Stay Focused….

In our current time (Nov 2020), this passage couldn’t be the best reminder of where our faith and hope should be placed, in God. God controls the the course of world events. He removes people in power and replaces them with others. If we place our trust in anything other than God Himself, we will guarantee ourselves one big mess of our thought life and outlook. God is in control. He always has been, and always will be. We have to keep our focus on Him in order to manage our thoughts, emotions, and future hope. It’s that simple, just hard to be consistent doing. Ask Him right now to help you stay focused on the only Thing that doesn’t move or change, God alone.

19 That night the secret was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven. 20 He said, “Praise the name of God forever and ever,for He has all wisdom and power.21 He controls the course of world events;He removes kings and sets up other kings.He gives wisdom to the wiseand knowledge to the scholars.22 He reveals deep and mysterious thingsand knows what lies hidden in darkness,though He is surrounded by light.23 I thank and praise You, God of my ancestors,for You have given me wisdom and strength.You have told me what we asked of Youand revealed to us what the king demanded.” Daniel 2:19-23

See It As Peter Saw It….

In today’s world of slanted/biased news, we hear of how evil continues to thrive, and more and more of nothing being done about it. It’s easy to let it get us down. But it only takes one reminder to change it all. Instead of interpreting Christian persecution (churches being shut down, abortion being a civil right, marriage redefined, etc...) as a personal attack, or a horrible thing, take Peter’s stance on this topic. See it as Peter saw it, “be happy...”, for it proves God’s Spirit rests upon us. This discomfort we experience will not outweigh the reward we will receive for enduring the suffering and continuing to follow, praise, and preach the Good News. And for those that are doing the persecuting, judgement awaits them. An accurate, deserved, and 100% applicable sentence will be carried out against them. We need not worry or fret over the justice that will be served to them. They will get what they deserve, and we need not be anxious over it. When we suffer for being Christian, we experience what Jesus experienced (to a degree) and it draws us closer to Him. He will never fail us, so continue to keep doing what is “right”, trusting God will keep us in His will. Persecution is proof God exists, and it’s a way of drawing closer to Jesus by experiencing what He experienced. When it’s over, we will be closer to Him, wiser in our walk, and stronger in our faith. That’s reason to be happy instead of down and sad, isn’t it?

14 So be happy when you are insulted for being a Christian, for then the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you. 15 If you suffer, however, it must not be for murder, stealing, making trouble, or prying into other people’s affairs. 16 But it is no shame to suffer for being a Christian. Praise God for the privilege of being called by His name! 17 For the time has come for judgment, and it must begin with God’s household. And if judgment begins with us, what terrible fate awaits those who have never obeyed God’s Good News? 18 And also, “If the righteous are barely saved,what will happen to godless sinners?” 19 So if you are suffering in a manner that pleases God, keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for He will never fail you. 1 Peter 4:14-19

The Power Of Sin Is Unrestrained Selfishness….

The older I get the more I realize what life is about. It’s the same for all people. Regardless if you believe in God and follow Him, or not, life is all about managing our selfishness. Coping with unmet expectations, handling conflict, dealing with infirmities, accepting loss, managing our possessions, raising children, working for a living, and seeking pleasure and escape from reality are all part of the process. We all experience these things, it doesn’t matter who we are. What matters is our attitude towards them. Without God we have no clear cut path. We see life as an accumulation of things, a race to out do our families and friends, and a limited amount of time to seek out pleasure. If that means stepping on others’ toes, so be it. There’s no purpose, no real responsibility, and in the end, nothing. This type of view is controlled by the power of sin. It says, “live your life the way you want to, you’re not accountable to anyone, and he who has the most toys wins”. In essence, the power of sin is unrestrained selfishness, with absolutely no regard for God or others. There’s no mechanism that is available to help us manage these desires, and thus, no way out from under sin’s control. The only way human beings can live outside of sin’s powerful control is to let go of our selfish nature. That’s what God’s Spirit does inside of a believer (helps humble us). His Spirit gives us the ability to say “NO” to our selfishness. It gives us Someone to be accountable to. It gives us a desire that has greater power than sin’s power. The second we surrender, and die to self, our attitude informs us there’s more to life than chasing after our own desires. Pursuing God has more benefits and greater rewards than serving self. And it proves it by curbing the desires of sin by exposing its deception. When we get that new position at work, or new car or home we’ve always wanted, we realize these are just things that consume our thoughts and time, but fail to deliver the satisfaction we thought it promised it would. It’s not until we are willing to suffer for Jesus’ sake, that we are freed from the enticement sin has to offer. It’s when we die to self that selfishness loses its luster. How can something dead, play a live role in our lives? It’s when we determine that God matters most that we set our selfishness aside and pursue His ways, His goals, and His purpose. Yes, we will always have the allure of sin, but only with Jesus will we ever be freed from its power, to walk away from selfish desires, and live the life we were meant to live. What kind of attitude do you have when it comes to your own selfishness? Is it under control? Or out of control? There is an answer. His name is Jesus, and He’s wanting your selfish desires to surrender to Him. It’s the only proven method in managing selfishness. When we are willing to be selfless, the power of sin loses it grip on us.

