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The Iowa Exams
Less than a week away, and the pollsters are going nuts. The telephones are ringing, questions are being hurled at those of us who call ourselves Iowans faster than we can answer. I received one such call last night. And when I tried to explain why I didn’t want to answer their questions, they kept on and on until I finally had to hang up on them. Even after warning them in advance!
I told them I hadn’t made up my mind yet. I still haven’t. Have you?
What should the next president be like? What should we expect? I wish there was some sort of test we could give each candidate, you know, kind of like a PSAT or ACT test. The candidates would take the test, and receive a pass/fail grade, based on their specific answers. But, that wouldn’t work, because the government would never be able to decide which questions should be asked.
I just think a test could simplify things a bit; especially with so many candidates vying for the position.
Ah, but maybe there is a test. Yes, I believe there is. It’s not anything like a college entrance exam. In fact, there’s nothing quite like it in the world.
It’s called the Iowa Caucuses. A true test for a presidential wannabe.
But back to my question, “What should the next president be like?” Our nation’s first president was a general, so would someone with military experience be just the ticket? If so, there are only only 2 or 3 veterans in the bunch, on both sides, and none among the front runners.
What about someone who has business experience? There’s a few of those. Career politicians? Oh, yeah, we’ve got plenty in that category. Doctor? Yep, one of those.
Hey, we even have a preacher in the bunch.
But so what? What kind of person does America need at this time in her life?
Each candidate is working hard to convince you and I THEY are what this country needs. Maybe so. Maybe so.
In my opinion, what this nation needs can’t be found in any one individual. Oh, to be sure, as Iowans we’ll do our best to sort out the cream of the crop. We’ll package them up real nice and send them on to New Hampshire.
But electing a new president will not fix America’s problems, in spite of all the rhetoric and polling data. It may help, but only God knows each candidate’s heart. And only God knows the future.
But for America to be great, it’s going to take the combined effort of 300 plus million people. Everyone who can legally vote has a say in how great America is going to be.
I won’t begin to try and talk you into voting for “my” candidate. For one thing, I don’t have one. And for another, well, you probably wouldn’t listen.
But I have three things that I’m looking at. Three things I’m using as a way to move through the maze of candidates.
First, because the bible says, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34 ESV), I am looking for the candidate who is the most honest. God fearing? Christian? It would be nice, but I’ll start with some good old-fashioned honesty. The President should be trustworthy. Period.
Second, how do they handle criticism? Can they keep their poise and maintain the dignity of their office, representing this great nation to the rest of the world, even when the media and other nations are filleting them with their words? Will they remain presidential when this nation is fighting for her life?
Finally, if they’re elected, what will the nation look like in four or eight years, providing they are able to keep all their campaign promises?
Next Monday, February 1, 2016, is going to be quite a day. The Iowa Caucuses. The Iowa Exams.
Watch closely, America. Iowa has something to say.
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Days of Deception
It’s kind of a scary time, wouldn’t you say? A time of demented dictators, wacky weather, an erratic world economy, the unprecedented obsession with personal pleasure, and a rapidly increasing trend toward the deification of man. Mankind is heading towards a showdown with the Almighty; a time commonly known as The Great Tribulation. It’s also a time some of the prophets of old referred to as days of deception, or apostasy.
“Let no one in any way deceive you, for it (the coming of the Lord) will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction,” (2 Thessalonians 2:3 NASB)
Whether you believe it or not, it is quite possible for you and I to be deceived. If it wasn’t possible, the writer of Hebrews wouldn’t have included this:
“Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.” (Hebrews 3:12-13 ESV)
“Take care”, he says. In other words, pay attention. It’s a little like the verse where Jesus said, “The hour that you think not, the Son of Man comes.” He’ll come when you least expect Him. And in the case of deception, it will take place because you believe it isn’t possible.
People who believe they have reached the pinnacle in their walk with God where it’s IMPOSSIBLE for them to be deceived, have made one of the gravest mistakes of their lives.
They’ve allowed the spirit of deception to cloud their thinking, and veil their understanding of the truth of the Word. Their heart has become calloused, or hardened, and they have lost the ability to ACCURATELY hear the voice of the Spirit of God.
I’ve seen it happen over and over. I’ve had it happen to me, as well.
But how does a person become deceived? How can people who know the Word, quote the Word, teach the Word, all their lives suddenly end up in a mess?
