Can We Know Peace Again?

Open the gates that the righteous nation may enter, the nation that keeps faith. You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD himself, is the Rock eternal. He humbles those who dwell on high, he lays the lofty city low; he levels it to the ground and casts it down to the dust. Feet trample it down— the feet of the oppressed, the footsteps of the poor.The path of the righteous is level; you, the Upright One, make the way of the righteous smooth. Isaiah 26:2-7 NIV

False alarms about in-coming nuclear missiles, unfiltered race-baiting comments from the person in the Oval Office, silence from the Congressional leadership, and uproar from the majority of people-loving Americans--all of this--disrupts hopes of peace residing in the land. But all is not lost as long as we, who have a right relationship with Jesus, hold onto our faith in Him, instead of another human being.

Don't get me wrong--I'm not saying we should do nothing while we earnestly wait to live at peace within our borders and outside of them. We must change the individual in the Oval Office--not attempting to change him or racist attitudes, but with another person who is far more compassionate, insightful, and intellectually capable of thinking before speaking. This is what we must work to do--knowing that this is right in the sight of God who above all things--wants us to live in peace, loving one another, defending the rights of the poor and needy.

When people take their eyes off God and have more faith in riches and celebrity and in a person's ability to manipulate the masses with lies and gaslighting techniques that lead to the overwhelming spread of false propaganda--we lose. Many blinked--taking their eyes off God--and looked upon the person who was the most vile creature we've ever seen mislead millions. Some blinked because of their hatred of Hillary and didn't bother to vote at all. Some blinked because they were misled by all the false propaganda. Others proved they have never known God because they promoted the blatant, hateful bigotry spewed by drumpf to the point they wore very telling political gear, proving their hatred of women and other ethnicities. Anyone who has ever had a right relationship with Jesus could never wear a T-shirt calling a woman a dog, or using racial slurs as it relates to other people.

I am convinced--the same people who were shouting, "Lock her up" without cause, will be the same people will be groaning and complaining, claiming, "fake news" when and if it is proven that their "savior" is a traitor to America. It is the poor and educated masses in Red States who are going to suffer financially as we have already seen with the advent of the "criteria-based" ability to receive Medicaid. Now, anyone receiving Medicaid, must pass a literacy test and pay higher premiums for healthcare insurance. The same people will see no benefit from the TaxCutScam that benefited only the wealthy--those who make millions, own private aircraft and golf courses.  In fact, it has just been revealed that drumpf had no idea that Black people were not the ones who were who received the most welfare (White-40%, Black-27.7%). But then again, he has no interest in facts about much of anything and has admitted his own net worth is contingent upon his "feelings" at the moment.

For people who are capable of critical thinking and understanding the value of research from credible sources, they understand our current dilemma. If the person in the Oval Office is not interested in facts about reality--how can he make good decisions about the welfare of the country? Short answer--he can't and unfortunately we have an impotent Republican Congress who won't exercise their authority in keeping him in check or removing him completely.

But this is what happens when we take our eyes off God--we believe the lies propagated by those in authority in a vast number of places--particularly the church--or rather the rich, White Evangelicals who convinced a few Black church leaders to believe their lies on one specific issue--abortion. Those in positions of leadership--primarily White men, have convinced people that God is not Pro-Choice and wants to control what women decide. That's the biggest lie ever promoted by those in the church. God wants us all to live a life that is honoring to Him and obeys His commandment of love. What we have to remember is God is Pro-Choice in that He gives us the right to choose the paths we take and the consequences we face. He does not control what we do and we should not allow others--mere human beings--to take that choice from us. Those who profess to be Pro-life really indicate they are merely "fetus-lovers" because they care nothing about the life outside the womb and we know because of the policies they support--in their support of the malignant narcissist they elected (with the help of the Russians). If these same people were actually "pro-life" they would fight tooth and nail to protect the poor and vulnerable and be more willing to see tax dollars spent on helping the poor and vulnerable than in supporting tax dollars spent on golf outings (over $90M spent so far in less than a year).

When people do not have a right relationship with Jesus on their own and count on those in leadership in churches, they can be misled--we know because of the number of cults that have caused people to lose their lives. And with this administration--it has become a cult. The supporters of this administration see no wrong in anything he does--whether it's perpetually lying about the obvious, maligning women or other groups of people or spending tax dollars needlessly and only considering the rich with his policies. Their blind loyalty to a bigot also keeps them from seeing they have forsaken the premises on which Christianity is built--loving one another unconditionally.