So then, since Christ suffered physical pain, you must arm yourselves with the same attitude He had, and be ready to suffer, too. For if you have suffered physically for Christ, you have finished with sin. 2 You won’t spend the rest of your lives chasing your own desires, but you will be anxious to do the will of God. 3 You have had enough in the past of the evil things that godless people enjoy–their immorality and lust, their feasting and drunkenness and wild parties, and their terrible worship of idols.4 Of course, your former friends are surprised when you no longer plunge into the flood of wild and destructive things they do. So they slander you. 5 But remember that they will have to face God, who will judge everyone, both the living and the dead. 6 That is why the Good News was preached to those who are now dead–so although they were destined to die like all people, they now live forever with God in the Spirit. 1 Peter 4:1-6

He Is The Remedy/Answer To The World….

In a world filled with more and more anxiety and depression, there is a way to help manage it. Don’t join in when gossip calls. Refrain from speaking evil. Speak the truth instead of lies. Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it. God will hear your prays if we stay connected. And the hopelessness that anxiety and depression bring will slowly lose its grip on us. Connect with God today. Ask Him to empower you with His Spirit. He is the remedy/answer to the world.

For the Scriptures say, “If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies.11 Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it.12 The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right,and His ears are open to their prayers. But the Lord turns His face against those who do evil.” 1 Peter 3:10-12

The Guardian Of Our Soul….

Never forget, if you are a believer in Jesus: God is the Guardian of our soul.

25 Once you were like sheep who wandered away. But now you have turned to your Shepherd, the Guardian of your souls. 1 Peter 2:25

God Wrote The Rules….

In the Supreme Court of the United States of America carved on the wall is the Ten Commandments. Regardless what anyone says, these principles are based on God’s regulations. He is the ultimate Judge. God wrote the rules that govern the earth, and thus His ways are the only ones that work. In order for a society to exist it must have basic laws. These laws must apply to everyone. They must be fair and equitable. But everyone has to make themselves accountable to these laws, and accountable to God. Take God out of the equation, and humanity’s sinful nature eventually destroys that society. Show me a country that’s laws seem to work, that are not based on God’s regulations, and I’ll show you a country that’s governed by controlling, selfish people. It’s just a matter of time that a society will implode without laws and rules based on truth. Any type of legislation that is not based upon God’s ways is a society one step away from non-existence.

24 “They will serve as judges to resolve any disagreements among My people. Their decisions must be based on My regulations. And the priests themselves must obey My instructions and decrees at all the sacred festivals, and see to it that the Sabbaths are set apart as holy days. Ezekiel 44:24

No Foreigner Will Ever Enter…

God doesn’t change. He may change His mind, but His character never changes. This holds true to those who have no heart for Him. Without repentance, and trust in Jesus (surrendering themselves to the Lord), no foreigner will ever enter into God’s sanctuary. It’s impossible to please God without making Jesus Lord of your life.

7 You have brought uncircumcised foreigners into My sanctuary–people who have no heart for God. In this way, you defiled My Temple even as you offered Me My food, the fat and blood of sacrifices. In addition to all your other detestable sins, you have broken My covenant. 8 Instead of safeguarding My sacred rituals, you have hired foreigners to take charge of My sanctuary.9 “So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: No foreigners, including those who live among the people of Israel, will enter My sanctuary if they have not been circumcised and have not surrendered themselves to the Lord. Ezekiel 44:7-9

Why Is God Not Punishing Them?

Any time we allow the thought of evil people prospering by committing evil acts, we must never let it translate to “why is God not punishing them?” Lost souls live lives trapped by the power of sin. They are prisoners in their own bodies. And even though we may never hear about the the consequences of a conscience that continually dominates their thought life, tormenting them day and night, God’s truth remains. Evil behavior produces incarceration of the soul. The true believer is not free from sin, but free from the power of sin. Believers have a way of dealing with temptation, and unrighteousness thoughts. Believers have an outlet for when guilt arises. Guilt is a good thing. It tells us something is wrong. Then it gives us a choice to do something about it, to make it right. Unbelievers don’t have that ability. They don’t have access to a power that can over come sin. They are left with the shame of having to live with their sin, with no hope of ever making it right (go away). So the next time you witness an evil act, and it goes unpunished, remember this truth: evil people are trapped by sin. It’s punishment that goes on, unseen. Then thank God for His precious gift of grace; and its power to overcome.