Maybe they go off into some goofy, man-made doctrine, like snake handling. Or a misinterpretation of some single verse. Perhaps they fall by having an adulterous fling. It could be they love the feeling of authority, so they demand obedience to their every word. Or they become so possessive of THEIR disciples, they end up like Jim Jones.
One thing is certain; the change isn’t a sudden one. It is a gradual move from truth to error. And because it’s gradual, it CAN be stopped IF one will recognize the steps leading up to it.
A quick note, though. Don’t expect those around you to jump up and down, shouting glory hallelujah because you try and help them pull out of deception before it’s too late.
I know from experience.
But, whether you’re honored as a hero or touted as some nosy, legalistic fool, the Body of Christ is being attacked as never before; and you are desperately needed.
Here are some things to watch for in your own life, and in the lives of others. An unbelieving heart, then deceitful lusts, and finally inappropriately handling the word of God (or teaching the deception as truth).
You can see it in Romans 1:18-32. They knew God, but didn’t glorify Him as God…their foolish hearts were darkened. Next came the fleshly cravings, and finally, rejoicing when others agreed with their lifestyle (or deception).
Three steps:
1. An evil, unbelieving heart. As the writer of Hebrews said, “…leading you to fall away from the living God.” How does one recognize an evil, unbelieving heart?
There are some specific signs. For instance, what value is placed upon hearing AND DOING the Word of God? Are there “exceptions” allowed, where some verses apply to others but not to oneself? Are excuses made to cover up, or allow for unbelief?
I know someone who, because they were becoming enamored by (or infatuated with) the attention of someone other than their spouse, began to change what they believed about tithing and giving because their “friend” didn’t believe in tithing. Setting aside one set of scriptures for convenience’ sake is an open door for more of the same.
Compromise breeds more compromise, and is a next door to deception.
Delusion isn’t an overnight sensation, but it needs to be stopped as soon as it is recognized.
Unbelief sets in when faith in God AND His Word isn’t kept razor sharp. Allowing for an alternate interpretation is one thing, providing scripture is being compared with scripture.
But EVERY time scripture is weighed against human experience and feelings, and scripture ends up being tossed aside, there is a HUGE problem.
James tells us, “But be doers of the Word, and not hearers only; deceiving yourselves.” Many times deception isn’t so much the work of the devil, but rather a simple shunning of the Word of God. “I know what it says, but it’s not what I’m going to do.” Self-deceived.
2. Deceitful lusts. “…that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts.” (Ephesians 4:22 NKJV)
Desire for the forbidden. Yearnings of the flesh, cravings which, though they’re real, lie about their ability to satisfy.
Sure, sin can satisfy temporarily, but it cannot replace the Shalom that comes only from God. The peace which passes all understanding will never be experienced by someone who trades the truth of God’s ways to satisfy the desires of their flesh.And understand this: anyone who will compromise one part of the scripture, will compromise another.
3. Inappropriate handling of the word of God. This is a very dangerous place to be, if someone has gone this far into deception.
“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.” (2 Corinthians 4:2 NKJV)
Through the years there have been a number of people who have allowed themselves to reach this degree of deception. Many of this country’s old colleges and universities began as training institutes for men and women entering the ministry. But through the years…
Because the “last days” are also known as days of deception, let’s diligently watch out for ourselves and others.
“Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons.” (1 Timothy 4:1 NKJV)
“And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24-25 NKJV)
The kingdom of God needs people who refuse to compromise God’s Word, who will flee the various lusts of the flesh, and who will handle the Word of God with integrity AND humility. These are deceptive days, but they’re ALSO days in which God says He’ll pour out His Spirit upon all flesh!
Amen, Lord! Pour it out on us!
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Back From The Dead
So what would you do if an old friend you hadn’t seen for a long while suddenly appeared at your front door?I mean, the last time you saw them was a couple of years ago, while attending a funeral.
Theirs.
Now, they are standing on your front step, ringing your doorbell. What would you do?
If it was possible for someone to come back from the dead, would they be the most effective evangelist in the world? Would anyone listen to what they had to say?
If someone who had died and gone to hell, was allowed to return for a two week preaching engagement, would anyone pay attention? Would anyone attend their meetings? What if they reeked of sulphur? Would YOU listen?
With all the focus these days on zombies, including a sandwich shop called Zombie Burger, I found myself wondering about something Jesus said.
In the story of the rich man and Lazarus, Jesus spoke of Abraham conversing with a rich man, who had met a very unpleasant tragedy; he had died and found himself in Hades.
The place of the damned.
