Blinded

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. For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. 2 Corinthians 4:1-6 NIV

Blindness shields not just the eyes
But the spirit of the heart when scales
Like those shielding a fish, we can but wish
Truth uncovers all the deeds of darkness
Existing in our government--no matter who's involved,
So American democracy stands as a beacon, resolved
To be a light unto the world in spite of all the lies.

Blinders are put on race horses to make sure they only see what's in front of them--forcing them to look straight ahead so they are not distracted by events or issues that may take place on the sidelines.

Some people are physically blind from birth--never knowing the difference between light and dark, colors and hues, but have a remarkable spiritual sight and know how to distinguish between truth and lies.

Some people lose their sight to accidents or illness--and have known the beauty of light and dark, the mesmerizing colors that exist in our world and though some are bitter about the event in their life that caused them to no longer see--they accept their plight and do all they can to continue to live a full life--understanding how blindness changes perception.

There are two political factions--each blinded in their own way--to what they see as right. At the moment--the loyalists to 45 were blinded by hatred, racism, bigotry and need--and were duped by the gas-lighting perpetuated by those who know how to distort truth to make it palatable to the gullible. And then there are the Resistors--fighting  for truth to be exposed on every side and angle, blinded by the need to know--what is and what isn't.

I am proud to belong to the latter--The Resistors who are fighting to expose truth no matter where it lands. I have not been gas-lighted--duped into doubting what I see in front of me for my eyes are wide open, my ears unstopped, my mind ready to analyze information from various sources and draw conclusions based on the evidence and facts uncovered--not opinion or persuasive means by another.

There are times in which we must be able to admit where we are--blinded by a desire to stay focus on the task-at-hand and for me--that task is do all I can to help expose the intentional undermining of the democratic process in our 2016 election. With the continuing evidence brought to the surface, I know I heard God right from the start and I am more determined than ever to stay the course--the path He has directed--in being in this monumental effort to right wrongs and expose all the lies and liars.

The burning lake--is going to be overrun if current events is any indicator of all those who deliberated lied--under oath--and the pathological liars who do nothing but lie.  All the GOP leadership will have a place in that lake for continued effort to cover the truth with their lies and it is evident to anyone with a functioning brain--they are scrambling to cover their own behinds, but the truth--in all of its ugliness will rise to the surface, exposing all involved in the collusion to simply grab seats in Congress with the help of the Russian hacking.

Are you blinded by the god of this world or determination to know truth?

Watching Deceptive Practices!

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. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:1-9 NIV

One of the most interesting aspects of being involved with those who fight for justice against those who attempt to oppress or tyrannize people is the fact that we don't give up and all we do--is transparent, open to public scrutiny, see in the light--not plotted in darkness or secrecy.

Though there are those who would take the side of the oppressor and rail against us--we keep going--never allowing the banner of freedom and truth to fall by the wayside as so many have done in "giving Trump a chance."

Many of those who "gave him a chance by voting for him"  are now experiencing "buyer's remorse" and the saddest part of all is to see those who have said, they regret allowing their emotions--"their hatred of Hillary" to lead them to vote for a person who is so thin-skinned and vindictive that he can't see why he lost the popular vote.

With the decision to move forward with the pipelines--many have expressed--directly to him through his Twitter account--have disgusted they are with him--to ignore the Native Americans right to protect their land. But don't take my word for word it. All of this can be seen on the Twitter Page dedicated for those with Trump Regrets found @Trump_Regrets.

Aside from those who are experiencing regret--there are those of us who did not trust him from the beginning because we saw who he really was--long before now.

And those executive orders he's signing--are simply his way to get back at President Obama--because his insecurities lead him to believe he has to exceed--go beyond--anything President Obama did in an attempt to make himself superior to Obama. His obsession over surpassing President Obama is obvious to anyone with eyes not covered with blinders. I've said before that Trump suffers from a cognitive disability that drives his personality disorders and every day--he proves how right many are in drawing the same conclusions. And nothing he does or says will make him even half the man President Obama is. The difference being--President Obama had a heart for all Americans and it showed--even in those things I didn't agree with him. 

Interviews with those who thought he was going to save them--coal miners in particular who need the healthcare accessible through the ACA, are now worried. And so are others who see "executive orders" issued that will affect their rights.

His moves to blatantly support discrimination are obvious and have ignited a fire under a number of groups who will not allow him to turn the clock back on their rights.

Whether people want to believe him or not is their business, but any time a person in authority has to create "distractions" to keep people off focus to what's really going on is a sign that we are no longer living in a democracy, but spiraling into the depths of a fascist regime--where one person--Trump--thinks he is the final authority. For those who worship him as their god, so be it. 

For those who believe in the God of Heaven, the creator of all things and without whom, nothing was ever created--our trust is in God and we will do all He puts on our hearts to do. We are the true Believers--the ones who live by The Word--loving all unconditionally, no matter what the circumstance. Those who resist Trump do not hate him--we simply recognize him for the despot he is and are rising against him as people have done for centuries.

We The People--all Americans--no matter what our skin color, politics, religion or gender--will fight to make sure the constitution is upheld by every elected official and no rights are violated simply because of petty vengefulness.