6 Evil people are trapped by sin, but the righteous escape, shouting for joy. Proverbs 29:6

Flattery Is Just A Front….

Flattery, is never what it seems to be. According to this proverb, we need to be cautious when we hear it directed our way. When people tell us something that they admire about us in an inflated, built up manner, we need to use discernment instead of believing it right away. Flattery is just a front people put up when they are uncomfortable around others but yet desire something from them. It’s a way of manipulating someone in a nice, yet somewhat undetectable way. The best way to deal with these pseudo-compliments is to use discernment and respond with humility. God will protect us from people that want to take advantage of us especially when we are connected to Him, and pursuing Him daily. I’m skeptical when people try to flatter me because the first thing I think is, “they really don’t know me, to be telling me this. What exactly do they want from me?”. So the next time flattery comes knocking at your door, answer it with discernment and humility. It will guarantee these deceptive snake oil salesmen won’t have reason to come back again.

5 To flatter friends is to lay a trap for their feet. Proverbs 29:5

An Anchor For My Soul…

If you’ve been reading these daily writings for very long you’ve probably established that the messages are very similar. The main concepts don’t change. It may seem like you’d want to learn new content, new concepts. It might even seem boring. Christianity’s message is simple, it doesn’t change. The main idea is crystal clear. Why? God doesn’t change. His word doesn’t change. The more we become familiar with it, the more we can become bored with it or take it for granted. Here’s the core truth about God’s word, it doesn’t change, rather it changes us. Never forget this. God’s word never changes. If you read it when you’re 20 years old, then read it when you’re 50 years old, the words will stay the same. The difference is their meaning to us will change. It will become deeper and more precious to us. The longer we stay connected it’s deeper message will resonate with us. It’s like digging for treasure. At first we are excited, then after a few feet we get tired, we start to lose that excitement. As we press on the anticipation may fade, but we know it’s there. After 10 or 20 feet, doubts creep in, but inside we know there’s treasure there so we keep digging. The hope of that treasure keeps us going until, “bam”, our shovel hits the treasure chest. The reward is well worth all the struggles and emotions we experience. The digging stayed the same, but the process brought about a rollercoaster of thoughts, anxieties, stress, and hard work. This experience solidifies our pursuit of more treasure. Each time we dig, it’s the same process, the same hard work, the same emotional experience, but it’s the treasure that makes it all worth it. We work side by side with new people and see how their responses have similarities and differences. Our experiences have shaped our thinking process to the point where the excitement isn’t as great as it once was, but the final outcome is always more rewarding. God’s word never changes. And His message doesn’t change either. However, His word and His message changes us. As we age (dig), we get closer to discovering its treasure. Finally we discover it, and enjoy the reward. As we press on, daily reading His word, it becomes alive, and it means so much more as we get through life. The Bible says God’s word is alive, it cuts through all the BS (Heb 4:12). It tells us it never returns void; it accomplishes exactly what it’s supposed to (Isa 55:8-11). It equips us for every good work (2Tim 3:16-17). You see, if God’s word every gets boring to us, there’s something wrong with us. His word doesn’t change, and His message remains the same, but it meets us where we are in life, and walks along side of us. It helps us when we need it, and gives us insights into our lives that benefits not only us but others as well. The way we see God’s word is paramount. If we see it in any other way than what it actually is, the most powerful thing we can use and possess, then we must examine our motives and evaluate our relational status with God. Most likely, we will find our stance creeping toward the worldly line, wanting to step across and have one foot in the world while digging in with solid traction on the Godly/Spiritual side. This is the most dangerous place to be. It’s the most susceptible position to be in. It’s also when we will find ourselves viewing God’s word as boring or not applicable to our lives. Don’t allow yourself to stay there. Pull back, retreat. You may find yourself experiencing anxiety or depression. You can’t serve two masters. God’s word never changes, it just changes us. It’s alive and active, and it stands forever. It’s what helps us through rough times, mediocre times, good times, and great times. God’s message may seem simple, and you may become so familiar with it, you start to take it for granted. Don’t lose heart, it will rescue lost souls, heal hurting souls, and continue to sanctify souls until He returns. We can count on that, even when we lose sight of its function and purpose. God’s word accomplishes everything it’s set out to do. It’s why I love it so much. In an ever changing world, God’s word keeps me grounded; it’s great to have an anchor for my soul.