Now at that time, since Jesus hadn’t yet paid for mankind’s transgressions, those who died believing and trusting in God, were taken to a place of rest and comfort; as they awaited the finished work of Christ.
The place was called Abraham’s Bosom.
It was a place which could be seen by those in the place of the damned, but that was all. There wasn’t any way to bridge the gap between the two places.Somehow, though, the rich man was heard by Abraham when he called to him.
The man, being in torment, said, “Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.” (Luke 16:24 ESV)
(Notice the man’s heart hadn’t changed; he still had a sense of arrogance about him.)
“But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.’” (Luke 16:25-26 ESV)
Imagine the rich man. Growing up, he ignored all the “religious dogma” (as he liked to call it), but now it was too late. To be trapped forever in the place of the damned, to know he was wrong and others were right, and to sit there day in and day out thinking about his family and loved ones…
Well, if he couldn’t get some relief, maybe he could find a way to warn them. Maybe Abraham would help him.
“So the rich man said to Abraham, ‘Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father’s house – for I have five brothers – so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.’ But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ He said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.” (Luke 16:27-31 ESV)
Let’s just suppose Lazarus WAS allowed to go back and evangelize the rich man’s family. Why would they believe Lazarus, who before was nothing more than a decrepit old man; a poor specimen of a human being?
Why would they listen to someone whose whole purpose in life was to give the mangy stray dogs something to lick?
What could Lazarus possibly know?
Abraham said, “If they won’t believe Moses and Prophets (the Word of God) then they won’t believe someone who rose from the dead.”
And isn’t that the case today?
There IS Someone Who went to the lowest place of Hades, the place of the damned, in order to pay mankind’s debt to sin.
But He didn’t stay there! And when He arose, He left the chains of death behind as well as the smell of sulfur. He said, in fact, “…behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.” (Revelation 1:18 ESV)
The Psalmist David, prophesying of Jesus many years prior, said, “For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption. You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” (Psalm 16:10-11 ESV)
After three days He arose, leading captivity captive and giving gifts to men (Ephesians 4:8). He fulfilled all the words of Moses and the Prophets. Nothing’s been left undone.
But people find it hard to believe in something they cannot see. Yet, many times when they DO see, they say, “I can’t believe what I’m seeing!”
So what do you think you’d do if that old, dead friend suddenly knocked at your front door?
I suggest you run and find your Bible. Because if you’re going to believe anything, it’s going to be the word of God.
Zombies may be all the rage, but I wouldn’t give you two cents for their credibility.
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Terminated Dreams
I really can’t tell you how old I am. I only know my heart began beating not too long ago.
And though I’m not very big; hardly the size of a man’s fist, I’m very much alive.
Each day I grow a little bigger, develop a new organ, and feel myself gaining strength; my very tiny muscles taking shape.
It’s dark in here, of course, but I have the light of life. “The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world” (John 1:9 ESV). My Creator has assured me of a plan and a purpose. I don’t understand what that means, but I can sense in my tiny heart that it’s good.
A few days ago I heard my mother for the first time. I could feel the vibrations created by her voice, and it made me move with excitement. I can hardly wait to see her face to face.
I wonder what it’s like, outside of my watery cocoon.
I’m comforted by the quiet, peaceful sounding voice of my mother. Sometimes I can hear her singing; I love it when she sings.
Someday I’ll be able to sing with her.
The Creator spoke to me yesterday and said I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Every part of me is formed on purpose, for a purpose. Even my height, which isn’t much yet, has been determined by God.
Someday I’ll be able to stand tall, with my hands lifted high, and sing praise to my Creator.
Maybe my mother will join me.
Yes, I can hardly wait. Just another four months, I think I heard someone say. Four months until I’m able to look into my mother’s eyes.
As I said, I don’t understand these things. Like the way my mother and I share the same food, but we have different stomachs. Her blood was stored for the time God needed it to create me, yet we now each have our own blood supply and possibly, blood type.
My mother must really love me, to go through so much just to bring me into the world.
What?! What’s that smell? Why are my eyes, skin, and lips burning as if they’re on fire? I feel like my skin is melting.
I can’t move my arms and legs. Something has grabbed me and is pulling me apart!
Mommy…! Help meeeeeee…!
I hear my Creator God say, “Come to Me. I will receive you and you shall live.”
(Over 700,000 terminated dreams take place in our nation every year.)