For those who don't want to see truth--but are giddy with excitement over the "alternative facts" presented--do your thing and just remember this: When there is a ship in the middle of the sea and there are no lifeboats available when the storm rages and overturns the ship, all aboard will suffer the same fate.

The colonists left England to get out from under the thumb of a monarchy. We do not have a one-person or even one-family order of rule in this country and we won't. The ax will fall and when it does, it will do what an ax does.

Repentance and Forgiveness!

Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Colossians 3:9-14 NIV

In order for us to receive forgiveness, we must willing to admit when we're wrong. If a person can never admit being wrong or in need of forgiveness, how can they be forgiven?

Many are those who always cry, "forgive, forgive" but that's only when it pertains to someone else, not them. And the other side of the coin is--the person who keeps doing wrong, never repents of the wrongdoing--never turns away from doing wrong--because they never admit they are wrong. Apologies--it would seem to some--are for losers and therefore--a winner never apologizes for anything--in their mind. So, if there is no admittance or apology, there can be no forgiveness for if there is--it is just a matter of words, not sincerity since true forgiveness, comes with a change of heart.

We are told--in The Word--that from the abundance of the heart--the mouth speaks. From that we can conclude by what we hear--what is in a person's heart. If all we hear is hatred and bigotry, lies and finger-pointing, then what we hear is what's overflowing in their heart.

If we attach a color to every trait or virtue--what color would our hearts be? We've heard of people having a black heart (pure evil), but is that what resides within us? For all those virtues that are positive--love, joy, hope, forgiveness, humility, and sincerity,--let's color them yellow. For all the negative traits--lying, hatred, bigotry, fear-mongering--let's color them black. Now, let's take a look at what appears to be a halo over people--is it light or is it darkness? Darkness does not drive out light, but light certainly drives out darkness so it would benefit all for us to have light in our hearts rather than darkness.

Not one of us--living past the age of seven--can say we've never done anything wrong. And as kids, when we did something wrong we were punished--if we had loving parents. As adults, we have to recognize when our behavior is not conducive to maintaining peace or when infringing upon the rights of others. When we do wrong--we admit it--apologize and seek forgiveness and let it go, not holding grudges.

When we repent--turn away from those things that offend God and turn to Him to stay on the right path, He forgives and never reminds us of all the wrong we've ever done. But the enemy--the prince of darkness--will always seek a way to get into our minds to remind us of what we've done in hopes of keeping us distracted. We don't have to let the enemy influence our thoughts or our deeds. We simply have to remember who it is we serve and serve Him with gladness and joy in our hearts.

However--if we never acknowledge doing wrong--there is no true repentance and therefore forgiveness is not received. For what we do not admit when we're wrong, God cannot forgive us. And if we say we're sorry for doing something when we are not--the lack of sincerity will be revealed in our continued wrongdoing.

Beloved, let's love one another with a sincere heart--allowing the light of hope and joy to override the darkness impelled by fear and hatred. God is love and if we love Him, we can love others for love resides in our hearts in abundance. And if we love, we can forgive when others admit their wrongdoing and we should not hold it against them.

Sitting In Darkness!

This is what God the LORD says— the Creator of the heavens, who stretches them out, who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it: “I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness. “I am the LORD; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols. Isaiah 42:5-8 NIV

Darkness--a void--without light or hope
Understanding only what is told--to fear,
Keeping the scales in place over eyes,
Undermining what was once held dear.

Darkness has no power to drive out light,
But light reveals what's held in darkness,
Whether it attitudes or skeletons in closets,
When light is shown upon self, then others,
Or others shining light for all to see--
What really are the hidden discrepancies,
 Keeping us from seeing, knowing Truth.

While in darkness we once walked,
Committing sin, living ungodly lives,
When The Light entered our hearts,
He changed our minds and how we talked.

The Light, the Bright Morning Star,
Looked down through the years and saw
Our struggles in life with sin, He determined,
Thinking back and from afar, that love and light,
Expels darkness and sinful desires, beating flesh
Into submission, igniting faith and desire to please
Him and only Him, so darkness would not prevail.

Come out of the darkness--that dark hold of despair,
Into The Marvelous Light and do what Jesus does,
Love and in His Love, there is none who compare.

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!

Emptiness!

How deserted lies the city, once so full of people! How like a widow is she, who once was great among the nations! She who was queen among the provinces has now become a slave. Bitterly she weeps at night, tears are on her cheeks. Among all her lovers there is no one to comfort her. All her friends have betrayed her; they have become her enemies. Lamentations 1:1,2 NIV (read the entire chapter)

Many of us know how we feel when we reach the end of a drink and there is nothing more to replenish it. Remember when kids--who emptied the bottle of pop or juice--after the last swallow-- would turn it upside down and shake it--disappointed by its emptiness.

How many people remember a piece of cake or pie--the last piece--and they thought they would have an opportunity to eat it, but when they went to get it--it was gone; someone else had those same thoughts. And because our taste buds were ready for that--something--nothing else will pacify it.

When I look around our society, I feel the emptiness--the void--that keeps encroaching and widening by hatred and bigotry, divisive because love has left the scene and the emptiness it leaves is felt by the multitudes.

