O'Reilly's "Writings" Are More Likely to be Grieving the Holy Spirit of God!

The moment that I first heard that Fox News analyst Bill O'Reilly was writing a book that he decided to entitle,  "Killing Jesus," I KNEW that what he would write would likely go against practically all that is sacred to born-again, Bible believing Christians.

O'Reilly claims to be Catholic, but his stances on many issues go against either the Catholic faith or Christian truth.  For example.  He blindly claims that homosexuality isn't such a big deal; yet, he has seen the huge amount of damage that was done in the Catholic church priest pederasty scandal.

I was waiting for the first review and/or commentary about the book to come out.  Today, I noticed a post over at Now The End Begins: Bill O’Reilly Wants To Destroy Your Faith In Jesus And The Bible. Just based on what is shared there, I would have to agree with the writer at that blog.

Excerpt:

“But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time…” Jude 1

 

Fox News personality Bill O’Reilly does not believe that the bible is true or trustworthy, and in his new book “Killing Jesus”, he explains why. O’Reilly also says that, after casting doubt on the entire New Testament and mocking the words of Jesus, that the “Holy Spirit inspired him to write it”.

Imagine that.


Though he used the New Testament’s four Gospels as source material, he left out parts he doesn’t believe happened as written. For instance, Jesus didn’t say, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do” from the cross, the Catholic O’Reilly maintains. It wouldn’t have been physically possible, he said.

“You die on a cross from being suffocated,” he said. “You can hardly breathe. We believe Jesus said that, but we don’t believe he said it on the cross because nobody could have heard it.”

People have a right to take the Bible literally, he said, but in the case of “Killing Jesus,” he was trying to be historically accurate. He never says in the book that Jesus was the Son of God because his book is not intended to be religious.

“So is this the Gospel according to Bill?” asked “60 Minutes” correspondent Norah O’Donnell.
“This is best available evidence according to Bill,” O’Reilly responded.
 
The most important thing he learned while writing the book was that Jesus of Nazareth became the most famous human being who ever lived, yet he had no infrastructure. He had no government, no public relations expert, no money and no structure, O’Reilly said.

“It’s never been done.”

[...]

While the book isn’t religious, O’Reilly is. He says he was inspired to write “Killing Jesus” by the Holy Spirit. He says he just woke up in the middle of the night and thought, “Killing Jesus.” 

Asked by O’Donnell why the Holy Spirit would mark him as “the chosen one,” O’Reilly denied any such title. Instead, he said, he is “just one of many who have been given the gift. I can write and I can bloviate on TV.”

The Holy Spirit of God does NOT tell people things that are in direct or even indirect conflict with what is written in God's Word!  I don't know just whom or what was "inspiring" O'Reilly to write such a book; but from what he has said in the interview and through the posting at the blog link, it appears to me that O'Reilly's "writings" are more likely to be grieving the Holy Spirit of God!

The father of lies whom Jesus warned us about is wreaking more and more havoc in this chaotic world; as well as confusion and disorder within the souls of men for the distinct purpose of ruining them. 

Jhn 8:44

“You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.

Satan particularly likes to use influential men [like O'Reilly] who are powerful, visible, and wealthy in order to make others succumb to his goal to do evil and destroy men's souls.

Jesus told us:

Mat 16:26

“For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

O'Reilly has proven himself to be an arrogant fool.  Why?  Because he has shown to believe the lies from the father of lies and then creates a book in order to make money off of the lies.  Such a thing is truly disgusting, belligerent, and disgracefully heretical.    But like any other false teacher, his deeds will be exposed.   The true believers who know Jesus Christ, follow His Word through Bible reading and study will not be fooled or silent.   We just have more work to do in order help those who are caught up in the confusion.

For the record, here is what Bible-believing Christians profess.  How do I know this?  Because of the truth provided in the Scriptures listed under each section of commentary.

What We Believe...

*  About God:

God is the Creator and Ruler of the universe.  He has eternally existed in three persons:  the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.  These three are co-equal and are one God.

Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 3:22; Psalms 90:2; Matthew 28:19; 1 Peter 1:2; 2 Corinthians 13:14
 

 

*About Humankind:

We are made in the spiritual image of God, to be like him in character.  We are the supreme object of God's creation.  Although humankind has tremendous potential for good, we are marred by an attitude of disobedience toward God, called "sin."  This attitude separates us from God.

Genesis 1:27; Psalms 8:3-6; Isaiah 53:6; Romans 3:23; Isaiah 59:1,2
 

 

*About Eternity:

We all were created to exist forever.  We will either exist eternally in union with God through forgiveness and salvation or separated from God by sin.  Heaven is the place of eternal union and eternal life with God.  The eternal separation from God is called Hell.

John 3:16; Romans 6:23; Revelation 20:15; (Hell)

Matthew 25:41; Revelation 21:27 (Heaven)
 

 

* About Jesus Christ:

Jesus Christ is the Son of God.  He is co-equal with the Father.  Jesus lived a sinless human life and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all by dying on a cross.  He arose from the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death.  He ascended to Heavens glory and will return again, to earth, to reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Matthew 1:22-23; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1-5; John 14:10-30; Hebrews 4:14, 15; 1 Corinthians 15:3,4; Romans 1:3,4; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Timothy 6:14,15; Titus 2:13
 

 

*About Salvation:

Salvation is a gift from God to mankind.  We can never make up for our sin by self-improvement or good works.  Only by trusting in Jesus Christ as God's offer of forgiveness can we be saved from sin's penalty.  Eternal life begins the moment we receive Jesus Christ into our life by faith.

Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8,9; John 14:6; John 1:12; Titus 3:5; Galatians 3:26; Romans 5:1
 

 

*About The Holy Spirit:

The Holy Spirit is equal with the Father and the Son of God.  He is present in the world to make mankind aware of our need for Jesus Christ.  He also lives in every Christian from the moment of salvation.  He provides the Christian with power for living, understanding of spiritual gifts, and guidance in doing what is right.  The Christian's responsibility is to seek and to live under His will daily.

2 Corinthians 3:17; John 16:7-13; John 14:16,17; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 3:16; Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:1
 

 

*About Spiritual Gifts:

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are available to each believer in Jesus Christ, allowing for greater intimacy with God and power for accomplishing His work in our world today.  We believe that God, the giver of gifts, gives severally as he wills, and with emphasis on growing maturity in Jesus Christ.  These gifts are revealed and then can be used for His purposes and powerfully influence and affect our world for Christ.