8 The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.” Isaiah 40:8

12 For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Hebrews 4:12

8 “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord.“And My ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.9 For just as the heavens are higher than the earth,so My ways are higher than your waysand My thoughts higher than your thoughts. 10 “The rain and snow come down from the heavensand stay on the ground to water the earth.They cause the grain to grow,producing seed for the farmerand bread for the hungry.11 It is the same with My word.I send it out, and it always produces fruit.It will accomplish all I want it to,and it will prosper everywhere I send it. Isaiah 55:8-11

16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip His people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

As The Great Exchange….

The authentic Christian life can be best summarized as the great exchange. It’s a transformation that comes out of a transaction that took place on a cross over 2,000 years ago. The best evidence of a saved soul is the transformation of one’s heart. It’s not possible without a heart transplant. It’s the beginning of a sanctified life. Only God can perform this transplant, and it’s always 100% successful. How do you know an authentic Christian from a pretender? Evidence from a transformed life. The same Spirit that lives in believers unites them immediately. The evidence of a transplanted heart is lived out in a transformed life. A transformed life produces and displays fruit. What kind of fruit? The fruit of the Spirit, the Holy Spirit.

26 And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. 27 And I will put My Spirit in you so that you will follow My decrees and be careful to obey My regulations. Ezekiel 36:26-27

The Ungodly Have No Restraint…

I’m not in any way saying our current president is godly, but the platform on which he stands is biblical. The reason we have such a different response to who is in power in our country is this: the ungodly have no restraint. They hold nothing back. They let loose with hell-fire and fury. The godly show restraint. They show respect. And their response is groaning, not violence and evil acts. Why do you think America made it through 4 years of a leftist, socialistic administration? This proverb explains a lot. It’s because of godly people that America is still here. Once we do away with that, there will be no more United States of America. American was designed to be self-governing, with accountability to God. Without God, it will slowly implode.

2 When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan. Proverbs 29:2

Blatant Disregard For God….

When I see people’s blatant disregard for God I always wondered how God felt about it. Here in Ezekiel chapter 36, we get a glimpse of God’s response to those who oppose Him, by showing His people pure disrespect. When people abuse or take advantage of God’s people, He sees to it that they are paid back with the same methods, but with greater intensity. I guess this is what Hebrews 10:31 means when it says, “it is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God”. I guess the point that needs to be made is that when anyone gleefully abuses or takes advantage of God’s people, it reveals their contempt for God Himself. This is just one more reason to be on God’s side, and remember that when He takes vengeance, it’s 100% deserved, justified, and thoroughly investigated to completeness. You are either for God, or against Him. There’s no other options, including sitting on the fence and watching. Just because we live in a modern society, and post-OT biblical view (with many churches confusing grace with conviction) doesn’t change how God deals with evil, especially evil done to His Own people. God will always repay evil with justice. Leave vengeance to God. It’s His job alone.

5 This is what the Sovereign Lord says: My jealous anger burns against these nations, especially Edom, because they have shown utter contempt for Me by gleefully taking My land for themselves as plunder.6 “Therefore, prophesy to the hills and mountains, the ravines and valleys of Israel. This is what the Sovereign Lord says: I am furious that you have suffered shame before the surrounding nations. 7 Therefore, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I have taken a solemn oath that those nations will soon have their own shame to endure. Ezekiel 36:5-7

When Times Get You Down…

When times get you down, relationships let you down, and your health betrays you, remember, we are not home yet. We have the comfort, security, and peace-abiding experience of our real home in Heaven in front of us. Set your eyes on this prize. It will help you deal with all that goes along with living in this temporary home called earth. We are not home yet.

14 For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come. Hebrews 13:14

Do What The American Dollar Actually Tells Us To Do….

Money can never replace God. If you do what the American dollar actually tells us to do, the security God meant for every human being on planet Earth to have, will become a reality, anchored in our relationship with Him. “In God We Trust”, not “in _________ (fill in the blank here) we trust”. Money is a gift from God to be used for His glory. Money is not a substitute for God, that was never its purpose. You will either see it from God’s perspective, or use it to your own demise.

Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you.I will never abandon you.” 6 So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?” Hebrews 13:5-6

The Next Time You Witness Persecution…

The next time you witness persecution and unjust treatment being exercised either against you or someone else, don’t fret, remember what Jesus endured. The same Spirit in Him resides in you. “Lord, empower us with Your Spirit, let it build our resolve to endure and honor You with our actions, regardless of the consequences.”