Dare I look into a person's face walking the street and see the emptiness in their eyes where hope no longer has a place to hide deep in their soul. Blank stares are met with wonder--how did we get to this place?

"Where am I and what am I doing here and does anyone care that I am empty and need to be filled beyond capacity with love--God's love--overflowing so light can be seen again, dispelling the darkness that pervades my soul?"

There is more than one person, wandering aimlessly in our midst--trying to figure out what happened and why they have no joy or peace. The answer is really quite simple. Our soul longs for the direction and instructions from God because apart from Him, there is no joy or peace. When the love of God ceases to exist within, other foul spirits take up residence and cloud our minds and soul, keeping us from the inviting light of love, leading us to think the darkness is how it should be, but oh how empty it leaves us!

So, in our midst are multitudes of people who thought that ignoring God's Word and rejecting His love would bring them a measure of happiness, but when they gave into the fleshly dictates--discovered just how empty they were.

When people are empty--they try anything to fill the void--they turn to drugs and alcohol, arrogance and deceit, manipulation and lies, bigotry and hate, perversion and subversion--anything--to make them feel whole again, except--a visit to the fountain. At the fountain of love where Jesus waits--to fill us so we'll want no more--there is peace and joy and we can have our fill and return again and again, never having to know emptiness again, but will we go?

What the soul craves is not the dictates of this world, but the promise of eternity and how to enjoy life where we are. Come to the fountain and be filled! Come to Jesus, right now, repent of everything that's not like Him, and allow to Him to replace all the earthiness--desires of the flesh--with Love!

There is no one like Jesus who can fill us till we want no more and never have to thirst again or know emptiness that debilitates and destroys. Hallelujah!

When Our God Reigns!

For the director of music. Of David. A psalm. A song. May God arise, may his enemies be scattered; may his foes flee before him. May you blow them away like smoke— as wax melts before the fire, may the wicked perish before God. But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful. Sing to God, sing in praise of his name, extol him who rides on the clouds; rejoice before him—his name is the LORD.A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.  Psalm 68:1-5 NIV

Though the world seems to be spinning out of control--Our God still reigns and when He reigns in the heart of His people--His enemies will be scattered.

In a home where roaches are planning a take-over--they creep everywhere in darkness, leaving their trail of germs wherever they go, but the moment a light switch is turned on, they scatter--fleeing in every direction--trying to escape the light and certain death by those who are determined to keep them at bay. Whether they are squashed or sprayed, some know there is certain death if they don't scatter and hide in the crevices of cracked plaster and peeling paint and warped floor boards.

The enemy--all those demonic forces--will scatter when we allow God to reign in our hearts because when we allow His righteousness to shine in the dark places--the enemy knows certain death is imminent. Death to addictions and temptations to sin. Death to sickness and disease that attempt to take lives before our appointed time. Death to rebellion and witchcraft exercised by those who refuse to wake up and acknowledge they are living in darkness.

In the natural, we seize the moment to rid ourselves of those things--the pests that destroy our food supplies and carry bacteria and germs--and most of us don't stop until they are all dead and gone. Our determination to rid ourselves of the pests that annoy and irritate should be as strong in the spiritual realm of our lives so we can rid ourselves of the temptations to sin against God and keep us receiving God's best.

When He reigns--in our hearts--the outcome will result in His reign over the land and when He reigns over the land, the enemy will scatter--his demonic forces--powerless as smoke in the wind and wax that melts in the heat of God's wrath. When Our God reigns there will be peace in the land and no one will suffer from lack of anything needed because the love of God, will rise in us and we take of the fatherless, the needy, vulnerable and poor.

When our God reigns we will rejoice in the victory of obedience!

That Day Is Almost Here!

Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Romans 13:10-12 NIV

Where there is love, there is light
For all to see, unencumbered by darkest night,
Living according to God's Word,
No fear of the masses, not ashamed to be heard,
Every Believer--Loving as God Loves--all--unconditionally!

In the light of day--where there are no clouds and the sun is shining bright--we can see all things clearly and from a distance. Not only can we see, but all around us can see us and what we see. What are they seeing?

There was a time when many of us walked in darkness even during the day, having no knowledge or understanding of who Jesus is or what He's done for us. Hopefully, that time has past and we are walking in the light of wisdom and His love, preparing for that day when He'll receive us unto Himself.

However, there are still many who have not yet understood--that all of their deeds committed in the dark will come into the light--and they will be exposed for all the world to see, while the devil laughs at their calamity. That does not have to be so.

Every Believer who knows Truth and is not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus should loudly proclaim God's love for all, His mercy and grace that yet abounds for those of us on this side of heaven, for surely once that day arrives when we are translated from here to there, there will be no need any longer for mercy and grace while we sit at His feet.

That day--the day many have waited for--will soon be here; not soon as we calculate time, but soon as God determines. Will we be ready to stand before Him and give an account of all we have done in the earth and not be ashamed? Will our testimony before Him be marred by acts of darkness that we refused to give up? Or shall the angels rejoice over all we have done to bring others into the marvelous light of love?

