to get larger and you would not believe what is causing this. It is because we’re praying too much about the problem and the more we do, the more it looms large, until doubt and unbelief may take over.

But the real reason why we feel it necessary to put our problems before God very often, is because of unbelief. God does not desire us to have problems ever before our faces, for by beholding we become changed. In other words, focusing on problems is a recipe to breed even more problems.

The instruction of the Bible is for us to be aware of problems, but not to focus on them, for doing so would often cause faith to dwindle, and unbelief to flourish. When Job was passing through his time of trouble, God appeared to him, but God made not a single mention of his problems.

Instead He pointed his mind to the starry heavens, to the great facts of creation, and to His omnipotent power, but not once did God discuss Job’s problems because doing so would only blow the issues out of proportion and foster unbelief.

Until Job learned to remove the focus from himself, and his very real problems he would continue to see more problems, but when his attention is turned to serving others, his problems would be alleviated. It is this pattern that must be followed, if unbelief and doubt are to be dispelled. Let’s read:

Job 42: 10 And the Lord turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.

There’s no need to worry about our salvation, if we know we have given our lives to Christ. Instead, let us believe those mighty promises He has made to us, not focusing on our failures but rather let’s seek to minister to others and the unbelief and problems would be greatly dispelled. Let’s read:

Philippians 1: 6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.

Jude 1:24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, 25 To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.

John 10: 27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.

Thus, if by the grace of God, and by our decisions to trust Him we focus on the positives, we would begin to live victoriously from day to day, and our faith would grow stronger, for when we dwell in victory, doing so often tends to breed more victories. The choice is actually ours, to choose what we would focus on. Let’s read:

Deuteronomy 11:26 Behold, I set before you this day a blessing and a curse;

27 A blessing, if ye obey the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you this day:

28 And a curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of the Lord your God.

Deuteronomy 30:15 See, I have set before thee this day life and good, and death and evil;

Matthew 25:1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.

2 And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.

14 For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

15 And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.

31 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:

32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats.

Revelation 22:11 He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.

Isaiah 21:11 The burden of Dumah. He calleth to me out of Seir, Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night?

12 The watchman said, The morning cometh, and also the night.

In our day, we have no reason not to believe, for we are pregnant with precedents, factual evidence, and historical data, together with the many experiences of the faithful, who have gone before, so that there is not a valid reason why we should still indulge the spirit of unbelief.

Again, we are facing momentous times, and it may be that our faith in God will include experiences for which there are no precedents. Yet, through it all, The Lord wants us to cultivate a believing attitude, a cheerful spirit that is cognizant of the dangers, but which focuses much more on God’s power to save, and on the brighter side of the equation.

Let us therefore encourage a living faith that takes hold of omnipotence, and unseen realities, for the just shall live by faith, not by research, and secular philosophies which often tend to limit God. We’ll end with a passage of scripture that should foster a believing spirit in all who so desire. Let’s read:

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.

God bless!

What True Humility Is. Sabbath afternoon 06/19/2021

Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?

True humility is not what some people think it is. It is not a pious look, or a demeanor, neither is it any attitude or the disposition to bow very often. When one demonstrates respect where warranted that is good, but that does not necessarily denote humility.

Back in the days of yore, when kung fu was the in-thing, Silver Fox and Jackie Chan used to do a whole lot of bowing, even after they had kicked the living daylights out of their opponents, they would take a bow, for what reason we still do not know.

Looking so pious with their long beards they would at first glance exude an aura of humility, but later we would discover that striving for the highest place ran like a common thread throughout and therefore it also falls short of the Biblical definition of what is humility.

And there are some who have lived their entire lives in monasteries and convents, who do not have one thread of humility running throughout the fabric of their characters. Again, humility isn’t the disposition to always accept injustice without a remonstrance on the part of the offended one, for none of these prior descriptions fully grasp the Biblical meaning of humility.

True humility is inextricably linked to obedience. If God gives us instructions and commands and folks either deliberately reject openly or passively, it is a sign that pride still exists in the heart, for humility will lead us to accept whatsoever God says as final, even if we may not agree, or may have questions and concerns.

Therefore, any pious attitude which does not lead a person to ultimately obey God is not humility at all but is rather identified as being proud. As far as God is concerned, humility and obedience are two peas in one pod, and are inseparably interwoven, as can be observed in the following passages of scripture that pertain to the humility of Christ. Let’s read:

Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.

6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God.

7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.

8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Any so-called humility that does not lead persons to obey God, is a counterfeit, no matter how pious and humble those persons may seem to be. When Christ was in the garden of Gethsemane, with the fate of this world was hanging in the balance, He asked His father if there wasn’t another way for our salvation to be accomplished.

And since there was no other way, He surrendered to the will of His Father. It is worthy of note, that He did so with strong crying and tears which teaches us the sacred truth that there will be times in our own experience when it would be pretty difficult to obey God. Thus, true humility will always lead us to put everything on the line to obey God. Let’s read:

Matthew 26:37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.

38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.

39 And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will but as thou wilt.

42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.

44 And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.

45 Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest. behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.

46 Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.

But before we proceed, there are a few things folks would need to understand about humble obedience if we’re to be prepared for the promised latter rain. God is not accustomed to getting push back when He gives a direct command, because if the universe were to be run that way, there would be a collapse of worlds, systems, and order.

Some folks often ask why God speaks to us through intermediaries such as prophets, pastors, teachers and providence. The short answer to that question is that in most cases it is the only safe way to speak to mortals, for we are often too much in the habit of questioning, delaying, murmuring, or having to think about it before we obey. Then, by the time we are finally ready to move on His word, the very essence of what God was trying to accomplish is often lost.

When God gives a command to any created being, whether they be angels or men, the speed at which they obey is of critical importance, for any delay will present a sort of push-back, and it could potentially have adverse consequences to those involved if the attitude isn’t corrected quickly.

This is one of the reasons why God gave Ezekiel the vision of the wheel within a wheel, to demonstrate the intricate and complex relationship between His commands and required obedience. Therefore, as the Cherubim and Seraphim receive the word of command from The Lord, they dart out like a bolt of lightening and return to their original position to await any other directive.

Questions they may have, and a full understanding of God’s purposes may be presently evasive, yet all of those variables do not hinder them from darting out and returning at the speed of lightening in what is described as humble obedience. Let’s read:

Ezekiel 1:3 The word of the Lord came expressly unto Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of the Chaldeans by the river Chebar; and the hand of the Lord was there upon him.

4 And I looked, and, behold, a whirlwind came out of the north, a great cloud, and a fire infolding itself, and a brightness was about it, and out of the midst thereof as the color of amber, out of the midst of the fire.

5 Also out of the midst thereof came the likeness of four living creatures. And this was their appearance; they had the likeness of a man.

6 And everyone had four faces, and everyone had four wings.

9 Their wings were joined one to another; they turned not when they went; they went everyone straight forward.

11 Thus were their faces: and their wings were stretched upward; two wings of every one were joined one to another, and two covered their bodies.

12 And they went everyone straight forward: whither the spirit was to go, they went; and they turned not when they went.

14 And the living creatures ran and returned as the appearance of a flash of lightning.

17 When they went, they went upon their four sides: and they turned not when they went.

20 Whithersoever the spirit was to go, they went, thither was their spirit to go; and the wheels were lifted up over against them: for the spirit of the living creature was in the wheels.

24 And when they went, I heard the noise of their wings, like the noise of great waters, as the voice of the Almighty, the voice of speech, as the noise of an host: when they stood, they let down their wings.

One of the reasons why such a graphic vision was given to Ezekiel, was so that he himself might be prepared to obey God with humility. The prophet was to be sent to a rebellious people, and he would encounter great danger and difficulty yet, like those mighty angels he saw in vision, he was to go straight forward, and not turn as he went.

In other words, regardless of the obstacles that he would certainly encounter, regardless of the many questions he may have, and regardless of the threat to himself personally he was not to alter, tone down or modify God’s word, but he must rather dart and return, like the proverbial bolt of lightning, to await any further directives from God.

This would call for true humility on his part; at times the message of God would not be received with joy, and yes, he would often encounter push back, but not one or all of these variables were to phase the prophet Ezekiel. Let’s read:

Ezekiel 2:1 And he said unto me, Son of man, stand upon thy feet, and I will speak unto thee.

2 And the spirit entered into me when he spoke unto me, and set me upon my feet, that I heard him that spoke unto me.

3 And he said unto me, Son of man, I send thee to the children of Israel, to a rebellious nation that hath rebelled against me: they and their fathers have transgressed against me, even unto this very day.

4 For they are impudent children and stiff-hearted. I do send thee unto them; and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God.

5 And they, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear, (for they are a rebellious house,) yet shall know that there hath been a prophet among them.

6 And thou, son of man, be not afraid of them, neither be afraid of their words, though briers and thorns be with thee, and thou dost dwell among scorpions: be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, though they be a rebellious house.

7 And thou shalt speak my words unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear: for they are most rebellious.

Ezekiel 3: 16 And it came to pass at the end of seven days, that the word of the Lord came unto me, saying,

17 Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore, hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me.

18 When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

19 Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.

Thus, Ezekiel was to exercise true humility, in real time by obeying God’s word, even at times when he would be at great odds with the house of Israel. The word of God was not to be made subject to man’s will, nor was it to be discussed for the purpose of a consensus. True humility would lead the prophet to deliver the goods, obeying God’s word in everything, and then, possibly getting answers and explanations later on.

But with us mortals there is often a twiddling of the thumbs, hesitation, questionings, doubts, and often we subject God’s commands to scientific research before we obey. The Bible gives us a thus saith “The Lord” but it does not give us the findings of research nor does it often give the science behind commands God gives, as reasons why we should obey.

In fact, one of the fatal delusions gripping too many Christians in our day is that of waiting for research to confirm what God has said, before obedience is rendered. And because of this habit, folks who may claim to believe in God are inadvertently becoming members of the church of Scientology.