I have not lost my faith in God, my relationship with Jesus has never wavered and I know, like most true Believers, when we pray--expecting Him to respond--we must also do--giving our prayers--feet. I have faith that we--the true Patriots in America, those capable of loving others regardless of what they look like--will change the landscape in Washington and provide an atmosphere of peace again in the nation.

No matter who wins the next presidential election--I am confident it will be a person--man or woman--who understands the tenets of humanity and civility and they will protect protect the rights of the poor and vulnerable, reestablish our position on the global stage and work to maintain and preserve peace--globally.

My name is Mary Hall-Rayford, and I'm planning a run for President in the 2020 Election. If you believe I can indeed make a difference that will lead to a better life for all, I welcome your support. Please visit www.facebook.com/YesIAm2020 and leave a comment or just "Like" the page.

When The Lord Delights In Us!

I love you, Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I have been saved from my enemies.
He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support. He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me. Psalm 18:1-3; 16-19 NIV

With all of the craziness going on around us, we must take a moment or longer to think about who really loves and in whom we can truly trust. My hope is in Jesus and I know when I do what He would have me do, He's delighted in me and I will have all He has promised in His Word. Since He is not a respecter of persons, whatever He has promised me and will do for me--He will do for others.

So take heart! We have not been forgotten by The Lord even though things seem out of kilter in the world. There is chaos and confusion, we cannot deny, but when we know the Lord, we know the origin of the chaos and it is Satan, for the Word says, "God is not the author of confusion," and that "all things should be done decently and in order." No many how many pseudo-Christians try to tell us that God chose trump, we can see this is a lie by aligning his actions with the Word of God.

God hates liars and has prepared the lake of fire for liars. Sound like anyone we know? Let's look at recent proclamations!

 

Notice the signature--his--and the date--October 5th 2017--fabricated to counter the notion that he's a moron. Creating this fake certificate actually confirms that he is--indeed a chronic moron who thinks those with a functioning brain would ever buy into his nonsense. Oh wait--some did and lost millions of dollars behind his fake Trump University. I can imagine anyone who stayed long enough probably received a similar fake certificate of completion. His actions make me wonder if he actually completed a degree as he claims. Nothing else he says is true so it makes me wonder. No transcript or degree has been produced so we only have his word for it--like Forbes only has his word about his "self-proclaimed wealth."

 

Then, when he lies and the lies are exposed, all his spokespersons--those enabling his lies and pathetic behavior, love to spin it into something it never was. His claim of having a higher IQ than Tillerson or anyone else is a lie and the above chart reveals he has no clue as to how an IQ test is ranked or its significance--which many don't believe.

What's really sad is Sarah Huckabee Sanders role as press secretary who lies without blinking and yet claims to be such a righteous Christian and does not understand that her lies will reserve her place in the lake.

When insecurities rule a person because of fragile egos and multiple personality disorders, there is no truth told and everything trump is to bring him validation, not to unify a country. He is as most have already determined--a narcissistic megalomaniac pathological liar and only cares about what he wants or what makes him look good. He'll fabricate things just to make him look more important than he is and we know the Word says, "we ought not to think more highly of ourselves than we are." He proclaimed Columbus Day, Columbus Day like it wasn't already on the calendar just so he could say--he did it. I'm not sure he realizes that all of the holidays and special days are already noted on most calendars and have been for years.  If he was really mindful and a "Christian" as some purport, he'd know that his deeds speak volumes and expose his lies.

He says he's not a racist: He called the Black football players in the NFL SOBs (they were the only ones kneeling when he made this remark), but called white supremacists, "very fine people." He has made the issue of the NFL players kneeling about disrespecting the flag, country, and anthem because he refuses to address the racial injustices that exist in many police districts--which is the reason for the kneeling. The fact that he's now bullying the NFL and denigrating anyone who openly criticizes reveals his desire to be a dictator, not a president. He has yet to demonstrate understanding of the Constitution's 1st Amendment rights--for others--while he says whatever comes out of out of his dark soul.

His spokespeople claim (Kellyanne specifically) that he's, "compassionate and cares about others." Would a compassionate person bring up past debts to those on an decimated island or throw paper towels to the residents? Would a compassionate person care more about the crowd size when he shows up to assess storm damage? Would a compassionate person ignore the deaths of four Green Berets and say nothing about their deaths or service to this country? I could say more, but what's the point? Those who choose to believe his lies will and those of us who know better, will never believe anything he says.

Whenever I see a lie by trump or his spokespersons, I address it on Twitter and FaceBook his favorite means of communication, and I will continue to speak truth to power whether he or his parrots acknowledge it or not. That is the job of every Christian to speak truth, no matter what, dispelling lies spoken by those serving Satan.