Every day brings us closer to that day--and for those who are yet asleep--they shall be awakened by the sound of the trumpet heralding His arrival. Every day--while we yet have opportunity to do so, we should put on the armor of light and love so others will see Him in all of His glory and willingly embrace Truth as God as reveals it through us.

That day is almost here--what are you doing to prepare others for it? Will your life be a living testimony of God's goodness and the light of His glory shines all around you or will the light be dimmed by hatred, bigotry, and wilful disobedience to God's Word? We have choices to make and we must make them now for that day--is almost here.

Nothing Hidden From God!

"Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgement, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil." (Ecclesiates 12:1,14 NIV)
Closed doors, under the sheets, in the dark, disguised, cloaked, lies, manipulations, deceptions--nothing can keep anything hidden from God--it all comes to light, eventually.

When we do things we think no one knows about but us, we truly deceive ourselves. Those of us who know God, know He is all seeing, omnipresent, and omniscient. He sees all, He hears all, and knows all--and why not--He's God. For those who don't know Him, or at least won't acknowledge His existence--it doesn't matter--we'll all be judged by the same standards whether we Believe or not.

Think about these things! No child has ever done anything that God didn't know about and eventually parents discovered--even when the child thought no one would ever know. What one of the marvelous attributes about Holy Spirit is that He'll reveal truths to all who are willing to listen so that none of us are taken unaware of the things going on around us that we may not see.

Adulterers and fornicators who think no one knows what they're doing behind closed doors and under the sheets deceive themselves for when God allows them to be exposed, they have no defense. No hidden thing shall remain hidden--God will bring it all to light.

For the politicians who make shady deals with those who are seeking to control others and consumer goods--making sure the rich stay rich--God sees it and that, too will be judged according to God's standards. They have forgotten that God knows the heart and He knows when the poor and needy, and vulnerable are put at a disadvantage--to keep others rich.

For those who commit crimes--cloaking their faces with hoodies and masks--God knows who they are. They cannot hide from Him and eventually, because most criminals are stupid enough to brag about what they do, they'll be exposed and receive the appropriate consequence for their actions. Nothing is hidden with a piece of fabric or plastic from God.

For students who cheat on tests and think they've gotten away with something, God knows and every observant teacher or professor knows, too. I've always laughed to myself when I know people have cheated because they have the same answers--right or wrong--and it's always the students who never take notes or study who try to cheat on those who do. When i grade their papers, I always comment that they're better off using their on brains, in red ink beside the "zero" and then I let them see their paper, but I keep them for my records.

For those who engage in digital misbehavior, there is nothing hidden from God. Emails and text messages are retrieved and the misdeed exposed. Phone conversations are recorded, photos taken and publicly aired so all the world can see, what they thought was hidden. There is nothing hidden from God!

Even conversations held with some "in confidence" find their way to the surface of the subject of the conversation; especially in the heat of anger and frustration. Nothing hidden from God or others, even when we think it is.

Truth--as I stated yesterday--is very liberating. Unfortunately, many don't like hearing truth, when it means they need to reconsider how they do things. I'd rather be found in truth than in a lie so the truth will be exposed and I never have to fear a lie being exposed. There is nothing, absolutely nothing hidden from God!

Destruction!

"You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free.  But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other." (Galatians 5:13-15 NIV)

We are a family of human beings--we are all created uniquely individual, designed to socialize--needful of one another, so why is there so much animosity between us?

Forget for a moment that Paul is specifically speaking to Believers and let's broaden the outlook to all people--from all nations--across the globe. If mankind originated from one man and woman--Adam and Eve, then all human beings are related in one way or another. We all need to eat and breathe to live and we all need clean air and drinkable water to survive all of the toxins created by man's inventiveness. So, if we need one another--wouldn't it make sense for us to be considerate of one another--at all times?

Who is our neighbor that we should love them? Anyone with whom we know as fellow Believers--for starters. But that doesn't mean we cannot love those who do not believe as we do. We can and should love all--even those with whom we disagree. For if we are incapable of loving others; especially those who are not like-minded, we create a void that needs to be filled and if not filled with love, it will be filled with hate. Either we allow Holy Spirit to influence us to love or Satan to influence us to hate. How do we know Satan's influence is running rampant in the earth? Just look at all the hate!

Satan's entire mission is to destroy mankind because God loves us. In order to achieve his goal to destroy, he instigates superiority in one group of people over another--making them feel everyone else is wrong and they're the only ones who are right. He stirs up hatred and division to keep us from socializing and communicating like civilized persons. He feeds our bitterness, frustration and disappointments with negativity and distrust--guiding us to an abyss where he can leave us to drop into the hate-filled void of darkness with no way out. Soon, because people do not recognize Satan's influence in their lives, they kill each other for little or reason, wiping out humanity until all is lost and there is no one left, but the spirit of darkness and doom.

However, there is hope and the hope is our faith and belief that we are "the light set upon a hill" so others can and will know love because of the love we show to all. Where there is love and light--hate and darkness cannot abide. If darkness is dispelled by the light and love of those who love Christ, destruction can be deterred and the enemy will slither away, biding his time until the next round. And there will be a next round by the enemy to destroy, but we can let the love of God overwhelm us and flow onto all we meet and see that where there is love, we defeat destructive forces.