That humility manifested by Christ which leads us to obey God against all odds, seems to be in very short supply in our day, and in its place, a hybrid form of humbleness which makes obedience subject to the science of the day has taken deep root in the minds of many. And as a direct result, the faith of former years is being literally threatened with extinction.

And thus, because of these attitudes, God finds it necessary to speak to us through intermediaries in general, so as not to place the human agent at risk, because of delay. In training and preparation for the latter rain, persons would need to cultivate habits of speedy, willing obedience, without stopping to question, or debate God’s will.

In fact, many of those who look forward eagerly to the outpouring of The Holy Spirit might not have understood that there can be great risk involved if the habit of immediate, unquestioning obedience has not been cultivated.

When Jesus called eleven of His disciples, He looked for unquestioning obedience to His word, and those who responded, generally obeyed immediately, and this in turn would set the stage for obedience to all future commands that would be coming from Him. The willingness to obey quickly is one characteristic Jesus was specifically looking for.

It isn’t necessary to know or understand everything up front about the Bible, and the Godhead before we obey. Bible studies and explanations often shed increasing light on various truths, but these are not to inhibit any person from manifesting true humility by obeying God, today.

What persons can and should do is to start obeying what they know to be right. The simple truths that have been made plain to our minds ought to be as steppingstones to obedience in greater matters, for it takes time to climb Jacob’s ladder. But for us to wait until we understand the books of Daniel, and the Revelation, would put off salvation for another day, and this can lead to procrastination the favorite tool of demons and devils.

Thus, it’s not necessarily an extensive knowledge of God’s word that makes persons humble; it is one’s willingness to obey God in whatsoever we know to be right currently, no matter how small such issues may be, because any person who is humble in little things will most likely be humble and obedient in greater matters.

When Peter walked on water through the power of God, it was a manifestation of that very same habit of obeying immediately, before he fully understood, which had previously caused him to leave his fishing nets to follow Jesus.

At that time, Peter didn’t stop to make any of those financial and social calculations that we too often indulge in before we obey. Instead, casting aside all valid and invalid concerns, he began to exercise that humility which always leads to obedience. Let’s read:

Matthew 4:18 And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.

19 And he saith unto them, Follow me and I will make you fishers of men.

20 And they straightway left their nets and followed him.

21 And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them.

22 And they immediately left the ship and their father and followed him.

Matthew 8:21 And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.

22 But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.

If one’s humility does not ultimately lead to obeying God, then such humility is false and is instead pride. The humbleness which the Bible enjoins always leads to obedience, in every instance, without exception!

As the outpouring of the latter rain begins to gain momentum, our attitudes toward obeying God will need to be corrected where needed, for we will be placed in circumstances that warrant a humility that would move us to obey implicitly, any directive that comes from God.

Several specific examples of what we are speaking of are given in the scriptures at the outpouring of the early rain, with the hope that we would study closely, the humility and obedience God is looking for, and which He desires to develop in us, where there may be a deficiency. Let’s read:

Acts 1:4 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.

5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.

6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?

7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.

8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. 3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

Acts 8:26 And the angel of the Lord spoke 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.

39 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.

40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.

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?

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.

13 Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:

15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:

17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

Acts 10:19 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.

21 Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come?

In so many of these instances, where true humility led persons to obey God’s word, we notice that the explanations and reasons were only found out later, in the process of obeying, and thus, like the mighty Cherubs and Seraphim in Ezekiel’s vision, those who received God’s word were to go “straight forward” not turning as they went.

This is exactly what The Lord is looking for in our day as He prepares His army of spiritual soldiers to take on the behemoth of the beast and its systems that are soon to engulf all of humanity. Quick, and unquestioning obedience is the first, and foremost prerequisite, and in lieu of this, we should now be cultivating habits of ready obedience to any and everything God says.

Those hesitations, questionings, deliberations, and delays of former years, the clamor for explanations before we move on God’s word, and those scientific data, analysis and research that too often preempts obedience, would have to be resolutely put away.

And instead, a primitive kind of godliness which acts quickly on all of God’s commands would need to be the rule rather than the exception, as it currently is in too many cases today. This will require that true humility of former years, the faith, trust, belief, and understanding that God knows what He’s doing, and as such, all we need to do is to trust and obey, for there’s no other way. Let’s read:

[Last day Events pp 204>205] In the last solemn work few great men will be engaged. God will work a work in our day that few anticipate. He will raise up and exalt among us those who are taught rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the outward training of scientific institutions.

These facilities aren’t to be despised or condemned; they are ordained of God, but they can furnish only the exterior qualifications. God will manifest that He is not dependent on learned, self-important mortals.

It is discipline of spirit, cleanness of heart and thought that is needed. This is of more value than brilliant talent, tact, or knowledge. An ordinary mind, trained to obey a “Thus saith the Lord,” is better qualified for God's work than are those who have capabilities but do not employ them rightly.

Therefore, as the latter rain begins to fall in copious showers all around us, let us cherish and cultivate a willing heart and ready mind to wait on God for His will to be made known, and when it is, let us be like the heavenly ministers, who went straight forward, not turning as they went.

We’ll end with a passage of scripture which should enable us see the importance of making a full and complete surrender to God so that if He so chooses, He can use us to take the final message of mercy to a dying world. Let’s read:

Joel 1:1 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.

7 They shall run like mighty men; they shall climb the wall like men of war; and they shall march everyone on his ways, and they shall not break their ranks.

8 Neither shall one thrust another; they shall walk everyone in his path: and when they fall upon the sword, they shall not be wounded.

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?

God Bless!

Biblical Teaching On Supernatural Phenomena. Sabbath afternoon 06/12/2021

2nd Thessalonians 2:8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming.

9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,

10 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.

The above passage teaches us that in order for us not to become scared of the unknown, in order for us not to be taken in the snare of mysticism, signs, miracles and wonders that are going to increase and proliferate across the globe in the last days we must receive both the written and the Living word of God into our hearts.

There will come a time when science will run out of both answers and solutions, to the point where it is concluded that there are supernatural experiences, and paranormal occurrences which defy any logical, rational, or scientific explanation.

Therefore, if the teachings of God’s word on these matters are rejected, then persons would be left to beat about upon the rocks of heavy delusions which are scheduled to multiply astronomically.

Hence the reason why we keep saying, that in the not too distant future, individuals who have truly accepted Christ as Lord and Savior would be mighty glad they did so. Let us repeat, as in Verily Verily, if any of us have already accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we will be mighty glad we did so, in the not too distant future.

For the record, there aren’t any such things as little green men and there are no alien lifeforms that visit our planet at anytime. There are other worlds which God has created, and they’re populated with beings of different orders but they are restricted from ever meddling with our planet so that they cannot visit or interfere with the human experience. Let’s read:

Hebrews 11:3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

Job 1:6 Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan came also among them.

However, there are good and evil angels, and thus, whatsoever manifestations of supernatural beings we might encounter on our planet, are the work of good or evil angels, period. They alone, together with the members of the God-head have access at all times to the human family. Let’s read:

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.

Hebrews 1: 14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?

Matthew 18:10 Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.

Psalms 34: 7 The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.

Revelation 12: 7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,

8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven.

9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

12 Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

For many years there have been sightings and video of UFOs and other paranormal activity in the skies, and on land, but these occurrences have for years been studiously and secretly hidden from the public view, and this for valid reasons for it can be risky for governments to release information about things that cannot be logically or scientifically explained.

Governments do have a responsibility to keep their citizens from undue panic, and especially in our age where numerous conspiracy theories abound, great care should be taken so as not to set in motion wild speculations that are not based on facts.

Therefore, this first installment of Biblical teaching on Supernatural Phemomena would seek to address some of these concerns with the intent that persons would see their need of Jesus Christ and understand that the scriptures were given for our admonition as well as our instruction, so that we won’t be taken in the snares that are laid for the feet of the unwary.

Clear and concise answers from the word of God will be given, and it will be left up to us to believe. Whatever takes place on our planet falls under the jurisdiction of God, and as such, it is always wise to check in with Him to hear and believe what He has to say on the various matters that come our way.

The question has been asked over and over again: Are we alone? The Short answer is: No! We have never been alone.

Holy angels and evil angels have been permitted to intrude into the human experience ever since the creation of man, and as we draw nearer to the close of this earth’s history, supernatural manifestations are scheduled to increase exponentially to the point where science, as we know it will be lost for words and explanations.

One of the greatest errors of modern science is to exclude the supernatural from its equations, for it assumes that a logical science-based answer can be given for any and everything. Thus, when faced with the prospect of unexplainable manifestations, most scientists would conclude that they are beyond the realm of our current knowledge and understanding.

Then, with no rational explanation, the result will be fear, for nothing scares the daylights out of mortals as not having a logical answer for those paranormal activities that take place on our planet. Thus, God’s word teaches us in no uncertain terms that we have never been alone.

Holy angels, evil angels, satan and God Himself have all walked this earth; God has had communications with mortal man from the days of Eden until now, in the form of holy angels, His Holy Spirit, and Christ, who became incarnated to save the human family.

Angels of God have communicated directly on many different occasions with persons; they have come in undetected to eat food, to rest, and sleep, and they have also intruded into human legislatures, changed the course of history, and have made oral arguments in courts of law. They also attend church regularly, including ours.

This first truth pertaining to the capabilities of holy angels is set in stone, so that we would understand that we have never been alone, and that angels do intrude into the human experience on a daily basis. Let’s read:

Hebrews 13:2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

Daniel 10:12 Then said he unto me, Fear not Daniel, for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.

13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia.

Luke 24:3 And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.

4 And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments.

5 And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?

Mark 16:4 And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.

5 And entering into the sepulcher, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.

6 And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.

Acts 12:5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

6 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.

7 And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.

8 And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.

10 When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him.

From these and other scriptural references we can conclude the following points, as they pertain to the capabilities of holy angels:

[1] They can speak in any known language that man uses, even dialects in rural areas and provinces that have not yet been figured out by linguists.

