Hello! I'm still here. Well, where else would I go? There is no where I can go where God is not. My journey has continued and it's been an adventure. I know this will continue the rest of my life. I am amazed at where I am now, spiritually speaking.
I want to recall to the best of my ability, my journey. I have always gone to church, at least for the majority of my life. I am happy for the people who go and receive help. In my case, I know the "church" is not the best place for me.
My sister just related to me yesterday a recent event in her life. My father was preaching at the church he attends. He asked my sister to come and hear him preach. She and her husband drove about 5 hours to go to see him and hear him preach. She told me that my father worked it into his sermon about how some people don't go to church. He went on to state that he could not understand how any Christian would not go to church.
My father has two daughters that do not go to church. My sister's journey is different than mine. It was a period of time during which I was understanding the "church" is no longer Christ's church. In some instances it is barely "Christian". As one person put it, "the world has gotten so churchy and the church so worldly, you can't tell them apart." That was stated a couple decades ago.
I am not sure when I first started realizing that I needed to leave the church. I will relate one of the first times, I felt convicted about something that happened in church was not of God. The pastor at the church I attended was doing a sermon series on prayer. Not just prayer really, but "circle maker" prayer. He told the story of Honi, the circle maker and his prayer for rain. Something about it all did not sit quite right, but I trusted the church, so put those squirmy feelings aside. At the end of the sermon, we were told to write on a small piece of paper that we were given. We were then instructed to line up and put them on these bulletin boards that were to the sides of the platform. I felt like I should not do this. I did not know why. Just felt really yukky about it all. Unfortunately, I did not listen to my gut feelings, but lined up like the rest of the sheeple and did as I was instructed. After all, what's wrong with saying you will pray 10 minutes a day. I prayed far more than that a day, so what was the big deal?
Every week following, during that series, I would want to go up to the platform and yank off my paper piece. I didn't want to have to answer why, if anyone confronted me, so I never did. But every week I was convicted, and every week was miserable because I knew I had disobeyed God. I obeyed a man instead of God.
It was quite a few years, before I found out what the big deal was. It was defilement. You may think that is a strong word to use, but it is accurate. The pastor was using a sermon series from the book called the "Circlemaker". Here's an excerpt from the webpage of Mark Batterson: " “Drawing prayer circles around our dreams isn’t just a mechanism
whereby we accomplish great things for God. It’s a mechanism whereby God
accomplishes great things in us.” Do you ever sense that there’s far
more to prayer, and to God’s vision for your life, than what you’re
experiencing? It’s time you learned from the legend of Honi the Circle
Maker—a man bold enough to draw a circle in the sand and not budge from
inside it until God answered his prayers for his people. What impossibly
big dream is God calling you to draw a prayer circle around? Sharing
inspiring stories from his own experiences as a circle maker, Mark
Batterson will help you uncover your heart’s deepest desires and
God-given dreams and unleash them through the kind of audacious prayer
that God delights to answer."
Sounds innocent enough doesn't it? But, where did the story of the Circlemaker come from? It came from an old legend from the Talmud. It has nothing to do with Christianity. It does, however, have much in common with paganism. (Oh, there's a big shock, as so much of what happens in churches these days has common roots in paganism) To be brief, the Talmud is the oral traditions. We have the written word of God. The Talmud does not have authority in the Christian's life. Or shouldn't have as we can go to the written word of God for our questions. There is a lot of information on the Talmud online, if you want more information.
But why is in wrong to draw a circle around yourself to pray? There is so many reason, but let's begin with the Words of Jesus. Jesus' disciples came to Him and asked Him to teach them to pray. If drawing a circle was important, Jesus surely would have said to do so. No, He said to pray "Our Father, who are in heaven, hallowed be thy name..." You surely know the rest. We have an accurate history of Jesus' life on earth. Some of His prayers are recorded for us. Yet it is not recorded that He ever drew a circle. When Lazarus died and he had been dead for 3 days, Jesus came on the scene. He merely said "Come forth". No circles, no threats to stay in the circle until God answered His prayers.
Did you know that in witchcraft and wicca they use magick circles? It's an occult way to pray. Mark Batterson, in the Circlemaker, is teaching Christians an occult way to pray. Yikes! That's serious stuff, isn't it? A few years ago, many churches were teaching this. Church can be a scary place. This is just one of many examples that I will be giving as I try to recount my journey out of churchianity and into Biblical life. If Jesus didn't do it, I want no part of it. However, I do want to be conformed into the image of Christ. He is my example, and my shepherd. I follow Him.
I do want to offer a prayer for anyone who has been defiled by the "Circlemaker" prayer. Perhaps you read the book, or were in a service where you were encouraged to pray this new way.
You can pray this: Dear Heavenly Father, please forgive me for praying a 'circlemaker' prayer. Forgive me for listening to the lies of the enemy. Forgive me for taking part in pagan ways of praying. Forgive me for trying to manipulate You into doing what I wanted. Please help me to learn your ways, and to follow the ways your son, Jesus, taught when He was on the earth. Thank you for all the good examples that are set forth in your Holy Word, the Bible. Help me to read it and learn from it. I ask you to take any and all authority that I gave the enemy by participating in the "Circlemaker" prayer teachings and any other pagan teachings, and put that authority back under the authority of Jesus Christ. Help me to have only one Father, you, and help me to stay under the shadow of your wings. Amen
Showing posts with label Jesus. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jesus. Show all posts
Saturday, November 11, 2017
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
Christian Witchcraft
I am increasingly disturbed by what I call "Christian Witchcraft". I believe this stems from the "cookie cutter Christian Syndrome". I talked about that in another blog post. Briefly, by this I mean, the idea that we all have to be the same. There is no room for individual beliefs, even if it is not a doctrinal issue. Christians do need to agree on anything that someone could lose their soul if their belief is not the same as the other Christians. However, most of the things Christians disagree about, are not that serious.