1Corinthians 12:4-7, 11, 17, 29, 30
 

 

*About The Bible:

The Bible is God's Word to all mankind.  It was written by human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit.  It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living.  Because it is inspired by God, it is truth without any mixture of error.

2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20, 21; 2 Timothy 1:13; Psalms 12:6; 119:105, 160; Proverbs 30:5

 

Hat tip: Now The End Begins

Where Can We Find Peace in Situations Like This?

My day actually started out so beautifully! Early this morning, I received an email notification from WND about a video that had gone viral after three young men dazzled the audience during an "America's Got Talent" audition. They sang a worship song about Jesus; and the audience and judges all ended up giving them a standing ovation!

It was certainly a joyful moment!

Since the song was in a different language, I wondered whether or not the judges would have liked it as much if it was sung in English and the name "Jesus" was uttered? I know...it's just the skepticism in me that would say such a thing. But can you blame me?  The political correctness that abounds these days forbids any display of outward worship of Jesus Christ. Well, as for me and my house - we will WORSHIP THE LORD - no matter what society says about it!

I think that when worship songs are sung so beautifully; we get a glimpse of what it will be like in heaven!

After listening to that beautiful rendition several times, I was ready to go and tackle my job of clearing away everything off the carpets throughout the house over the next four hours before the carpet cleaners arrived!

But then, it happened...again. Another day....another shooting tragedy.

Because I was having my carpets in the house cleaned, I had nothing else to do but hang out with my two dogs in the sun room (which has a brick floor) while the men who arrived at 11:30 a.m. dry cleaned the carpets throughout the house. I watched the news all day (for the most part).  And as the day dragged on, I found myself  receiving more and more information about the killer, Aaron Alexis, who used someone else's ID to get into the Naval yard facility in Washington D.C., and then proceeded to gun down 12 civilians.

As usual, we all go through the WHYS of such a terrible event. What drove this man to do such a terrible thing? What were his motives? We could ask questions ad infinitum. However, we do know that such an act of evil cannot be easily explained until all the facts are known.

Yesterday, I heard one of the most sobering sermons ever on Turning Point Television.

Dr. David Jeremiah started a new series entitled, "What Are You Afraid Of?" The book by the same
name comes out sometime in October.

 .

Yesterday's sermon was the very first in a series of sermons on the topic. Although it didn't deal directly with such an evil act of shooting civilians, it did prepare me for what transpired today.

The topic of Sunday's sermon was Disaster: The Fear of Natural Calamity.  (*See outline below). The website informs us:

As we begin this new series on fear, unforeseen disasters recently ravaged cities across the United States—where can we find peace in situations like this? Find rest in God.

Go to the link and click on the green colored box that says, Watch Now: "This Week's Broadcast." What Dr. Jeremiah shared was stunningly real; and VERY SOBERING...to say the least! But if you take the time to watch and listen all the way through, you will come out the other side with trust in God, and conviction through faith in Jesus Christ!

Jhn 16:33

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will fn have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

Hat tips to all links.

*******

*Outline:

WHAT ARE YOU AFRAID OF?



Dr. David Jeremiah

"Disaster: The Fear of Natural Calamity"
 Selected Scripture

September 15, 2013

Job 1:1

Job 1:3

Job 1:8-12

Job 1:16

Job 1:18-19

I. Natural Disasters and the Reality of God

A. God Cannot Be Divorced From Disasters

1. God employs the elements of nature in the operation of the world

Job 37:6, 10-12

2. God employs the elements of nature in His opposition to evil

Numbers 16:32

B. God Cannot Be Discredited by Disasters

C. God Cannot Be Defined by Disasters

D. God Cannot Be Defeated by Disasters

Isaiah 46:9-11

Romans 8:28

II. Natural Disasters and the Responsibilities of Man

A. Disasters Teach Us to Repent of Our Sin

B. Disasters Teach Us to Reflect on God’s Goodness

C. Disasters Teach Us to Respond to the Hurting

D. Disasters Teach Us to Remember God’s Promise

Revelation 21:3-4

E. Disasters Teach Us to Rely on God’s Presence and His Power

Job 13:15

Job 19:25-27

Job 42:5-6

Psalm 46:1-3   

God vs. Science

This is too good not to share here, so I am posting it here with a Hat Tip to Larry H. from the TEA Party Community.

God vs: Science

The atheist professor of philosophy pauses before his class and then asks one of his new students to stand up.

'You're a Christian, aren't you, son?'

'Yes sir,' the student says.

'So you believe in God?'

'Absolutely.'

'Is God good?'


'Sure! God's good.'

'Is God all-powerful? Can God do anything?'

'Yes'

'Are you good or evil?'

'The Bible says I'm evil.'

The professor grins knowingly. 'Aha! The Bible! He considers for a moment. 'Here's one for you. Let's say there's a sick person over here and you can cure him. You can do it. Would you help him? Would you try?'

'Yes sir, I would.'

'So you're good...!'

'I wouldn't say that.'

'But why not say that? You'd help a sick and maimed person if you could. Most of us would if we could. But God doesn't.'

The student does not answer, so the professor continues. 'He doesn't, does he? My brother was a Christian who died of cancer, even though he prayed to Jesus to heal him. How is this Jesus good? Can you answer that one?'



The student remains silent. 'No, you can't, can you?' the professor says. He takes a sip of water from a glass on his desk to give the student time to relax. 'Let's start again, young fella. Is God good?'

'Er..yes,' the student says.

'Is Satan good?'

The student doesn't hesitate on this one. 'No.'

'Then where does Satan come from?'

The student falters. 'From God'

'That's right. God made Satan, didn't he? Tell me, son. Is there evil in this world?'

'Yes, sir..'

'Evil's everywhere, isn't it? And God did make everything, correct?'

'Yes'

'So who created evil?' The professor continued, 'If God created everything, then God created evil, since evil exists, and according to the principle that our works define who we are, then God is evil.'

Again, the student has no answer. 'Is there sickness? Immorality? Hatred? Ugliness? All these terrible things, do they exist in this world?'

The student squirms on his feet. 'Yes.'

'So who created them?'

The student does not answer again, so the professor repeats his question. 'Who created them?' There is still no answer. Suddenly the lecturer breaks away to pace in front of the classroom. The class is mesmerized.





'Tell me,' he continues onto another student. 'Do you believe in Jesus Christ, son?'