[2] They can pass through any solid or liquid matter known to man with absolutely no problem.

[3] Angels can single out one or more persons in a room, and speak audibly to those specific persons, without others in the same room hearing or seeing anything abnormal.

[4] Angels can intrude into all of our five senses to communicate on different levels including the sense of touch.

[5] They can remain invisible or visible when in the assemblies of men, at their discretion.

[6] Holy angels can, and do work miracles at the direction of God.

[7] They can assume the form of men and any other known life forms on our planet, including animals.

[8] The speed at which they travel is not measured in miles per hour; speed depends on God’s will with virtually no limits.

[9] They are ministering spirits of fire, sent forth to minister unto those who will be heirs of salvation.

[ G.C. pp 631>632] In all ages, God has wrought through holy angels for the succor and deliverance of his people. Celestial beings have taken an active part in the affairs of men. They have appeared clothed in garments that shone as the lightning; they have come as men, in the garb of wayfarers.

Angels have appeared in human form to men of God. They have rested, as if weary, under the oaks at noon. They have accepted the hospitality of human homes. They have acted as guides to benighted travelers. They have, with their own hands, kindled the fires of the altar.

They have opened prison doors, and set free the servants of the Lord. Clothed with the panoply of Heaven they came to roll away the stone from the Savior's tomb.

In the form of men angels are often in the assemblies of the righteous, and they visit the assemblies of the wicked, as they went to Sodom, to make a record of their deeds, to determine whether they have passed the boundary of God's forbearance.

Though the rulers of this world know it not, yet often in their councils angels have been spokesmen. Human eyes have looked upon them; human ears have listened to their appeals; human lips have opposed their suggestions and ridiculed their counsels.

Human hands have met them with insult and abuse. In the council hall and the court of justice, these heavenly messengers have shown an intimate acquaintance with human history; they have proved themselves better able to plead the cause of the oppressed than were their ablest and most eloquent defenders.

When Abraham was sitting at the door of his tent in the cool of the day, he saw what seemed to him to be three men coming his way, and being disposed to kindness to all, he invited them in to have some refreshment, before going on their way. It was only after they finished eating that he realized that they we not human beings, for they asked for his wife Sarah by name.

That question as to the whereabouts of Sarah, by the strangers had breached cultural norms, for back in those days, strangers were not supposed to know a man’s wife by her first name. So, when this had occurred, Abraham knew that he had inadvertently invited angels and one member of the God-head into his home. Let’s read:

Genesis 18:1 And the Lord appeared unto him in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day;

2 And he lift up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood by him: and when he saw them, he ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself toward the ground,

3 And said, My Lord, if now I have found favor in thy sight, pass not away, I pray thee, from thy servant.

4 Let a little water, I pray you, be fetched, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree.

5 And I will fetch a morsel of bread, and comfort ye your hearts; after that ye shall pass on: for therefore are ye come to your servant. And they said, So do, as thou hast said.

6 And Abraham hastened into the tent unto Sarah, and said, Make ready quickly three measures of fine meal, knead it, and make cakes upon the hearth.

7 And Abraham ran unto the herd, and fetched a calf tender and good, and gave it unto a young man; and he hasted to dress it.

8 And he took butter, and milk, and the calf which he had dressed, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree, and they did eat.

9 And they said unto him, Where is Sarah thy wife? And he said, Behold, in the tent.

10 And he said, I will certainly return unto thee according to the time of life; and, lo, Sarah thy wife shall have a son. And Sarah heard it in the tent door, which was behind him.

12 Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?

13 And the Lord said unto Abraham, Wherefore did Sarah laugh, saying, Shall I of a surety bear a child, which am old?

15 Then Sarah denied, saying, I laughed not; for she was afraid. And he said, Nay; but thou didst laugh.

16 And the men rose up from thence, and looked toward Sodom: and Abraham went with them to bring them on the way.

Therefore, the answer to our first question: Are we alone? Is No, we have never been alone. Thus, the very next question we’ll need to answer address is: Can the evil angels do all of those things previously mentioned, which Holy angels have the capability of doing? The answer is: Absolutely! Let’s read:

Matthew 4:5 Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple,

6 And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.

8 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;

9 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.

[D.A pp 129] Placing Jesus upon a high mountain, Satan caused the kingdoms of the world, in all their glory, to pass in panoramic view before Him. The sunlight lay on templed cities, marble palaces, fertile fields, and fruit-laden vineyards. The traces of evil were hidden.

The eyes of Jesus, so lately greeted by gloom and desolation, now gazed upon a scene of unsurpassed loveliness and prosperity. Then the tempter's voice was heard: “All this power will I give Thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it. If Thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be Thine.”

Panoramic meaning: A wide and unobstructed view, so as to take in an extensive area in all directions.

Evil angels were not always fallen, for they lived in heaven with God, for eons, before they fell. Thus, after they were cast out from heaven, they retained much of their original capabilities, hence the reason why the devil was able to go head to head with the angel Gabriel, as they battled for the mind of the king of Persia.

And as the battle for minds and hearts converges during these last days, various manifestations of a supernatural character will begin to unfold. We are told in the Bible that there’ll be signs and wonders in the heavens, and upon the earth, distress of the nations,because evil angels will make their presence felt, the world over.

Thus, if no rational explanation is found for those manifestations of UFOs, and if there isn’t scientific resolution to the phenomena, then the nations of earth will have to seriously consider what the word of God has been saying all along.

According to the scriptures, those manifestations which will be increasing globally will be devoid of all logical explanations, and therefore, the only way we would be able to discern clearly between the true and the false will be by the scriptures alone through the power and guidance of The Holy Spirit.

All and every manifestation of beings that cannot be accounted for are the result of the presence of good or evil angels, without exception. Evil angels cover areas such as seances, apparitions of persons dead relatives and friends, and miracles through wizards, magicians, and false prophets.

Any intrusion into the human experience by other beings is always the production of either good or evil angels, always! They might appear in different forms, they may appear as fast moving objects that defy the law of gravity, but barring any scientific proof to the contrary, those productions are most likely coming from angels.

For presidents or federal agencies who might not have previously known of these things, and for all those folks who are tasked with investigating those videos that have been kept secret, here is what the Bible says on those matters, and you may want to include this info in your research. Let’s read:

Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;

26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.

Matthew 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.

25 Behold, I have told you before.

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.

As the law of God continues to be thrown out the window, there will be a corresponding withdrawal of the presence of The Holy Ghost, and this in turn will result in disastrous consequences for all those who have not submitted fully to Christ. Diseases, and all kinds of sicknesses, together with turmoil and other natural disasters will grip the human family.

Nations and individuals will begin to get weary and angry at the nonstop problems plaguing the world, but in most cases, they will not be able to trace the source back to the violation of God’s laws. Thus, at the appointed time, when science has run out of answers, God would be protecting only those who obey Him.

This is not the case just yet, but we are getting dangerously close to that time, and thus, it is very important for those true believers, who would be living through the difficult days of earth’s history, to remember all the promises God has given to His people, pertaining to that very time. Let’s read:

Daniel 12:And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.

3 And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.

Psalms 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.

9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;

10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

Isaiah 4:5 And the Lord will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defence.

6 And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the day time from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.

Isaiah 33:16 He shall dwell on high: his place of defense shall be the munitions of rocks: bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure.

[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.

God does not waste resources, nor does He ever send angels where they are not needed, so when we see Him doubling up on the company of angels surrounding the faithful, it’s because a mortal battle is underway, and, lest satan should snuff out the remaining remnant people of God, the Lord would send angels that excel in strength to protect and deliver them.

True to their history, they would appear in different forms as the occasions may warrant. Some appear as soldiers, others as angels, and others as regular men, such as the two who apparently took refuge in Lot’s house. But whatever form they take, one thing is certain, those who will be found in Christ at that time will be mighty glad they responded to His call.

Therefore, we end with an appeal to persons who have not yet made their calling and election sure, to those who may still be sitting on the fence, to those who are still in the valley of decision and to all those who are still playing church; Today if you will hear His voice harden not your hearts.

Let’s not put off our day of grace for tomorrow, for tomorrow may never come, and let us not wait for the feds to spill the beans on ufos and supernatural phenomena, to be running scared when there may be a rush for the door, but let us rather respond to God’s gracious overtures today while opportunity still lingers. 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!

Once Upon A Time Isaac. Sabbath afternoon 06/05/2021

Proverbs 1:28 Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me.

29 For that they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the Lord.

30 They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof.

31 Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way and be filled with their own devices.

It seems as if the direct answers to prayers together with the unusually clear guidance God gave in times past are now more the exception than the rule. We pray long and hard, and often, but it seems as if the answers become stalled for some reason, or there is no definite clarity by which we can conclude a “Thus saith The Lord” was given.

In times past those who truly believed in God would pray, and God would answer in ways that were not fuzzy or shrouded in uncertainty. Joshua prayed for an interference of the sun and moon, so that he and the Hebrews could finish their due diligence and the answer came right away.

Samuel called for thunder and hail, when he sought to impress upon the conscience of the people God’s displeasure in them asking for a king, and he did not have to wait long for it thundered and rained hail all that day.

Gideon prayed for a sign, so that he could be clear in his mind about the grave mission he was about to undertake, and lo and behold, The Lord answered him immediately, not two weeks or one month later as too often occurs with us at times.

This doesn’t mean to say that there were not times when folks had to wait but God usually would come through with an answer in ways that would bring a clarity and certainty to the request, in so much that the petitioner would be quite confident beyond the shadow of a doubt that God had heard them and He answered their prayers.

The reason for this, in many cases, was that in the other areas of their lives, believers back then were in the habit of acknowledging God in all their ways, and in this way He could direct their paths aright. It isn’t genuine faith which claims the promises of God on the one hand, while excluding Him from another area where we choose man’s counsel above God’s.