1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting Him, He endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now He is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. 3 Think of all the hostility He endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up. 4 After all, you have not yet given your lives in your struggle against sin. Hebrews 12:1-4

Are You Unshakable?

Are you unshakeable? Do you live your live from an eternal perspective? Or do you have one foot firmly planted on the ground in this world? If you find yourself in the latter situation, remember only those things that have endured the quaking will remain.

25 Be careful that you do not refuse to listen to the One who is speaking. For if the people of Israel did not escape when they refused to listen to Moses, the earthly messenger, we will certainly not escape if we reject the One who speaks to us from heaven! 26 When God spoke from Mount Sinai His voice shook the earth, but now He makes another promise: “Once again I will shake not only the earth but the heavens also.” 27 This means that all of creation will be shaken and removed, so that only unshakable things will remain.28 Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping Him with holy fear and awe. 29 For our God is a devouring fire. Hebrews 12:25-29

There’s A Big Difference Between…

There’s a big difference between trusting yourself vs trusting God. True wisdom has only One Source. If you’re 100% honest with yourself, Who/who do you go to for insight? What is the result?

26 Those who trust their own insight are foolish, but anyone who walks in wisdom is safe. Proverbs 28:26

Sometimes We Have To Go Through Suffering…

Sometimes we have to go through suffering in order to be set free from the power of sin, from the deception Satan has bound us in. It may be painful, and leave noticeable scars, but it will be worth it to live in the freedom of God’s grace. Thank You Lord, for every moment up until this point. You have shaped me into the person you’ve wanted me to become. The sanctification process isn’t easy or glamorous, but it is worth the finished product, closer to resembling Jesus. Thank You Lord, for all that You have done for me.

1 From my earliest youth my enemies have persecuted me.Let all Israel repeat this:2 From my earliest youth my enemies have persecuted me,but they have never defeated me.3 My back is covered with cuts,as if a farmer had plowed long furrows.4 But the Lord is good;He has cut me free from the ropes of the ungodly. Psalms 129:1-4

Only One Person That Can Handle Prosperity….

For every 100 people that handle adversity, there’s only one person that can handle prosperity. Why is that? Pride. Wealth is one of the greatest deceivers. It makes us think we are invincible. This leads us to replace our dependence upon God with the pseudo-security wealth brings with it. Having means (wealth) gives us the ability to say “No” to God. Once this happens, Pride sprouts and grows like bamboo in its glory. Pride is the the one sin that God won’t forgive when it’s run it’s course. Pride got Lucifer booted out of Heaven. It tormented Samson his entire life. It carried Judas to a tree where he hanged himself in selfish pity. And it keeps millions of souls out of Heaven. Wealth is just another way Satan deceives people into believing his way of keeping people away from God. Is wealth bad? No. Like I stated earlier, there are the 1 out of 100 that handle it. But the only way they can deal with what wealth brings to the table is by having the right perspective. That perspective is knowing Who it is that saves. It’s knowing Who to go to when trouble comes. Who to thank when things go well. It’s knowing our place in the grand scheme of things. It’s knowing who we are, and why we are here (our purpose). Without God all of this is not possible. God made all things, things of great value, so when He blesses us with their possession, He expects us to have the right response. And that response is knowing Who the Giver is of these gifts. The gift is great, but not greater than the Giver. Wealth will grow your pride faster than anything else if you allow it to replace God, for pride says, “God step aside”. It’s all in how we see it.

Then this message came to me from the Lord: 2 “Son of man, give the prince of Tyre this message from the Sovereign Lord: “In your great pride you claim, ‘I am a god!I sit on a divine throne in the heart of the sea.’But you are only a man and not a god,though you boast that you are a god.3 You regard yourself as wiser than Danieland think no secret is hidden from you.4 With your wisdom and understanding you have amassed great wealth–gold and silver for your treasuries.5 Yes, your wisdom has made you very rich,and your riches have made you very proud. 6 “Therefore, this is what the Sovereign Lord says:Because you think you are as wise as a god,7 I will now bring against you a foreign army,the terror of the nations.They will draw their swords against your marvelous wisdomand defile your splendor!8 They will bring you down to the pit,and you will die in the heart of the sea,pierced with many wounds.9 Will you then boast, ‘I am a god!’to those who kill you?To them you will be no godbut merely a man!10 You will die like an outcastat the hands of foreigners.I, the Sovereign Lord, have spoken!” Ezekiel 28:1-10

The Antidote For Selfishness….