When a Christian does not agree with his/her fellow Christians, often, the disagreeing Christian is often manipulated, shunned, shamed or worse. This idea that there is no new ideas, no new ways of doing things in a different way is not allowable.
If the Wright Brothers did not do something different, they would never have built an airplane. I believe that the problem for Christians is often is that the other Christians wish they had thought of it first. Christians are prime targets to get into a rut. Even those who have changed recently can get into a rut of not wanting to make the next change.
What is disturbing to me is how other Christians are often used to tell their fellow Christians how they should run their life. Most of the time these Christians can't keep their own lives straight but are ready to tell others what they would do, if they were them. Let's use what day to go to church as an example. Some worship on Saturdays, some on Sundays, some Sunday and Wednesdays and some every day of the week. What does the Apostle Paul say about this? Romans 14:5 says "One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind." This is a principle that applies to everything that is not a doctrinal issue that could cost someone their soul.
So you go to church 3 times a week every week. I go to church 2 times a week. Is this a problem? Not if each person is convinced this is what God requires of us.
However, tell the average Christian this and you will get some "shoulds" thrown at you. The enemy of our souls uses well-meaning Christians to abuse other Christians. The "should" syndrome has been used in churches for many years. And I might add in many Christian homes. I lived with the should syndrome for many years.
It is my opinion that it really is a matter of the heart. In the scripture above, Paul states that one should be fully convinced in their mind. If a persons belief is not contrary to scripture, then it really is a matter of what God requires of you. God very well could require one person to go to church weekly and another to go one time a month.
The reason I call this Christian witchcraft is because of what witchcraft is. Boiled all the way down to the basics, witchcraft is control or manipulation of another person. When Christians manipulate other people it is witchcraft as well, regardless of the first person's intentions. As Jesus said in Matthew 7:5, "
You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." In other words, don't try to get another person to do what you think is right for them, until you are complete/perfect.
One final note: Hitler used manipulation to gain power over the people. I have been reading a very interesting book called When a Nation Forgets God by Erwin W. Lutzer. I believe that we can learn from the past. One of the things Hitler accomplished is to make the church powerless. This is happening today in the USA. One of the ways to make this happen is to turn people against each other. A house divided cannot stand. The USA is becoming more and more divided, both inside and outside the church.
When a Christian does not agree with his/her fellow Christians, often, the disagreeing Christian is often manipulated, shunned, shamed or worse. This idea that there is no new ideas, no new ways of doing things in a different way is not allowable.
If the Wright Brothers did not do something different, they would never have built an airplane. I believe that the problem for Christians is often is that the other Christians wish they had thought of it first. Christians are prime targets to get into a rut. Even those who have changed recently can get into a rut of not wanting to make the next change.
What is disturbing to me is how other Christians are often used to tell their fellow Christians how they should run their life. Most of the time these Christians can't keep their own lives straight but are ready to tell others what they would do, if they were them. Let's use what day to go to church as an example. Some worship on Saturdays, some on Sundays, some Sunday and Wednesdays and some every day of the week. What does the Apostle Paul say about this? Romans 14:5 says "One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind." This is a principle that applies to everything that is not a doctrinal issue that could cost someone their soul.
So you go to church 3 times a week every week. I go to church 2 times a week. Is this a problem? Not if each person is convinced this is what God requires of us.
However, tell the average Christian this and you will get some "shoulds" thrown at you. The enemy of our souls uses well-meaning Christians to abuse other Christians. The "should" syndrome has been used in churches for many years. And I might add in many Christian homes. I lived with the should syndrome for many years.
It is my opinion that it really is a matter of the heart. In the scripture above, Paul states that one should be fully convinced in their mind. If a persons belief is not contrary to scripture, then it really is a matter of what God requires of you. God very well could require one person to go to church weekly and another to go one time a month.
The reason I call this Christian witchcraft is because of what witchcraft is. Boiled all the way down to the basics, witchcraft is control or manipulation of another person. When Christians manipulate other people it is witchcraft as well, regardless of the first person's intentions. As Jesus said in Matthew 7:5, "
You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." In other words, don't try to get another person to do what you think is right for them, until you are complete/perfect.
One final note: Hitler used manipulation to gain power over the people. I have been reading a very interesting book called When a Nation Forgets God by Erwin W. Lutzer. I believe that we can learn from the past. One of the things Hitler accomplished is to make the church powerless. This is happening today in the USA. One of the ways to make this happen is to turn people against each other. A house divided cannot stand. The USA is becoming more and more divided, both inside and outside the church.
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Social Issues and the Church
I listen to a lot of podcasts. Some of the podcasts that I listen to are in no particular order: Sheila Zilinsky, TruNews (Rick Wiles), Hagmann & Hagmann, and the Power Hour. I especially like when Ted Broer is hosting the Power Hour. I am mentioning this because one of the podcasts I listened to yesterday had a portion about another Barna Study. This was the study that I had been looking for when I wrote yesterday's blog. Some of my favorite guests on the above podcasts are Steve Quayle, Timothy Alberino, Ted Broer, Nathan Leal, Jonathan Cahn, Pastor Lankford, Augusto Perez, LA Marzulli, and Russ Dizdar. Of course, I don't agree completely with any of them, but these are people who make me think. That helps me research and delve into deeper studies of what the Bible says.
The study that I heard about was about why Pastors don't touch the social issues of our day. You can read the study at: Barna Study Regarding Controversy
I have often wondered why pastors in America don't talk about the issues of the day. I know some do and to those I say Kudos! I had somewhat come to the conclusion that they just weren't aware of what was going on. I know that sounds very simplistic. I wanted to give them the benefit of the doubt.