If we want to see integrity and honor move back into the White House, I encourage all who read this post to check me out on facebook.com/YesIAm2020 and see what I bring to the table that will benefit all Everyday Americans. The 2020 Election is not that far away and plans must be solidified now.
 Thanks for the considering supporting my bid for president. I know when Jesus delights in me--I shall have what I say I shall have. For the Word says, "Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of our heart."

Here's The Message!

We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. Now, we declare God's wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destine for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of age understood it, for if they had, they would have crucified the Lord of glory. However, as it is written: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived"--the things God has prepared for those who love him--these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. I Corinthians 3:6-10 NIV

The message that we need to hear more than anything else is a message of love, integrity, and honor.
That message will drive out the hatred that dwells in the hearts of so many who called themselves the alt-right and white nationalists groups who proclaim to be Christians.

How can they claim to be Christians and hate? They're not really Christians; they're religious and use the Bible and Christianity to try to control and dehumanize others.  We are not blind or deaf to the "noise" and chatter that promotes and encourages foul acts of violence against others. We know that trump's election was a ploy for the white nationalists to put into place their own agenda of denying anyone who is brown or black the privileges and rights that prevail in this country.

They want to "purify" the country, by eliminating other cultures and groups of people to thrive here. This is no different that other countries trying to "purify" their countries by killing off those who are not like them. Now, they want to decry foul against affirmative action claiming rural white Americans have an opioid problem because of it.

There is no sane rationale for any white person to claim "discrimination" in this country when they have had opportunities denied to people of color and various ethnicities for centuries. The discrimination claims are biased and steeped in racism as depicted by the racist Jeff Sessions.

So, if the message is not love--unconditionally--all the nationalists and alt-right groups can expect to never know what God's plans are for them other than to know, they are doomed because of their hatred of all God created.

For those who think this post is harsh; it is and it is because of love that I speak truth to the devil so all of his minions will know--I'm onto them and so are many others. We will not be silent and allow hatred to reign in this country. This is America and as Americans, we will fight for the rights of all Americans and beat down racist discriminatory acts against people of all races. And for the WH idiot to say, "the White House is a dump" demonstrates his lack of respect for the government and institutions that keep this country great. He should leave with no further comment and go back to his tower, and suck on his hatred away from other human beings.

We are the true Christians--defending the rights of the poor, needy and vulnerable and we do not act out of religious piety that serves no purpose. All human beings are God's creation, and no one has a right to dehumanize another. We will remove the hatred from the White House and all those in positions appointed by the hater--influenced by Bannon and Miller.

And when we do, we will set the stage for the renewal of a mindset that cares about people; especially if I'm elected president in 2020. Watch out haters! A change is coming in the BlueWave Tsunami in 2018 and beyond. We care about all of God's people, not just some.

If Not Now, When?

Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer. How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods? Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him. Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord. Many, Lord, are asking, "Who will bring us prosperity?" Let the light of your face shine on us. Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4 NIV

For those actively involved in The Resistance, we have won a small battle, but the war is not over. We must continue the fight against injustice and an unjust person in the WH.

For those who were not actively involved, what's holding you back? Are you waiting for God to come down out of the clouds and speak to you personally about defending the rights of the poor and the needy? He has already said what we are to do in His Word.

For Christians to not know that it is our responsibility to defend the rights of the poor, needy and vulnerable, what is it going to take to get that through to hearts? How can anyone say they are a Christian and not do what Jesus did and told us to do--love?

If not now, when will it be a good time to demonstrate our love for God and in obeying His Word?
If not now, when will it be a good time to repudiate the notion that God chose trump to be the president of the United States when all he has done--indicates his love and fear of Putin is greater than his love for America?

If not now, when will Christians lift up the name of Jesus in their conduct and not just lip service by caring for all human beings and in protecting their rights?

If not now, when will Evangelical leaders remember they are supposed to follow after God and all He has put on their hearts to do--according to His Word--not their personal agendas.

If not now, when will those sitting in churches, listening to those promoting hatred and bigotry of others have the courage to get up and walk out--letting the leadership know, why they're leaving?
If not now, when will people stand up and speak out against those who perpetuate hatred against other human beings?

God is not pleased with our lack of compassion for other human beings, our treatment of those who are not like us and certainly our lack of concern for the rights of the poor, needy, and vulnerable. If anyone thinks that God is going to bless them for promoting hatred and embracing the lies of a liar, think again. God hates liars and has prepared a place for them all in the lake of fire.