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Jesus Isn’t A Republican
With only a week and a few days before the Iowa caucuses, I felt I needed to share this revelation with my friends, acquaintances, and maybe some not-so friends. Christian: you are under no obligation to vote for a Republican. Neither does it mean you are a heathen if you vote for a Democrat.
There’s nothing holy about the Republican Party, and the Democratic Party isn’t the political party of the antichrist.
I can almost hear what some of you are thinking. But I’ll ignore it for now.
At the time of Jesus’ earthly ministry, there was a pro Israel group known as Zealots. One of the original twelve apostles was a Zealot; Simon the Zealot (or Jewish Nationalist).
The Zealots were kind of like some people of our day; people who rile up the populace and take back the country by force if nothing else works. They had stockpiled their arms, recruited and disciplined their troops, and were in the process of taking back their country for God.
Remember Barabbas? He was the one Pilate freed in place of Jesus. He was known as an insurrectionist, a robber, and a murderer. And he was also a Zealot.
He was in prison because of his crimes against the Roman government. Following the Zealot creed, he was doing everything within his power to rid the land of Roman rule AND all Roman forces.
We all know Jesus is as Jewish as it gets. So why didn’t He join forces with the Zealots, making it that much easier to preach His message?
Because of something He said.
Jesus answered (Pilate), “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” (John 18:36 ESV)
The Zealots and Jesus belonged to opposing kingdoms. You wonder how that could possibly be true, when Israel is the apple of God’s eye?
The Lord does not want us violating the principles of His Kingdom in the name of an earthly kingdom, nation, or political party.
Though the Zealots wanted to “Make Israel great again”, they were going about it all wrong.
All wrong.Jesus reminded Peter of that very thing. “Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?” (John 18:11 ESV)
The kingdom of God will not infiltrate and overcome the kingdom of man using man’s wisdom, methods, or arms. Paul said flesh and blood won’t inherit the kingdom of God, and he meant it. And, flesh and blood will NOT make a nation righteous.
Remember Jesus telling the crowd, “A kingdom divided against itself will not stand”? Attempting to mix the “kingdom of America” and the “kingdom of God” is sort of the same thing.
Even though, in my opinion, America would be much better off if God’s Word was followed explicitly. But it won’t be, can’t be, as long as people who are focused on anything but God are in charge.
Neither Republicans or Democrats are in agreement with the kingdom of God EXCLUSIVELY. Or should I say ENTIRELY.
So how do we perform our duty as citizens of this nation, AND, if it’s in our heart to do so, honor the ways and priorities of God’s kingdom?
Once again, we must look at Jesus’ words. Specifically, His prayer.
“Pray after this manner…”Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven.”
HIS kingdom HERE, NOT THIS kingdom THERE. A huge difference!
Paul told us to pray for kings and rulers. Why? So things would go well for our nation. But whether they go well or not, we CANNOT change our nation by ignoring God’s principles.
So…
When it’s time to caucus, or vote, do it as a representative of God’s kingdom. No matter which party you’re registered with.
Look at each candidate individually. What do they believe, how do they live, what is their track record, etc.? Do their beliefs and actions in any way coincide with the principles of God’s Kingdom?
If so, that may be the person who should receive your vote.
But you and I must remember, Jesus isn’t a Republican or Democrat. His aim isn’t to make this nation, or any other nation, including Israel, the greatest nation on earth.
What He IS trying to do is make a way for every man, woman, and child to hear and believe the gospel.
Political rhetoric along with human reasonings MAY help a nation change some things for the better. But at BEST, the change is only temporary. Man’s selfish nature will see to that.
But the Kingdom of God is eternal. And that, my friends, should be our focus.
Be a good citizen. Vote. Get involved where you can.
But seek FIRST the Kingdom of God.
And don’t look at your brothers and sisters in Christ, who vote DIFFERENTLY than you, like they’re some sort of two-headed monster.
After all, they may have heard God tell them to vote for “you know who“!
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Presidential Candidates: Iowans Will Remember Your Words
We Iowans have so appreciated the weeks and weeks you’ve spent in our wonderful state, allowing us to hear up close and personal all the wonderful things you will do for our nation, and our local communities, when you’re elected to the highest office in our beloved country.
You tell us, over and over, just how wonderful you are, especially compared to the other candidates, and the sitting president.
That’s nice. We’re all glad you feel that passionate about it, otherwise we wouldn’t give you more than a “candidate who?” shrug of our collective shoulders.
But presidential candidate: just because we’re Iowans doesn’t mean we’re backwards, stupid, or forgetful. And though we don’t demand a lot of the things the west and east coast states might, we are very serious about one thing.