According to this study 90% of them state that "the Bible speaks to every one of the issues." Less than 10% will speak to the issues. "When researchers ask those pastors what else they are willing to do to get their people active in the political process, Barna said 'it's almost nothing.' "
Why? Why would this be? "
"Why the disconnect? According to Barna, the answer is simple. He suggests asking pastors how someone would know if their church is "successful" – which he did.
'There are five factors that the vast majority of pastors turn to [when asked that question]," he explained. "Attendance, giving, number of programs, number of staff, and square footage.' "
What? Huh? Are you kidding me? I do not believe that you can find backing for any of this in the Bible. Somehow, I think that God's idea of a successful church is far different. Here are some things that the Bible says about what the church is to do: the gates of hell will not prevail against the church, laying down our lives for another, known by our love for one another, knowing the Word of God (Bible), having mature Christians, going into the world and making disciples of all nations, the gospel preached to every tribe and tongue (every people group), having the fruit of the Spirit, having gifts of the Spirit, knowing what Christ did for us, not being afraid to die for the gospel. Of course this list could go on and on, but you get the idea.
The study that I heard about was about why Pastors don't touch the social issues of our day. You can read the study at: Barna Study Regarding Controversy
I have often wondered why pastors in America don't talk about the issues of the day. I know some do and to those I say Kudos! I had somewhat come to the conclusion that they just weren't aware of what was going on. I know that sounds very simplistic. I wanted to give them the benefit of the doubt.
According to this study 90% of them state that "the Bible speaks to every one of the issues." Less than 10% will speak to the issues. "When researchers ask those pastors what else they are willing to do to get their people active in the political process, Barna said 'it's almost nothing.' "
Why? Why would this be? "
"Why the disconnect? According to Barna, the answer is simple. He suggests asking pastors how someone would know if their church is "successful" – which he did.
'There are five factors that the vast majority of pastors turn to [when asked that question]," he explained. "Attendance, giving, number of programs, number of staff, and square footage.' "
What? Huh? Are you kidding me? I do not believe that you can find backing for any of this in the Bible. Somehow, I think that God's idea of a successful church is far different. Here are some things that the Bible says about what the church is to do: the gates of hell will not prevail against the church, laying down our lives for another, known by our love for one another, knowing the Word of God (Bible), having mature Christians, going into the world and making disciples of all nations, the gospel preached to every tribe and tongue (every people group), having the fruit of the Spirit, having gifts of the Spirit, knowing what Christ did for us, not being afraid to die for the gospel. Of course this list could go on and on, but you get the idea.
Saturday, February 21, 2015
What People Are Looking for in a Church
If you have been reading my blog for any length of time, you know how much I dislike statistics. I am finding though that I like the Barna Group. They do studies and research things. Generally speaking, they are considered honest and trustworthy.
Earlier today I heard about a 2 year study that Barna did. However, while looking for that study I found another one that I found extremely interesting. We, Christians, have been told by our Pastors that the reason we do things the way we do is to draw in the unchurched. This often means worshipping in the semi-dark, with lead worshippers on a stage, whiich is usually lit with spotlights. It may mean low lighting during the "sermon". It may mean have an auditorium look as opposed to a sanctuary. Most of the churches I have been to, it means LOUD music. Even during the times that are allotted for the churchgoers to visit with one another, the music blares. Conversation may be nearly impossible. The above is why I find this study so very interesting.
Barna study on church
I urge you to go to the website and look at it. I think you will find in interesting.
One part I am going to post here as I find these results very revealing,
Participators in the survey were ask to choose the word that describes their "ideal" church. Here are the results:
• Community, 78% was selected over privacy, 22%
• Sanctuary, 77% (auditorium, 23%)
• Classic, 67% (trendy, 33%)
• Quiet, 65% (loud, 35%)
• Casual, 64% (dignified, 36%)
• Modern, 60% (traditional, 40%)
So it seems that what is "really" wanted in "church" is the more traditional look. The churches that spend much money renovating the churches may have wasted their money. It seems people want to go to "church" not a nondescript place. I think that people may not like the "pretense". It seems that people do want a modern feel without being trendy. I understand why people like "casual" is more inclusive overall.
I found this study thought-provoking.
Earlier today I heard about a 2 year study that Barna did. However, while looking for that study I found another one that I found extremely interesting. We, Christians, have been told by our Pastors that the reason we do things the way we do is to draw in the unchurched. This often means worshipping in the semi-dark, with lead worshippers on a stage, whiich is usually lit with spotlights. It may mean low lighting during the "sermon". It may mean have an auditorium look as opposed to a sanctuary. Most of the churches I have been to, it means LOUD music. Even during the times that are allotted for the churchgoers to visit with one another, the music blares. Conversation may be nearly impossible. The above is why I find this study so very interesting.
Barna study on church
I urge you to go to the website and look at it. I think you will find in interesting.
One part I am going to post here as I find these results very revealing,
Participators in the survey were ask to choose the word that describes their "ideal" church. Here are the results:
• Community, 78% was selected over privacy, 22%
• Sanctuary, 77% (auditorium, 23%)
• Classic, 67% (trendy, 33%)
• Quiet, 65% (loud, 35%)
• Casual, 64% (dignified, 36%)
• Modern, 60% (traditional, 40%)
So it seems that what is "really" wanted in "church" is the more traditional look. The churches that spend much money renovating the churches may have wasted their money. It seems people want to go to "church" not a nondescript place. I think that people may not like the "pretense". It seems that people do want a modern feel without being trendy. I understand why people like "casual" is more inclusive overall.
I found this study thought-provoking.
Monday, February 16, 2015
Mercies of God
What an honor it is to serve God! Each day is a new day. Anne of Greene Gables said something like each day is a clean slate with no mistakes. Lamentations 3:22, 23 says: "Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is your faithfulness." There is a sweetness to beginning every day with God.