People have rejected the most qualified person on the planet to be in the Oval Office and elected a "Napoleon wannabe" as a leader of the free world. He has accused President Obama of not being a strong leader (like Putin) and yet he has failed to be an "effective leader" since he has no clue what it means to be a public servant. He wants to be a dictator--who abides by no rules or policy or protocol--and uses threats and attempts to intimidate others--being a cowardly bully instead of a leader. He has refused to accept the fact that he cannot govern a nation run like one of his failed businesses. The chaos in the White House will continue until the people--all the sane folks in America--wake up and see that it's time for a real change--and if not now, when?

In 2018, the people must balance those in Congress so they'll be forced to work for the people, not a party agenda. In 2020, we must elect a president who understands the struggles and challenges Everyday Americans face and who will represent Everyday Americans and not a personal agenda. I'm an Everyday American who has lived the challenges most of us face and I know, I can and will represent all Americans since I have no personal or political agenda to achieve--other than doing what is best for all Americans.  Your support in this endeavor is appreciated.

Consider

Why, LORD, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? In his arrogance the wicked man hunts down the weak, who are caught in the schemes he devises.He boasts about the cravings of his heart; he blesses the greedy and reviles the LORD. In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God. His ways are always prosperous; your laws are rejected by him; he sneers at all his enemies.He says to himself, “Nothing will ever shake me.” He swears, “No one will ever do me harm.” His mouth is full of lies and threats; trouble and evil are under his tongue. He lies in wait near the villages; from ambush he murders the innocent. His eyes watch in secret for his victims; like a lion in cover he lies in wait. He lies in wait to catch the helpless; he catches the helpless and drags them off in his net.His victims are crushed, they collapse; they fall under his strength. He says to himself, “God will never notice; he covers his face and never sees.Arise, LORD! Lift up your hand, O God. Do not forget the helpless.” Why does the wicked man revile God? Why does he say to himself, “He won’t call me to account”? But you, God, see the trouble of the afflicted; you consider their grief and take it in hand. The victims commit themselves to you; you are the helper of the fatherless. Break the arm of the wicked man; call the evildoer to account for his wickedness that would not otherwise be found out.The LORD is King for ever and ever; the nations will perish from his land.You, LORD, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror. Psalm 10 NIV

How long, Lord, how long?

I wonder how many people are asking that question right now. Many are wondering how much longer we must wait to see the lunacy in the White House end.

But it's not just the White House--it's the lawmakers who are only considering what is best for the rich--that 2% of the population in the United States. The rest of us--the 98% receive no consideration by them and never have.

How do we know? We have but to look at what's going on around us--the changes in the EPA agency--established to protect consumers against corporate greed as they pollute the air and waters in order to make themselves more money. We have but to look at the cabinet choices of 45--all wealthy and unconcerned about those who fall into the 98% of the population. The real issue here is--the 98% have more power collectively if they don't sit on their butts and not pay attention.

Consider--if you will--how much leverage we have if everyone of the 98% picked up a phone and called their representatives expressing their concerns about the plight of America--with healthcare, environmental protections, and jobs (which have not been addressed).

Consider--if you will--how cutting funds to Planned Parenthood will affect the lives of many impoverished women who will be denied access to healthcare, not related to abortions.

Consider--if you will--how putting a person into a qualified position as the Secretary of Education who has no qualifications to be there. Public Education will surely take a hit and how many of the 98% can afford to send their children to private schools?

Consider--if you will--the fact that coal-mining jobs and much manufacturing won't be making a comeback simply because there is no need for them. The world is moving away from using fossil fuels and considering the fact that coal-mining companies have been given permission to poison the waters, there won't be many people living in an environment where their water supply is toxic. Automation and robotics have taken the place of people in many manufacturing arenas and therefore, unless a person is highly skilled, there won't be jobs.

Consider--if you will--how many people will end up not getting the healthcare they need and will end up dying because of the lack of affordable healthcare.

Consider--if you will--how the Republicans tainted the Affordable Care Act by calling it Obamacare--confusing people simply because they didn't like President Obama.

Consider--if you will--how hatred and acrimony played a part in getting us to where we are in this country--with an idiot in the White House--clearly unfit for the job--and yet, the Christians say nothing all because they want to interfere with a woman's right to choose what to do with their lives.

Consider--if you will--how much longer we'll be able take the barrage of foolishness launched at us on a daily basis before we become a nation of apathy--too frustrated to do anything but wait for the fall-out and if we do that--we all lose.

Perhaps--if people had taken more time to consider all the possibilities before they voted, we would not be in the mess we're in with North Korean attempting to influence another war because it's leader has no respect for ours.

