Life is Full of Ups and Downs....

Life is full of ups and downs. These events serve a purpose. They help keep things in perspective. If life was sweet all the time, we would eventually lose our taste for sweet. If it was always bad, we may not want to live anymore. This balance is put into place to keep our fickle, human nature from sprouting wings and taking us to places we don’t want to go. Too much of a good thing is just as bad as too much of a terrible thing. It’s all about balance. The way we see things, our world view, matters. It determines everything. I used to have a sign in my classroom that read, “it’s not what happens to us in life that matters, it’s how we handle it”. Having a biblical worldview isn’t popular, easy to live by, or always fun, but it’s the only view that gives us hope. Hope in Jesus. It anchors our soul.

27 It’s not good to eat too much honey, and it’s not good to seek honors for yourself. Proverbs 25:27

The Good News is Life-Changing....

Have you ever truly thought about the significance of what you know? I mean the knowledge of everlasting life. Knowledge of the One Who grants it. It’s our job to tell people this Good News. It will strengthen and encourage those who need it. We possess the power of life, it’s in God’s word. Are you sharing it on a daily basis? If not, do you know the potential you possess by storing it in your heart? It’s life-changing.

There the Lord will display His glory,the splendor of our God.3 With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands,and encourage those who have weak knees.4 Say to those with fearful hearts,“Be strong, and do not fear,for your God is coming to destroy your enemies.He is coming to save you.” 5 And when He comes, He will open the eyes of the blindand unplug the ears of the deaf.6 The lame will leap like a deer,and those who cannot speak will sing for joy!Springs will gush forth in the wilderness,and streams will water the wasteland. Isaiah 35:2c-6

Muddying a Spring....

Why do we continue to fight evil? Why do we defend the unborn, the institution of marriage, and the sanctity of life? Because we don’t want to drink from a muddy spring. Who wants to drink polluted water? Right is right no matter who believes it. When you fight for God’s will for man, you may be opposed, but you’ll protect not only yourself, but many others from the corruption evil brings for future generations. 26 If the godly give in to the wicked,it’s like polluting a fountain or muddying a spring. Proverbs 25:26

We See the Government as....

Many people look to our leaders to fix our problems. We see the government as our judge, lawgiver, and savior. The government is made up of people, infallible, imperfect, and without the ability to save. We have to look upon God for our salvation. He is the only One capable of judging, lawgiving, and providing the care we all so desperately need. 22 For the Lord is our judge, our lawgiver, and our king. He will care for us and save us. Isaiah 33:22

Bragging...

When you compare the world’s ways with the Way of God, you can’t find much in common. The contrasts are innumerable. Here’s one that most people see as foolish. Most people brag about their strengths. Why? Because it makes them look better than they really are. Paul says if he is to boast (brag), he will highlight his weaknesses. Why? Because everyone will see how fragile Paul is and praise God because He uses an individual like him to do great things. In our weaknesses, God gives us strength. This strength gives us the confidence, faith, and encouragement to move forward. If we are going to brag, let’s brag about God, and not ourselves. If we do brag about ourselves, be honest, and start giving credit where credit is due. Let’s praise the One Who turns our weaknesses into His strengths.

30 If I must boast, I would rather boast about the things that show how weak I am. 2 Corinthians 11:30

An Empty Shell Longing for....

When we strip away all the superficial facades we’ve built up. Remove the masks we so proudly wear. Delete all the entries in our “Fakebook” accounts. All that we have left is an empty shell longing for significance. Like it or not, we are all weak, fragile, and insecure. If we fill ourselves up with the Holy Spirit, we will be empowered to trust God, love others, and accomplish the impossible. Help without God isn’t help at all. The only real help we will ever get, the kind that will rescue us from our enemy, comes from God. He will conquer our foes. And then receive our praise.

10 Who will bring me into the fortified city?Who will bring me victory over Edom?11 Have You rejected us, O God? Will You no longer march with our armies? 12 Oh, please help us against our enemies, for all human help is useless. 13 With God’s help we will do mighty things, for He will trample down our foes. Psalms 108:10-13

When God Has Our Back....

