Nevertheless

Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh. For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh—though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.Only let us live up to what we have already attained. Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. Philippians 3 NIV

There is so much that can be said by way of a commentary to this passage of scripture, but I suggest that anyone reading this and others--let it marinate--steep--settle--into your spirit and then hear what God has to say.

I do not have a problem saying the same thing over and over and over again and will most likely do so until I hear church leaders repent from their lying ways.

When people lie--they are the enemies of god and Paul gives us a perfect picture of what they do--their god is their greed--in money and power; their minds are set on earthly things like--a Supreme Court Justice who will do their bidding.

How do we know the enemies of God? They do not live according to God's Word. They do not make considerations for the poor and the needy--the vulnerable who either have no voice or do not know how to articulate their needs. In political arenas--they cut funding to assist the poor, making excuses to enrich the wealthy at the expense of all others. They lie against those who think differently than they do and they encourage those who follow them to promote the lies.

God has a response for them and they will know it sooner than later for when all is said and done; God still has the last Word and He will pronounce it publicly for all the world to see.

I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ nor am I ashamed to speak on behalf of those who may not have the same venue or platform that I do. And I will speak out--often and loudly. I will also encourage any who love The Lord as I do--to live according to His Word, and not the dictates and false propaganda perpetuated by the pseudo-christians who have not the love of God dwelling within.

I have no fear of losing my mansion in heaven because I know I am doing as I am directed to do by my Heavenly Father and others--I will not hear, for they have not heaven or hell for me.

As long as there are lies spread abroad by those professing to be Christians, yet are not living the life (and we can see by what they do), I will speak out against all church leaders who mislead God's people. And if I have to call them out by name--I will not hesitate to do so since their actions are public knowledge and I have nothing to lose, yet everything to gain by making people aware of who they are. Some are televangelists--many of who I have stopped paying attention; some are traveling evangelists--whose words don't line up with God's Word nor do their actions; some are bloggers and authors--who consistently publish their nonsense on the Internet.  Oh yes, I know who they are and anyone with a discerning spirit also knows who they are. Those in the pulpits in various churches who lie to their congregants--will have to deal with God since I won't visit them to verify or confirm what they say.  They know who they are. 

And if anyone--I do mean anyone--thinks God cares about our political views that don't align with His Word--they are seriously deluded for Christ did not die for Republicans or Democrats. He died so that anyone--and He meant that--anyone who chose to believe would be saved  (John 3:16) and there was no other criteria established by Him; but man has perverted God's Word to promote their own agenda as they are prone to do.

Nevertheless, I say once more that we all will stand before God on that great day and give an account what we have done in the earth--did we promote Jesus or political ideology that did not demonstrate God's love for all?

What Did You Miss?

“Do not spread false reports. Do not help a guilty person by being a malicious witness. “Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong. When you give testimony in a lawsuit, do not pervert justice by siding with the crowd, and do not show favoritism to a poor person in a lawsuit. “If you come across your enemy’s ox or donkey wandering off, be sure to return it.If you see the donkey of someone who hates you fallen down under its load, do not leave it there; be sure you help them with it. “Do not deny justice to your poor people in their lawsuits.  Have nothing to do with a false charge and do not put an innocent or honest person to death, for I will not acquit the guilty. “Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the innocent. “Do not oppress a foreigner; you yourselves know how it feels to be foreigners, because you were foreigners in Egypt. Exodus 23:1-9 NIV

ATTENTION: EVANGELICAL LEADERS/PSEUDO-CHRISTIANS

I guess you missed reading some of the bible when you chose to lie to people. I don't have time to go into all the details, but just from what the world has seen--you stand to be judged for the lies you promoted about 45. How does it feel to know the world is laughing at America and the totally useless buffoon you elected as president? Do you feel good about lying to people, now?

We are watching a daily circus--a clown show in which the big tent is now the White House and all the players--lost sheep, looking for a way out of the madness.

The global buffoonery with his lies is not even funny. He lies about terror attacks. He lies about the media being fake news. He lies about the media being the enemy of the American people. He lies about his taxes. He lies about his connection and ties to Russia. He lies about removing himself from his businesses. He lies about his intellect. He lies about his business acumen. He lies about his role in creating job growth. He lies about "inheriting a mess." He lies about being the "only one who can fix things." The bottom line is--he lies and you promoted the imbecilic pathological liar to your constituents. Why? Just why?

Was it worth it? Now, we're all going to pay for your stupidity and lies saying God chose him. You know you lied and the rest of us--who actually have a relationship with God--knows you lied. I would not want to be in your shoes in the end--when we must all give an account to God for the things we have done. "So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God" (Romans 14:12). I didn't vote for a person who has no regard for the lives of those outside a womb in endorsing legislation for the mentally unstable to purchase guns. I didn't vote for a person who cares nothing about the environment and deregulated all the safety precautions so people could have clear water and air and safe food production. I didn't vote a person who who fires others simply because they dare to speak their minds--and not agree with him. I didn't vote for a person who unilaterally wants to remove all people who are not white in America. Don't bother to deny it--you know it's true. You did this--now own it.