Don’t lie to us.
Don’t give us your cheap rhetoric. You can bounce it all around the country, but it won’t buy you votes here.
Say what you mean, mean what you say, and swear to your own hurt. If you said it, then do it, even if it’s impossible. If you think you may run into problems along the way, you best not make the cheap promises. If you forgot you said it, you’d better own up to it.
Iowans don’t like liars; no matter what our political persuasion may be. We’re forgiving to a point, but don’t push us. We expect people to own their words, not just say them.
So don’t even go there.
In other words, don’t tell us what your opponent won’t do. Hearing how rotten they are doesn’t fix anything; even if what you say is true.
Tell us what YOU will do, honestly and without a bunch of left over bull. What will YOU do, even if you have to do it all by yourself. What will YOU do if we trust you with our vote?
We’ve been lied to before and like I said, we don’t forget. A few years back there were some judges who thought the Iowa voters were stupid and forgetful.
They’re no longer judges.
If you say you’re going to build a wall along the southern border of the country, and make Mexico pay for it, then have at it.
But it’d better get done, if you’ve got to grab a hammer and some nails and build it yourself.
Those of you promising to take out ISIS, rebuild the military, and leap tall buildings in a single bound; cool. We’ll cheer you on!
But again, you’d best get it done.
Maybe you don’t know us very well, but we’re tired of the shoddy way politicians like to treat us in Iowa. You campaign here, but your heart is in other states with greater opportunities for support and electoral votes. At least that’s how it’s been far too often.
Well, we understand it’s a great big country, and you have a lot to do in such a short time. We’ll cut you the necessary slack if you’ll do the one thing we ask.
Uh, demand.
Tell us the truth. Good, bad, or ugly. The truth.
So please pay close attention to what’s flying out of your mouth, dear candidate.
Because we are. And we won’t forget your words.
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Why Wouldn’t God Judge America?
I kind of wonder what’s going to happen in November. Specifically, November 8th.I sure don’t like being pessimistic, and really, I’m not. Because what’s pessimistic about God’s will?
You see, I’m not convinced this land we call the United States of America will ever be “great” again. I’d like it to be. But I’m not optimistic. No matter who is living in the White House, or how many “conservatives”, “liberals”, or “progressives” caucus in Congress, nothing will change.
Not when those voting are confused about the basics. In this land where anything that points to accountability with the Creator God is abhorred, righteousness is not only pooh-poohed as passé, but voted out of society, while evil is proclaimed as the law of the land.
Life used to be precious, and all lives mattered. At least to the majority of Americans.
But today there are so many voices arguing against common sense and natural law. The same people who cry and campaign for human rights, are leading the charge against sanity.
The unwanted, unprotected unborn child is human. It moves, eats, hears, and feels pain; from the warm and safe place of its mother’s womb. But to many voters, the ones who elect this nation’s lawmakers, a woman’s choice to murder is more important than her baby’s right to live.
That’s worse than sad; it’s criminal.
But that is the condition of our “progressive” society.
While I’m talking about human rights, what about an elderly person without a bank account, or a veteran without a home? Do their lives matter, even though they may have no “societal value”?
Diversity and tolerance is propagated throughout every phase of society. Schools, federal and state governments, the postal service, and probably every non-government job including Walmart, Target, and Dollar Tree.
Which I believe is wonderful! Because EVERYONE is valuable and deserves to be treated with respect.
Everyone has an opinion. Everyone has a belief system. But in today’s society, everyone is tolerated except the Christian who dares to stand up and say, “Sin is a reproach to any society!”
We have Supreme Court justices deciding on issues as though they were God. We have lawyers and politicians acting like they’re smarter than God. And a lot of the population votes like they think the government is God.
So why wouldn’t God judge America?
Throughout history, nations have been judged by God. He typically doesn’t use fire and brimstone, or hailstones (though He has); no, He usually allows an ungodly nation, or people group, to first discipline the nation in hopes it will repent and turn to Him, and if that doesn’t work, to totally wipe out the nation from the face of the earth.
Ask Israel how many times they have been judged. Or just read some history books.
No matter how strong militarily a nation might be, they cannot fight their way out of the judgment that comes by the hand of God.
However intelligent a nation’s academia is, they cannot match wits with Almighty God.
And even though the nation may gather together as one voice to build a society without God, they will build in vain. God always has the last word.
Ask Nimrod.