When God has our back, when we know we are in His will, there’s no need to fear our enemies. The confidence and resolve will keep us focused and on task. If God is for us, who can stand against us? 4 But this is what the Lord has told me: “When a strong young lion stands growling over a sheep it has killed,it is not frightened by the shouts and noise of a whole crowd of shepherds.In the same way, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will come down and fight on Mount Zion.5 The Lord of Heaven’s Armies will hover over Jerusalem and protect it like a bird protecting its nest.He will defend and save the city;He will pass over it and rescue it.” Isaiah 31:4-5

When Our Plans Come Before God’s Plans.....

Why is it we make plans sometimes contrary to God’s plans? Why do our plans come before His plans? Why do we try to do things on our own? Why don’t we ask God? Or better yet, seek Him out in all things? When we do things on our own, without consulting with God, it usually leads to our own demise. It tells Him, He’s second on our list. There are more important things than our relationship. “I’m in control”. Watch out. When you allow yourself to get to this point, don’t expect blessings to pour out on you like a Spring rain shower. When you push God away, there’s a distance, a gap between you and Him that must be bridged. Until then, don’t expect God to rush to your side and grant you Grace, disgrace usually results. When we go to God, and ask, He will provide. Don’t neglect the Only One that can truly meet our needs.

“What sorrow awaits My rebellious children,”says the Lord.“ You make plans that are contrary to Mine. You make alliances not directed by My Spirit, thus piling up your sins.2 For without consulting Me, you have gone down to Egypt for help. You have put your trust in Pharaoh’s protection. You have tried to hide in his shade.3 But by trusting Pharaoh, you will be humiliated, and by depending on him, you will be disgraced.4 For though his power extends to Zoan and his officials have arrived in Hanes,5 all who trust in him will be ashamed. He will not help you. Instead, he will disgrace you.” Isaiah 30:1-5

15 This is what the Sovereign Lord,the Holy One of Israel, says:“Only in returning to Meand resting in Me will you be saved.In quietness and confidence is your strength.But you would have none of it. 16 You said, ‘No, we will get our help from Egypt.They will give us swift horses for riding into battle.’But the only swiftness you are going to seeis the swiftness of your enemies chasing you!17 One of them will chase a thousand of you.Five of them will make all of you flee.You will be left like a lonely flagpole on a hillor a tattered banner on a distant mountaintop.” 18 So the Lord must wait for you to come to Himso He can show you His love and compassion.For the Lord is a faithful God.Blessed are those who wait for His help. 19 O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem,you will weep no more.He will be gracious if you ask for help.He will surely respond to the sound of your cries. Isaiah 30:15-19

Discernment....

Discernment: knowing the truth of God’s word, and applying it to your everyday life. When I look at people I immediately use discernment with their every word and action. Are they telling the truth? Or telling lies? Do they want something from me? Or to help me? Do they know God? Or not? This is where knowing scripture comes into play. This is where being led by the Spirit abounds. Satan disguises Himself as an angel of light. He deceives all people. The only way to know the authentic from the fake is to study the real thing. That “Real Thing” is Jesus. When compared with Him everything is put into proper perspective. The false are exposed and the truth is edified. Every talk, every word that comes from a believer should point others to God, not away from Him. It’s should glorify Him, and not ourselves. Ask God for discernment today, and when you receive it, use it wisely to point others to Jesus. Knowing there are people out there disguised as preachers and teachers of God’s word, wanting to confuse, frustrate, and bring us down, should prompt us to study Our Bibles more, and use the discernment only God can give in all things.

13 These people are false apostles. They are deceitful workers who disguise themselves as apostles of Christ. 14 But I am not surprised! Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 15 So it is no wonder that his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. In the end they will get the punishment their wicked deeds deserve. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15

Turn the Other Cheek...