Perhaps--if people had not been so gullible they believed a liar--we would all be in much better shape by now and able to rest in the assurance of the Lord leading the person in the White House. By her actions and life's commitment to helping others--she demonstrated her faith in God. By 45's actions and life of doing nothing other than amassing wealth for himself--he demonstrates he does not know God.

Lord Jesus, only You know the end from the beginning and we thank You for looking out for the 98%--considering us worthy and making a clear path of success for each of us and we continue to serve You and not the dictates of our flesh.

Walking in Darkness!

Yet I am writing you a new command; its truth is seen in him and in you, because the darkness is passing and the true light is already shining. Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness. Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble. But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them. I John 2:8-11 NIV

Political Alert!

When John reminds us that we as Believers should be walking in the Light of God's love and yet we see--those who claim to be walking in the light hating--what are we really demonstrating to the world?

I'm more inclined to believe "the world" knows how to treat others better than those who claim to know Christ--based upon what I see on a daily basis in the media. More specifically, the Republican party is always "acting" like they're more religious than the Democrats, but from what I see--with all the hate-mongering promoted and encouraged, I'd rather be known as a Believer than a Christian with all of the "religious" trappings that apparently mean nothing to those espousing the claims. I have seen more hate and fear-mongering from those who claim to know Christ and follow Him than I could have ever imagined. I am ashamed and embarrassed by the behavior of those who claim to be Christians, but obviously have no clue as to how Christ wants us to live--loving one another.

If we have not love--one for the other--we do not belong to Christ and all the religiosity we demonstrate, won't mean a thing.

Loving one another does not mean we have to agree with one another, but it should mean we respect one another enough to accept that we all have differing opinions, and simply agree to disagree without all the name-calling and bashing others.

I cannot imagine that God is happy with much of what He's seeing in our behavior. We have literally defiled our relationship with Him because of politics--which is a disaster in this country--and in a few months, it will all be over--no matter who wins. But will we be able to restore broken relationships with others because of differing opinions? I don't know.  Some of the things I see--cut quite deep and restoration of relationships may not be possible and that's a shame.

As Believers--we should not promote or support anyone who promotes fear or hate. It's really just that simple. Love--covers a multitude of sin and when we love--unconditionally, we are able to forgive, but hate--is a cancer that runs rampant and is not satisfied until it kills. The enemy's job--kill, steal, and destroy, father of liars, and master of deception. 

If we ever expect anyone to have any respect for the word, "Christian" we'd better start cleaning up our acts or no one is going to be believe we are "followers of Christ" when we promote hatred of people--for any reason. If we promote hatred, we lie when we claim to be followers of Christ.

Followers of Christ--true Believers--have various skin tones, colors; come from various backgrounds and come in all sizes and though we love the same God--read the same Word, we have various differing thoughts about how we do things--as it relates to being a Believer, but everything we do--should be aligned with The Word.

Our role--while in the earth--is to love people to Christ--not turn them off from hearing the Gospel message. And quite frankly, I'm becoming tone-deaf to some people who claim to be Christians, but are promoting agendas based on political party affiliations rather than The Word of God. The Gospel Message is the only we should be promoting and not just by beating people up with The Word, but in our treatment of everyone.

It is time for us to stop walking in darkness--doing the deeds of darkness, but to live in the glorious light of The Lord!

The Devil--Cloaked With Deceptive Devices!

Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 2 Corinthians 4:1-5 NIV

Disclaimer--I am a devout Believer in Jesus Christ and claim no denominational ties or affiliations, I am ordained by God and man to teach God's Truth, no matter what the circumstances or who it may expose. I'm not particularly impressed with any politician because I know they all lie, but when it comes to mocking a practice that is pivotal to our faith, I tend to get a bit incensed.


Your thoughts are welcomed!

I am unable to attach the link I wanted to reference, but please check on YouTube and search for "Donald Trump Meets With Religious leaders." Here it is https://youtu.be/Uk4c2uoOF3o

Please note that this video posted in September 2015. Much has been revealed about the man, by himself, since then.

I'm praying even the more for God to pour out His Wisdom upon all flesh, that blinders will be removed and ears unstopped so they will receive Truth.

On The Journey--TSADDE!

Righteous are You, O LORD,
And upright are Your judgments.
Your testimonies, which You have commanded,
Are righteous and very faithful.
My zeal has consumed me,
Because my enemies have forgotten Your words
Your word is very pure;
Therefore Your servant loves it.
I am small and despised,
Yet I do not forget Your precepts.
Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,
And Your law is truth.
Trouble and anguish have overtaken me,
Yet Your commandments are my delights.
The righteousness of Your testimonies is everlasting;
Give me understanding, and I shall live

The 18th letter and stanza of this acrostic expression of the writers deep-seated emotions about their circumstances.