There are basically two main reasons why nations are judged-what they are doing with the truth they’ve received, and how they are treating Abraham’s family.
Like it or not, accept it or not, believe it or not; history reveals the role faith in God had in the establishing of this nation. And even though there are some who are trying to change the history books, God’s laws are indelibly written on the walls of every human heart.
Whether we want to admit it or not, we all know murder, as well as stealing, is wrong. And just because enough people join together and vote wrongdoing into law, doesn’t make it somehow become right.
We, the voters of this great land, seemed to have taken it upon ourselves to douse whatever remaining light there may be; to eliminate any and every mention of the God Who judges the nations.
Maybe we’ll become like Sodom and Gomorrah, where everything was progressive. If you think it, if it feels good, and you can mock God at the same time, then do it! That WAS their societal belief.
Or maybe we’ll go the way of Babylon. Multiple gods, multiple beliefs, worship of stars, moons, planets, trees, people…
We’re partway there already.
“Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles.” (Romans 1:22-23 NLT)
And how are we, as a nation, treating the family of Abraham? Shaky ground, folks. Like it or not, believe it or not, Israel is STILL important to God.
Because He made a covenant with Abraham, and his seed. Which, by the way, includes the church, (Galatians 3:29) but that’s for another time.
Someone with a lot more intelligence than myself once said, “Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” (Sir Winston Churchill)
History records, over and over, the horrible destruction of nations whose leaders mocked the God Who established them in the first place.
And woe to the nation who ignores the history lessons involving the little piece of land known as Israel.
But God’s given us all a choice. So it isn’t pessimistic to say I’m not expecting much this November.
I believe God and His word. I’ve read the history of some of the once great nations; the nations which are now the subject of archaeological excavations.
And, like it or not, whatever a man, or nation, sows, that shall he/they also reap.
God, please have mercy on this nation; and may we turn to You with a humble spirit. May You provide the way to, once again, be that city on a hill.
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Potty Mouth Christians
I almost hate to use “potty mouth” and “Christians” at the same time; and I wouldn’t if it wasn’t true. Unfortunately, it is true.Some Christians have potty mouths. Maybe I should say, some “so-called Christians” have potty mouths.
Before you get mad and quit reading, I do not mean that anyone who has a potty mouth isn’t a Christian. But some, who may think they’re a Christian because of their church attendance, good deeds, political party, or any other activity which may give them that “Oh, I’m so good” feeling, are not only sadly mistaken, but have become self deceived.
So what is a Christian?
The term, “Christian”, was first used to describe the group of Christ followers in Antioch.
“…And for an entire year they met with the church and taught considerable numbers; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.” (Acts 11:26 NASB)
The DISCIPLES were called Christians. A disciple is a learner, a student, a pupil. A disciple of Christ is a student of, one who learns from, Christ Jesus. Disciples of Jesus not only have placed their faith in Him as their Savior, but have also accepted His command to “repent and believe the gospel” (Mark 1:15).
The gospel (good news) is the power of God to salvation (Romans 1:16). It is the gospel of deliverance, forgiveness of sins, the new birth, and eternal life.
It was never meant to merely be a “Get Out Of Jail Free” card; one that’s presented to Saint Peter at the appropriate time.
The gospel has always been, in God’s mind, and in the mind of the New Testament writers, the means by which the whole human race no longer has to be separated from their Creator God. No longer does sin’s nature need to dominate mankind. Through faith in Jesus, the Sole Focus of the gospel, the believer is translated from one kingdom to the other. The kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light.
And since there’s only two kingdoms, spiritually speaking, it’s imperative for everyone to hear, and obey, the gospel.
So a Christian is a disciple, a follower of Christ, an adherent to the gospel of Jesus. Not perfect, but through faith and obedience inherits His promises, is endued with His power, and allows His Presence to fill them so His fragrance and favor flow through them into the dark, depraved world.
That’s how I came in contact with the gospel. Someone, a disciple of Jesus, a Christian, brought me the good news of Jesus. But not so much in what he said. He didn’t know a whole lot at that time, because he was such a new believer. But he knew Jesus. His Presence, His fragrance and favor, oozed out of my friend and captured my heart.
If he’d had a potty mouth, I wouldn’t have wanted what he had.
A potty mouth does not present Christ to the world. They cannot be following Christ, for Jesus does not talk in such a manner.
A person doesn’t have to use swear words to be a potty mouth. But I’ve noticed this about Christians; if they’ll gossip, or speak about someone in a demeaning and hateful manner, they’ll probably use vulgarity as well.