You’ve heard the phrase “turn the other cheek”, haven’t you? What exactly does it mean? I think there are two sides to this statement. First, is the unnaturalness if it. I mean who is willing to not fight back when someone is striking you? Our nature is to defend. So when this statement is spoken by Jesus, I’m pretty sure it’s in regards to the impossibility of it to do on our own. It’s upping the game of “religiousity”. The second possibility could be the actual outcome of the action. I mean, what purpose does someone have to continue to beat up someone who is not fighting back? Who continues to beat a dead horse? He’s not going to get up and let you ride him if he’s dead, right? Once a person turns the other cheek, it diffuses the aggressor’s motivation to continue to press forward. It’s like taking the wind out of their sail. The other thing it does in this regard is that it pricks the conscience. It stimulates the thought of, “they’re not fighting back, there must be a reason. Maybe I’m wrong in my motive? This isn’t right.” It stirs up the soul, usually rendering a guilty verdict. The next time you hear or even put into practice the saying “turn the other cheek”, think about it’s meaning. Selflessness and doing good to others may affect them in ways you could never imagine. And it’s only possible because of God working through you, accomplishing His will.

21 If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat.If they are thirsty, give them water to drink.22 You will heap burning coals of shame on their heads,and the Lord will reward you. Proverbs 25:21-22

4 Types of People....

There are 4 type of people in this world: ignorant, rebellious, pretenders, and the faithful. Each one has their own view of God. It’s important to know, so when you are around them, you will understand their point of view. The ignorant don’t know God. Either they don’t care (apathetic), or don’t try to do something about it when they are confronted with His reality. Some, a few in number, will respond to His call, so we can’t ignore them. The rebellious purposely run from God blaming Him for all their woes, or deny His existence as an excuse to continue as if He can’t see their deeds done in darkness. They are the ones who blatantly sin and try to gain acceptance in order to “feel” better about their guilt. Next are the pretenders, or “religious” ones. They compare everyone with themselves, and of course, look down their noses at others. They hang around others like themselves, and truly believe that God favors them because of their “self-righteous” behavior. They promote others to be like them or follow in their footsteps. They honor God with their lips, but their hearts are far from Him. Lastly there are the faithful. These are the humble ones. They know truth because they know God. They know their place, and have a genuine love for people. They want to help others, and do what is right. The number one characteristic they possess is their humility. Next is there honesty, their willingness to apply truth to their own lives before applying to others, and they have the ability to apologize when they have wronged another. Of all the 4 types of people 3 of them are enemies of God. By ignoring, rebelling, or pretending, each person has turned their back on God by putting self ahead of Him. It’s as if they say to Him, “I’m in control, not You. I’m content being me and don’t need you. I’m doing you a favor by running my own life. I’m the God of my life.” The faithful on the other hand, do the exact opposite. They say, “God, You are in control. I’m content being in Your will and need You. You’re doing me a favor by being in charge of my life. You’re the God of my life.” In the end, there’s only One Person in control. He does things His way. But “His Way” is for “our best”. And even though there is discipline along the way for the faithful believer, it doesn’t compare to the turmoil, distress, lack of peace, false confidence, and insecurity that come from a life pretending, rebelling, or ignoring our Maker. You choose, today, Whom you will serve. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

I will be your enemy, surrounding Jerusalem and attacking its walls. Isaiah 29:3a

9 Are you amazed and incredulous?Don’t you believe it?Then go ahead and be blind.You are stupid, but not from wine!You stagger, but not from liquor!10 For the Lord has poured out on you a spirit of deep sleep.He has closed the eyes of your prophets and visionaries. 11 All the future events in this vision are like a sealed book to them. When you give it to those who can read, they will say, “We can’t read it because it is sealed.” 12 When you give it to those who cannot read, they will say, “We don’t know how to read.” 13 And so the Lord says,“These people say they are Mine.They honor Me with their lips,but their hearts are far from Me.And their worship of Me is nothing but man-made rules learned by rote.14 Because of this, I will once again astound these hypocrites with amazing wonders.The wisdom of the wise will pass away, and the intelligence of the intelligent will disappear.” 15 What sorrow awaits those who try to hide their plans from the Lord, who do their evil deeds in the dark!“The Lord can’t see us,” they say.“He doesn’t know what’s going on!”16 How foolish can you be? He is the Potter, and He is certainly greater than you, the clay!Should the created thing say of the One who made it, “He didn’t make me”?Does a jar ever say, “The potter who made me is stupid”? 17 Soon–and it will not be very long–the forests of Lebanon will become a fertile field, and the fertile field will yield bountiful crops.18 In that day the deaf will hear words read from a book, and the blind will see through the gloom and darkness. 19 The humble will be filled with fresh joy from the Lord. The poor will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.20 The scoffer will be gone,the arrogant will disappear,and those who plot evil will be killed. 21 Those who convict the innocent by their false testimony will disappear. A similar fate awaits those who use trickery to pervert justice and who tell lies to destroy the innocent. 22 That is why the Lord, who redeemed Abraham, says to the people of Israel, “My people will no longer be ashamed or turn pale with fear. 23 For when they see their many children and all the blessings I have given them,they will recognize the holiness of the Holy One of Israel. They will stand in awe of the God of Jacob. 24 Then the wayward will gain understanding, and complainers will accept instruction. Isaiah 29:9-24