The student's voice betrays him and cracks. 'Yes, professor, I do.'

The old man stops pacing. 'Science says you have five senses you use to identify and observe the world around you. Have you ever seen Jesus?'

'No sir. I've never seen Him.'

'Then tell us if you've ever heard your Jesus?'

'No, sir, I have not..'

'Have you ever felt your Jesus, tasted your Jesus or smelt your Jesus? Have you ever had any sensory perception of Jesus Christ, or God for that matter?'

'No, sir, I'm afraid I haven't.'

'Yet you still believe in him?'

'Yes'



'According to the rules of empirical, testable, demonstrable protocol, science says your God doesn't exist... What do you say to that, son?'

'Nothing,' the student replies.. 'I only have my faith.'

'Yes, faith,' the professor repeats. 'And that is the problem science has with God. There is no evidence, only faith.'

The student stands quietly for a moment, before asking a question of His own. 'Professor, is there such thing as heat? '

' Yes.

'And is there such a thing as cold?'

'Yes, son, there's cold too.'

'No sir, there isn't.'

The professor turns to face the student, obviously interested. The room suddenly becomes very quiet. The student begins to explain. 'You can have lots of heat, even more heat, super-heat, mega-heat, unlimited heat, white heat, a little heat or no heat, but we don't have anything called 'cold'. We can hit down to 458 degrees below zero, which is no heat, but we can't go any further after that. There is no such thing as cold; otherwise we would be able to go colder than the lowest -458 degrees. Every body or object is susceptible to study when it has or transmits energy, and heat is what makes a body or matter have or transmit energy. Absolute zero (-458 F) is the total absence of heat. You see, sir, cold is only a word we use to describe the absence of heat. We cannot measure cold. Heat we can measure in thermal units because heat is energy. Cold is not the opposite of heat, sir, just the absence of it.'

Silence across the room. A pen drops somewhere in the classroom, sounding like a hammer.

'What about darkness, professor. Is there such a thing as darkness?'

'Yes,' the professor replies without hesitation.. 'What is night if it isn't darkness?'

'You're wrong again, sir. Darkness is not something; it is the absence of something. You can have low light, normal light, bright light, flashing light, but if you have no light constantly you have nothing and it's called darkness, isn't it? That's the meaning we use to define the word. In reality, darkness isn't. If it were, you would be able to make darkness darker, wouldn't you?'

The professor begins to smile at the student in front of him. This will be a good semester. 'So what point are you making, young man?'

'Yes, professor. My point is, your philosophical premise is flawed to start with, and so your conclusion must also be flawed.'

The professor's face cannot hide his surprise this time. 'Flawed? Can you explain how?'

'You are working on the premise of duality,' the student explains.. 'You argue that there is life and then there's death; a good God and a bad God. You are viewing the concept of God as something finite, something we can measure. Sir, science can't even explain a thought.' 'It uses electricity and magnetism, but has never seen, much less fully understood either one. To view death as the opposite of life is to be ignorant of the fact that death cannot exist as a substantive thing. Death is not the opposite of life, just the absence of it.' 'Now tell me, professor.. Do you teach your students that they evolved from a monkey?'

'If you are referring to the natural evolutionary process, young man, yes, of course I do.'

'Have you ever observed evolution with your own eyes, sir?'

The professor begins to shake his head, still smiling, as he realizes where the argument is going. A very good semester, indeed.

'Since no one has ever observed the process of evolution at work and cannot even prove that this process is an on-going endeavor, are you not teaching your opinion, sir? Are you now not a scientist, but a preacher?'

The class is in uproar. The student remains silent until the commotion has subsided. 'To continue the point you were making earlier to the other student, let me give you an example of what I mean.' The student looks around the room. 'Is there anyone in the class who has ever seen the professor's brain?' The class breaks out into laughter. 'Is there anyone here who has ever heard the professor's brain, felt the professor's brain, touched or smelt the professor's brain? No one appears to have done so. So, according to the established rules of empirical, stable, demonstrable protocol, science says that you have no brain, with all due respect, sir.' 'So if science says you have no brain, how can we trust your lectures, sir?'

Now the room is silent. The professor just stares at the student, his face unreadable. Finally, after what seems an eternity, the old man answers. 'I Guess you'll have to take them on faith.'

'Now, you accept that there is faith, and, in fact, faith exists with life,' the student continues. 'Now, sir, is there such a thing as evil?' Now uncertain, the professor responds, 'Of course, there is. We see it Everyday. It is in the daily example of man's inhumanity to man. It is in The multitude of crime and violence everywhere in the world. These manifestations are nothing else but evil.'

To this the student replied, 'Evil does not exist sir, or at least it does not exist unto itself. Evil is simply the absence of God. It is just like darkness and cold, a word that man has created to describe the absence of God. God did not create evil. Evil is the result of what happens when man does not have God's love present in his heart. It's like the cold that comes when there is no heat or the darkness that comes when there is no light.'

The professor sat down.






Now people, if you read it all the way through and had a smile on your face when you finished, mail to your friends and family with the title 'God vs. Science'

PS: By the way, the student was Albert Einstein who wrote a book titled 'God vs. Science' in 1921.  [Update:  Albert Einstein's name was incorrectly attributed to this essay.]

An Angel Priest Helps Woman Trapped in Car [Update: Priest found]

By now most people have heard the story on the news about the mysterious (actually, miraculous) appearing of an angel priest who helped a woman trapped in a car.

[Update: A commenter came along and mentioned the important fact that we need to test the spirits in order to see if they are from God or not. Of course, such a recommendation is biblical and I totally agree. As it turns out, the "mystery priest" has apparently been identified. Although he doesn't look like the sketch artist's version. Here is a link to a story about the priest: Nice Deb: Mystery Priest Identified.]

There are thousands of stories about it online, but here is one that I think contains a good summary of what happened:

The Stir - CafeMom: 'Angel Priest' Appears Out of Nowhere & Saves Woman Trapped in Car.

Excerpt:

According to everyone on the scene, the priest suddenly appeared just as the woman stuck in the car, Katie Lenz, began to feel life slipping away from her. He had anointing oil with him and bent over Katie and told her to relax. He said a prayer. She said a sense of utter calm came over her.

And then he turned to the firefighters on the scene and told them they would now be able to get her out. Chief Raymond Reed told KHQA-TV:

I can’t be for certain how it was said, but myself and another firefighter, we very plainly heard that we should remain calm, that our tools would now work, and that we would get her out of that vehicle.