In the case of Isaac, when he was about to embark upon his life’s journey, with the girl of his dreams, we find His father praying, he himself praying, and the servant Eliezer praying. And lo and behold, the servant was not finished praying, before the direct answer came.

How is it, that when persons pray for similar issues, that in so many cases, there isn’t the clarity, definite guidance, and certainty that was manifested in days of yore? How is it that we might often pray for years and we still do not have an answer; or if any answer comes persons are not certain if it was God or satan who answered? Let’s read:

Isaiah 65:24 And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.

Genesis 24:12 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, 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, a virgin, neither had any man known her.

To better understand why God answered so soon, and with such distinctiveness we will have to back up a bit, to observe the tenor of Isaac’s life, prior to this incident, for his life contains important lessons in faith and obedience which paved the way for God to answer so directly.

Isaac had been trained from childhood to yield that implicit obedience to his God-fearing parents, which the Bible stipulates. Abraham and Sarah had done their due diligence in training Isaac, they both had cooperated with God, and the early years of Isaac’s life incorporated precept and example, principles and methods that are found in the scriptures.

The most striking evidence of this was manifested when Abraham was commanded by God to offer his only son on Mt Moriah. At this time, God did not reveal His purposes to Isaac up front so that he, at the very least would have prior notice. He left the jurisdiction of the father to handle the matter, and his son Isaac to obey.

Lessons of a very serious nature were given in this episode, so that all parents and children who would come after would understand the close relationship between faith, obedience, and answered prayer. It is therefore of critical importance for us to learn of God in a humble frame of mind, so that our prayers and requests won’t hit the ceiling and fall.

It is also very important to remember, that in this single instance, a revelation concerning the Lamb of God, who was to come to save the world, is what God was giving to Abraham in kindergarten form. It wasn’t Abraham who came up with the idea, it was God who gave direction, and as such it was a one-time command, designed to teach a sacred truth.

God-fearing parents are never to teach, or request of their kids anything other than that which is in the scriptures, except God should require something in particular, or in situations where sound judgment and godly discretion are warranted.

Yet, the episode contains crucial lessons in faith and obedience that we should not lightly pass over. The relationship between father and son, as manifested in this experience, demonstrates in several ways the training, obedience, love, respect and the deference that should characterize interactions between kids and their parents. Let’s read:

Genesis 22:2 And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.

3 And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son.

7 And Isaac spoke unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?

8 And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together.

Lesson [1] It’s not every time that parents will be able to give a scriptural answer to questions that are asked by their kids, pertaining to obedience. In this instance if Abraham were to reference the law it would say “thou shalt not kill” and thus, any other son might have refused to go along with that which the father said God had told him to do.

But Isaac was not so, for he was trained by Abraham to yield an unquestioning obedience from childhood and even though Isaac might have had several valid questions and concerns, and even though he would have known what the law says on this or that point, with him, that was not the most important issue.

God said to obey your parents in The Lord, and his father Abraham was a god-fearing man; thus, as the father revealed to Isaac what God commanded him, in this unique situation, that was all that he needed to obey.

In fact, if Isaac had followed what the letter of the law states on the taking of life, he could’ve possibly been in violation of another law that says Honor thy father and thy mother. Thus, the question is asked: Which one of those two laws carried more weight in Isaac’s case? The one which says “Thou shalt not kill” or the one which says to honor thy father and thy mother?

The issue at hand is not one that deals merely with law, it has more to do with the chain of command, which God has put into place, for whatsoever might be our understanding of God’s written law the chain of command is of great importance, to the smooth running of families, churches, and governments.

Children are instructed to obey their parents in The Lord, for this is right, but this will, at times include gray areas where there isn’t any clear scriptural law pertaining to the issue at hand. Parents are granted the authority to exercise discretion in matters that pertain to the training of children, even though this will at times include issues that are not salvific.

For instance, parents can exercise discretion when it comes to the issue of coming home late at nights. The father in conjunction with the mother, can lay down the time when the kids are to be home. There isn’t any scripture that stipulates any specific time.

Some parents may agree on 10:00 pm, others may say 11:00, while others may stipulate 9:00 pm. The fact is that it is a matter where parental discretion is to be exercised, an area where there is no specific scripture to say there you go!

Again, parents could instruct their children not to wear their pants half-way down their buttocks, and the parents do not have to quote any scripture for such things, for they are granted jurisdiction as well as discretion over their kids by God until they come to the age of maturity.

When God grants jurisdiction to persons, they are to carry out His will, even if there is a question with discretion, for some persons might run the risk of being sticklers for the letter, if and when the God-ordained authority might override something, at God’s direction.

This is the gravely important lesson Christ sought to impress upon the Jews, when the letter of the law was brought into question, pertaining to a violation of the Sabbath. At that time the disciples were on a mission, travelling through the fields on the sabbath day, and being hungry, they began to pluck the ears of corn.

This caused an upset in the minds of the Jews who interpreted this action of the disciples as a flagrant violation of the Sabbath. But Jesus replied to their concerns by stating unequivocally, that He is Lord of the Sabbath, meaning that whatsoever might be the written law, if He was okay with what the disciples were doing, that settles the matter. Let’s read:

Mark 2:23 And it came to pass that he went through the corn fields on the sabbath day; and his disciples began, as they went, to pluck the ears of corn.

24 And the Pharisees said unto him, Behold, why do they on the sabbath day that which is not lawful?

25 And he said unto them, Have ye never read what David did, when he had need, and was an hungered, he, and they that were with him?

26 How he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and did eat the shewbread, which is not lawful to eat but for the priests, and gave also to them which were with him?

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

It is a matter of maintaining the authority invested in the chain of command which God Himself has put into place. Thus, in Isaac’s case, the most important consideration, after learning from his father what God had commanded, was to honor that chain of command, even if there were valid questions and reservations as per the request.

From the time that sin entered our world, satan has sought to disrupt the chain of command which God saw fit to put in place. Devils have sought to mix up the roles and genders of mothers and fathers, and the children have sought to pry the reins of control from parents in so much that some parents indeed, have become subservient to their kids.

Aaron and Miriam had sought to disrupt the chain of command when they proposed that God had not only spoken through Moses. Korah, Dathan, and Abiram sought to disrupt the chain of command when they accused Moses and Aaron of leading the Hebrews according to their own fancy.

And throughout history, God’s order has been to a large extent disrupted for various reasons too many to mention. If Isaac had refused to obey based upon what is written in the Bible, he would not have been an icon of faith and obedience, and this in turn may have affected the speed with which his prayer was answered.

The question for Isaac would obviously be: “If God has put my parents in charge of me, and they were to ask me to do something that does not have any scriptural backing, should I obey them strictly based on the chain of command God has put in place?”

The answer to this critically important question can be found in the way The Lord has set up His chain of command, for families, churches and governments, very much like that of one of the bedrock American institutions. Let’s read:

[1] President of the United States

[2] Secretary of Defense

[3] Secretary of the Army

[4] Army Chief of Staff

[5] Sergeant Major of the Army

[6] Army Commands

[7] Component Commands

[8] Direct Reporting Units

Now, although the secretary of defense, and army chief of staff, both have the freedom of choice and intelligence, just like everyone else, they fall under the jurisdiction of the president, who can at times, in his capacity as president, override some formats, protocols, and laws that are written in the books.

In capturing the former Bin Laden, the president at that time gave the command to violate Pakistan’s airspace, and carry out the raid on foreign soil even though Pakistan is a sovereign nation. Those under the president could have pointed to international laws on sovereign airspace as reasons why the raid could not legally go forward.

That might be true, but at the end of the day, the pecking order in the chain of command gives to the commander in chief the right to tell his underlings what they must or must not do, even if it may not be written in stone, or, may violate some law on the books.

If any real or phantom violations do occur then the president bears the responsibility, but those under his jurisdiction are, while following written laws, to always bear in mind that there’s authority invested in the chain of command, or else there would be a breakdown in smooth operations.

The same is true with God’s chain of command. The persons to whom God has delegated authority are to follow it is written, unless God gives a different command in a particular instance, for whenever He establishes a given order, it has to be followed, even if individuals under the jurisdiction of those God has put in charge may disagree or may have serious and valid questions. Let’s read:

Exodus 4:14 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 sees 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.

16 And he shall be thy spokesman unto the people: and he shall be, even he shall be to thee instead of a mouth, and thou shalt be to him instead of God.

Exodus 7:1 And the Lord said unto Moses, See, I have made thee a god to Pharaoh: and Aaron thy brother shall be thy prophet.

2 Thou shalt speak all that I command thee: and Aaron thy brother shall speak unto Pharaoh, that he send the children of Israel out of his land.

Numbers 12:1 And Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses because of the Ethiopian woman whom he had married, for he had married an Ethiopian woman.

2 And they said, Hath the Lord indeed spoken only by Moses? hath he not spoken also by us? And the Lord heard it.

4 And the Lord spoke suddenly unto Moses, and unto Aaron, and unto Miriam, Come out ye three unto the tabernacle of the congregation. And they three came out.

6 And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.

7 My servant Moses is not so, who is faithful in all mine house.

8 With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the Lord shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?

9 And the anger of the Lord was kindled against them; and he departed.

1st Corinthians 12:27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

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.

When God originally created Adam and Eve, He did not do so at the same time, for Adam was created first, and after that Eve. When we read the Biblical account we will see where God gave them dominion over the earth, with Adam taking the lead, and Eve at his side, not be above him, nor below him, but at his side; just about where the ribs are located.

But after sin entered, God had to stipulate a specific pecking order, and from that time until now, it has not changed one iota, even though society may beg to differ.

For the record, the Biblical chain of command puts the father at the head of the home, the wife is next, the children come in third place, with grandparents and extended family members in their respective place. This does not make the wife inferior by any means, for in the God-head you have the first, second, and third Persons, yet they are all one. It all has to do with position and role. Let’s read:

[P&P 308] Parents are entitled to a degree of love and respect which is due to no other person. God Himself, who has placed upon them a responsibility for the souls committed to their charge has ordained that during the earlier years of life parents shall stand in the place of God to their children. And he who rejects the rightful authority of his parents is rejecting the authority of God.