We can change what is happening in our society--one person at a time by dispensing love as freely as the air we breathe. With love, there is no destruction--on construction of loving relationships, determined to sustain humanity until He comes to take us home.

Is Holy Spirit Infilling Wasted On Us?

"This is what God the Lord says--the Creator of the heavens, who stretches them out, who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it: I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison, and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness." (Isaiah 42:5-7 NIV).

The Spirit of the Lord--poured into His Servant (Jesus Christ) and for all who choose to serve Him--this is the promise fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ and is still being fulfilled in those who follow Him and obey the Father. When He returned to heaven, He promised that He would provide us with the Comforter--His Spirit--so we would be able to do all things.

Through the record of events as noted by Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, we know that Jesus did all that had been prophesied by the prophet Isaiah and what is more notable is--Jesus telling us that we would do greater things than He did because we would have the power of His Spirit to guide us, strengthen us, and teach us.

We know what Jesus did being filled with the Spirit of the Father--but what are we doing--being filled with His Spirit? Has His promise atrophied in those who claim to be filled or do we need to stay before--seeking constant refilling and when we are filled, are we doing the greater works that He said we would do?

If we are filled (not just sealed as some would argue) with Holy Spirit--are we seeking to open blinded eyes, laying hands on the sick so they will recover, interceding on behalf of those in far-away places as well those under our own roof? Are we visiting those in prisons promoting the message of Good News--a Risen Savior has taken upon Himself all of our sins that we might abundant life? Are we the beacons of light that shine brightly, leading those in darkness out of the dungeons of circumstances and oppression?

Before you ask yourself these questions, please think about what being filled with Holy Spirit means versus being sealed by Holy Spirit. Paul tells us in Ephesians 4:30, " And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption." To understand the difference between being sealed and being filled--think about the contents of an envelope. We are the envelope--an empty vessel--until we are filled and then sealed. Now, many are filled with various content which is why Paul admonishes us to not be filled with bitterness, anger and slanderous tongues. Once the envelope is sealed--nothing else should be able to get into it, unless it is opened and its content revealed. When we first repent and accept Jesus as our Person Savior, we are sealed against the wiles of the enemy, but when we receive the infilling of Holy Spirit, we are empowered from within to withstand the fiery darts the enemy throws our way.

When we understand that our bodies are the "temple where Holy Spirit resides" we would be careful as to how we treat our bodies--providing Holy Spirit a clean place in which to live so He can clearly communicate with us all we need to know. Choosing to live in sin grieves Holy Spirit and He will leave since He will not dwell in a defiled place. When He leaves, the seal is broken and all that is within us exposed for all to see.

What are you doing with the infilling of Holy Spirit? Are you seeking the lost to bring them to the light of love and has your seal been broken because of the content within you--is not of Holy Spirit?
Looking at the world today--and the number of professing Believers--I'm not sure Holy Spirit is guiding many people and I can tell by the chaos that most of our government leaders do not even Holy Spirit has left the building and there are voids in their hearts that the enemy has filled.

But all is not lost for the Lord promised He would save for Himself--a remnant--the few who will remain faithful and filled, serving Him at all times, and allowing Holy Spirit to direct them. On that remnant--the infilling of Holy Spirit resides within and they will serve The Lord until the day of His returned, completely sealed--immune the tricks of the enemy.

Fellowship With Light Every Day!

"If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin." (I John 1::6,7 NIV)

Walking in darkness--directed by the "dark one" who influences all evil, under the cover of darkness or hidden agendas, means we cannot be in fellowship with God.

When our relationship with God is right--we have fellowship with Him, live to please Him and not self, and receive the bountiful blessings He has for us. If we are walking with Him (abiding by His Word at all times), we will not want to sin because He is with us and everything we do, is done in broad daylight (in full view of all) because we have no reason to be fearful or ashamed.

Picture this, if you will. We get out of bed and He is right there by our sides. Whatever we do, He is with us--through all the morning rituals (whatever they may be), breakfast, commute to work or sitting right next to us as we enjoy the view of a glorious morning with our first cup of coffee.

Us: Good morning, Lord! Thank You for waking us this morning! It's going to be a good day.

God: Yes, my child it is going to be a good day for every day with me is good.

Us: I am so thankful that I am Your child. Thank You for loving me in spite of me.

God: My child, I want You to know that I am right next to You at all times. I know your thoughts and I know when you're going to ignore me. Sometimes, the only way a person can learn to live right is by making mistakes. When you mess up--I see the repentant heart and forgive when you ask me. I love you and that's what good parents do.

Us: We love you, even when we sometimes go astray, but Your mercies, new every morning, help to keep us going in the right direction.  You are so awesome!

God: What would you like from me today? When you please me, I give you whatever you want.

Us: Lord, point out everyone that needs an encouraging word, everywhere we go. Give us the courage to speak Your truth, not ours so the land can live in peace.

God: When you pass by those on your way, smile and tell them I love them and everything is going to be all right, when they seek me first.

Us: Really? That's all we need to do to have what we want?

God: That's it. As long as you remember I'm right here, seeing what you see, feeling what you feel and your desire is to please me, you can ask for anything and I'll give it.

Us: Lord, if we've found favor in Your sight, speak to hearts and heal the land of all hatred and violence.