When we do everything we can to do what is right, do we get tired when we see our efforts fall short?

This is what I'm getting out of this stanza--the writer knows that God's laws are right, he's trying to live by them, but all around them, people are living by their own standards and codes of righteousness. He's getting tired--of being harassed because of his zeal to do things God's way, instead of the way people consider to be just.

I've often felt that way myself. Not that I'm so perfect, but when I try to live according to God's Word and then watch all those who don't--appear to prosper--my flesh gets weak and I want to angry and want to tell people off. However, when Holy Spirit speaks to my heart, I calm down and continue to seek God's Word, with my mind made up to do things God's Way.

I know many Believers who have encountered some of the same things I have in this regard--we are criticized, ridiculed, and persecuted because we refuse to go along with the status quo--accept everything everyone does and ignore God. We won't do it.

Our opposition--or at least mine--has come from two primary sources--those who don't believe in God and those who promote living in opposition to God's Word because it is politically expedient.

Though I get weary and spiritually weak in this continuing fight, I won't give up. I won't allow those who choose not to Believe, to deter me or dissuade me. They have a right to believe or not believe just as I do. When they choose to cite science as a standard, I know they have forgotten--if they ever knew--that God created all that was ever created and the goal of science is to try to explain--why--science does not create anything from nothing, which is why scientists are yet puzzled by Creation and are forever trying to discover--the how and why. That's what they do--discover--not create.

On the other hand, I am appalled at Believers--those who proclaim to be Christians or at least know something about The Word--those who encourage living in opposition to God's Word and promote ungodliness. It is this group that has the most to worry about when they stand before God on That Day. It is because of sin running rampant and approved by Supreme Court Justices and any other legislative body or persons--who refuse to see the benefit of God's Word as His intent for mankind that the world is in the shape it is.

We must call sin--sin! Liars (and this covers most politicians) are sinners! Thieves--in high places and low places are sinners! All sexual behavior outside the parameters of marriage as God defines it--is sin! Having respect of person (giving people advantages over others for no reason other than association)--is sin! Allowing self-pride--in thinking we know more than we do to reign--is sin and usually leads to problems! When we don't know something, we should own it, and seek to learn it.

This is what the writer has concluded--without God's Word to guide him, there can be nothing but chaos and destruction. Have we reached that conclusion? Are we going with the status quo--anything goes? Are we cementing our relationship with the God of Heaven or the god of this world?

We have choices to make--if we haven't already made them--and I choose to Believe God and live according to His Word--not the dictates of man. What about you?

Once Jews--Converted Christians!

"The Apostles and the believers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the Word of God. Now those who had been scattered in the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the Word only among Jews. Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. The Lord's hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to The Lord. Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch." (Acts 11:1, 19-21, 25, 26 NIV)

Let me say at the outset of this post that I know and understand that Christianity--a label for those who followed Christ then began with the conversion of Jews. This post takes nothing from the fact the Jews were and are God's chosen people and the rest of us who choose to Believe--the work on the Cross, the resurrection, and Divinity of Jesus are adopted into the family as an act of faith.

That being said, if we pay attention to the verses before the 26th verse--where people called those Jews who followed the teachings of Jesus--Christians, we will see that at first--they were simply--Believers--those who believed those who had walked with Jesus and in His purpose for coming down to earth.

Generally, what happens when we allow others to decide a label for us--we err in the teaching of truth. As with the label--Christian--we have come so far from the truth in teaching God's Word and His love that we have become an object of ridicule. One of the reasons we are ridiculed for our faith is the fact that there are too many divisions--too many denominations and sects--all promoting their own version of truth and veered so far off the mark that many are considered cults.
I recently read a blog, by Fred, who thought he was a Christian because he became involved with the Seventh Day Adventist, and because he was disillusioned by what occurred within the religious group, he has since converted to becoming a Jew, apparently not understanding that all original Christians were converted Jews.

We are not Christians because of the church we join or hold special religious beliefs. We are Believers because we Believe The Word of God and that includes following the teachings of Jesus. No matter how carefully one inspects The Word--no denominations will be found. Man--in his desire to control others--created denominations based upon micro-selection of Scriptures. In every religious group--their foundation is based upon one or two verses of Scripture because they did not understand how all the scriptures align and none to be ignored. And in some cases, the religious group is named after the person who chose to remove themselves from the fray of religiosity--only to perpetuate more.