After man sinned God did not call Eve first, nor did He even call the devil first because as far as God is concerned, He never put the devil in charge. God referred to His original pecking order in pursuit of accountability, a pattern which He always follows, even to this day. 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:

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.

Another stunning example of how God observes the chain of command He established can be observed in the way He called Ahab to account, after Naboth was slain by the devices of Jezebel. Ahab’s wife was the instigator, she hatched the plot, forged Ahab’s signature, and set the diabolical plan into motion to relieve Naboth of his vineyard.

Yet, when it comes to accountability Jezebel’s name is mentioned secondarily by the prophet, because as far as God is concerned, the buck stops at Ahab’s door first, then his wife. Similarly, even though Eli’s sons were profane the Bible does not even mention the name of Eli’s wife. Let’s read:

1st Kings 21:15 And it came to pass, when Jezebel heard that Naboth was stoned, and was dead, that Jezebel said to Ahab, Arise, take possession of the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give thee for money.

17 And the word of the Lord came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying,

18 Arise, go down to meet Ahab king of Israel, which is in Samaria: behold, he is in the vineyard of Naboth, whither he is gone down to possess it.

19 And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, Thus saith the Lord, Hast thou killed, and also taken possession? Thus, saith the Lord, In the place where dogs licked the blood of Naboth shall dogs lick thy blood, even thine.

21 Behold, I will bring evil upon thee, and will take away thy posterity, and will cut off from Ahab him that pisses against the wall.

23 And of Jezebel also spake the Lord, saying, The dogs shall eat Jezebel by the wall of Jezreel.

[2] The commands parents give to their children do not always have to make sense to them, because if obeying God was to be based on commands making sense, Isaac would never have obeyed. Let’s read:

Genesis 22:2 And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah.

To any logical thinking mind such a command as the one God gave to Abraham could never make sense, for it specified that Isaac was his only son, and since through Isaac the promise of a great nation was to be fulfilled then how could it make sense to take his life, let alone asking Isaac to obey willingly?

Let it be known this day that if we are to obey God only when His commands make sense to us, we will never enter the kingdom of heaven, because man’s relation to God is based on faith not on logic.

In fact, if we were to closely examine those heroes of faith in the Bible, we would discover that obeying God in their particular situation almost never made sense up front.

It was only after obeying implicitly the commands of God that they turned out to be real heroes of faith. In one instance, Peter is told to go to the sea and to catch the first fish that comes up. Then he is told to open its mouth and there he would find a chunk of change.

The feeding of the five thousand in Christ’s day was in obedience to the command which He had given to His disciples, that they should distribute the fish and bread that He would miraculously multiply.

It is worthy of note that the multiplication of the food did not take place all at once, with piles of Sardine sandwiches all over the place. It was as they obeyed that the multiplication took effect.

In another instance, God commands Gideon to go fight against an immense army of several hundred thousand soldiers, with only three hundred men, armed with pitchers and bull horns. In yet another instance God pits David against a giant with only a slingshot and a few stones.

In another instance, The Lord commands Moses to speak to a rock, and fresh water will gush out. And we can go on and on, for there was another episode where God commanded that a church choir should lead the charge in a specific battle, armed only with their hymnals.

Therefore, if children were to obey their parents only when the command makes sense, they would, like so many other persons today, be disrupting that chain of command which God put in place. It is nice to give children explanations where warranted, but obedience to parents cannot be tethered solely to instructions that make sense to them.

Thus, “Once upon a time Isaac” refers to his faith, obedience, and the accompanying quick answers to prayer that are the sure result. This type of faith in God seems to be in short supply in our day, and the secular concepts, and philosophies of the day are threatening to bring the experience of Isaac to near extinction.

Fathers, you will experience push-back at times, but you must stand your ground in the fear and love of God, and in due time He will answer your prayers in behalf of your children. Mothers, you also would be tempted severely because of your tendencies to place your emotions over principle.

Yet your kindness must be balanced with firmness, or else there would be a breakdown in the chain of command. And children, it is your duty to obey your parents in The Lord, giving them the respect and the honor that is due to them, just like faithful Isaac did in days of yore.

We’ll end with a passage that will help us to restore and maintain the pecking order as was manifested in “once upon a time Isaac.” Let’s read:

Ephesians 5:17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.

23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church.

33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

God Bless!

Overcoming Alcohol Permanently. Sabbath afternoon 05/29/2021

Proverbs 20:1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.

Sooner or later every person who has espoused the name of Christ will have to decide whether we will live according to every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God, or whether we’ll live by a hybrid between God’s will and humanistic philosophies and concepts.

The faith God is looking for in these last days is not the type that believes the Bible, only after scientific discoveries, and research confirms what God has been saying all along. That sort of belief is not faith that is based on scriptural utterances, but rather on science.

The faith God is looking for is that which will believe His word, and act upon His instructions, even before any science may come along to confirm, or deny the teachings of the Bible. When this brand of faith is cultivated and exercised, it renders the doers of the word impregnable to the assaults of devils, who are often engaged in making science to counteract that which is written in the Bible.

In other words, if God says it, we should believe it, and that should settle it for us permanently in our minds, so that when the stormy rain comes and the winds blow, we will not be swept off our feet, since our faith was founded on The Rock, even Jesus, who alone can keep our minds from drifting into the web of concepts and ideologies that often pit the human against the Divine.

As it pertains to the use of alcoholic beverages, the word of God is abundantly clear as to mind of God on this matter. It is not fit for human consumption, for it sets in motion a train of evils that do damage to its users. The habitual use of alcohol triggers a host of other latent tendencies and evil propensities which, if they are not addressed and overcome will cause havoc downstream.

When we take The God of heaven at His word, and when we study with a humble heart and teachable spirit His assessments, knowledge and instructions, then we would not have to depend on, or wait for science to confirm what He has stated. God always knows what He is doing, and He has never made a single mistake in His instructions to us on alcohol.

The following therefore is a detailed analysis of what effects the use of alcoholic beverages has on persons and with these revelations will come warnings, and encouragements for us to choose wisely, and to live soberly and righteously in this generation. Let’s read:

Proverbs 23:20 Be not among wine-bibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh.

[1] We must avoid associating with individuals who are consuming alcohol because in some cases they would exert a gravitational pull on us, especially if we are already prone to such indulgences. We are all social beings and thus, the naturally tendency for one who is drinking is to offer his or her friend a drink.

Proverbs 23:21 For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.

[2] One who indulges freely in the use of alcohol runs the risk of eventually losing all material blessings by becoming addicted to it. Satan only needs one weak link in order to destroy the entire man, and if wrong habits are not overcome they will cause increasing bleeding of funds and resources until one is brought to poverty.

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.

[3] Unnecessary troubles, sadness, and depressions are just a few of the adverse results of drinking, and these often lead to financial ruin, through the need to spend on rehabilitation and treatment, because alcohol is a gateway to a thousand more evils. It’s a solemn statement of fact that there are some doors which should never be opened because it can be quite difficult to put the genie back in the bottle.

Proverbs 23:31 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.

[4] The true effects of alcohol are not immediately, felt, and because of this it is delusionary in nature, being sweet in the mouth but bitter in the belly just as it was when Eve ate of the forbidden fruit. Those adverse effects upon the human race we read about which came after man sinned were not immediately felt.

As a general rule of thumb, sin in many cases, needs a gestation period of sorts, or an elapsed period of time from when the first commission of the sin took place, to the time when the full, adverse effects will be realized.

Hence the reason why after one’s first indulgence, and the adverse consequences may not kick in right away, persons are drawn further, and further into the net until the bad habit locks them in an iron grip from which it becomes very difficult to escape. Let’s read:

James 1:14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

Proverbs 23:33 Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.

[5] The use of alcohol opens the gates to adultery and pornography, and it also leads to cursing and the use of inappropriate language on several fronts. There’s a valid reason why it is referred to as spirits.

Very closely associated with flirting and impromptu adultery is the use of spiritous liquors, for it clouds one’s better judgment and inhibits to a great extent our ability to differentiate between right and wrong, as can be observed at bars, carnivals, clubs and such venues at which alcohol is freely indulged.

Proverbs 23:34 Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast.

35 They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not.

[6] Drinking alcohol adveresly affects the brain and one’s nervous system, and the body itself reaps the fruit thereof in a host of unfortunate side effects ranging from dizzy spells to lethargy, to the lack of morale, and the feeling that other people are trying to harm you.

Proverbs 23: When shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.

[7] Worst of all God says that alcohol is addictive in nature, and causes those who use it to eventually become hooked for life if the habit is not overcome.

After Adam and Eve first ate of the forbidden tree, they had erroneously thought that that would be the last time, but since then, the human family has become hooked, and we continue to eat of the tree of good and evil, even in our day, almost 6000 years later.

The problem is that scientific research done by one of the prominent Ivy league universities suggests to us that God was incorrect in His instructions to us on the issue of drunkenness, and in His assessments of the use of alcohol.

Researchers from Harvard had studied the effects of drinking several glasses of red wine per week, and believe it or not, they found it beneficial because of resveratrol, and therefore, according to finite man, The God of heaven had apparently made a mistake. Let’s read:

From Harvard Men’s Health Watch June 17, 2020

Researchers in Seattle collected information about many factors that might influence the risk of prostate cancer in men between ages 40 and 64, including alcohol consumption.

At first the results for alcohol consumption seemed similar to the findings of many earlier studies. There was no relationship between overall consumption and risk. But the scientists went one step further by evaluating each type of alcoholic beverage independently.

Here the news was surprising—wine drinking was linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer. And when white wine was compared with red, red had the most benefit. Even low amounts seemed to help, and for every additional glass of red wine per week, the relative risk declined by 6%.