That minute, a neighboring fire department arrived with the jaws of life and they were able to cut Katie from the car and free her.

Everyone turned to thank the priest but ... well, did you think he'd still be there? Of course not. Angels do their business and then move on.

Reportedly, the highway had been blocked for miles and there were no bystanders or parked cars near the accident.

Other explanation? A priest saw the blocked road, knew someone must be in trouble, and walked until he found it and did what he could to help.

BUT. This doesn't explain why no one has been able to find him. Apparently there are several Catholic churches in the area but the mystery priest has yet to reveal himself. Maybe he doesn't watch the news? Says Katie's friend, Travis Wiseman:

We're looking for the priest and so far, no one has seen him. Whether it was a priest as an angel or an actual angel, he was an angel to all those and to Katie.

Katie has several broken bones but hopes are high for her recovery. The driver of the other car has been charged with DWI and second degree assault.

Whether it were divine or human intervention, the fact remains: He was an angel. They exist!

*******

Hearing that the angel/priest had "anointing oil with him" reminded me of a post I did in the past regarding Psalm 23 and the verse that tells us, "Thou anointest my head with oil."

During that study on Psalm 23, I discovered what the anointing oil was all about.

Copy of previous post:

Keller (author of A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23) goes on to discuss and describe the irritating and highly contagious disease called "scab," which is common to sheep the world over. He mentions how sheep tend to rub heads together in a friendly, affectionate manner. However, when one has the "scab," this terrible disease spreads easily from one to the other.

Keller writes:

In the Old Testament when it was declared that the sacrificial lambs should be without blemish, the thought uppermost in the writer's mind was that the animal should be free of scab. In a very real and direct sense scab is significant of contamination, of sin, of evil.

Again as with flies, the only effective antidote is to apply linseed oil, sulphur and other chemicals that can control this disease. In many sheep-rearing countries dips are built and the entire flock is put through the dip. Each animal is completely submerged in the solution until its entire body is soaked. The most difficult part to do is the head. The head has to be plunged under repeatedly to ensure that scab there will be controlled. Some sheep-men take great care to treat the head by hand.

[S]o I know precisely what David meant when he wrote, "Thou anointest my head with oil." Again it was the only antidote for scab. [Keller adds that an old remedy is olive oil, sulphur and spices.]

In the Christian life, most of our contamination by the world, by sin, by that which would defile and disease us spiritually comes through our minds. It is a case of mind meeting mind to transmit ideas, concepts and attitudes which may be damaging.

Often it is when we "get our heads together" with someone else who may not necessarily have the mind of Christ, that we come away imbued with concepts that are not Christian.

Our thoughts, our ideas, our emotions, our choices, our impulses, drives and desires are all shaped and molded through the exposure of our minds to other people's minds. In our modern era of mass communication, the danger of the "mass mind" grows increasingly grave. Young people in particular, whose minds are so malleable, find themselves being molded under the subtle pressures and impacts made on them by television, radio, magazines, newspapers, [Christine adds: the internet!] and fellow classmates, to say nothing of their parents and teachers.

Often the mass media which are largely responsible for shaping our minds are in the control of men whose characters are not Christ-like: who in some cases are actually anti-Christian.

One cannot be exposed to such contacts without coming away contaminated. The thought patterns of people are becoming increasingly abhorrent. Today we find more tendency to violence, hatred, prejudice, greed, cynicism and increasing disrespect for that which is noble, fine, pure or beautiful.

This is precisely the opposite of what Scripture teaches us. In Philippians 4:8 we are instructed emphatically in this matter, "...whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things"! Here again, the only possible, practical path to attaining such a mind free of the world's contamination is to be conscious daily, hourly of the purging presence of God's Holy Spirit, applying Himself to my mind.

*******

It will be interesting to see how this woman's life is changed after this angelic appearance experience! 

Hat tip: The Stir - CafeMom

Are You A Good Person?

I have been dismayed regarding the hate filled rhetoric often spewed against Christians in various social media networks.   It was one big reason why I left Face Book.  Recently, I have found that certain individuals over at the TEA Party Community object to Christians sharing their faith and Bible verses there.  What's up with that?  Personally, I think that the trolls of liberalism (including any other "ism" you can think of;  plus secularists, atheists, and agnostics etc.) cannot stand to read the truth and then just politely disagree about it.  They have been so indoctrinated that they not only reject Christian faith, they need to go much further.  They can't resist the urge to mock it, disparage it, hate it and verbally abuse those who genuinely love God, His Living Word - Jesus Christ, and His written Word - the Bible.

I believe that the problems that exist between those who say that they believe in God, but reject Christ as the only way to be reconciled back unto God is because of individual perception of sin(s) and what to do about them.  It is ultimately a matter of the heart, soul, mind and spirit. 

Other religions and denominational arguments aside, I would like to invite everyone to take "The Good Test." 

Next, tell us what you think afterwards.

 It's very humbling...to say the least!

http://www.livingwaters.com/good/001.shtml

AM I GOOD ENOUGH TO GET TO HEAVEN? 

ARE YOU GOOD ENOUGH TO GET TO HEAVEN?

TAKE THIS TEST AND SEE!!


The Good Test   [Click on link]

Earthen Vessels

[Hat tip for photo:  Dwelling in the Word.com]

I have always appreciated the fact that Scripture often metaphorically describes believers as "earthen vessels" or "jars of clay," and God as our Divine Potter.

The potter-clay image shows up so frequently in Scripture --beginning in Genesis 2:7 where "God formed man of the dust of the ground."

This theme is a simple one:  God is the potter and humanity is the clay.  It is another way to express God's sovereignty over all humanity; a way to express our need to yield to His divine plan; a way to encourage us to find the purpose for which we have been made; a way to accept the divine purpose for all of God's handiwork.

We can learn four lessons from the biblical imagery of the Divine Potter and His clay:

1.  He has a plan.

2.  There is variety in what He makes.

3.  There is an ultimate purpose for God's pottery.

4.  There are no imperfect pots. (In other words, God wants to fill us all with Himself!)

Think of Jesus' collection of a dozen common, chipped, cracked, leaky earthen vessels (the disciples) with which He would change the world.  He poured Himself into those vessels regardless of the shape they were in.  As we know, one in particular substituted the treasure of Jesus for thirty pieces of silver that was ultimately used to buy "the potter's field" - a burial place for strangers (Matthew 27:1-10).