True Confidence....

Where true confidence comes from. When God is the determiner of every aspect of your life, your thoughts, speech, actions, and what you don’t think, say, or act out. Real living produces confidence. Confidence not in yourself because of yourself, but confidence in God that He granted you grace. He forgives, not because of what you did or do, but because He chose to forgive you based on what Jesus did on the cross. He knows you have that potential to be faith to the truth. You're humble enough to accept truth regardless what it might cost you. You're honest with yourself and are willing to make a wrong into a right when you cause one. Confidence is knowing you align your life with the character of God, and that’s what brings peace, purpose, dignity, character, and resolve. It’s not an arrogant type of false confidence, rather it’s a edifying and grateful humility. It’s knowing our place, where we fit into this temporary dwelling called our body. Knowing this is key to carrying out our commission of sharing the Good News with the world and pointing others to Jesus. Confidence comes from being who we are meant to be, who God designed us to be. The ultimate fulfillment we can ever have is serving God, pointing others to Him, and walking along side Him every day of our life. it comes when we are faithful to the Lord. That’s real confidence and strength.

18 When people commend themselves, it doesn’t count for much. The important thing is for the Lord to commend them. 2 Corinthians 10:18

The Best Interest in Mind....

One sign that you can recognize when a Christian is speaking, is his/her words will be edifying. Sometimes to some, they may seem harsh at first, but they are necessary to strip off the sludge of deception and confusion. Once done, it’s clear to see the detrimental effects the addressed behavior would have caused. A true believer always has the “best interest” in mind for the believer. And it will be edifying, even if it doesn’t appear to be at first.

8 I may seem to be boasting too much about the authority given to us by the Lord. But our authority builds you up; it doesn’t tear you down. So I will not be ashamed of using my authority. 2 Corinthians 10:8

Why Do Christians Oppose....

Why do Christians oppose pride, rebelliousness, and sin? Why do we fight for justice, promote righteousness, and speak truth? To destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. It’s our goal to point others to Jesus. The only way to forgiveness, salvation, and peace with God. 3 We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do. 4 We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. 5 We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5

Comforting a Grieving Person...

When it comes to comforting a grieving person, don’t try to talk it out. Instead, be there for them. Be silent. Listen when they speak. And slowly you will see them emerge. Don’t quote scripture, and don’t force truth on them. Don’t try to distract them with silliness, or sing fun songs, instead be there and listen. No amount of distraction will speed up the “lightening up” of a heavy heart. No attempt of “trying to explain the why” will transform them. Your presence is the necessary factor, a silent, listening soul is what a crushed spirit needs. Your presence is the best gift you could ever give them.

Singing cheerful songs to a person with a heavy heart is like taking someone’s coat in cold weather or pouring vinegar in a wound. Proverbs 25:20

The Entire Point of Scripture...

The entire point of scripture is to show us God: Who He is, what He’s done, and His care and love for us. It’s a shame that some can’t see this, for their attitude paints fog over the glasses they wear, impeding their vision and distorting their view. Imagine going through life thinking you’re seeing something that really isn’t what you thought it was. Like right when you wake up in the morning, after having a vivid dream. It takes a moment to get your bearings. But for a moment you think you are somewhere else. The Bible, God’s word, teaches us about God. Once we get our bearings on Him, then we can truly see, to live with purpose.

43 Those who are wise will take all this to heart; they will see in our history the faithful love of the Lord. Psalms 107:43

Trials....