This is how we come to have the Baptists--who misunderstood John's role--and his role was not his title. The Church of God--so named because someone misunderstood what Paul was saying in Acts 20 and in his letters to the church at Corinth. The Church of God in Christ--so named because someone had the bright idea to make a distinction to who they were by separating from The Church of God, but adding "in Christ" to the banner. Jehovah Witnesses--so named because they misunderstood that everyone who promoted the Gospel of Jesus Christ is His witness and the founders chose to re-write the bible to suit their purposes. This is important since they originally denied the divinity of Jesus and have for years, denied the virgin birth and so many other truths. The Methodists--so named after a person because of the method or strategy used to promote religion. The Lutherans--so named after Martin Luther--promoting a doctrine with some basis of truth, but not totally. And of course--The Catholic Church--who claims that Peter is their foundation, but deny priests to be married when Peter was married--all in an attempt to control others. And of course we cannot deny the horrors inflicted upon millions because they misunderstood The Word and warned others not to try to read it because it would confuse them. Religious persecution (forced conversions and beheading) did not begin with those in this century who are misguided, but with those who thought they were better than everyone else and chose to force their beliefs on others and killed any who resisted. 

There are so many other groups that it would take a book to discuss them at length and to point out how they have erred in their foundational beliefs. The truth is very simply this--for most Believers--we Believe The Word of God. We believe that mankind was so far from fulfilling God's purpose for us, that He decided to come down to earth in the person of Jesus Christ to demonstrate His love for us. He chose to be crucified, died, and rose again--redeeming us--giving us a chance to live with Him for all eternity, forgiving our sins and providing us with His presence at all times in the person of Holy Spirit. The inspired word of God, rightly interpreted and promoted by those in relationship with Him, is what Believers believe. Anything other than this is spawned by religious spirits that bear no truth and have no relationship with God.

I am yet a Believer with no religious hangups and my desire is to please God only. My choice--is made with information and relationship, and not coercion as some would have others think.

Finger-Pointing Can Incriminate Self!

"Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted" (Galatians 6:1 NIV).

This admonition from Paul to the church at Galatia is still relevant today. None of us can afford to consistently point out faults in others, when we have our own faults to handle. This is especially true when we can always "see" what others are doing and never see what we are doing.

Several incidents come to mind with this scripture--Jimmy Swaggert condemning the Bakers, Newt Gingrich condemning Bill Clinton, Republicans who are always faultfinding and then being found in their own faults, and on and on. People--human beings--sometimes fall short of being perfect in our eyesight. But then, none of us are perfect so we might as well stop pointing fingers at others. Apparently, we have forgotten when we point one finger at someone else--three other fingers (our own) are pointing at us.

Does this mean that we ignore sin? No, it doesn't. It means that when a person sins, they are to be forgiven, and restored "when they repent of the sin--turning away from it" and we who are in Christ--should not be so unforgiving that we forget--we too can err.

Why discuss finger-pointing? Throughout social media sites, online pubs, etc. there are multitude of naysayers--who have nothing better to do than to find fault with the President. While I don't agree with everything he does, I use my time praying for him--not belittling him. After all, my relationship with God won't allow me to condemn the man, when the condemnation could be directed at me. Instead of being a hate-monger, I'd rather be a prayer-warrior which aligns with The Word. 

Everyone who proclaims to be a Christian and has a right relationship with God should be praying for those with whom we disagree, not condemning them. After all, none of us are perfect and we are all prone to making mistakes--some deliberately, some not. I'd rather love and pray, than hate and condemn. I disagree with many things politicians do--on both sides of the aisles, but it has not stopped me from praying for them. Public humiliation directed at any group actually becomes public humiliation for the one who attempts to undermine others. The world is laughing at us in America because we are so self-righteous in our thinking we are better than all others in the world. 
 It's time to take a look in the mirror, truly see who we are, and realize--we are not "all that"!

Father, in the name of Jesus, remove the scales from our eyes so we can truly see us for who we are and then create in us a desire to be the people You want us to be.

God's Voice Should Be Louder!

"Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” Genesis 3:1

Satan (as depicted by the serpent in this segment of scripture) will always attempt to undermine God's word. He did it in Genesis--influencing Eve's thoughts about the fruit of the tree; he did it with Jesus, trying to tempt The Word with the Word of God right after Jesus had fasted for 40 days), and he's yet doing it with the people of God and those who deny Him.

He uses subtlety and half-truths to convince those who acknowledge God and then he blatantly lies to those who deny God.

How does he get away with it? Too many people who know God are not speaking loud enough to drown Satan's lies with Truth! Too many who know God are not actively trying to counter the lies that Satan spreads. Unfortunately, too many who claim to know God have also fallen under the spell of the master of deception's ploy to deceive. When people attempt to be God and choose to live outside of Godly principles, then we know Satan has deceived--"even those whom God has chosen" to do His bidding.