I confess that I need the mercy of God. I do not believe that this is a failure. I am of the race called humans. I make mistakes. God knows and understands how we are made. After all, God took the dust of the earth, formed man and breathed into him the breath of life. (See Genesis 2:7) Psalm 139 reaffirms that God loves me. He loved me before I was even in my mother's womb.
What is even more exciting is that God loves you. He has thoughts about you. In Jeremiah 29:11, God tells Jeremiah, "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." God is concerned about you and about your future. God is not just concerned about your beginning and what you are doing now, He is concerned about your entire life. He gave you the Bible to learn about His ways. When we learn about God's ways, we begin to make better decisions. This affects our tomorrows.
Another great thought is to read a chapter of Proverbs every day. If you are a brand new Christian, you may want to read just a few verses each day and as God to show you what they mean and how you can incorporate them into your life. It is great to read the Bible cover to cover, but in the beginning you may want to start with the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
Just as a baby starts with milk, new Christians benefit the most by reading the New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs. After a while, you will want more solid food, so to speak, and then you can move on to other books like Galatians and Ephesians.
The most important thing is to ask the Holy Spirit to help you to understand what you are reading. You may need someone to help you understand. If you have questions, please feel free to leave a comment and I will do my best to answer.
Don't get upset if you don't understand everything. We likely never will while living down here on Earth. However, as time goes by you will understand more and more. Don't get down on yourself if you make mistakes. God knew you (and I) would make mistakes and He still formed us and cares about us. His thoughts toward us cannot be me counted. That is so amazing.
Forgetting: All the mistakes of yesterday and today, all the mistakes before this moment.
Remember: I (and you) are created by the Creator of the Universe. When we ask forgiveness He forgives us. He takes our sins and never remembers it again. Forgive youself!
I confess that I need the mercy of God. I do not believe that this is a failure. I am of the race called humans. I make mistakes. God knows and understands how we are made. After all, God took the dust of the earth, formed man and breathed into him the breath of life. (See Genesis 2:7) Psalm 139 reaffirms that God loves me. He loved me before I was even in my mother's womb.
What is even more exciting is that God loves you. He has thoughts about you. In Jeremiah 29:11, God tells Jeremiah, "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." God is concerned about you and about your future. God is not just concerned about your beginning and what you are doing now, He is concerned about your entire life. He gave you the Bible to learn about His ways. When we learn about God's ways, we begin to make better decisions. This affects our tomorrows.
Another great thought is to read a chapter of Proverbs every day. If you are a brand new Christian, you may want to read just a few verses each day and as God to show you what they mean and how you can incorporate them into your life. It is great to read the Bible cover to cover, but in the beginning you may want to start with the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
Just as a baby starts with milk, new Christians benefit the most by reading the New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs. After a while, you will want more solid food, so to speak, and then you can move on to other books like Galatians and Ephesians.
The most important thing is to ask the Holy Spirit to help you to understand what you are reading. You may need someone to help you understand. If you have questions, please feel free to leave a comment and I will do my best to answer.
Don't get upset if you don't understand everything. We likely never will while living down here on Earth. However, as time goes by you will understand more and more. Don't get down on yourself if you make mistakes. God knew you (and I) would make mistakes and He still formed us and cares about us. His thoughts toward us cannot be me counted. That is so amazing.
Forgetting: All the mistakes of yesterday and today, all the mistakes before this moment.
Remember: I (and you) are created by the Creator of the Universe. When we ask forgiveness He forgives us. He takes our sins and never remembers it again. Forgive youself!
Saturday, February 14, 2015
Matthew 24 - Are We in the End Times?
In Matthew 24, Jesus talks about the signs of the end times. So lets take a look and see what will happen in the end times.
"And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple.
2 And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.
3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?
4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you."
--From this we can see that in the end time there will be deception. That has definitely come true. Everywhere we turn there is deception. People are deceived by people who are pushing their views and propaganda.
"5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many."
--This has also happened. Throughout history there have been people coming and saying that they speak for God. Some have said that they are the "Messiah".
"6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet."
--Throughout history there have been many wars. However, it seems like since World War II the world has been almost continually at war.
"7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
8 All these are the beginning of sorrows."
--Almost every month we hear of a famine, and earthquake or some awful thing happening somewhere in the world.
"9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake."
--This is another that has been almost continual throughout history. However, more Christians are being martyred for their faith now, than ever in history.
"10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another."
--This may be debatable. However, it seems like people are very easily offended at this time. I believe the news bear witness that there is a lot of hate as well
"11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many."
--The list of false prophets in recent history is long. To name a few: Jim Jones, Rev. Moon etc
"12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."
--Sin is definitely on the rise. It seems at times that people do not have love that should come naturally. An example would be a parents love for their children.
"14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come."
--This has not happened as the end has not come. However, the gospel has been preached in much of the world.
"15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)
16 Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:
17 Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house:
18 Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes.
19 And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!
20 But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day:"
--There is debate amongst theologians as to whether or not this has taken place. Some say this will take place in the future. Others believe that it was when Antiochus Epiphanes interrupted temple sacrifices between 168 and 165 B.C. The abomination would be when he sacrificed a pig on the altar in the temple complex.
"21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
22 And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.
23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not.
24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect."
--Great troubles in the world, like there never have been before. Trouble so bad that unless God shortened the time, no flesh would be left on earth. People saying they are the Christ and all other false things. These false prophets will do signs an wonders. I believe we are at the beginning of this time.
"25 Behold, I have told you before.
26 Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not.
27 For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
28 For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together.
29 Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:"
--This has not happened yet in my opinion.
"30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
31 And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other."
--This also has not happened yet. The Son of man has not been seen in the clouds of heaven.
"32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:
33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.
34 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.
35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only."