God: Is that your request of me?

Us: Yes, Lord.

God: Then as we walk throughout this day, people will see you and know that are mine and I am yours and by what you do, they'll believe in me, accept my love and the hatred will cease.

Us: Thank You, Lord! Are Your ready to go?

God: I am always ready to go where ever you go.

Did we get it? He's always there, right beside us, in the midst of everything we do. He sees, He knows, and He blesses our efforts to live right before Him. As long as we remember He is right beside us, we cannot go wrong--especially if we want to stay in fellowship with Him.

Can we do it? Can we walk in the light as He is the Light? Can we shake off the dark thoughts and cease to walk in darkness? There is no fellowship with God in darkness because Light dispels the darkness and all is exposed in the Light.

Lord, Thank You for leading us along the path You have prepared for us and for being with us throughout the journey, keeping us safe, protected from all harm. Give us a nudge any time we want to stray from the path, reminding us that You are right there with us.

What Songs Are We Singing?

"About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them." (Acts 16:25 NIV)

For anyone who pays attention to time--as we know it--it is always darkest at midnight, which is really the indicator of a new day. Think about it. We usually see the dawning of a new day when the sun rises in the east and we see it settling into its end at sunset in the west. Whether it is dark or light, time keeps moving forward to get to the next day.

If we were to view the challenges and problems in our lives as simply a moment in time, then we would be able to arise above the "feelings" of defeat, knowing that a new day is dawning and with it, new opportunities to achieve the success God has promised us. "Whatever you put your hands to, out of obedience, you will have good success." What He said to Joshua still applies to us. When we are obedient, we must do something, not dwell in pity and caterwauling. 

Paul was obedient in promoting the Gospel and doing everything he knew was by unction of Holy Spirit. And because he was obedient, the naysayers--the arrogant and envious, and the greedy--found fault with him and he and Silas were beaten and thrown into jail. Now, they could have had a pity party and sat there singing "woe is me" songs and the other prisoners would have heard that, too. Instead, they sang songs of praise to God and prayed, believing they would be delivered, doubting nothing.

So, when the earthquake freed them from their chains, they could have taken off in the midst of confusion, but they chose to stay where they were. As a result of their decision, the jailer and all his household, chose to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and were saved.

Would the other prisoners have seen the power of God at work had they been singing sad songs? Had they muttered and grumbled, would their shackles have been broken? When we face challenges and trouble seems to know our address by heart, what songs are we singing? Are our lips and tongue saying what aligns with The Word or what aligns with the moment--our feelings?

Our reaction to challenges and troubles will determine whether we see the new day dawning with a new attitude and new mercies or whether we sink deeper into despair, not realizing that time moves forward whether it is dark or light outside. A new day, a new opportunity, new mercies each morning--thinking on the promises of God, not the darkness, creates an inner light within us and we know we can get to the next day.

What are we doing in the midnight hours of our life? Are shackles being broken or are the depths of despair shoveling deeper, preparing to bury us alive? Make sure our song and communication align with The Word and even in our midnights--hope in Jesus Christ will sustain us and because others will hear and see what we do, they will understand the power of God and believe.

What Type Union?

"And what union can there be between God’s temple and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God said: “I will live in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they will be my people." (2 Corinthians 6:16 NIV)

The case presented by Paul as to why we should be careful about the connections we make or the unions we establish is pretty clear. He makes a strong case as to why Believers and Unbelievers won't make a solid union. This one verse--could not possibly say it all, so I encourage everyone to read the entire chapter for clarity.

Paul cautions us to not establish unions between good and evil, light and darkness, idolaters and Believers. While some have in the past attempted to make a case for segregation of races because of skin color or ethnicity, this is not what he's saying. He's warning us about intimate involvement when those who don't know God or establish policies that are in opposition to God's Word. By intimate involvement, I mean close ties or relationships with those of dissimilar beliefs. This is not a reference to sexual relationships of any kind.

Why do we need to be wary about those with whom we associate and have close ties? The old adage, "birds of a feather flock together," comes to mind. We develop bad habits faster than we develop good habits and when we're around people who have "bad habits" we tend to emulate them rather than them emulating us. Why? Some people will do whatever they have to do to "get along" with others, not having the backbone to stand firm on what they know is right.

This is how gangs operate in neighborhoods and schools. It is our politicians function--they say anything to get a vote, but then do whatever is popular with their cohorts, not willing to cause waves, even when decisions are made that are contrary to their beliefs. This is how the insecure function in our society--they simply go along to get along in order not to be alone. This is how abusers keep their victims under control, but if the victims understood their own worth, they would not have been involved with the one who abused.

Anyone who uses intimidation to control or manipulate others is a tool of evil. There is no light in them, so why would anyone walking in the light and love of God have a relationship with them? They shouldn't. When we, who are walking in the light and love of God, walk into a situation, evil should run and hide like roaches when a light switch is turned on to dispel the darkness.

Remember, manipulation is what Satan does, not God. Deception is what Satan uses to convince, not God. Destruction--tearing down is what Satan does, while construction--building up is what God does. And there is no union possible with the works of Satan and the works of God.