One of the most underrated and less appreciated effects of the Holy Spirit residing in us is its ability to help us focus our attention on what’s most important. It helps us get our eyes off of ourselves, and onto the tasks at hand. It helps us seize the moment by shifting our attention off of “what do I get out of it”, and onto “what can I do to help another”. This is the only power on earth that can overcome our sinful nature. He’s the antidote for selfishness. That’s what true love does. Selfishness causes dissension, but love unites. When we set aside our greed (selfish desires), and focus on unifying, prosperity (unity in Spirit) happens across the board. Selfless acts of love will always prosper, always.

25 Greed causes fighting; trusting the Lord leads to prosperity. Proverbs 28:25

Evil Will Always Mock, Ridicule, And Persecute….

Do you know how I know the radicals living in this country will not succeed in pushing their agenda past the point of no return? God will punish those that celebrate the discipline of His followers. Those who celebrate abortion, same-sex marriage, the promotion of any and all sexual promiscuity, and edification of homosexuality, transgenderism, and any other illicit sexual behaviors will not succeed. When protesters violently oppose peaceful displays of support for God’s principles, then laugh at them when they speak, they will not go without punishment. I saw a lady once holding a sign that read, “I enjoyed my Abortion”. This is exactly what I’m talking about. Or the guy who was put in jail for exposing Planned Parenthood’s selling of aborted baby parts, being mocked and unjustly punished for standing up for the rights of the unborn. By the way there was a case of native Americans recently prosecuted for selling bald eagle parts. Tell me there’s something wrong here. Evil will always mock , ridicule, and persecute those who do right, but God will not turn a blind eye to it. He will always punish those who celebrate when His people are disciplined by Him. Even when small victories seem prevalent among the masses, Evil doesn’t win the battle. God will see to it that evil will always be punished. Even those who mock His people aren’t immune to this principle.

6 “This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Because you clapped and danced and cheered with glee at the destruction of My people, 7 I will raise My fist of judgment against you. I will give you as plunder to many nations. I will cut you off from being a nation and destroy you completely. Then you will know that I am the Lord. Ezekiel 25:6-7

Without Faith, Creation Isn’t A Concept….

I never noticed this before, but it’s clear here in Hebrews chapter 11: without faith creation isn’t a concept we can fully believe in. It takes faith to believe God created everything. So without God, creation is just a fairytale. Without faith, we cannot please God. Without faith there is no hope. Faith is the connection with God that helps us understand the universe. Now you know why people will argue to their death, the theory of evolution. Evolution is the explanation of the universe that doesn’t include God. It’s impossible to embrace creation without faith. Never forget this.

3 By faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at God’s command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen. Hebrews 11:3

6 And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to Him must believe that God exists and that He rewards those who sincerely seek Him. Hebrews 11:6

Honesty And Deception Start From The Same Place….

Honesty and deception start from the same place, within the heart. There are two kinds of people in this world, honest and deceptive/pretenders. Better put, selfish vs more selfish. We all have these qualities, it’s just how we deal with it that matters. There’s no better way to see the difference than when criticism comes into play. Honest people may not like criticism but over time take it in, process it, and become better people because of it. Honest people have the ability to handle criticism. They take the truth, apply it to their situation, making them better, all the while throwing out the negative untruth. Honest people use discernment, God’s wisdom, to handle criticism. For we are not the ultimate Judge of things. Deceptive people hate hearing anything negative or critical about them. They immediately deny any accurate information, deflecting truth, then start attacking the critic. They either totally reject the correct information or pretend to not be the way they are being critiqued. They rationalize and justify their behavior at any cost. The point this proverb makes is crystal clear: when we are confronted with the truth, the amount of time it takes us to process it will determine the state of our well-being. The shorter amount of time proves our ability to be honest with ourselves. The longer it takes shows how thick our pride really is. Choose today, Whom you will serve, God or self. The outcomes will be at the opposite ends of the spectrum. Instant gratification or long-term solace, the choice is yours to make.

23 In the end, people appreciate honest criticism far more than flattery. Proverbs 28:23

Maybe Your Spiritual Eyeglasses Need A New Prescription…

If reading this passage doesn’t make you think of modern day America (as of November 2020), then maybe your spiritual eyeglasses need a new prescription. And people say the Bible is irrelevant. Politicians, protesters, the media, celebrities, athletes, and even nominal Christians seem to fit the descriptions in this passage. Times may change but people certainly don’t. The best news in all of this is God doesn’t change. He is worthy of our attention, the only One worthy of our faith. This book, the Bible, has the answer to the world’s problems, but unfortunately, it’s losing its popularity to political correctness. God never intended His word and His ways to be a popularity contest. He will use whomever responds to His call. Jesus picked 12 (11 served Him), and look what it did to the world! Stay the course, hold fast to what is true, and finish the race that’s been set before you. Then you will hear those all encompassing words, “well done, good and faithful servant”.