--Here I believe Jesus is saying that like one looks to nature to see what the season is, we can look for these signs to know that the end of the age is near.
"37 But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark,
39 And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
40 Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.
41 Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left.
42 Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.
43 But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.
44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh."
--It will be as in the days of Noah that people will be only concerned with pleasure. There is much more in this verse that we will cover in a future blog. But for this discussion, our world is getting very close to meeting this requirement.
"45 Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?
46 Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.
47 Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.
48 But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming;
49 And shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken;
50 The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of,
51 And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."
--This is a goal. We want to be told by God on that day that we were a good and faithful servant.
So we see in the end times there will be:
* Deception
*Many coming in the name of God saying "I am he", deceiving many
*Wars and rumours of wars
*Famines, pestilences and earthquakes
*Being killed and hated for Christ's name sake.
*Many are offended and betrayal and filled with hate.
*False prophets
*Sin abounds, love grows cold
*Gospel preached to all the world.
*Abomination of desolation
*Tribulation and deception so great that even the saints could be deceived.
*The sun is darkened and moon shall not give her light, stars fall, and the heavens are shaken.
*sign of Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven, earth mourns, angels with a great sound of a trumpet and gather his elect
*It will be like it was in the days of Noah.
Not all of these have been fulfilled, but most have or are happening in our world right now. I believe we can accurately conclude we are in the end times.
"And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple.
2 And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.
3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?
4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you."
--From this we can see that in the end time there will be deception. That has definitely come true. Everywhere we turn there is deception. People are deceived by people who are pushing their views and propaganda.
"5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many."
--This has also happened. Throughout history there have been people coming and saying that they speak for God. Some have said that they are the "Messiah".
"6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet."
--Throughout history there have been many wars. However, it seems like since World War II the world has been almost continually at war.
"7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
8 All these are the beginning of sorrows."
--Almost every month we hear of a famine, and earthquake or some awful thing happening somewhere in the world.
"9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake."
--This is another that has been almost continual throughout history. However, more Christians are being martyred for their faith now, than ever in history.
"10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another."
--This may be debatable. However, it seems like people are very easily offended at this time. I believe the news bear witness that there is a lot of hate as well
"11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many."
--The list of false prophets in recent history is long. To name a few: Jim Jones, Rev. Moon etc
"12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."
--Sin is definitely on the rise. It seems at times that people do not have love that should come naturally. An example would be a parents love for their children.
"14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come."
--This has not happened as the end has not come. However, the gospel has been preached in much of the world.
"15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)
16 Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:
17 Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house:
18 Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes.
19 And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!
20 But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day:"
--There is debate amongst theologians as to whether or not this has taken place. Some say this will take place in the future. Others believe that it was when Antiochus Epiphanes interrupted temple sacrifices between 168 and 165 B.C. The abomination would be when he sacrificed a pig on the altar in the temple complex.
"21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
22 And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.
23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not.
24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect."
--Great troubles in the world, like there never have been before. Trouble so bad that unless God shortened the time, no flesh would be left on earth. People saying they are the Christ and all other false things. These false prophets will do signs an wonders. I believe we are at the beginning of this time.
"25 Behold, I have told you before.
26 Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not.
27 For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
28 For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together.
29 Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:"
--This has not happened yet in my opinion.
"30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
31 And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other."
--This also has not happened yet. The Son of man has not been seen in the clouds of heaven.
"32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:
33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.
34 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.
35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only."
--Here I believe Jesus is saying that like one looks to nature to see what the season is, we can look for these signs to know that the end of the age is near.
"37 But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark,
39 And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
40 Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.
41 Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left.
42 Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.
43 But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.
44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh."
--It will be as in the days of Noah that people will be only concerned with pleasure. There is much more in this verse that we will cover in a future blog. But for this discussion, our world is getting very close to meeting this requirement.
"45 Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?
46 Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.
47 Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.
48 But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming;
49 And shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken;
50 The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of,
51 And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."
--This is a goal. We want to be told by God on that day that we were a good and faithful servant.
So we see in the end times there will be:
* Deception
*Many coming in the name of God saying "I am he", deceiving many
*Wars and rumours of wars
*Famines, pestilences and earthquakes
*Being killed and hated for Christ's name sake.
*Many are offended and betrayal and filled with hate.
*False prophets
*Sin abounds, love grows cold
*Gospel preached to all the world.
*Abomination of desolation
*Tribulation and deception so great that even the saints could be deceived.
*The sun is darkened and moon shall not give her light, stars fall, and the heavens are shaken.
*sign of Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven, earth mourns, angels with a great sound of a trumpet and gather his elect
*It will be like it was in the days of Noah.
Not all of these have been fulfilled, but most have or are happening in our world right now. I believe we can accurately conclude we are in the end times.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Why People Do Not Prepare
I believe that there are several reaons why people will not listen to or heed the warnings regarding the coming troubles about to befall our country and the world.
1) They do not want to hear anything negative. Our nation has become so entertainment oriented that if it isnt fun they close their ears.
2) They understand that if they hear of suffering, they would be responsible to do something about it. Many do not want to spend time in prayer about social injustice, let alone support monetarily those working in the fields.
3) Some don't believe that such evil exists. To which I say, read your Bible. Or just watch the news.
4) Some cannot distinguish between fantasy and reality. Often in movies, the characters escape the evil things that happen to them.
1) They do not want to hear anything negative. Our nation has become so entertainment oriented that if it isnt fun they close their ears.
2) They understand that if they hear of suffering, they would be responsible to do something about it. Many do not want to spend time in prayer about social injustice, let alone support monetarily those working in the fields.
3) Some don't believe that such evil exists. To which I say, read your Bible. Or just watch the news.
4) Some cannot distinguish between fantasy and reality. Often in movies, the characters escape the evil things that happen to them.