So, why we would even attempt to be in any type of union with the unbelieving? We shouldn't, for God has said every man's work will be tried by fire and only those works that are firmly established in Him and by Him, shall withstand the heat. We want to avoid the stain of evil that spreads like wildfire when we unite with it.  

Not every one we meet is good for us, nor do they have our best interest at heart, so move cautiously in determining who will be close enough to persuade or influence who you are and not who they are.

Never in the Dark!

"You, LORD, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light." (Psalm 18:28 NIV)

If a person has ever found themselves in total darkness, blackness, where not even a pinpoint of light is present, they know the importance of having access to light. When a person is in total darkness, hope diminishes, faith fades, and panic erupts.

Does this sound like the position we find ourselves in when we are cloaked in the darkness of sin?

Even though some succumb to the clutches of sin, ever struggling to get away from it, if they see a glimmer of light, they remain hopeful. Hope is what we have in The Light and with hope, faith can soar and we can know peace and calm in the midst of any situation that arises in our lives.

Darkness--in a number of instances in The Word is symbolic for sin and the influence of Satan. Light and lamps are symbols for hope and faith in God. Light and lamps are mentioned 248 times in the bible and darkness 142 times; light overrides and dispels darkness, every time.

Can a person accomplish anything in total darkness? What can be accomplished when the light of truth is spread all around us? One method of torture used by those seeking information in times of war and terrorism is darkness--when a person is kept in total darkness for specific amounts of time. In darkness--our imaginations rule and every possible horrible thing, invades our thinking.
Once we see the light--even the tiniest point of light--shine, we begin to hope again.

Jesus reminds us that we must work while it is day--the light of the sunshine--helps us to see, for when darkness comes, no man can work.

Keep struggling to get out from under the cloak of darkness that invades and leaves you hopeless! Receive all who bring truth as a light unto your path and allow hope and faith to reign, never in the dark, again!

Nothing Greater!

“Now search all of history, from the time God created people on the earth until now, and search from one end of the heavens to the other. Has anything as great as this ever been seen or heard before?" (Deuteronomy 4:32 NLT)

Though history has always been a matter of perspective--based upon who's telling it--there can be no denying that nothing greater has happened in history than the creation of man--by a self-sufficient God--not created by the hands of man!

People can worship any god of their choosing--and create images of their likenesses and commit them to stone, but have those images--those gods ever created anything?

I've often wondered how anyone could believe that something created by the hands of man could yield any supernatural power over anything or anyone. Somehow, that type of belief defies logic. If I can make it--then would not I have the power supposedly given to the "thing?"

Now, I realize that many would say belief in an "unseen" God defies logic as well, but belief in Creator God--one who created everything and without Him nothing was created makes more sense than "us" making things and then giving them power.

What have the other gods created except for confusion in the minds of many? Did they create the earth or the heavens, the stars, or the seas or even "mankind" as we are today?

Why would anyone worship a "thing" and expect anything from it? Things, created by the hands of people, have no power of themselves and therefore, since they cannot "do" anything of their own accord, why do they deserve worship by anyone?

I'm not trying to minimize a person's belief in whatever they believe; I'm simply trying to understand it.

No mound of stones is creating anything, no ropes of beads or gems is creating anything, no wooden crosses are creating anything--when we give the things more power than He who created all the material in which the things were created, we are worshipping idols, which is a waste of time and energy.

But then--there are those who worship spouses, children, cars, jobs, themselves and once again I ask--why?

There is no greater god--no matter how many people worship the things they create--than the God of Heaven who created all the things people use to create the images that have no power.

But the god of this world (Satan) has deceived people into thinking the things are deserving of worship which is why they do it. If people are convinced that "things" have power when they don't, their focus is not on God and Satan can continue to influence people into doing stupid--killing, destroying, lying, stealing, manipulating and when people wear blinders, they can be led into darkness, not understanding the power of Light and Truth.

The "Light" Message!

"This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:"(1 John 1:5,6)

f God is light--everything can be "seen" by everyone at the same time, and there is no "darkness" in Him, then we can conclude that all darkness is from the one who operates in the dark and attempts to hide evil deeds.

When the atmospheric "sun" shines brightly--everyone can see the light and many, become so enamored of that light that their stay leads to damaged skin from the ultraviolet rays (over exposure). But forgetting for a moment--the damage that the sun can cause to a person's skin, most people are more cheerful when they see the light, are better behaved in the light, and know that not much can be hidden in full view of the light.

One of the reasons people suffer from depression is because of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). During gloomy winter months when they it mostly cloudy and the sun is hidden from view, people become as gloomy as the day, but when the seasons change and the sun is seen more, their lives brighten, considerably.

When we have received, "The Son" who is The Light, we no longer walk in darkness and try to hide our deeds, but want everyone to see how God is operating in our lives. Every morning when we rise, we can rise knowing that He rises within us and all of our days are "bright" and He chases away the gloom because darkness cannot abide in The Light! Glory to God! This is why--when people are depressed, their thoughts become dark and gloomy and their is hidden in the darkness. With Jesus, there is always hope and a future that awaits us--keeping us in the light and no matter what the season is--winter, fall, spring, or summer--our light can shine so brightly that darkness and hopelessness, and feelings of defeat--flee in our presence! And in His light--no skin damage ever occurs, but healing in all areas of our lives--takes place!