Even though you and I are imperfect, even damaged earthen vessels; our Divine Potter ultimately has shaped each of us for a purpose and we can rejoice that God wants to fill us with the treasure of knowing Jesus!

The metaphors and imagery of Scriptural descriptions like these are not lost on those who believe.  They serve as proof of what kind of "vessels" God has meant for us to be!  We need not despair over our earthly size, condition, shape or lot in life.  We can ALL rejoice for the same purpose and with the same exact reason!

As earthen vessels - imperfect as we all are and often damaged in this life - we instinctively know that the Divine Potter, Jesus Christ, has shaped each of us for a purpose.  We may have differing "purposes" in this earthly life, but our Beloved Potter has one, ultimate purpose for each and every one of us.

This ultimate purpose has to do with Jesus' question (that each of us need to answer before we die) when He said, "Who do you say that I am?"

We know that Peter got it right in Matthew 16:16.

Mat 16:16

Simon Peter answered and said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

We are all shaped for a purpose.

 And the Divine Potter's purpose is this:

He has filled us with the treasure of knowing Jesus.

  2Cr 4:1 Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart.

  2Cr 4:2 But we have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.

  2Cr 4:3 But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing,

  2Cr 4:4 whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.

  2Cr 4:5 For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus' sake.

2Cr 4:6 For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to [give] the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

  2Cr 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.

Hat tip:

"Earthen Vessels" by David Jeremiah in August 2013 Turning Points magazine and devotional.

God In The Mirror - Discovering Who You Were Created To Be [Updated]

Pastor Miles McPherson has a new book out entitled, "God In The Mirror - Discovering Who You Were Created To Be."

Pastor Miles writes:

"Satan's plan is to turn God's image in you against God Himself by turning you into an I AM imposter. An I AM imposter is someone who has become his or her own god. Once the devil tricks you into changing your identity to be your own god, you'll start to think you can do fine without God, and that'll be the beginning of your self-destruction."

So far I have read seven chapters and it is an excellent book that reveals just what is meant by God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit in Genesis 1:26 when They stated, "Let Us make man in our image."

A great review from the Amazon site:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent read!, May 27, 2013

By Jeff Sullivan - See all my reviews This review is from: God in the Mirror: Discovering Who You Were Created to Be (Paperback)

Pastor Miles really breaks down how we are created to reflect God's glory, and how the enemy is hell bent on derailing us from God's special plans for our lives.

Attempting to take the place of God was what caused Lucifer's fall in the first place. Unfortunately, mankind is guilty of following in Lucifer's footsteps...even though some may not want to admit it.

God tells each of us what His special plan is for our individual lives through His Written Word, the Bible, His Living Word, Jesus Christ, and the Helper - the Holy Spirit. Ignoring or rejecting any one of these is a big reason why many are missing His message.

Satan influences your passion and your efforts to glorify yourself instead of God. This is all an attempt to redefine who you are.

Pastor Miles writes, "Satan knows self-glorification is the fastest and most direct path to self-destruction, because it is what destroyed him. The devil wants you to think that you can do what you want and, therefore, you can be like God --in control of your own life and independent of Him." 

The Bible tells us how important faith in God really is. 

Hbr 11:6

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Pastor Miles writes:

Once you have adopted Satan's identity for yourself apart from God, you have to validate that identity by proving your value and importance.  You become chained to earning acceptance and approval, always working to be something, to make something of yourself.  The devil will be right in your face challenging your identity, like he challenged Jesus by demanding He prove Himself in Matthew 4:  "If you're the Son of God, prove it!  Do this, if you are the Son of God, do that."  The devil will confront you in the same way.

Pastor Miles goes on to describe some of the bad or sinful ways that Satan will go about tempting you to "prove" yourself. This section got me to thinking about all of the craziness and chaos that people create in their own lives, which then affects other people and their lives. Why? Because they have "exchanged the truth for a lie."

I suggest reading the entirety of Romans 1.

The Romans 1:25 verse informs us:

Rom 1:25   who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

However, reading some of the prior verses as well as the verses following Romans 1:25,  puts what Paul is talking about into more clarity:

Rom 1:22	Professing to be wise, they became fools,
	Rom 1:23	and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.
	Rom 1:24	Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves,

The verses following Romans 1:25 tell us what RESULTS from uncleanness, lusts of the heart, and dishonoring their own bodies:

Rom   1:26	For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature.
	Rom 1:27	Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.

Homosexuality is being presented these days as "the new normal." But God's Word tells us differently. It isn't "the new normal" - it has always been an abomination and sin before God's eyes.

Note that Paul mentions "vile passions." This passage includes heterosexual sexual sins as well (like pornography, adultery, abortion, prostitution, bigamy, polygamy, bestiality etc.).

Paul goes on to write many other sins that people get involved in and how they affect them. The I AM imposter is fervently fed by such things:

Rom 1:28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting;

Rom 1:29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, [fn] wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers,

Rom 1:30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,

Rom 1:31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, [fn] unmerciful;

We could all probably spend days, weeks, months and even years giving examples of those who have been caught up in such vile acts and actions.  It is truly awful to see how debased minds in government, in the media, in Hollywood, in aberrant businesses, in liberal/progressive colleges, in public education, in heretical churches etc. have changed America - and not for the better!

So, what do we do about it? 

I think that Pastor Miles book helps give us direction regarding such matters.

He writes:

"You could spend a lot of years manipulating people or fooling yourself into being a little god, an I Am imposter, whatever he (Satan) has convinced you to be.  What a waste of time.  Would you agree that Satan has been successful in wearing you out trying to prove yourself, to be someone that God never intended you to be?  I know people who spend their entire lives trying to fulfill someone else's vision or expectations for their lives, when in fact they would have been so much more fulfilled sticking to God's plan for them."

Pastor Miles provides a chart that gives a comparison between your I AM factor and the characteristics God intended for your identity, and those associated with an I AM imposter identity. God intended for you to rest in who He made you to be. Satan's identity will result in nothing but restlessness and unnecessary striving.

God's truth to His image bearers:                              The devil's lies to
                                                                                        everyone:
You're My success. (Josh. 1:8)                                    You're a failure.

You're My winner.  (Phil. 3:13-14)                             You're a loser.

You're unique in My family. (Ps. 139:12-14)             You're better than
                                                                                         others.
You're filled with My promises. (Heb. 6:12)              You're hopeless.