5) Then there is the idea that "it won't happen to me" or " it can't happen in the USA". Well it can happen here.
6). They do not want to do the research themselves to see if the person who they are listening to is right or wrong? It is easier to just dismiss it all as a conspiracy theory. Unfortunately, they open themselves to deception.
Monday, February 9, 2015
How I Know My Heart is Cold
Before I continue with my story, I want to tell you another story. I am putting in an excerpt of a story of a young man's life. I first heard of this story on a conference I was streaming. By that I mean I was watching it online. A young teenager was telling this story. She told it with conviction. It was easy to see that she was very moved regarding the content. She had been deeply affected for days. The man in the story was a Welsh revivalist born in 1878. His name was Evan Roberts. Here was a man who loved God with more passion than most of us can even imagine.
After his conversion, the leaders of his church wanted Evan to go to school to learn to be a minister. He did not want to go because he was afraid that he would lose the "communion" In other words, he was afraid that he would "backslide" or lose the closeness he had with God. Here is the excerpt: "“I got up Sunday. The Rev. Seth Joshua was there. Tuesday evening there was a prayer meeting, and Sydney Evans and others came to see me, and asked if I would go to the meeting. At that moment I felt the Spirit coming upon me, and so irresistible did He come that I rushed to the chapel without my topcoat. The influence began. I was ready to pray - to pray for power to the young women who were there from New Quay, lest the people should wait upon them. I had prayed for them in the house on Monday night. I was not allowed to pray publicly on Tuesday evening. That day I had asked where the devil was. I was hard. I could look at the Cross without feeling. I wept for the hardness of my heart, but could not weep for Christ. I loved the Father and the Spirit, but I did not love the Son."
How amazing is this. How many people enter churches every day, look at the cross and have no feeling. Perhaps they do not even notice it is there. This is something to ponder. It is time to search our hearts. How much of our day do we devote to God?
Here is how I know my heart has grown cold.
#1) The above. I do not weep when I see the cross. To some the very idea may seem repugnant. But I believe my heart and the hearts of my fellow Americans have grown cold.
#2) When I hear of Christians being martyred, I pause, but go on with my life. I don't cry out for God to protect them. I don't pray for those doing the killing.
#3) Regarding #2 - do I believe that God answers prayer? That He hears me and cares when I pray? If so, why don't I pray more? Why don't I pray more for my friends, family, co-workers, and people I pass by.
#4) I don't care enough about people to tell them the truth about God. I'm not talking about what we called "Bible Thumpers" in the 80s. I'm talking about sharing with people how God has changed my life.
#5) Excusing myself for sin, instead of dealing with it. For me, eating healthy and exercising are areas that I know I must heed the Lord.
#6) Hardening my heart against people that I interact with. This would include brushing someone off that wants to talk with me, or monopolizing a conversation instead of listening to what the other person has to say.
#7) Harboring unforgiveness. This isn't as much of a problem as it has been in the past. However, I felt it is a way that does show if my heart is cold.
#8) Denying that my heart has gone cold.
These are just a few ways that I have found upon self-examination. Other people may have a completely different list. I daresay that #8 is a problem for most Christians. I understand as I was there for many years. It is easier to think everything is ok with me and God than to face the areas that need change. I hope you and I will let God into our hearts and obey what He says.
After his conversion, the leaders of his church wanted Evan to go to school to learn to be a minister. He did not want to go because he was afraid that he would lose the "communion" In other words, he was afraid that he would "backslide" or lose the closeness he had with God. Here is the excerpt: "“I got up Sunday. The Rev. Seth Joshua was there. Tuesday evening there was a prayer meeting, and Sydney Evans and others came to see me, and asked if I would go to the meeting. At that moment I felt the Spirit coming upon me, and so irresistible did He come that I rushed to the chapel without my topcoat. The influence began. I was ready to pray - to pray for power to the young women who were there from New Quay, lest the people should wait upon them. I had prayed for them in the house on Monday night. I was not allowed to pray publicly on Tuesday evening. That day I had asked where the devil was. I was hard. I could look at the Cross without feeling. I wept for the hardness of my heart, but could not weep for Christ. I loved the Father and the Spirit, but I did not love the Son."
How amazing is this. How many people enter churches every day, look at the cross and have no feeling. Perhaps they do not even notice it is there. This is something to ponder. It is time to search our hearts. How much of our day do we devote to God?
Here is how I know my heart has grown cold.
#1) The above. I do not weep when I see the cross. To some the very idea may seem repugnant. But I believe my heart and the hearts of my fellow Americans have grown cold.
#2) When I hear of Christians being martyred, I pause, but go on with my life. I don't cry out for God to protect them. I don't pray for those doing the killing.
#3) Regarding #2 - do I believe that God answers prayer? That He hears me and cares when I pray? If so, why don't I pray more? Why don't I pray more for my friends, family, co-workers, and people I pass by.
#4) I don't care enough about people to tell them the truth about God. I'm not talking about what we called "Bible Thumpers" in the 80s. I'm talking about sharing with people how God has changed my life.
#5) Excusing myself for sin, instead of dealing with it. For me, eating healthy and exercising are areas that I know I must heed the Lord.
#6) Hardening my heart against people that I interact with. This would include brushing someone off that wants to talk with me, or monopolizing a conversation instead of listening to what the other person has to say.
#7) Harboring unforgiveness. This isn't as much of a problem as it has been in the past. However, I felt it is a way that does show if my heart is cold.
#8) Denying that my heart has gone cold.
These are just a few ways that I have found upon self-examination. Other people may have a completely different list. I daresay that #8 is a problem for most Christians. I understand as I was there for many years. It is easier to think everything is ok with me and God than to face the areas that need change. I hope you and I will let God into our hearts and obey what He says.