Know God and don't be ashamed to proclaim His Goodness from the Rooftops and the Valleys and all points in between. Our God Reigns! And it's time for us to put Satan in His place--back under our feet so he cannot be heard! Remember--in the end--We--the people of God--Win!

Lord Jesus, give us the courage to be bolder than Satan in spreading the Good News--about salvation, repentance, forgiveness, Your Grace and Mercy, and ever enduring Love. We thank You for hearing and responding to our requests so that only You may get the glory in the lives we live!

Lip Service!

"The Lord says: “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is based on merely human rules they have been taught" (Isaiah 29:13 NIV).

How insightful is the Word of God that what was spoken hundreds of years ago, is still relevant today! Isaiah was speaking to the children of Israel in an attempt to get them to understand obeying God and hearing what God has to say was more important than what the men of tradition had been teaching them.

Are we "these people" who will hear, cannot understand, and only worship with our mouths?

We must be careful that we are not guilty of making the Word of God of no effect because we love our traditions more than we love living The Word.

It's check-up time--for all to examine self. Are we fair-weather Christians--those who only talk about being a Christian, but have no idea how we're supposed to be living, but we go to church on Sundays? Are we convenient Christians--we do only what Christians are supposed to do when others are paying attention. Are we bench-warmer Christians--those who go to church to keep a seat warm, but do nothing else?  Are we "look-at-me" Christians--those who do everything they can in church to draw attention to themselves? Are we still like the Israelites--saying all the right things--singing, shouting, and praying empty prayers, and yet have no room for God in our hearts since we do not know His Word? David said, "Your Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against You!" Do we have God's Word hidden in our innermost parts so we won't sin against Him?

If our hearts are right with God, our lips need not say much because our actions will speak for us!

Lord, search us and see if we are everything You need us to be. If we are not, give us a clean heart, a heart with room enough to receive all You have for us and to live a life that pleases You. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen!

Truth Causes Divisions?

"Thus the people were divided because of Jesus" (John 7:43 NIV). PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE CHAPTER FOR CONTEXT!

Whenever there is misunderstanding of history, usually because of the varied lenses by which all view history, there is of necessity a difference of opinion. In this passage of scripture we see several things happening that are worth deep thought (beyond surface level).

First of all, the Pharisees and the chief priests (the church leadership) were not really thrilled with the reaction of the people (they felt their authority was being threatened) when they heard Jesus speaking. They all knew about the promise of the Messiah from "the scriptures" (scrolls about the prophets), but because they were looking for someone to lead them into "battle" in order to obtain freedom, they overlooked "The Truth" and what Truth was saying.

Because they could not agree about who Jesus was (murmuring to themselves), especially after He told them about the Holy Spirit, they became divided factions of "religious" folks; not knowing that The Truth was standing among them. The leaders became so incensed with Jesus teaching truth and not trying to fleece people or to bind them to traditional rules and regulations that they planned to arrest Him (they could not stand the competition). They thought their knowledge of "The Prophets" was so superior to anyone else that they rejected the idea that Jesus could be anything other than a deceiver of the people.

Now, if our relationship with God is right, we can look at this passage of scripture and understand that the enemy had already influenced the leadership into believing a lie. Because they believed the lie (arrogance will lead to being deceived), they lost an opportunity to have a relationship with Truth. Then the people, because of their varied expectations, became divided because they did not recognize Truth speaking when they heard Him.

Jesus is The Truth, and The Light, The Lamb, Bright Morning Star, Our Deliverer, Our Savior, Our Lord, The Way into the presence of The Father. If we understand John's relationship with Jesus--that they were very close since they were related biologically, we can see how John's insight should bring us all into relationship with God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit. We cannot have a right relationship with one, without all.

Perhaps, we can grasp this line of thought better when we look at all of the various denominations and factions of Christians who all believe they know the truth. But if they all know The Truth, would there be a need for the divisions of Christianity? If all believers had a relationship with God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit, wouldn't we be united by the relationship with them?  If we all had the same type of relationship with Them (Trinity) that we have with close family members, would we need different denominations proclaiming to be Christian in nature?

We are where we are because those in leadership positions, choose to maintain barriers and obstacles that divide rather than unite. Arrogance and superiority (influenced by the enemy) has led to the great divide of those who say they Believe in Jesus. Until we can see Truth for who He is and develop a right relationship with Him, we will remain a divided body of believers who are more concerned with promoting religion than relationship with God. The verse of scripture referenced at the beginning would provide greater clarity if it had continued with--they were divided because of Jesus and their perception of who He was.