You can do all things through Me. (Phil. 4:13)          You can't do anything
                                                                                         right.
I am the Lord who heals you. (Ps. 103:3)                   You'll always be weak
                                                                                         and sick.
You are born for "such a time as this."                      You don't get the
(Esther 4:14)                                                                  breaks others do.
And will long enjoy the work of your hands.
(Isa. 65:22)

Everything under heaven is Mine.  (Job 41:11)          I can give you the
                                                                                         world!
You're  loved  with an everlasting love.                     Nobody loves you.
(Jer. 31:3)

This is only the beginning, people.  Much, much more in the book that will help you in regards to finding your true identity in Jesus Christ!

My prayer is the same as Pastor Miles:

My prayer is that God opens your eyes and reveals to you who you war and where your life is going so you will not allow it to be destroyed by Satan's lies.

Amen!

Orwell's "1984" Becoming a Reality in 2013?

The fictional story of George Orwell's book entitled "1984" is becoming more of a reality with each passing decade.  All of the advances in technology have helped our world tremendously, but the misuse of it all (when put in the wrong hands of power)  also works, unfortunately, towards the detriment of our privacy, liberty, and freedom.

This weekend, Fox News is reporting on How Will Big Data Impact Your Privacy? Your Secret's Out and gives us points to ponder:

Sunday, April 14 at 9 p.m. ET Hosted by John Roberts

Every step we take, every move we make, "Big Data" is watching us. Our computers, phones and countless other devices are generating long trails of electronic data -- information that can be stored and analyzed who-knows-where for who-knows-what by who-knows-who.

When our lives can be retrieved at the stroke of a key, what happens to privacy? Does the government become too powerful?

Could our traditional freedoms be threatened and do we care?

This weekend, Fox News delves into the world of daily data and examines stories that would have seemed entirely unconnected only a few years ago: Government whistleblowers fretting about a mysterious new spy center in the Utah desert.

A Massachusetts teacher instructing grade-schoolers on what not to do with an iPhone.

A new breed of political operatives leading an unprecedented get-out-the-vote effort.

A California entrepreneur trying to mine data from social networking sites.

In today's world, it all ties together. And in 'Fox News Reporting: Your Secret's Out' we're connecting the dots.
 

Read Catherine Herridge's article:


Fox News.com: NSA data center front and center in debate over liberty, security and privacy,


Excerpt:

Twenty-five miles due south of Salt Lake City, a massive construction project is nearing completion. The heavily secured site belongs to the National Security Agency.

"The spy center" -- that's what some of the locals like Jasmine Widmer, who works at Bluffdale's sandwich shop, told our Fox News team as part of an eight month investigation into data collection and privacy rights that will be broadcast Sunday at 9 p.m. ET called "Fox News Reporting: Your Secrets Out.”

The NSA says the Utah Data Center is a facility for the intelligence community that will have a major focus on cyber security. The agency will neither confirm nor deny specifics. Some published reports suggest it could hold 5 zettabytes of data. (Just one zettabyte is the equivalent of about 62 billion stacked iPhones 5's-- that stretches past the moon.

One man we hoped would answer our questions, the current director of the NSA General Keith Alexander, declined Fox News's requests to sit down for an interview, so we stopped by the offices of a Washington think tank, where Alexander was speaking at a cyber security event last year.

Asked if the Utah Data Center would hold the data of American citizens, Alexander said, "No...we don't hold data on U.S. citizens," adding that the NSA staff "take protecting your civil liberties and privacy as the most important thing that they do, and securing this nation."

But critics, including former NSA employees, say the data center is front and center in the debate over liberty, security and privacy.

"[It] raises the most serious questions about the vast amount of data that could be kept in one place for many, many different sources," Thomas Drake told Fox News.
 
Drake -- who worked at the NSA from Aug. 2001 to Aug. 2008 and was unsuccessfully prosecuted on espionage charges -- says Americans should be concerned about letting the government go too far in the name of security.

"It's in secret so you don't really know," Drake explained. "It's benign, right. If I haven't -- and if I haven't done anything wrong it doesn't matter. The only way you can have perfect security is have a perfect surveillance state. That's George Orwell. That's 1984. That's what that would look like."

Read the rest: Fox News.com

Consider the fact that such a monstrosity of data collection COULD BE BLATANTLY ABUSED. Remember that this ObaMARXIST BADministration has an attorney general who believes they should "never let a good crisis go to waste." Our current government is headed by the worst political criminals ever in the history of the United States of America!

The Bible informs us about what we need to know in order to be saved and enjoy life eternal with God in heaven.  What's more,  Bible prophecy is being fulfilled right before our very own eyes!  It is astonishing to me that people refuse to study the prophetic sections of the Bible - especially the book of Revelation.  It helps to put everything that is going on in this world in perspective.

If this world was all that we were meant for, then we would be discouraged, distraught, depressed, and without genuine hope.  However, we were not meant for this world!

As Christians believers, we are  Not Of This World  [NOTW] because Jesus' Kingdom is not of this world!

Jhn 8:23 And He said to them, "You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world.

Jhn 18:36 Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here."

*******

Recommended site to visit:

American Prophet.org

Quote for the day:

Remember That the Lord Himself Is Your Chief Reward

In Genesis 15:1, we find God making this statement to Abram:  "Do not be afraid Abram.  I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward."  God was making great promises to Abram in those days about his future, and it would have been possible to be both fearful of the future and prideful about the blessings God was going to bestow.  But God reminds Abram that He, God, is Abram's true reward.  Land and descendants and blessing would be nothing apart from God in his life.

~  Dr. David Jeremiah

Fighting the World, the Flesh, and the Devil

When I read about the uproar over Dr. Benjamin Carson's remarks on Hannity regarding his beliefs about marriage, I instinctively knew that he would get even more backlash from the progressives.   It wasn't enough to berate him after his National Prayer Breakfast speech (which was awesome!!!), the haters have continually gone after him for his straightforward (and frankly refreshing!) opinions that challenge the lies of Obama.   Now, his offer to be commencement speaker at Johns Hopkins is being challenged by the gay-indoctrination-brainwashed students. So...what else is new?

Here's a brief excerpt from the article:

Host Sean Hannity asked Carson his opinion on same-sex marriage, given the Supreme Court's consideration of two gay marriage cases this week.

"Marriage is between a man and a woman," Carson said. "It's a well-established, fundamental pillar of society and no group, be they gays, be they NAMBLA, be they people who believe in bestiality -- it doesn't matter what they are, they don't get to change the definition."