Saturday, February 7, 2015
Church: Open Letter to Church Leadership
I
heard a heartbreaking statistic today. It crushed me, I knew that it is true. I
don't like statistics because they can and often are manipulated. I
believe they are often used to manipulate people. Nevertheless when I
heard this one, it cut right to my heart. A recent poll conducted by
the Barna Group reveals that 46% of
church-going Americans claim their lives have not changed at all due to
their time spent in the pews.
A recent poll conducted by the Barna Group reveals that 46% of church-going Americans claim their lives have not changed at all due to their time spent in the pews. The Barna Group is one of the most trusted organizations for statistics.
This is appalling. However, I believe that I understand why this is true.
First of all, the church has become a form of entertainment. The un-churched are not interested in entertainment. They have real entertainment. They don't need to go be entertained on Sunday, because they have football, NASCAR, TV, movies etc.
I believe that C.H. Spurgeon had it right when he said, "A time will come when instead of shepherds feeding the sheep, the church will have clowns entertaining the goats." ~ C.H. Spurgeon
"Secondly, the church has largely turned it's back on the problems of the country and the world. Sure we may pick one or two areas we talk about here and there but we don't talk about the economy that is about to collapse, we don't talk about the Islamic infiltration of our country. We don't seem to care that villages in Niger were recently burnt, killing many Christians. Or that Christians around the world are being martyred for their faith. How about how we are sacrificing our infants on the altars of Baal and Molech? How the film industry is so filthy that the Christians should be appalled. But no, we go watch their movies, paying our money to the very people we should be denouncing. As if this is not bad enough, we export our sins to the world. No wonder Islam calls us (the USA) the whore of the world.Yet, the very fact that shariah law is creeping into the laws of this nation should make us wake up.The real tragedy is that Christians are not being prepared for what is taking place in this nation and the world. If you study history, can you see how our nation has changed? How we are becoming apostate?
If anyone reading this needs more information on how to repent of your sins and put Jesus in charge of your life, please leave a comment with your email and I will email you with more information and attempt to answer any questions you may have. I want you to know upfront that being a Christian (Christ-like one) is not easy. It is worth it, but not easy.
Of course, if this doesn't apply to you, please disregard.
Sources:
http://www.acommonword.com/
http://apprising.org/2012/02/28/john-piper-on-rick-warrens-chrislam/
A recent poll conducted by the Barna Group reveals that 46% of church-going Americans claim their lives have not changed at all due to their time spent in the pews. The Barna Group is one of the most trusted organizations for statistics.
This is appalling. However, I believe that I understand why this is true.
First of all, the church has become a form of entertainment. The un-churched are not interested in entertainment. They have real entertainment. They don't need to go be entertained on Sunday, because they have football, NASCAR, TV, movies etc.
I believe that C.H. Spurgeon had it right when he said, "A time will come when instead of shepherds feeding the sheep, the church will have clowns entertaining the goats." ~ C.H. Spurgeon
"Secondly, the church has largely turned it's back on the problems of the country and the world. Sure we may pick one or two areas we talk about here and there but we don't talk about the economy that is about to collapse, we don't talk about the Islamic infiltration of our country. We don't seem to care that villages in Niger were recently burnt, killing many Christians. Or that Christians around the world are being martyred for their faith. How about how we are sacrificing our infants on the altars of Baal and Molech? How the film industry is so filthy that the Christians should be appalled. But no, we go watch their movies, paying our money to the very people we should be denouncing. As if this is not bad enough, we export our sins to the world. No wonder Islam calls us (the USA) the whore of the world.Yet, the very fact that shariah law is creeping into the laws of this nation should make us wake up.The real tragedy is that Christians are not being prepared for what is taking place in this nation and the world. If you study history, can you see how our nation has changed? How we are becoming apostate?
What is
happening is a spiritual problem. If the church does not step up and
take action, someone else will. The church will be judged for what we
allowed to happen on our watch.
The answer is
repentance. Pure and simply, it must start with the church.
Repentance means turning away. It is not enough to says "Sorry" and go
on with the same lifestyle. It is almost impossible to tell the
church from the world. Perhaps we don't use the same swearwords, but we
dress the same, go to the same movies, use those movies inside the
church. Instead we should be like the 7 wise virgins who were preparing
and prepared for the return of the bridegroom.
I
believe that in the near future you will see a division between what
Jesus called the sheep and the goats. It is the pastor's (shepherd)
job to protect and disciple the sheep. God considers this an important
job with dire consequences for failure.
One final quote from Spurgeon:
Sin and Hell are married unless repentance proclaims the divorce." ~ C.H. Spurgeon
Repentance
is not raising your hand during an altar call (shouldn't be called
altar calls anymore) or by saying a prayer. Repentance is turning away
from sin. As was in the case of Jacob/Israel, this often involves
wrestling.Sin and Hell are married unless repentance proclaims the divorce." ~ C.H. Spurgeon
If anyone reading this needs more information on how to repent of your sins and put Jesus in charge of your life, please leave a comment with your email and I will email you with more information and attempt to answer any questions you may have. I want you to know upfront that being a Christian (Christ-like one) is not easy. It is worth it, but not easy.
Of course, if this doesn't apply to you, please disregard.
Sources:
http://www.acommonword.com/
http://apprising.org/2012/02/28/john-piper-on-rick-warrens-chrislam/
Friday, February 6, 2015
Church: Why I Hate Statistics...and Manipulation
Have you even been listening to a speaker and they start spitting out statistics like a copier produces copies?
It is disconcerting when you are listening to someone you trust and they start talking in statistics. To me, that makes me suspicious of whatever it is they are trying to convey. Generally speaking, people start with the statistics to make their viewpoint look credible. I am a bit different than most churchgoers, but you probably already knew that.