Trials from God are purposeful, calculated, and customized. These trials end as soon as they accomplish His purpose. God chooses the discipline exclusively to our bent (personality). And He chooses the form of discipline that is gentlest to us, so we can bear it and not be crushed. We only see this in hindsight, but we can learn from these times and trust Him in the process.

He will come to do a strange thing;He will come to do an unusual deed:22 For the Lord, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, has plainly said that He is determined to crush the whole land. So scoff no more, or your punishment will be even greater. 23 Listen to me; listen, and pay close attention.24 Does a farmer always plow and never sow? Is he forever cultivating the soil and never planting? 25 Does he not finally plant his seeds–black cumin, cumin, wheat, barley, and emmer wheat–each in its proper way, and each in its proper place? 26 The farmer knows just what to do, for God has given him understanding.27 A heavy sledge is never used to thresh black cumin; rather, it is beaten with a light stick. A threshing wheel is never rolled on cumin; instead, it is beaten lightly with a flail. 28 Grain for bread is easily crushed, so he doesn’t keep on pounding it. He threshes it under the wheels of a cart, but he doesn’t pulverize it.29 The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is a wonderful teacher, and He gives the farmer great wisdom Isaiah 28:21c-29

Dealing with Rebellion....

When a child rebels against a parent the first thing the parent must do is evaluate; is the behavior normal childishness, immature behavior (stupidity), or is it willful defiance? The former should be met with patience and grace. It should be a teaching moment. If the rebellion is the latter of the two, it should be disciplined immediately. No explanations are necessary, no lectures or long talks, just swift consequences. You do this because of your love for your child. You know that discipline teaches like no other form of experience. You know that the consequences of reality now, hopefully, will save the child a lot of pain and suffering in the future. God knows this. He wants all of us to make peace with Him now. It’s His intent, reconciliation. The reason He purposely imposed consequences or disciplines us is to purge the wickedness (rebelliousness) out of our lives, to take away our sin. It’s a shame some people see it as harsh punishment, undeserved, administered by an over-bearing and unloving God. This couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s God’s love for us, that prompts these actions. And it’s for our good, and it’s for our development of godly character. It’s for our future, and His glory.

5 unless they turn to Me for help.Let them make peace with Me;yes, let them make peace with Me.” Isaiah 27:5

7 Has the Lord struck Israel as He struck her enemies?Has He punished her as He punished them?8 No, but He exiled Israel to call her to account.She was exiled from her land as though blown away in a storm from the east.9 The Lord did this to purge Israel’s wickedness, to take away all her sin. As a result, all the pagan altars will be crushed to dust. No Asherah pole or pagan shrine will be left standing. Isaiah 27:7-9

The Motive Behind Giving...

The motive behind “giving” is more important to God than than what is actually given. God loves a cheerful giver. Why? Because the heart of a cheerful giver knows it’s place. It knows Who the gratitude it has in all of its needs being met is God. A cheerful giver is one connected with God. If God gives it, we are to enjoy the gift, but remember the Giver of the gift even more. The gifts are just signs of His love for us. By holding on loosely to the gifts we receive, saves us the remaining strength for holding on tighter to the Giver of those gifts. A cheerful giver exhibits the wisdom of knowing Who really matters in their life. Others benefit by your giving, and God is glorified as well.

6 Remember this–a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8

10 For God is the One who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, He will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.11 Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. 12 So two good things will result from this ministry of giving–the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God.13 As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. 14 And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. 15 Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words! 2 Corinthians 9:10-15

Gossip Can Destroy a Reputation...

Spreading rumors or gossip about someone can destroy their reputation, forever. In today’s day in age, one word that could falsely represent someone, can cause all kinds of heartache. One rumor, one false witness, can cause a lifetime of difficulty for its recipient. Take for example in middle school, a young girl is experiencing her parents divorce. She long’s for connection and understanding. She meets a cute boy, and things happen. Soon, she has rumors spread about her. She becomes the “easy girl”, the “one you can score with”. All because she long’s for that connection she lacks with her father. She begins chasing this misconceived notion that she’ll find it it another man, and with the constant name-calling, she eventually starts to believe that’s all she’s good for. It becomes part of who she is, because of all the rumors. She becomes what everyone else thinks she is, EASY. Our words matter, and no matter what you think their impact will be, you’d better choose them wisely. Words matter, they bless or curse every single time they are released in our voice. Use them to represent others in a way you, yourself would want to be represented, that way you’ll never be accused of telling lies about others.