If a person doesn’t set a guard over their mouth, you can expect to hear just about anything every time they open it.
Christian, if you are determined to follow the Lord, do something about your mouth.
You may say, “I just can’t help it. After all, Pastor James said, ‘No one can tame the tongue.’”
That’s PARTLY what he said. Here’s the rest…
“Now if we put the bits into the horses’ mouths so that they will obey us, we direct their entire body as well. Look at the ships also, though they are so great and are driven by strong winds, are still directed by a very small rudder wherever the inclination of the pilot desires. So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell. For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God; from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way. Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water? Can a fig tree, my brethren, produce olives, or a vine produce figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh.” (James 3:3-12 NASB)
James teaches that the tongue, because it is connected SPIRITUALLY with the heart (spirit of man), it is like a rudder. The tongue can, and does, direct a person’s life; at least to a large degree. Though small, it is very powerful. Though not considered important, like one’s appearance or social standing, it can make or break a life, relationship, church community, or even a nation.
And though no man can tame it, it still stands; “these things ought not to be this way.” So what can a person do?
To change the tongue, to rid it of its poisonous venom, one must work at changing the heart. “For out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” Or, to be a little clearer, change the heart’s perception of what’s right and wrong.
In other words, renew your mind with God’s word; His word which is “life to those who find it, and health to all their flesh.”
For His Word, planted into the heart and mind of the Christ follower, will moment by moment be at work removing the old and replacing it with the new.
He will help you and I learn a new vocabulary; the language of the Kingdom. Words that are carriers of faith, life, healing and wholeness. Words which lift the hearers to new levels of faith and encouragement. Words that can cleanse and repair dirty and damaged souls.
Potty mouth Christian, let’s put an end to that phrase; shall we?
“Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:29-32 NASB)
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The Revenant: The Show of the Ages.
The movie, The Revenant, intrigues me.“The Revenant is a 2015 American epic western thriller film directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu. Written by Iñárritu and Mark L. Smith, based in part on Michael Punke’s The Revenant: A Novel of Revenge, the film is inspired by the experiences of frontiersman and fur trapper Hugh Glass. Set in 1823 Montana and South Dakota, the film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Glass, and co-stars Tom Hardy, Will Poulter, and Domhnall Gleeson.” – Wikipedia
I haven’t seen the movie, and I probably won’t, but the title, and the commercials have captured my attention.
The Revenant. Are you familiar with the word, revenant? I wasn’t, but thanks to my handy-dandy dictionary app it was easy to look up.
Revenant: One that returns after death or a long absence.
I’ve read a little bit about the movie, and a skosh more about Hugh Glass. Fascinating.
I’m not sure what changes Hollywood made to the Hugh Glass story, in order to adapt it to the silver screen, but the man’s story is incredible. After all he went through, including getting mauled by a mama grizzly, and being left in the middle of nowhere; the man simply refused to die!
I would be surprised if the story wasn’t enhanced a touch, after all the paying public wants to get its money’s worth.
By the way, the movie has been nominated for at least 9 different awards in the upcoming 2016 Academy Awards Ceremony February 28.
As I said earlier, I’m intrigued with the movie; and especially the title’s meaning; one that returns after death or a long absence.
But what about Someone Who returns after death AND a long absence?
Jesus Christ, even more of a historical figure than Hugh Glass, suffered incredible torture, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day, He rose from the grave and was seen by over 500 people. After 40 days, He ascended to His Father’s right hand in Heaven.
That was about 2,000 years ago. And all He did back then, He did for people like you and I, as well as for people such as Hugh Glass, Leonardo DiCaprio, Hollywood producers, and anyone else who is either a somebody or a nobody.
And guess what? He’s coming back again! And I think it will be soon.
I read that people were surprised when Hugh Glass showed up, after being presumed dead.
Imagine what the world’s gonna think, say, and do when the Son of God appears for all to see!
“Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.” (Revelation 1:7 NKJV)
“Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.” (James 5:7-8 NKJV)
“Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. “And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” (Matthew 24:30-31 NKJV)
“And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:10-11 NKJV)
“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.” (Titus 2:11-14 NKJV)
I’m sure there are some who think I’m a nut case for believing such a “ridiculous story” about God, Who became man, died and rose again to pay the penalty for His creation’s sin.
Yet they can find a way to believe Hollywood’s version of the Hugh Glass story, whether much, little, or none of it’s true.