I took a statistics class many years ago. Most of what I learned I have forgotten. One thing has stayed with me throughout the years. Our class was told that one can take any set of statistics and make them support your supposition. Isn't that very interesting. Statistics can be manipulated, just as they can be used to manipulate people. I understand there are reputable firms that do studies and are careful to use statistics wisely. However, when people are trying to influence others, they tend to utilize the tools they have or think they have.
It seems to me that the very ones who are suppose to protect their congregations are instead using manipulation. Unfortunately this happens a lot in the church. I think most everyone knows when they are being manipulated. There are times when we don't realize what is happening until it's too late. Christians must be discerning without being suspicious. This is something that we can pray and ask God to give us. He promises that He will not withhold any good thing from us.
I had a situation recently, when I didn't realize what was happening until after the fact. This person literally attacked, accusing me of something untrue. Others that were there told me that they know that what the other person said was not true. Yet I was troubled inside. It was some time later I realized that the person foisted off on me her opinion. She did it in such a way, that I knew I did not do what I was accused of, yet I had this huge need to bring clarity to all around me. This is one way that people can manipulate you.
Another happened one day when I got drawn into another persons drama. As a result, I lost time that I couldn't afford to lose.
My suggestion is to ask God for protection and discernment. And do not believe every statistic you hear.
It is disconcerting when you are listening to someone you trust and they start talking in statistics. To me, that makes me suspicious of whatever it is they are trying to convey. Generally speaking, people start with the statistics to make their viewpoint look credible. I am a bit different than most churchgoers, but you probably already knew that.
I took a statistics class many years ago. Most of what I learned I have forgotten. One thing has stayed with me throughout the years. Our class was told that one can take any set of statistics and make them support your supposition. Isn't that very interesting. Statistics can be manipulated, just as they can be used to manipulate people. I understand there are reputable firms that do studies and are careful to use statistics wisely. However, when people are trying to influence others, they tend to utilize the tools they have or think they have.
It seems to me that the very ones who are suppose to protect their congregations are instead using manipulation. Unfortunately this happens a lot in the church. I think most everyone knows when they are being manipulated. There are times when we don't realize what is happening until it's too late. Christians must be discerning without being suspicious. This is something that we can pray and ask God to give us. He promises that He will not withhold any good thing from us.
I had a situation recently, when I didn't realize what was happening until after the fact. This person literally attacked, accusing me of something untrue. Others that were there told me that they know that what the other person said was not true. Yet I was troubled inside. It was some time later I realized that the person foisted off on me her opinion. She did it in such a way, that I knew I did not do what I was accused of, yet I had this huge need to bring clarity to all around me. This is one way that people can manipulate you.
Another happened one day when I got drawn into another persons drama. As a result, I lost time that I couldn't afford to lose.
My suggestion is to ask God for protection and discernment. And do not believe every statistic you hear.
Sunday, September 14, 2014
Day 9: Goodness of God
Forgetting: unmet expectations
Remembering: Much of life is about perspective. Whose perspective will I use? My perspective from the "trenches"? Or will my perspective be from being "seated in heavenly places with Christ?"
When I expect people to meet my needs, my perspective is not correct. When I ask God for my daily needs, and trust Him, it frees my mind and spirit.
Regardless of what happens on this earth, God will always be with me.
Update 11/11/17:
I like writing 11/11/17 for some reason. Anyhow, I remain convinced that God is with me and always will be. We don't know what's around the next bend, but we can know that God is with us.
Remembering: Much of life is about perspective. Whose perspective will I use? My perspective from the "trenches"? Or will my perspective be from being "seated in heavenly places with Christ?"
When I expect people to meet my needs, my perspective is not correct. When I ask God for my daily needs, and trust Him, it frees my mind and spirit.
Regardless of what happens on this earth, God will always be with me.
Update 11/11/17:
I like writing 11/11/17 for some reason. Anyhow, I remain convinced that God is with me and always will be. We don't know what's around the next bend, but we can know that God is with us.
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Day 7: Sinner? or Saint?
Forgetting: I am a sinner.
Remembering: i WAS a sinner, now I am a saint. I am now dead to the law. The law served a purpose, to show me my need for Jesus.
Just as Jesus died I died with Him. I know am not to worry about the law of sin. Now I am to live as Jesus lived. He will help me so that I can bring about Gods will for my life.
Jesus changed my spiritual DNA. Now I look like Christ. It's not always easy but worth it.
Update 11/11/17
While the above is true. It is also true that I do sin, everyday. It's important to remember that when we sin, we confess our sins in order to be set free. I John 1:8 -10
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
Update 11/11/17
While the above is true. It is also true that I do sin, everyday. It's important to remember that when we sin, we confess our sins in order to be set free. I John 1:8 -10
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Day 2: Influence
Forgetting: I have no influence on anyone.
Remembering: I am called to be salt and light in this world. It is not about how it looks but about God. If I obey God the results are His responsibility.
Light dispels darkness. Darkness automatically leaves when light enters. Isaiah 60:1 says to: Arise SHINE for you light has come.
Salt is a preservative and brings out the flavor. All Christians have a responsibility to the world around them. I am no exception.
This is one of the things that should be basic Christianity. Unfortunately, it seems that even seasoned Christians are not immune to deception.
Update 11/11/17:
I feel like I'm running in place. Expending energy, but not getting anywhere. However, I'm more convinced than ever that most American Christians are very deceived. I had no idea until I stopped listening to the propaganda of the "Christian" community at large. More on that to come.
This is one of the things that should be basic Christianity. Unfortunately, it seems that even seasoned Christians are not immune to deception.
Update 11/11/17:
I feel like I'm running in place. Expending energy, but not getting anywhere. However, I'm more convinced than ever that most American Christians are very deceived. I had no idea until I stopped listening to the propaganda of the "Christian" community at large. More on that to come.
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