But as every member of the human family will soon discover, all the instructions, laws, and restrictions God has given to us as it pertains to food and drink, have always been given with our best good in mind. One day, after all of those conspiracy theories have been laid bare, after all of the fake news, parading under the veneer of science has been exposed, it’ll be seen by all, that God was, and is, always right.

By Amy Woodyatt, CNN, Updated 4:54 AM ET, Thursday May 20, 2021

There is no such thing as a "safe" level of drinking, with increased consumption of alcohol associated with poorer brain health, according to a new study.

In an observational study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, researchers from the University of Oxford studied the relationship between the self-reported alcohol intake of some 25,000 people in the UK, and their brain scans.

The researchers noted that drinking had an effect on the brain's gray matter, regions in the brain that make up "important bits where information is processed," according to lead the author Anya Topiwala, a senior clinical researcher at Oxford.

"The more people drank, the less the volume of their gray matter," Topiwala said via email. "Brain volume reduces with age and more severely with dementia. Smaller brain volume also predicts worse performance on memory testing," she explained.

They found that there was no "safe" level of drinking -- meaning that consuming any amount of alcohol was worse than not drinking it. "So many people drink 'moderately,' and think this is either harmless or even protective," Topiwala told CNN via email.

Alcohol was the leading risk factor for disease and premature death in men and women between the ages of 15 and 49 worldwide in 2016, accounting for nearly one in 10 deaths, according to a study published in The Lancet in 2018.

"We also shouldn't forget alcohol affects all parts of the body and there are multiple health risks," said Boniface, who was not associated with the Oxford study.

"Previous research has found that subtle changes which demonstrate damage to the brain can present in ways that aren’t immediately detectable in routine testing of intellectual function and can progress unchecked until they present with more noticeable changes in memory," he said.

"Even at levels of low-risk drinking," he said, "there is evidence that alcohol consumption plays a larger role in damage to the brain than previously thought. The (Oxford) study found that this role was greater than many other modifiable risk factors, such as smoking."

It’s good that science has at least begun to concede that The God of heaven was right all along but there is only one problem remaining: Should we wait for Oxford or Harvard to confirm God’s word before we believe, and if so, would we be following God or the so-called experts?

The following therefore is the scriptural way to kick the habit of drinking alcohol permanently. Persons need to remember, that in all things, there are two ways to accomplish that which needs to be done. There is a God-version of victory and there’s a man- version of victory.

We can include the God factor, and thus make the victory permanent, or we can choose to go with the secular version of victory, and be faced with the real possibility of playing whackamole for life.

[1] We will need to take full responsibility for our actions. Blaming other folks, circumstances, or peer pressure will do us no good, for unless we confront the man in the mirror, we will become the sport of circumstances. No one can force us to drink alcohol. We will have to buy the liquor, or the Bud and then use our own hands to put it to our mouths.

[The Desire Of Ages pp 125] While Satan can solicit, he cannot compel to sin. He said to Jesus, “Cast Thyself down,” knowing that he could not cast Him down; for God would interpose to deliver Him. Nor could Satan force Jesus to cast Himself down. Unless Christ should consent to temptation, He could not be overcome. Not all the power of earth or hell could force Him in the slightest degree to depart from the will of His Father.

The tempter can never compel us to do evil. He cannot control minds unless they are yielded to his control. The will must consent, faith must let go its hold upon Christ, before Satan can exercise his power upon us. But every sinful desire we cherish affords him a foothold. Every point in which we fail of meeting the divine standard is an open door by which he can enter to tempt and destroy us.

Confession of sin includes taking full responsibility for our actions, and whenever this is done, God can cleanse us from all unrighteousness. But if we offer up excuses, valid or invalid, we take the ball out of our own court and make others or circumstance the reason for our failures. 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.

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

Jude 1:24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,

25 To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever.

[2] An integral aspect of overcoming is self-denial by which persons will be pitted against their ownselves as latent tendencies, and dormant propensities may strive for the mastery. Neither is there any easy way to overcome. It takes time to indulge and it will take time and well-directed effort to reverse many years of such indulgence. Let’s read:

Matthew 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

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.

[3] Another important aspect of overcoming alcohol is that we need power from God to live victoriously from day to day. But like with everything else, the world offers up a type of victory that excludes the God factor from the efforts made, and some folks, having adopted such a strategy have sometimes kicked the habit.

But whilst any victory is good, the one that Christ approves, and the one that will endure for eternity is the one that includes the God-factor with persons cooperating with God continually being replenished with Holy Ghost power on a daily basis.

God grants to all who desire to overcome the power to resist the urge to drink. This does not mean that the temptations would not present themselves from time to time, but with the urge will come the power from Christ to resist. Every heaven-born victory will involve a fight, for there is no easy way to win the battles of life. Let’s read:

John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.

13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Deuteronomy 33:25 Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; and as thy days, so shall thy strength be.

26 There is none like unto the God of Jeshurun, who rideth upon the heaven in thy help, and in his excellency on the sky.

27 The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.

Isaiah 40:29 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.

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.

[4] Cooperation with God is a must, for as with any God-centered victory, there will be things for us to do, and there will be places for us to void. We must never needlessly place ourselves in the way of the temptation and then expect God to deliver. This is presumption and effectively negates the working of The Holy Spirit.

Venues which serve up alcohol, and all such places where drinkers do congregate to indulge should be strictly avoided, because the gravitational pull will pose a greater risk, than if we had avoided such a place. Clubs, bars, and every place where alcohol is consumed regularly, have a convergence of devils present, always.

There are specific reasons for their presence where spiritous liquors are being consumed for they aren’t there merely to ensure folks have a good time; they are present to tempt persons to commit grave sins, after a person’s ability to reason rationally has been

compromised by alcohol. 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.

2 Belshazzar, whiles he tasted the wine commanded to bring the golden and silver vessels which his father Nebuchadnezzar had taken out of the temple which was in Jerusalem; that the king, and his princes, his wives, and his concubines, might drink therein.

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.

Mark 6:21 And when a convenient day was come, that Herod on his birthday made a supper to his lords, high captains, and chief estates of Galilee;

22 And when the daughter of the said Herodias came in, and danced, and pleased Herod and them that sat with him, the king said unto the damsel, Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt, and I will give it thee.

23 And he swore unto her, Whatsoever thou shalt ask of me, I will give it thee, unto the half of my kingdom.

24 And she went forth, and said unto her mother, What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptist.

25 And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of John the Baptist.

Revelation 18:2 And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. 3 For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.

[5] Continual prayer is a must for by doing so we are connected to the source of power in Christ. There is no such thing as bad habits that can’t be overcome, for the scriptures teach us that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all unrighteousness.

Thus, persons are to exercise faith in God, that He is well able to accomplish that which He has promised if the necessary cooperation on our part is put into place. The power to cooperate with God also comes from God, but it is triggered through the prayer of faith, by which we show our total dependence on Him. Let’s read:

Ephesians 6:16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.

Let us therefore zip up our boots, and shake off the blues and let us rather take hold of the arm of God’s omnipotence, for there is nothing impossible with God. We therefore end with a passage of scripture which reminds us to check in with the only source of life and power daily, for it is by so doing that folks will be enabled to overcome alchol, and every other sin, permanently Let’s read:

Zechariah 4: 6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.

God Bless!

Who's On The Lord's Side? Sabbath afternoon 05/22/2021

1st Corinthians 1:26 For ye see your calling brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called.

The way that God chooses leaders is quite different to how we as mortals may go about selecting those who are to bear sacred responsibilities. Mortal man often gives consideration to external qualifications, dispositions, intellect, expertise, and seniority. With God, even though those things have their place they are secondary to one’s willingness to obey.

In fact, God would often choose those who may not have great intellectual appeal but who are willing to be taught by Him and He outfits them for their work if they be ready and willing to do His every will.

The Lord will have us understand that education or specialized training in institutions of higher learning may have their place but are not considered as the most important prerequisites for sacred service.

A teachable spirit, one’s willingness to be led, and a disposition to obey God, even when it goes against our own grain, are just a few of the characteristics He looks for. In addition, it is much more important to be imbued with The Spirit of God than to have a long list of titles from literary institutions. These do have their place, but they can only furnish external qualifications. Let’s read:

Isaiah 66:2 For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the Lord: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembles at my word.

Micah 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?

Aaron was an eloquent person, and he possessed a loving disposition and dignified mien that appealed to people naturally, but for some reason, The Lord hesitated greatly in making him the spokesperson for Moses, for in such a capacity, he would often be speaking in Moses’ stead.

God had seen him coming to visit his brother, long before He mentioned that fact to Moses, but it was only after Moses kept making all those excuses, that God finally mentioned Aaron, in a last-ditch effort to get His will done. If Moses had readily stepped up to the plate, Aaron would never have been chosen, as the following scriptures disclose. Let’s read:

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.

11 And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made man's mouth? or who makes 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.

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 sees 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.

16 And he shall be thy spokesman unto the people: and he shall be, even he shall be to thee instead of a mouth, and thou shalt be to him instead of God.

We keep saying that God is a Spirit, and by this we mean that very often, His pleasure or displeasure is clearly discerned by what He does or what He says or His eagerness or reluctance to go a certain route. In this instance, Aaron was obviously not His first choice, but a sort of plan “B” when His efforts with Moses failed.

When Christ was on earth He walked by the seaside and called to Himself, Peter, James and John, and all three responded readily. But when Judas’ turn came Jesus for some reason became unusually cool in His reception. This obvious reluctance baffled the other disciples, who had great respect for Judas, and his qualifications as a certified accountant.

They saw in him one who would be an asset to the kingdom, but Jesus, who reads the heart, observed quite the opposite in the same person, and to His disciples, Christ’s unexplained coolness to Judas was not only unwarranted, but ill-advised in their minds. But God never makes a mistake in His assessment of persons as Judas’ after history revealed. Let’s read:

Matthew 4:18 And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.