23 Again a message came to me from the Lord: 24 “Son of man, give the people of Israel this message: In the day of My indignation, you will be like a polluted land, a land without rain. 25 Your princes plot conspiracies just as lions stalk their prey. They devour innocent people, seizing treasures and extorting wealth. They make many widows in the land. 26 Your priests have violated My instructions and defiled My holy things. They make no distinction between what is holy and what is not. And they do not teach My people the difference between what is ceremonially clean and unclean. They disregard My Sabbath days so that I am dishonored among them. 27 Your leaders are like wolves who tear apart their victims. They actually destroy people’s lives for money! 28 And your prophets cover up for them by announcing false visions and making lying predictions. They say, ‘My message is from the Sovereign Lord,’ when the Lord hasn’t spoken a single word to them. 29 Even common people oppress the poor, rob the needy, and deprive foreigners of justice.30 “I looked for someone who might rebuild the wall of righteousness that guards the land. I searched for someone to stand in the gap in the wall so I wouldn’t have to destroy the land, but I found no one. 31 So now I will pour out My fury on them, consuming them with the fire of My anger. I will heap on their heads the full penalty for all their sins. I, the Sovereign Lord, have spoken!” Ezekiel 22:23-31

One Sacrifice That Appeases God’s Anger….

There is only one sacrifice that appeases God’s anger. One event that fulfills God’s judgement. Jesus is the once-for-all sacrifice that atones for our sins. Without Him, life is nothing but a continuous attempt to sacrifice things daily in order to please God. It won’t happen. It’s not possible. Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe, sin has left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow. The new covenant does not require any more blood sacrifices, it only requires the submission of self in obedience to Him. There’s no amount of sacrifice that can earn God’s love, for it has already been done. It’s right here waiting for anyone who is willing to exchange their prideful heart for an obedient one, willing to listen to the Voice of Truth.

1 The old system under the law of Moses was only a shadow, a dim preview of the good things to come, not the good things themselves. The sacrifices under that system were repeated again and again, year after year, but they were never able to provide perfect cleansing for those who came to worship. 2 If they could have provided perfect cleansing, the sacrifices would have stopped, for the worshipers would have been purified once for all time, and their feelings of guilt would have disappeared.3 But instead, those sacrifices actually reminded them of their sins year after year. 4 For it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. 5 That is why, when Christ came into the world, He said to God, “You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings.But You have given Me a body to offer.6 You were not pleased with burnt offeringsor other offerings for sin.7 Then I said, ‘Look, I have come to do Your will, O God–as is written about Me in the Scriptures.’ ” 8 First, Christ said, “You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings or burnt offerings or other offerings for sin, nor were You pleased with them” (though they are required by the law of Moses). 9 Then He said, “Look, I have come to do Your will.” He cancels the first covenant in order to put the second into effect. 10 For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time.11 Under the old covenant, the priest stands and ministers before the altar day after day, offering the same sacrifices again and again, which can never take away sins. 12 But our High Priest offered Himself to God as a single sacrifice for sins, good for all time. Then He sat down in the place of honor at God’s right hand. 13 There He waits until His enemies are humbled and made a footstool under His feet. 14 For by that one offering He forever made perfect those who are being made holy.15 And the Holy Spirit also testifies that this is so. For He says, 16 “This is the new covenant I will makewith My people on that day, says the Lord:I will put My laws in their hearts,and I will write them on their minds.” 17 Then He says, “I will never again remembertheir sins and lawless deeds.” 18 And when sins have been forgiven, there is no need to offer any more sacrifices. Hebrews 10:1-18

Imagine If We Did….

A prayer I wish more Americans would pray, and then believed it enough to act it out. Imagine if we did.... 1 Those who trust in the Lord are as secure as Mount Zion;they will not be defeated but will endure forever.2 Just as the mountains surround Jerusalem,so the Lord surrounds His people, both now and forever.3 The wicked will not rule the land of the godly,for then the godly might be tempted to do wrong.4 O Lord, do good to those who are good,whose hearts are in tune with You.5 But banish those who turn to crooked ways, O Lord.Take them away with those who do evil. May Israel have peace! Psalms 125

Then We Feed On What’s Available….