18 Telling lies about others Is as harmful as hitting them with an ax, wounding them with a sword, or shooting them with a sharp arrow. Proverbs 25:18

God’s Goodness Isn’t Welcomed By All....

You know, no matter how good God is to the wicked, they will never give Him praise. People all over the world hate God, complain about His “not doing this or that”, or totally ignore Him. And yet He still allows rain for their crops, and sunshine for their growth. He gives each of us our next breath, and sends comfort in those that help us through tough times. He provides food for our nourishment, and drink to help in our digestion. He meets the needs of billions of people every single day, yet His kindness to the wicked, does not make them good. They refuse to place their trust, gratitude, and faith in Him. I know it’s a PRIDE issue, but where do they think all these blessings come from? All their needs being met, are because of Who? They take no notice of His majesty. Why? Probably because they have wants that aren’t being obtained. Their selfish desires leave God’s will out of their lives. Their self-centeredness can’t fulfill what God has planned for them because it contradicts all that God is about. Yet even then, God still shows His kindness to us all. His kindness is meant to lead us to repentance (Romans 2:4). Yet to the wicked, it does not make them good. Only those (through faith in Jesus) are seen as righteous and good in God’s eyes.

Your kindness to the wicked does not make them do good. Although others do right, the wicked keep doing wrong and take no notice of the Lord’s majesty. Isaiah 26:10

Go to God....

With so much hatred, prejudice, and evil in this world, it amazes me how few go to God with their concerns. Everyone wants to take control and try to “fix it” themselves. It never works. Without the Spirit of God moving in you, people’s attempts to cure this disease is all in vain It’s like rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic, aesthetically pleasing to the eye, but all for naught. One day, God will do away with prejudice and evil, but until then, refuse to put your hope in any one else but Him, and go to Him with all your requests and concerns.

8 He will swallow up death forever!The Sovereign Lord will wipe away all tears.He will remove forever all insults and mockery against His land and people.The Lord has spoken! 9 In that day the people will proclaim,“This is our God! We trusted in Him, and He saved us! This is the Lord, in whom we trusted. Let us rejoice in the salvation He brings!” Isaiah 25:8-9

When God Carries Out His Justice...

When God carries out His Justice, there is no running away to avoid it. The only answer there is is to throw yourself at His feet and beg forgiveness. He is loving enough to do what is right. For those that think otherwise, think again. 12 He says, “Never again will you rejoice, O daughter of Sidon, for you have been crushed. Even if you flee to Cyprus, you will find no rest.” Isaiah 23:12

Spotting False Prophets...

False prophets, what the Bible says about them. Taken from Jeremiah chapter 23. 1. they break God’s heart. 2. The land is full of adultery and under a curse because of their lies. 3. They all do evil and abuse their influence/power 4. They live dishonesty, and encourage others to do the same (they don’t turn people away from their sin) 5. They promote futile hope, by making up everything they say, for selfish gain 6. They tell people not to worry who despise God’s word, telling them they will still have peace. 7. To those that practice their selfish, they tell them “no harm will come your way”. 8. These false prophets never go into the Lord’s presence, because they don’t want to hear what God has to say (they don’t care). 9. They think they can hide from God 10. They get so caught up in their own agenda that they get people to forget God 11. God allows them to preach for a short while at times as punishment for those that don’t take the time to pursue Him, or that don’t care to know Him. 12. Their punishment will be an erased memory of their existence, expelled from God’s existence, and while they are still alive, they will be an object of ridicule for all to see. A true follower will always speak truth, turn people away from sin, and point them back to God.