I'm so thankful that I know the first human being God created was a person of color and that God in His infinite wisdom cares about all of His creation--not just those who migrated to colder climates and their skin tones changed. But that's what you believe right? You think that "white" is the right skin tone and all others are to be dismissed, right? Apparently, you missed a few history and geography lessons and totally missed what happened in Genesis. Don't take my word for it--read it again with a map in your hand.

Your lack of understanding about God's Word and His intent for all mankind is astounding! How you can call yourselves promoters of God's Word when you lack understanding is--criminal. I'm guessing--the donations made to your respective churches or the promises made--had you feeling this was all worthwhile. You drank the shake and brain cells were scrambled. That's the only excuse I see for what you've done. Fortunately, I do not have to answer for you--you do.

When the thousand years are over, Satan will be released from his prison and will go out to deceive the nations in the four corners of the earth—Gog and Magog—and to gather them for battle. In number they are like the sand on the seashore. They marched across the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of God’s people, the city he loves. But fire came down from heaven and devoured them.And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever. Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done. Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire. Revelation 20:7-15 NIV

Perhaps, you--the pseudo-christians are merely fulfilling your role in God's plan--being the tool Satan uses. For God warned us in His Word that those who know and love Him--are not ignorant of Satan's devices and how he does things. I guess you missed that or it was missing in your bible.

For long as I have breath in my body and the use of my limbs--I will continue to advocate for the poor and needy and rail against religious debauchery and its leaders who lead people astray--causing confusion and promoting lies to accomplish an agenda that is not worth all the destruction that results from it.

May God have mercy on your souls and all those you convinced to believe a lie.

When God Judges gods!

God presides in the great assembly; he renders judgment among the “gods”: “How long will you defend the unjust and show partiality to the wicked?  Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.“The ‘gods’ know nothing, they understand nothing. They walk about in darkness; all the foundations of the earth are shaken. “I said, ‘You are “gods”; you are all sons of the Most High.’ But you will die like mere mortals; you will fall like every other ruler.”Rise up, O God, judge the earth, for all the nations are your inheritance. Psalm 82 NIV

Do not bow down before their gods or worship them or follow their practices. You must demolish them and break their sacred stones to pieces. Exodus 23:24 NIV

Do not make a covenant with them or with their gods. Exodus 23:32 NIV

If you ever forget the LORD your God and follow other gods and worship and bow down to them, I testify against you today that you will surely be destroyed. Deuteronomy 8:19 NIV

When the bible talks about gods (lower-case g and plural), the reference is actually to those things or people who are influenced by Satan. In the New Testament, 2 Corinthians 4:4--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.

The King James Version states--"the god of this world" has blinded.

So who are the gods of this world? Anyone or anything that keeps people distracted and not focused on living according to God's Word. This is especially true of those who think they are a "god" and believe they are the only ones who can "fix" things.

In June, we heard Trump declare, "America was in a terrible mess and he was the only one who could fix it." Last week, he declared at a National Prayer breakfast that, "the world was in a mess and he was the only one who could fix it, because that's what I do--I fix things." He holds himself in very high esteem about everything.

Sounds like he "fixed" his way into the White House by encouraging the hacking by the Russians and helping to rig the election with the false propaganda promoted and lies spread about his opponent. It's too bad he could not have won on his own merits because he has none. He has no integrity or honor--no sense of right and wrong--he simply does what he wants to do--without thinking about the consequences--blinded by the god of this world who has convinced him--he's a god.

Now, people can argue or disagree with anything I say or anyone else says, but if they love truth and are guided by truth, they can ignore the blatant lies consistently being told by Trump and all of his spokespersons. He even posted a lie (fake news) deliberately on his FaceBook page about problems with refugees in Kuwait--simply to persuade his supporters that he's right and everyone else is wrong. The lie was quickly exposed and debunked by officials in Kuwait--but he didn't remove the post.

There are so many lies that he has posted on FaceBook and Twitter that I can't keep up, but when I see them, I refute them and dare him or his mouthpieces to provide facts for their lies. The media is finally catching on--and fact-checking them at every turn--except for Fox News or Faux News because they don't care about truth either--just sensationalism. They have demonstrated their lack of journalistic integrity time after time--but then--they are not a "real" news network; they are licensed as an "entertainment network."So they entertain the gullible with sensationalized lies and people accept it as truth.

His need to be "better" than others is driving the insanity we see in the White House. I recently read that he was quite irritated about the Executive Orders being drafted and not being told what was in them before he signed them. Anyone with an ounce of sense could see--if paying attention--that his signing of the EO's was for show and he had no idea what he was signing--that was evident with his difficulty in attempting to read some portions of them.

An interesting caveat to his need to be "better" than others--he's number one--with the most lawsuits filed against a sitting president than anyone else (over 50), which by itself should not surprise anyone since he went into the White House with 75 lawsuits pending against him. If that wasn't a red flag to people--well--to those who worship him--nothing matters.