This is the light message. We are to let our lights (fueled by The Light) shine so brightly that darkness never has a chance to operate and all mankind will see our good deeds and glorify God! Hallelujah for The Light!

Morning Joy!

"For his anger lasts only a moment,
but his favor lasts a lifetime!
Weeping may last through the night,
but joy comes with the morning."(Psalm 30:5 NLT)
No matter how dismal life may seem at any given point, we can see morning joy--if we refuse to give up.

When a room is in total darkness, nothing can be seen, but if we have to rise in it, we can find our way--to the light switch and when the switch is turned on, darkness is dispelled. Our lives can sometimes be the dark room, but we really have nothing to fear; we simply have to "rise up in the midst of the darkness" and turn on the switch--our hope in Jesus--and allow Holy Spirit to dispel the darkness that attempts to invade our thoughts and actions.

When we hurt--we cry and allow the tears to cleanse and then give ourselves time to be comforted.

When we despair--over anything--we should sit still, doing nothing for a moment and wait for it to pass. When we act out of despair, sometimes, we cause the night to linger longer than it should have.
In the midst of life's trials and challenges, we must learn to wait--though the storms may come, they eventually move out and when they move, we can see clearly.

Our nations are in the midst of storms--the future indeed seems cloudy and few can see any horizon of hope, but we must hold onto to hope; this is just the darkness that will be dispelled with hope and love of one another. We just need to rise up and shout, praising God for His goodness even though we cannot see goodness. We need praise God for His mercy even though we cannot see mercy. We need to praise God for restoration even though it seems like all has been destroyed. While we may be in the throes of darkness and cannot feel our way out, we know that morning is coming--and with the light of the Son--who will dispel the darkness and move us from glory to glory--showering us with His favor--if we would just have hope in Him!

Take comfort in the knowledge that though we may have to deal with dark moments and nights, morning joy awaits us--if we just wait for Him to show us the way!

Who We Are!

"You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness" (1 Thessalonians 5:5 NIV).

Children of the light
Let your light shine bright
Children of the day,
Do all things, God's way.
We have no need to hide
The things we do or in choosing which side,
Whose influence we follow on our journey in life
We understand the role of husband and wife.

As long as there is love flowing from above,
We will lift His name, obey His Word, and love
All we meet and greet in the name of Jesus,
Never allowing the works of darkness to enter
Our minds, defeat our spirits, or to hinder our souls
From entering into the promise of eternity in heaven,
To spend that time with Him who created all things
And has assured us of victory in all things, to His Glory.

We are children of The Light
We are children of The Day
God is our Father, We say what He says!
It's all in The Word, the foundation of our faith,
Nothing will move us or deter us or cause us to waver
Or doubt the Truth of God's Word, or Jesus our Savior.

Redeeming Light!

"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin" (1 John 1:7).

Light exposes things for all to see. When most of us get out of bed, one of the first things we do is to turn on a light. This is especially true if there are no "night lights" used in a home. Why do we turn on the light? Even though we may be familiar with the placement of where things are, we still do not wish to experience bumping into things--just in case we misjudged the distance or placement. When we bump into furniture--we sometimes end up with bruises or excruciating pain. Unless we are addicted to feeling pain, none of us wants to deliberately cause ourselves pain.

God is Light. He exposes those things that are done in darkness and most acts of sin are done in "darkness" (lack of knowledge or when people attempt to hide). The enemy loves to cloak his influence in darkness--hidden truth from those he uses--and then laughs at those he uses when their deeds are exposed--uncovered for all to see. Truth and Light are synonymous. Lies are darkness are synonymous. When Light comes into a situation, darkness is dispelled and all that has been done is exposed under the Light.

All of the things that people do that are wrong--they have usually lied about, conducted the deed under cover of manipulation or deception, and thought they would never be exposed. They have been deceived--either by someone else or they have deceived themselves. When people think their wrong doing will never be exposed, they deceive themselves. This is how many politicians have been exposed--their arrogance--pride in themselves and thinking they are above reproach--has led them to being exposed for all the world to see--in the light of day. When children get into trouble because they had done something they knew was wrong, they thought they could get away with it so they lied about the deed. When husbands cheat on their wives, they started out lying and the lie was exposed. When wives cheat on their husbands, their lies are exposed.

Lies--to commit those things we are ashamed of and think we can hide them--leaves us in darkness. Truth--that operates in the light of day and every situation--leaves us open for inspection by all with nothing to hide. "But if we walk in the light (always telling truth), we can have fellowship (be in harmony with others)" and never have to worry about being exposed or hiding anything or lying about what we do. If we walk in darkness, thinking we will get away with what we do, we will be exposed by the light.  When we confess our sin (any wrong doing) to God, He is faithful and just to forgive us, but we never escape the consequences of those actions committed in darkness. God's forgiveness does not negate consequences.

Which will it be for you? Will you walk in the light or stay in the dark? Remember, what we do in the dark can lead to pain--being bruised and scarred for life. Allow the Light to come into your life and laugh at the devil when he and his deeds are exposed.