Students accused Carson of effectively comparing "gay relationships with pedophilia and bestiality."

Dr. Carson responded, saying:

Asked about the students' objections, Carson on Friday told MSNBC it's "their day and the last thing I would want to do is rain on their parade."

Asked whether he's told the university he would not deliver the address, Carson said he was "waiting for appropriate channels."

Carson also told the Baltimore Sun that people  "have completely taken the wrong meaning out of what I was saying."

He added: "Now perhaps the examples were not the best choice of words, and I certainly apologize if I offended anyone. But the point that I was making was that no group of individuals, whoever they are, whatever their belief systems, gets to change traditional definitions."

When Dr. Carson listed additional sexual behaviors along with homosexual behavior, he was pointing out that "no group of individuals, whoever they are, whatever their belief systems [should] get to change the traditional definition of marriage."  If the students think that listing additional aberrant behaviors (actually, very disgusting behaviors!) is so upsetting, then they are impinging upon Dr. Carson's free speech rights. 

The truth is, those who like to be pedophiles want the laws changed!  A behavior that here-to-fore was always deemed illegal, disgusting, evil, and sinful, is now being trumped up as "normal" and wants to be included as the new "gay rights" group - so to speak - when it comes to "human rights."  You see, it's a very slippery slope.  Once one group is given the right to change the over 2,000 year old definition of marriage, what will prevent another group - no matter how evil and disgusting - to change their "right" to marry and use the term marriage for their aberrant relationships?

I suspect that these students probably are mostly on the side of Obama and didn't like knowing that Dr. Carson was going to be a commencement speaker.  Perhaps they were just looking for something to use in order to protest and oust him as a speaker.

The author of "The Lord Is My Shepherd" shared an interesting comment he made towards someone who disagreed with his views and wanted to have a verbal fight with him.  It was shared in Chapter 8 "His Provision on Life's Tablelands" which discussed the verse of Psalm 23 that reads, "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies."

Here is what he wrote:

He [the person who disagreed with him] said we'd have to fight about one thing and another thing, that I was in for a fight, and that if I didn't fight with him over these issues, I wasn't much of a fighter."

The Lord gave me words for the moment.  I told him I was just as much a fighter as he was, but I was fighting the world, the flesh, and the devil.  "If you want to fight with me," I said, "you'll have to decide which of those categories you fit into."

He didn't bother me much after that.

Awesome retort...wasn't it?  But could you imagine if Dr. Carson said those very words back towards the students that were accusing him?  Instead, Dr. Carson did what he could do to tone down the rhetoric.  But the truth is, Dr. Carson IS utilizing his new-found fame to "fight the world, the flesh, and the devil."  It's just not politically correct to say so.

Originally, I wanted to share a guest commentary today that I read in the March issue of The Good News, etc. Christian newspaper.  In a way, it is related to the argument that started between Dr. Carson and the students from Johns Hopkins, so I have decided to include it in this post.

The article is entitled, "Pastor welcomes atheist's billboard," by Chris Clark

The article can be read online in it's entirety here: Digital Edition When you get to the page, click on the page 6-7 below, and then on the single page icon at the top of the page next to the arrows.



Pastor Clark explains several misconceptions [including the misuse of  the phrase "separation of church and state] that isn't in the U.S. Constitution] regarding the bans that are being argued about in courtrooms across the country regarding religious displays in our nation.  He explains why the atheist's billboard (which states, "Atheism - a personal relationship with reality.") doesn't threaten him or his faith and how he is convinced that he knows the Truth, is being transformed by that Truth (Romans 12:2) and that his personal relationship with Jesus Christ convinces him; despite the arguments of those who don't believe.

He writes:

It has been said that a man with an argument is at the mercy of a man with an experience.  I know what I know; I know Whom I know; and that relationship is continually transforming me. 

So how is it that I am supposed to be threatened by people who go to such lengths to try to convince others that man is god, when along with that idea they offer no hope, no purpose for life?

In a way, I see this struggle much as what Elijah faced upon Mount Carmel, when he challenged the Baal priests to build an altar  and call on their god while he built an altar and called on the God of Israel, to see who was the true God.

So let the atheists and humanists spend their money and erect a billboard to convince the public of their god, of their constructed reality.  We as followers of Jesus are billboards ourselves, our transformed lives serving as a perennial testimony to Jesus' life and power.  Our own personal relationships with the Creator ought to speak much more loudly than does a billboard by the freeway.

Hat tips:

Fox News.com
Good News, etc.


P.S.  While typing too fast this morning, I misspelled "Creator" and it came out as "Crator."  I thought of the difference between the term Creator vs. crater, and went to dictionary.com.  For the slang portion of the verb "crater" it reads:

Quote:  verb (used with object)

10.

to make craters in: Bombs had cratered the landscape.

11.

Slang.

a.

to cancel, abandon or cast aside: to crater the new project.

b.

to destroy or ruin: One more disappointment won't crater me. /quote

 

That term ironically describes the atheist's billboard effort and intent against people of faith...doesn't it?  Ha!

Genuine Hope

It is interesting to note that The Handbook of Bible Application [abbreviated below as "HBA"] uses the terms "anticipation," "confidence," and "faith" as synonyms for the term "hope."

BHO ran his 2008 political campaign utilizing the terms "hope" and "change." For many voters (the ones who rejected BHO's first term and subsequently, his second term),  the promises of that campaign ended up turning out to be more like hopelessness and chains of restrictions designed to destroy our beloved Constitutional Republic.

How should we respond to feelings of hopelessness?

There is no one in Scripture better than Job to study when it comes to depression, desperation, and discouragement. [Note:  If unfamiliar with the book of Job, read Job 1:1-22].

Job 1:20 Then Job arose, tore his robe, and shaved his head; and he fell to the ground and worshiped.

Job 1:21 And he said: "Naked I came from my mother's womb, And naked shall I return there. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; Blessed be the name of the LORD."

Job 1:22 In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong.

Excerpt from HBA:

Remember that we live in a fallen world.   As we see calamity and suffering in the book of Job, we must remember that we live in a fallen world where good behavior is not always rewarded and bad behavior is not always punished.  When we see a notorious criminal prospering or an innocent child in pain, we say, "That's wrong,."  And it is.  Sin has twisted justice and made our world unpredictable and ugly.