9 My heart is broken because of the false prophets,and my bones tremble.I stagger like a drunkard,like someone overcome by wine,because of the holy wordsthe Lord has spoken against them.10 For the land is full of adultery,and it lies under a curse.The land itself is in mourning–its wilderness pastures are dried up.For they all do eviland abuse what power they have. 11 “Even the priests and prophetsare ungodly, wicked men.I have seen their despicable actsright here in My own Temple,”says the Lord.12 “Therefore, the paths they takewill become slippery.They will be chased through the dark,and there they will fall.For I will bring disaster upon themat the time fixed for their punishment.I, the Lord, have spoken! 13 “I saw that the prophets of Samaria were terribly evil,for they prophesied in the name of Baaland led My people of Israel into sin.14 But now I see that the prophets of Jerusalem are even worse!They commit adultery and love dishonesty.They encourage those who are doing evilso that no one turns away from their sins.These prophets are as wickedas the people of Sodom and Gomorrah once were.” 15 Therefore, this is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says concerning the prophets: “I will feed them with bitternessand give them poison to drink.For it is because of Jerusalem’s prophetsthat wickedness has filled this land.” 16 This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says to His people: “Do not listen to these prophets when they prophesy to you,filling you with futile hopes.They are making up everything they say.They do not speak for the Lord!17 They keep saying to those who despise My word,‘Don’t worry! The Lord says you will have peace!’And to those who stubbornly follow their own desires,they say, ‘No harm will come your way!’ 18 “Have any of these prophets been in the Lord’s presenceto hear what He is really saying?Has even one of them cared enough to listen?19 Look! The Lord’s anger bursts out like a storm,a whirlwind that swirls down on the heads of the wicked.20 The anger of the Lord will not diminishuntil it has finished all He has planned.In the days to comeyou will understand all this very clearly. 21 “I have not sent these prophets,yet they run around claiming to speak for Me.I have given them no message,yet they go on prophesying.22 If they had stood before Me and listened to Me,they would have spoken My words,and they would have turned My peoplefrom their evil ways and deeds.23 Am I a God who is only close at hand?” says the Lord.“No, I am far away at the same time.24 Can anyone hide from Me in a secret place?Am I not everywhere in all the heavens and earth?”says the Lord. 25 “I have heard these prophets say, ‘Listen to the dream I had from God last night.’ And then they proceed to tell lies in My name. 26 How long will this go on? If they are prophets, they are prophets of deceit, inventing everything they say. 27 By telling these false dreams, they are trying to get My people to forget Me, just as their ancestors did by worshiping the idols of Baal. 28 “Let these false prophets tell their dreams,but let My true messengers faithfully proclaim My every word.There is a difference between straw and grain!29 Does not My word burn like fire?”says the Lord.“Is it not like a mighty hammerthat smashes a rock to pieces? 30 “Therefore,” says the Lord, “I am against these prophets who steal messages from each other and claim they are from Me. 31 I am against these smooth-tongued prophets who say, ‘This prophecy is from the Lord!’ 32 I am against these false prophets. Their imaginary dreams are flagrant lies that lead My people into sin. I did not send or appoint them, and they have no message at all for My people. I, the Lord have spoken! False Prophecies and False Prophets 33 “Suppose one of the people or one of the prophets or priests asks you, ‘What prophecy has the Lord burdened you with now?’ You must reply, ‘You are the burden! The Lord says He will abandon you!’34 “If any prophet, priest, or anyone else says, ‘I have a prophecy from the Lord,’ I will punish that person along with his entire family. 35 You should keep asking each other, ‘What is the Lord’s answer?’ or ‘What is the Lord saying?’ 36 But stop using this phrase, ‘prophecy from the Lord.’ For people are using it to give authority to their own ideas, turning upside down the words of our God, the living God, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.37 “This is what you should say to the prophets: ‘What is the Lord’s answer?’ or ‘What is the Lord saying?’ 38 But suppose they respond, ‘This is a prophecy from the Lord!’ Then you should say, ‘This is what the Lord says: Because you have used this phrase, “prophecy from the Lord,” even though I warned you not to use it, 39 I will forget you completely. I will expel you from My presence, along with this city that I gave to you and your ancestors. 40 And I will make you an object of ridicule, and your name will be infamous throughout the ages.’ ” Jeremiah 23:9-40

The Desire to Make Things Right....