And that’s alright; really, it is. Hollywood can do whatever it wants, and it doesn’t matter at all whether people believe their stories or not.
But when it comes to the Show of the ages, it’s a matter of life and death.
Because there actually is Someone Who lived, died, rose, and is coming again.
But not for revenge. He’s coming for the salvation of all who call Him Lord.
Go ahead, read the Book.
Don’t wait for the Hollywood version.
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Is Our Faith Pleasing To God?
Something hit me last night, while I was listening to the eleventh chapter of Hebrews. Something I had read myself many times, yet had never thought about it like I did last night. It concerns the subject of faith. Specifically, faith in God.
Most of us are aware of the following verse:
“But without faith it’s 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.” Hebrews 11:6
And so we do our best to please Him by doing our part; believing He is, and believing He rewards those who diligently seek Him.
This works for a while, but when we fail to see the rewards we wonder if we’re not as diligent as we should or could be.
Does this sound familiar?
It does to me. It also makes me wonder if we’re working for, or somehow trying to earn our “rewards”.
If so, what happened to faith?
What is the focus of our faith? The rewards? The promises, which in Christ are yes and amen? Or is our focus the Lord Himself?
What pleases Him? That we believe He is, OR that we believe He diligently rewards those who seek Him?
Are we missing something?
While it’s true He loves to answer prayer, and care for us beyond our wildest imagination, there’s a lot more to faith than the rewards; if by “rewards” we mean things WE want, need, hope for, etc.
HE is our reward!
It’s what He said to Abram (Abraham), the father of faith, the friend of God.
“…Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.” (Genesis 15:1 NKJV)
There’s a little test we can take that may give us an indication of our true focus. It’s what hit me in a new way last night.
“Women received their dead raised to life again. Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented – of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth.
“And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise, God having provided something better for us, that they should not be made perfect apart from us.” (Hebrews 11:35-40 NKJV)
The test? How do we act when God doesn’t seem to “come through” like we believed He would?
The writer had just finished listing all the different rewards (promises and actions) people had received and accomplished through faith. Hallelujah!
But then, like a thunderstorm moving in on a Thanksgiving Day parade, he ruined everything by telling about the ones who DIDN’T get the goodies from God! Didn’t he realize he’d never sell many books by being so negative? And why would he be so cruel as to chop our faith down to nothing after building it up like he had?
Or was he trying to tell us something about real faith?
I think so.If we ONLY believe God blesses by giving us the rewards we want, or as long as He answers within our time frame, are we really believing God? And can we believe He is and yet doubt He’ll do what He said?
If we only believe when our prayers are answered in the way we want and expect, does that mean we’re walking by faith, or are we walking according to what we see happening around us?
“…for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.” (2 Corinthians 5:7-10 ESV)
What is our aim? To please Him, period? Or to please Him as He pleases us?
I seriously doubt any of the heroes of faith wanted to be sawn in two, stoned, tempted, mocked, or scourged. Yet there they are, listed with the rest of God’s heroes; those who pleased Him with their faith.
So why were the “failures of faith”, those who didn’t “receive” as others did, listed in Hebrews 11? Because they believed God IS, and He IS the rewarder of those who diligently seek Him!
They got their reward. They got Him!
Don’t take things the wrong way, please. I’m not saying we should forget His promises, and sing the old Doris Day song, “Que sera, sera, whatever will be, will be. The future’s not ours to see, Que sera, sera.” No.
But maybe, just maybe, we could borrow part of the song; “the future’s not ours to see”.
Believing HE IS takes care of our past, present, and future. Whether He says anything or not, He IS.
He is pleased by our faith, but He doesn’t reward us because He’s pleased. He rewards us because HE IS.
For He who comes to God must believe that He IS, and that He IS the rewarder of those who diligently seek HIM.
Once again, HE is who we diligently, intentionally, and singularly pursue. In other words, our faith isn’t in any person (other than God), place, or thing. And that’s pleasing to the Lord.
As believers, children of God, heirs of God and joint heirs with His Son Jesus Christ, God has given us EVERYTHING that pertains to life and godliness, through His exceeding great and precious promises (2 Peter 1).
All of that comes with believing He IS.
Let’s keep our faith focused on the Author and Finisher of our faith, rather than what He’s done for us today.
Let’s keep the main thing, the main thing. Whether our world is falling apart, or we’re riding on top of the world, God IS.
And when it’s all said and done, there is and will always be, our God and Savior!
Jan Grace
adding God's Word into my world…
Jan Grace 