19 And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.

20 And they straightway left their nets and followed him.

21 And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother in a ship with Zebedee their father mending their nets; and he called them.

22 And they immediately left the ship and their father and followed him.

Matthew 8:19 And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.

20 And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath nowhere to lay his head.

That was definitely not a warm welcoming tone as was the case with those other disciples, to whom Christ made no mention of not having a fixed place of abode. In fact, Christ’s words to Judas may have bordered on discouraging him from his bid to join the inner circle, but because God gives opportunity to all, He permitted Judas to join the group.

Therefore, even though Aaron could speak well, and although he displayed a mild, amicable disposition, yet he had serious flaws in his character that would be of greater liability than an asset, when he would be severely tested in the heat of the furnace. That disposition to please others, and not ruffle feathers, would cause him to compromise truth, and sacred trusts in emergency situations.

Persons who are anointed as elders and deacons of the church ought to be men of sterling worth, men who will not be bought or sold, or be pressured into countenancing wrong, just because the majority of the congregation may clamor for it. God’s form of government is not democratic in nature, where it is government by the people, and for the people.

God’s government is theocratic in nature, with Jesus Christ as the head, and we His servants, to do all His pleasure and biddings even when we may not agree with His directives, or when we may have different, personal opinions as to what is right or wrong in any given situation. Thus, those who are chosen to fill a sacred office should not curry favor with the masses but instead should be found faithful in all things.

Aaron was good when things went smoothly, where there was no backlash, or remonstrance from those whom he served. But when the heat was turned up several notches and he saw the unruly congregation as an existential threat to himself, he capitulated to them and buckled under pressure. This is not good, for in our day it causes preachers to water down the truth to please the popular majority. 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.

Aaron’s response to this clamor should have been “Absolutely not or under no circumstances” and he then should have cautioned and encouraged those under his care to be patient in waiting for Moses, especially since the cloud of glory still hovered over Mt. Sinai.

But the people persisted, and they became more irate when they saw his feeble remonstrance. Thus, they came to believe that if they would push him a bit further, they would eventually break his morale, and they were correct in their assessments, as the following scriptures show. Let’s read:

Exodus 32:2 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.

When Aaron observed the favor with which the calf was received, he became even more motivated to please and instead of putting on the brakes he went even further by announcing a grand festival in what he advertised as a feast to The Lord.

Thus, he would blend the sacred and the common in order to please, not because it was right, and that grave pattern of conduct that would also bear fruit in the behavior of his sons, who later on would also be found mingling that which is holy with the vile.

Therefore, the people, who now had the sanction of Aaron, would be all too eager to pull out all of the stops, for in their minds, if the spiritual leader is in agreement, and goes so far as to approve idolatry, then they would respond in the positive, and give vent to latent desires, which sought an opportune moment to converge. Let’s read:

Exodus 32:6 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.

26 Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the Lord's side? let him come unto me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him.

What followed next was a turning point for many of the people, for there were those who saw their guilt and repented, but there were others who remained defiant, and therefore, the Levites were bidden by God to execute justice impartially, without fear and without favor, even if it came very close to home.

This was obviously something very difficult for them to do but there comes a time when our relationship with friends and families would have to take a back-seat to serving God, if the latter conflicts with the former, as Christ later pointed out when speaking about the seriousness of our commitment to Him. Let’s read:

Matthew 10:32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.

33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.

37 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

38 And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.

39 He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.

Exodus 32:28 And the children of Levi did according to the word of Moses: and there fell of the people that day about three thousand men.

29 For Moses had said, Consecrate yourselves today to the Lord, even every man upon his son, and upon his brother; that he may bestow upon you a blessing this day.

That word “Consecrate” as used in verse 29 raises a lot of serious questions as it pertains to the extent a person is expected to go in demonstrating loyalty to Christ, especially in cases where a definite stand for the right is required.

[1] Would Aaron be protected by God if he braved the consequences and refused to budge on that ungodly request made by the masses?

[2] Does God guaranty protection to those who may defend the truth in volatile situations?

[3] Is our allegiance to God to be based on guaranty of protection, or is it to be based on whatsoever the cost may be?

[4] How would the Levites be viewed from that time forward by the rest of the congregation?

Before we proceed, it’s important for us to read an excerpt from the pen of inspiration as it pertains to this incident, because some of us may not be fully aware of what is involved in serving God.

Over the years self-indulgence and self-preservation and self-serving have imperceptibly eaten away at the fabric of Christianity, thus producing a plethora of fair-weather Christians, who serve and obey God only when it is easy and convenient to do so.

But because the crisis on the horizon will call for us to take a definite stand for the truth, in the face of existential threats from the beast system, and in the face of desertion and discouragements from friends and foes alike, we must read the following excerpts, considering what we would or ought to do in similar circumstances. Let’s read:

[P&P, pp 316] Such a crisis demanded a man of firmness, decision, and unflinching courage; one who held the honor of God above popular favor, personal safety, or life itself. A few who ventured to denounce the proposed image making as idolatry, were set upon and roughly treated, and in the confusion and excitement they finally lost their lives.

God would have His servants prove their loyalty by faithfully rebuking transgression, however painful the act may be. Those who are honored with the divine commission are not to be weak, pliant time-servers. They are not to aim at self-exaltation, nor to shun disagreeable duties, but to perform God's work with unswerving fidelity.

As the outpouring of the latter rain begins to gain momentum the trumpet would need to be given a certain sound by those who will be chosen to give the final warning before the close of probation, with the prospect of economic sanctions, boycotts, and tremendous push back from one’s family members, friends, and associates.

The 144,000 would be giving God’s last message of mercy against the backdrop of deep skepticism, and backlash from the religious and secular segments of society and science will be arrayed against the truth in so much that former church members will join in the fray to discredit the message, just as it was in the days of Noah prior to the worldwide deluge.

Yet they are required by God to stand firm for the right, to deliver the unvarnished truth, and God will strengthen them to tow the line, in spite of them being hedged in with difficulties, scorn and threats on every side. Unlike Aaron, those that are chosen are not to be concerned with consequences or the fallout that will certainly result.

Instead, they must give the trumpet a certain sound so that all who so desire may find refuge in Christ by keeping all of His commandments, before the final verdict is delivered. And therefore, there’s only one question remaining to be answered by each person individually: Who Is on The Lord’s side? 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.

11 And the Lord shall utter his voice before his army: for his camp is very great: for he is strong that executes his word: for the day of the Lord is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?

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.

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.

Those amongst us who have been entrusted with the goods, and have been taught the truths for this generation are called to preach a plain “Thus saith The Lord”. When preparing sermons for the people, we need to be careful that the Aaron syndrome will not taint the presentations.

The desire to please, to palliate, to soothe, or to be funny, must not cause any preacher elder or deacon to water down the truth, even if family members or friends may have their toes stepped on. While every sermon must be given in love, the content must not be altered, just because it may potentially rub some persons the wrong way.

It is the disposition not to ruffle any feathers that has turned many would be preachers into soothe- sayers, a syndrome which has already infected the remnant church of God to a large extent. As a general rule of thumb, when the unadulterated word of God is being delivered, you would scarcely find persons sleeping or yawning, for the presence and power of The Holy Ghost is present to drive the truth home.

But when most of the congregation is nodding away while others are sleeping or snoring during sermons it means that something is not quite right. Thus, we have reached the point in earth’s history where the average sermon won’t do anymore.

If we are really on The Lord’s side let us deliver the goods just as God gives it; let preachers and elders not be afraid to call sin by its right name, and when the masses come clamoring for smooth things, let them be given what they need to hear and not what they want to hear.

In this way The Lord will work with our efforts, and He will send forth His Spirit to prick the conscience, and many conversions to the truth will be seen in places where previously folks were hesitant to make a firm stand for Christ and His righteousness.

In harmony with the urgency of the moment we will end with a passage of scripture which Paul wrote to the young Timothy, at a time when some persons may have been disposed to question his ordination as a preacher. Let’s read:

2nd Timothy 4:1 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;

2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.

3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.

God Bless!

Living By The Word Of God. Sabbath Afternoon 05/15/2021

Matthew 4:3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.

4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.

The word of God is not subject to the changes we so often see legislatures making in our day in response to changes in culture and demographics. When folks clamor for change, based upon personal opinions or preferences, politicians often respond by giving the people what they desire, even though they may not be convinced about the morality of such moves, but because it may be politically expedient to do so.

Thus, amendments and changes are often made not because of principle, but because of those societal pressures which goad lawmakers to change from a right course to wrong, for fear of retribution at the ballot box. Whenever there’s an insatiable desire to cling to power, politicians would often do any, and everything just to retain their standing among the people.

This is what caused Pilate to put Christ to death on Calvary, even though there was no valid accusation against him, and even though he himself was very convinced that a deep-laid plot had been made by the religious leaders who hated Christ. Thus, Pilate violated his own conscience, went against his grain, held his nose and gave the multitude what they had clamored for, even though he knew it was wrong.

God will have us understand that He will not ever be pressured into making changes in His law, just because the popular majorities may clamor for it. Instead, God bids us observe and do everything He has instructed and commanded us to, because the principles of His kingdom never change with the passage of time.

Living by the word of God alone, means bringing all suggestions, all philosophies, all personal opinions, every private interpretation, every preference, and bias and every cultural practice, to be first checked by the Bible. For the Christian if the aforementioned pass the smell test of God’s word, fine, but if not, it must be rejected and thrown out the window.

Thus, living by the word of God, means to have the scriptures in preeminence when evaluating ideas or when making decisions to act. But when persons begin to make changes, additions and amendments which God did not authorize, then we place opinion over truth, and that mode of thought and action will cascade downhill, until we make void His law. Let’s read:

Psalms 119:126 It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void thy law.