Remember that God is sovereign.  The book of Job shows a good man suffering for no apparent fault of his own.  Sadly, our world is like that.  But Job's story does not end in despair.  Through Job's life we can see that faith in God is justified even when our situations look hopeless.  Faith based on rewards or prosperity is hollow.  To be unshakable, faith must be built on the confidence that God's ultimate purpose will come to pass. (1)
 

Also read Psalm 69:1-36  and realize that hopelessness is an opportunity to trust God.

Read Isaiah 22:1-25 which will help you to keep God's promises in mind.

 

For more about genuine hope and finding true happiness, please view:

 David Jeremiah.org: Beautiful in His Time

[Note:  If pressed for time, you can drag the cursor at bottom of video ahead to 18:20 to get to Dr. Jeremiah's message.]

Events in our lives may seem confusing or even mysterious to us at times, but in God’s time, His plans and purposes are good.

 

 HBA:
 

What are the sources of a believer's hope?

BIBLE READING:  Leviticus 26:1-46

KEY BIBLE VERSE:  Despite all this, I will not utterly reject or despise them while they are in exile in the land of their enemies.  I will not cancel my covenant with them by wiping them out, I, the LORD, am their God. (Leviticus 26:44)

A Christian's hope is based on God's faithfulness.  These verse show what God meant when he said he is slow to anger (Exodus 34:6).  Even if the Israelites chose to disobey and were scattered among their enemies, God would still give them the opportunity to repent and return to him.  His purpose was not to destroy them, but to help them grow.  Our day-to-day experiences and hardships are sometimes overwhelming; unless we can see that God's purpose is to bring about continual growth in us, we may despair.  The hope we need is well expressed in Jeremiah 29:11-12:  " 'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the Lord.  "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.  In those days when you pray, I will listen,'"  Retaining a future and a hope.  In those days when you pray, I will listen.' "  Retaining hope while we suffer shows we understand God's merciful ways of relating to his people. (2)


If you take the time to listen to Dr. Jeremiah's message today, you will have a huge amount of further insight into how a Christian's hope is based on God's faithfulness!

HBA:

BIBLE READING:  Mark 5:21-43

KEY BIBLE VERSE:  Jesus ignored their comments and said to Jairus, "Don't be afreaid.  Just trust me."  (Mark 5:36)

Hope comes from trusting Christ.   Jairus's crisis made him feel confused, afraid, and without hope.  Jesus' words to Jairus in the midst of crisis speak to us as well:  "Don't be afraid.  Just trust me."  In Jesus' mind, there was both hope and promise.  The next time you feel hopeless and afraid, look at your problem from Jesus' point of view.  He is the source of all hope and promise.
 

When a mere mortal person (especially politicians!) claim to be "the source of all hope and promise," we know that they are lying! 

It was very refreshing to recently hear Senator Marco Rubio state that despite the fact that Time magazine put him on their cover and labeled him as "the savior of the Republican Party," he rejected that title and stressed that there is only ONE SAVIOR - JESUS CHRIST.

HBA:

BIBLE READING:  Romans 5:1-11

KEY BIBLE VERSE:  Since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.  Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of highest privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory.  (Romans 5:1-2) (3)

Is that one of the greatest verses you have ever read??  It is for me!!  I often write about how grateful we should be because of Christ's promises in Scripture.  The Romans verse expresses THE greatest of them all.

HBA:

Hope comes from remembering all that God has done for us.   As Paul states clearly in 1 Corinthians 13:13, faith , hope, and love are at the heart of the Christian life.   Our relationship with God begins with faith, which helps us realize that we are delivered from our past by Christ's death.  Hope grows as we learn all that God has in mind for us; it gives us the promise of the future.  And God's love fills our life and gives us the ability to reach out to others. (4)

Witnessing to unbelievers is more challenging today than in the past.  Why?  Because there are more people who have never read or studied the Bible and they have no idea about the truth it contains!  Plus, many can be swept away by false religions, cults, and even the occult.  People celebrating Satan these days don't even think it's wrong!    The next paragraph will help you through:

HBA:

Hope grows as we depend on God in the difficult times.  For first century Christians, suffering was the rule rather than the exception.  Paul tells us that in the future we will become, but until then we must overcome.  This means we will experience difficulties that help us grow.  We rejoice in suffering not because we like pain or deny its tragedy, but because we know God is using life's difficulties and Satan's attacks to build our character.  The problems that we run into will develop our perseverance--which in turn will strengthen our character, deepen our trust in God, and give us greater confidence about the future.  You probably find your patience tested in some way every day.  Thank God for those opportunities to grow, and deal with them in his strength (see also James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 1:6-7). (5)

The joy of celebrating God's mercy, grace, and love through the Person of His Son, Jesus Christ, never, ever gets old!  The eternal promises that have been given to His children are just that...eternal!
Once a believer has given his old life over to Christ, his new life begins immediately and as Scripture tells us, "no one can snatch him out of His hands."

There is NOTHING on this earth that can satisfy that deep desire to know and fellowship with Jesus Christ.  There is a reason for this.  God has placed eternity into our hearts.  There will always be a hole there, in the spot where Jesus Christ needs to indwell each and every one of us in the form of the Holy Spirit.   Until that moment of surrender we cannot turn the "hole in the heart"  into being made whole again spiritually through Christ!

HBA:

BIBLE READING:  1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
KEY BIBLE VERSE:  Brothers and sisters, I want you to know what will happen to the Christians who have died so you will not be full of sorrow like people who have no hope. (1 Thessalonians 4:13)

Hope grows as we remember the promise of the Resurrection.  Because Jesus Christ came back to life, so will all believers.  All Christians, including those living when Christ returns, will live with Christ forever.  Therefore, we need not despair when loved ones die or world events take a tragic turn.  God will turn our tragedies to triumphs, our poverty to riches, our pain to glory, and our defeat to victory.  All believers throughout history will stand reunited in God's very presence, safe and secure.  As Paul comforted the Thessalonians with the promise of the Resurrection, so we should comfort and reassure each other with this great hope. (6)

As believers in Christ, we have confidence, faith, and trust in the God of the universe!  What could possibly compare to that?

Reference source:

(1)  The Handbook of Bible Application.  Second Edition, A Guide for Applying the Bible to Everyday Life, Neil S. Wilson, Editor, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois.  pp. 300-301.
(2)  Ibid.  pp. 299.
(3)  Ibid.  pp. 299.
(4)  Ibid.  pp. 300.
(5)  Ibid.  pp. 300.
(6)  Ibid.  pp. 300.