True repentance is the desire to make things right. And the courage to do it. Only God can give us that. That’s the freedom Jesus talked about in setting us free. If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed. We have been greatly encouraged by this. In addition to our own encouragement, we were especially delighted to see how happy Titus was about the way all of you welcomed Him and set his mind at ease. 14 I had told him how proud I was of you–and you didn’t disappoint me. I have always told you the truth, and now my boasting to Titus has also proved true! 15 Now he cares for you more than ever when he remembers the way all of you obeyed him and welcomed him with such fear and deep respect. 16 I am very happy now because I have complete confidence in you. 2 Corinthians 7:13c-16

Sorrow, Know the Difference...

Godly sorrow leads to repentance, something God wants. Worldly sorrow leads to spiritual death, something God doesn’t want. He knows the difference. And through experience, we will too.

I am not sorry that I sent that severe letter to you, though I was sorry at first, for I know it was painful to you for a little while. 9 Now I am glad I sent it, not because it hurt you, but because the pain caused you to repent and change your ways. It was the kind of sorrow God wants His people to have, so you were not harmed by us in any way. 10 For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death.11 Just see what this godly sorrow produced in you! Such earnestness, such concern to clear yourselves, such indignation, such alarm, such longing to see me, such zeal, and such a readiness to punish wrong. You showed that you have done everything necessary to make things right. 2 Corinthians 7:8-11

Say and Mean What You Say....

Here’s a simple concept that goes a long, long way with people: be a man of your word. Simply say what you mean. Mean what you say. Over time it will establish a trust and rapport that will win friends (the real, loyal kind) and help influence people. Integrity matters. It starts with being a man of your word.

14 A person who promises a gift but doesn’t give itis like clouds and wind that bring no rain. Proverbs 25:14

God Always Rescues....

God will always rescue us from our distress, if our cries are genuine (willing to accept His help regardless of what form it shows up in). Either here on earth, or escorted into Heaven. He will not allow us to suffer more than we can bear.

6 “Lord, help!” they cried in their trouble,and He rescued them from their distress.7 He led them straight to safety,to a city where they could live.8 Let them praise the Lord for His great love and for the wonderful things He has done for them.9 For He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things. Psalms 107:6-9

The World Moves On....

I think the biggest problem with man is his inability to comprehend and except the sovereignty of God. I mean who are we to think we own anything? Who are we to tell others what to do when we ourselves don’t really know how to do it? And who are we to step in and attempt to play God? When it’s all said and done, everything we own will belong to someone else. All of our knowledge will be useless. And in our attempts to be in control, we will lose it. The world continues to move on, after we are gone. Someone will replace you at your job. You’ll be a distant memory, only held by those you’ve touched in a special way. God’s sovereignty needs to be taken seriously. We need to act accordingly to it. When we do, humility and obedience follow.

“Yes, I will drive you out of office,” says the Lord. “I will pull you down from your high position. 20 And then I will call My servant Eliakim son of Hilkiah to replace you. 21 I will dress him in your royal robes and will give him your title and your authority. And he will be a father to the people of Jerusalem and Judah. 22 I will give him the key to the house of David–the highest position in the royal court. When he opens doors, no one will be able to close them; when he closes doors, no one will be able to open them Isaiah 22:19-22

The Longer You Go Without...

God allows us to know Him, those that pursue Him, will, and those who don’t pursue Him, won’t. The longer you go leaving God out of your life, the further and harder it is to get back to Him. Sometimes, it’s impossible to get back.

But you never ask for help from the One who did all this.You never considered the One who planned this long ago. 12 At that time the Lord, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies,called you to weep and mourn.He told you to shave your heads in sorrow for your sinsand to wear clothes of burlap to show your remorse.13 But instead, you dance and play;you slaughter cattle and kill sheep.You feast on meat and drink wine.You say, “Let’s feast and drink,for tomorrow we die!” 14 The Lord of Heaven’s Armies has revealed this to me: “Till the day you die, you will never be forgiven for this sin.” That is the judgment of the Lord, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. Isaiah 22:11c-14

Trust is a Reward....

There’s no greater reward to an employer than knowing he can trust his employees. Integrity matters, Godly integrity. There are no holidays for it either.

13 Trustworthy messengers refresh like snow in summer.They revive the spirit of their employer. Proverbs 25:13