Case in point is how as a country, we have allowed societal pressures to do violence to the institution of marriage which God had originally set as the gold standard in Eden for all future generations. Back in those days it was one man for one female woman, and for many years that model was embraced and practiced here in this country.

But gradually, there was a clamor for changes, and the groundswell became so great, and the pressure so intense that the legislature capitulated, and gave the people what the majority clamored for. Some of the legislature were not convinced in their heart of hearts, but because the pressure was mounting on all sides, and because Rome approved it, God’s law on marriage was eventually thrown out.

According to the dictionary, an amendment to the constitution is a change, or an addition designed to improve a text, or a piece of legislation. But, once we start down that path it then becomes a slippery slope, being subjected to the winds of change and societal pressures, that blow in different directions.

Therefore, on June 26, 2013 the Supreme Court of the United States issued its final decision in United States v. Windsor, then ruling that the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional on equal protection grounds.

The Court ruled that DOMA, which excludes a same-sex partner from the definition of “spouse”, as that term is used in federal statutes, is unconstitutional, as a deprivation of the equal liberty of persons that is protected by the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. That ruling occurred on June 26, 2013.

But, because the diabolical enemy of God and man often employs the proven principle of gradualism in the implementation of his schemes, it would be just a matter of time before societal pressures pushed the envelope even further.

And on June, 26, 2015 the Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell v. Hodges that the 14th Amendment to the constitution requires states to license marriages between two people of the same sex, and also to recognize a marriage between two people of the same sex when their marriage was lawfully licensed and performed out-of-State, thus legalizing same-sex marriage in the United States.

The problem is that from that time to now, many other variations, designations, and identities have emerged, in so much that some are now identifying themselves in the plural such as “They” and others as being non-binary among other identities.

Gender-queer people typically reject any notion of static categories of gender and embrace a fluidity of gender identity and sexual orientation. People who identify as "gender-queer" often see themselves as being both male and female, neither male or female, or as falling completely outside these categories.

Thus, it is just a matter of time before the Supreme court will have to go back to the drawing board, and alter that which has been already amended to cater for the ever emerging clamors of society, which are in direct opposition to God’s written word. And for this reason, we must now explain in graphic detail, what it really means to live by every word of God in our day.

But before we do so, we must let the Bible speak for itself concerning the issues of change, for millennia, culture, lobbying, Bitcoin, or even popular demand can never alter what God has spoken, in any way, form or fashion.

To put it plainly, The God of heaven would never accept gay marriage, alternative lifestyles, or any other substitute day of rest, no matter who or what may clamor for change. Let’s read:

Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. 6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

Deuteronomy 12:32 What thing so-ever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it.

Psalms 119:89 Forever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.

2nd Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.

17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

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 spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

Revelation 22:18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book.

19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.

The following therefore are some examples of how we are to live by the word of God alone, especially when the winds of unwarranted change are blowing in the opposite direction. It will not be easy, and we may face economic and social media boycotts, but if we desire to live in harmony with “It is written” all other considerations and pressures must be borne down and made subject to the word.

In the days of Nehemiah, there was a great need of reformation because the people of God had strayed very far from His ideal. God’s instructions, His laws, His statutes, and His principles were being violated in high and low places, and thus, when Nehemiah was raised up to bring the people back from their national apostasy, certain critically important areas needed to be addressed.

[1] The issue of ungodly influences.

Nehemiah 13:1 On that day they read in the book of Moses in the audience of the people; and therein was found written, that the Ammonite and the Moabite should not come into the congregation of God forever.

2 Because they met not the children of Israel with bread and with water, but hired Balaam against them, that he should curse them: howbeit our God turned the curse into a blessing.

3 Now it came to pass, when they had heard the law, that they separated from Israel all the mixed multitude.

23 In those days also saw I Jews that had married wives of Ashdod, of Ammon, and of Moab.

Over a period of time, many idolaters seeped into the congregation, bringing their pagan influences with them, and even though the gospel is given to all people, and should be made applicable to every person, yet, as a general rule of thumb, those who are only half-converted to the truth will inevitably end up exerting a gravitational pull on others.

Through intermarriage with the ammonites and the Moabites, unscriptural practices began to take root, for wherever two persons of different persuasions unite in marriage, there would be compromise on principle on some level, some more, some less.

Those influences will be manifest in their offspring too, who in most instances are exposed to dueling concepts of right and wrong. Children of secular folk are in many instances trained differently than those who are brought up in god-fearing homes and if two individuals from entirely different backgrounds are united in marriage, these differences will begin to appear sooner or later.

Therefore, any proliferation of such influences will ultimately put increasing downward pressure on the righteousness that is stipulated in God’s word, and there would be a gradual watering down of those truths that are essential to the soul.

A person’s faith determines what they will do, and if erroneous concepts and philosophies are co-mingled with truth, the dire effects will be seen in practice. If one lives by the word of God, that mode of thought and action will conflict with secular perspectives for one savors of faith, while the other is controlled by humanistic philosophies and views.

Thus, Nehemiah was moved by God to remove the ungodly influences that were causing His people to countenance and practice things that are contrary to sound doctrine. Similarly, in our day, the issue of influence must be addressed, because over a period of time, many pagan influences have been gradually entering the church.

And because so many have been baptized into the church without proper prior indoctrination, truth has fallen in the street, and pagan practices and its philosophies have been countenanced for years, in so much that if one was to raise these issues, there would be tremendous push-back from those who do not live by the word of God alone.

For instance tattoos have become quite fashionable in Christian circles, whereas in times past this never used to be the case. Not only is it forbidden in the Bible but it is of pagan origin and even though it has become the norm for the most part in society, yet it in an unscriptural practice and God calls on persons to utterly reject it as such.

According to Google, the practice of tattooing came from pagans and was used to appease false gods, to ward off demonic forces, and for a plethora of other reasons, too many to mention. In our day currently, it has been adopted by gangs, by models, by those in the sporting industry, and by many Christians.

But just because it has become popular does not mean that we should ever adopt or countenance it, because living by the word alone, would move us to signally reject any and everything that isn’t Biblically sound. Getting a tattoo of Christ on the cross does not make it acceptable either, for what He prohibits in His word, remains as such. 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.

Leviticus 19:28 Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the Lord.

Persons who have been previously tattooed may in some cases be able to remove them after baptism, but in other cases, persons may be scarred for life. Jesus accepts us as we are, but He doesn’t leave us where we are, and therefore, wherever it’s possible, those who desire to live by the word of God alone can, and should make the necessary changes.

[2] Proper Sabbath Keeping.

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?

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.

20 So the merchants and sellers of all kind of ware lodged without Jerusalem once or twice.

21 Then I testified against them and said unto them, Why lodge ye about the wall? if ye do so again, I will lay hands on you. From that time forth came they no more on the sabbath.

Many persons among the remnant are now keeping the Sabbath like persons keep Sunday, because the views, and perspectives held by the majority in the Christian world as it pertains to Sunday have indeed invaded our minds and practice.

Many Christians who observe Sunday would attend church service in the morning but in the afternoon, many go to movies, games or do secular work. Thus, Sunday keeping for many persons consists of part church service and part secular activity. That model has also been adopted by some in our churches, for they attend services in the morning, but are missing in action in the evening.

But here’s just a gentle reminder that it’s the entire Sabbath day that is holy, and all secular works and activities should be suspended during the sacred hours. If some churches remain closed because of the pandemic, individual church members can, and should do some missionary work in their neck of the woods.

Some can offer to study the Bible with neighbors or friends, others can distribute religious material to the public, some can do street evangelism with a bull horn, while others can visit the sick and shut in. But whatever is done, secular activities on Sabbath afternoon is nowhere to be found in the scriptures.

When He was on earth, a typical Sabbath day for Jesus would begin with regular, in-person church services in the morning, where He would attend and sometimes preach in the synagogue. Then, He would turn His attention to ministry, where the sick would be healed, or He would pay a visit to some place where the gospel needed to be disseminated.

There was also time for personal prayer and praise which, coupled together with corporate worship, rounded out a typical Sabbath for Christ. But there was nothing on His agenda that savored of secular work or any self-serving interest, which in too many cases have become the norm in our day. Let’s read:

Luke 4:15 And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all.

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.

17 And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written,

18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,

19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.

20 And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down.

31 And He came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the sabbath days.

32 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power.

38 And he arose out of the synagogue and entered into Simon's house. And Simon's wife's mother was taken with a great fever; and they besought him for her.

39 And he stood over her and rebuked the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose and ministered unto them.

40 Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them.

Thus, a typical Sabbath day for Christ consisted of good deeds, preaching, teaching, ministering, and healing the sick and suffering. But nowhere do we find Him sitting at home with popcorn, watching some secular movie, or doing anything that would minister to self.

Regularly using the Sabbath day as a time to catch up on much needed sleep is indeed a violation of the fourth commandment because the “rest” which God originally intended over the sabbath hours had never focused on sleep. Instead, it was a time when the relationship between man and His maker was to be nurtured, encouraged, and solidified.

Thus, the restorers of the breach will need to begin the work of restoration in their own homes. We will need to evaluate our concepts of proper Sabbath keeping, to ensure that they are in line with what is written. Self-serving in any form must be put away, and ministering to the needs of fallen humanity is to be front and center of all proper Sabbath keeping, wherever possible. Let’s read:

Isaiah 58:7 Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?

12 And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.

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.

Let us then step up to the plate and do what has for too long been neglected. The volatile situations that are occurring across the globe, the devastation from the current virus, and the utter intransigence that has gripped politicians, tell us that we are living on borrowed time.

In addition to this the final conflict between the law of God and the commandments of men looms large on the horizon, and it won’t be long before we will have to take a definite stand, either for truth or for error.

Thus, it is incumbent upon the remnant people of God to implement those much needed reforms, just as it was in the days of Nehemiah, for it’s not what we say, but what we do that will matter in the long run. We therefore end with a passage of scripture that will encourage us to make all necessary change where warranted, for God is now calling all persons to repentance. 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!