Have you ever thought about how materialism effects our lives? How selfishness dictates our priorities? To think that we place our gifts that God has given us over our affection for Him. We place our desires over doing what’s right for our children. We lose sight of the most important aspects of life. When we adopt this kind of behavior, we drift away from God. Eventually we begin to passively rebel. Then after time has subdued us into full all-out rebellion, in our comfort to live without God, He gives us exactly what we want to our own demise. Think about it, when we rebel and start to value the gifts more than the Giver, we eventually are handed over a depraved mind, incapable of honoring God. My question is this: is it worth it? Do things grant peace, patience, and kindness? Do they renew our hope in troubling times? Do things have the capacity to rescue us from despair? Do things give us hope for the future? Obviously the answer is a resounding “No”. Then why do we do these things? Why do we lose sight of What’s important? It all boils down to our daily walk. If we don’t stay connected, stay plugged in, we cannot continue to receive proper nutrients. We literally starve ourselves spiritually, then feed on what’s available, junk food. Sure we can survive on it, but eventually we will see the effects in our lives; loving things over people, prioritizing self before others, and worshipping objects and fantasies over God. God is our priority. Seek Him daily. Feed off His word moment by moment. When we do this we will be fed nutritious, life-sustaining food, and be free from the powers that lead us away from God. God gives us what we ask for. What are you seeking from God?

25 I gave them over to worthless decrees and regulations that would not lead to life. 26 I let them pollute themselves with the very gifts I had given them, and I allowed them to give their firstborn children as offerings to their gods–so I might devastate them and remind them that I alone am the Lord. Ezekiel 20:25-26

It’s Hard To Grasp….

It’s hard to grasp, but incredible to know, that the God Who made us, also died in our place, receiving the punishment we deserve, in order to make a place at His dinner table, awaiting our arrival to eat and commune with us. And yet this truth is still misconstrued by the lies Satan constantly feeds the world. Our witness is vitally important. It lifts the veil of blindness off the eyes of those willing but unaware of God’s purpose. It’s God’s reputation we tarnish when we don’t say what needs to be said. Our witness is of utmost importance. Ask God to empower you with His Spirit and His Truth today. You might just help a hurting, deceived soul see for the first time in their life God’s love for them. Realizing His love for us, and receiving it changes everything. Why not be a beacon of hope and light in a world hell-bent on painting a picture of God that isn’t true. God’s love changes everything. He proved it on the cross. And He continues to prove it to the world through us when we share this “Good News” with others.

27 And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, 28 so also Christ died once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for Him. Hebrews 9:27-28

What People Do In Order To Get Their Way…

Imagine what people do in order to get their way: compromise truth, allow integrity to take a backseat, make pseudo-promises, lie, cheat, steal, and even take the life of another. Imagine what a politician does to get votes? God takes this seriously. Your word is everything. When you compromise, you end up damaging your own spirit, and worse yet, damage the spirit of others. Is selfishness worth it? In the end, showing partiality towards others is a selfish act. It breeds dissension, jealousy, and strife, which are all fuel/food of selfishness. Instead of doing whatever it takes to get your way, think how your actions can help another, meet a need of another, speak truth into the life of another, or point them toward God. When you do this your actions will speak for you, saving your breath for another day. Selfishness is in all of us, it’s just a matter of managing it. With God’s help, love will weaken its grip on you.

21 Showing partiality is never good, yet some will do wrong for a mere piece of bread. Proverbs 28:21

God’s Stance On Sin….

Chapter 18 of Ezekiel summarizes God’s stance on sin and His plan of judgement. He clearly marks out that we are individually responsible for our own actions. He clearly marks out that we have the ability to chose obedience over rebellion. We are responsible if we chose repentance over irresponsibility. God will judge each of us according to our own actions. Sin destroys. When we decide to repent and turn toward God, He rewards us with a new heart and a new spirit. God doesn’t want anyone to die in their sins, or even suffer because of them. He wants us to follow Him. Why should anyone suffer and die because of their sins? What is our pride worth? Hell? Condemnation? The only reason we suffer is because of our own doing. And we stay there because of our own doing. If it weren’t true, God would’ve told us differently, wouldn’t He? We are responsible for our own actions, not anyone else. God wants a relationship with each of us, individually, so much so He’s willing to forgive. The only sin worthy of unforgiveness is the sin of pride. Don’t let pride stand in your way of doing what’s right, look what happened to Lucifer. It isn’t worth it. Sin surrounds us every single day. Our attitude towards it matters more than we think.

30 “Therefore, I will judge each of you, O people of Israel, according to your actions, says the Sovereign Lord. Repent, and turn from your sins. Don’t let them destroy you! 31 Put all your rebellion behind you, and find yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. For why should you die, O people of Israel? 32 I don’t want you to die, says the Sovereign Lord. Turn back and live! Ezekiel 18:30-32