And now--this obsession with maligning judges--is going to affect his nominee for the Supreme Court--since many in the Senate seem to have finally found their backbone.

At any rate--we see from the bible what happens to people when they worship gods, above the God of Heaven. Their gods will let them down and they will fail and be utterly destroyed. This is God's judgment for the gods and those who worship them.

Judgment Passed Upon Us!

Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches:But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.  Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will punish all them which are circumcised with the uncircumcised; Egypt, and Judah, and Edom, and the children of Ammon, and Moab, and all that are in the utmost corners, that dwell in the wilderness: for all these nations are uncircumcised, and all the house of Israel are uncircumcised in the heart. Jeremiah 9:23-26 KJV

I have not turned on a television or read any news, but I speak what The Lord spoke to my heart. We have reached a place where judgment has been passed upon us and we will all suffer the consequences of the same judgment for our God is a just God and the rain falls upon the sinner and saved alike--just like the judgment. In the coming days and weeks, before January, we shall understand what stands before us--and there will be no need for any weep or moan, or regret for we should have sought The Lord before making any decision.  Buyer's remorse cannot be attended to in this grave situation and many do not realize the gravity of this time, yet. Even those who proclaim to know God and love have not determined what is about to befall us and we shall enter a time for which we cannot escape the foolishness of our judgment.

And after turning on the news, I understand why The Lord was speaking to me as He was.

"Wherefore thus saith the LORD God of hosts, Because ye speak this word, behold, I will make my words in thy mouth fire, and this people wood, and it shall devour them." Jeremiah 5:14

Have we not learned anything from the past? Apparently not for when we refuse to learn from history, we are bound to make the same mistakes.

It would appear from the history of past presidents--that when Democrats are in office, the nation prospers, but when Republicans are in office the economy bleeds and wars and rumors of war spread across the land. More specifically, other than now--the last time this nation prospered was when Bill Clinton was president and he left a surplus in the treasury. When George Bush was in office, he re-distributed the surplus and started a war, depleted the nation's gain and initiated a mountain of debt. When President Obama came into office, he had to keep our economy from going over the cliff with saving the auto industry and it worked. Just when the economy is experiencing a bounce-back, the stock market bottoms out upon the announcement that Donald Trump was elected President--an event they had warned us about. It is also public knowledge that North Korea and Russia stand ready to do battle with the United States so they can further decimate our standing with the rest of the world.

And speaking of the rest of the world--I can hear them laughing, totally dumbfounded at the stupidity we have exercised in allowing a megalomaniac to sit in the White House. This is not just my opinion; this is the opinion of many other countries before the election.

Now, we have heard for over a month that the election would be rigged and I'm assuming that it was against Hillary Clinton since false ads were placed with her picture on it indicating she was encouraging people to vote by texting their vote. Then there were all the glitches in voting apparatus that occurred yesterday in swing states. I can only imagine what kind of other shenanigans were in place to keep people from voting or having their vote not counted. When the enemy reigns--only evil exists and there is evil on the way to the White House.

But my hope is in Jesus and while I shall suffer like all the rest, I shall be saved for The Lord knows the hearts of those who love Him and obey Him. I truly thought Americans were too smart to fall for the con artist's lies, but I guess I was wrong.

We can pray and my prayer is that God is still willing to hear us and will by a miracle show us the truth of the matter.

Soon and Very Soon!

And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. Revelation 21:3-8 KJV

When we understand the vision John had and know deep within our hearts that God always has our best interests at heart--we can find comfort in His Word, not fear.

We can be comforted in knowing that no matter how foolish men and women act life, there will come a time when all will stand before God and give an account of what we've done.

We can know--with assurance--that it won't be long now--not based on our calendar days, but in God's timing--before we begin our second life--living with Him for all eternity.

Looking at all the turmoil and violence in the world--with all the confusion about "everything" I can only cry unto the Lord, "Come quickly!"

We know that God is not the author of confusion and since He is not--Satan is.

We know that God does not promote hatred and fear and since He does not--Satan does.

More importantly, we know that when people ignore God or refuse to obey Him, He allows the enemy to wreck havoc in our lives--until we reach the place where we understand, we can do nothing without Him.

We are our own worst enemy when we refuse to obey Him in all things.

All of the foolishness over which people get angry and rebellious will soon pass away.

There is no politics in Heaven for the King of Kings is sovereign. There are no religious banners denoting which denoting different denominations hanging in Heaven for there is but One Lord!

There is no sickness and disease in Heaven and no reason for there to be pain.

There is no difference of opinion in Heaven for only the like-minded in Christ shall reside there.

There is no black or white or red or brown or any other barrier in Heaven that will separate humanity (in its glorified body) from enjoying The Lord!

Hallelujah! Soon and very soon!

In Heaven Now, or Later?

Some faced jeers and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment.They were put to death by stoning; they were sawed in two; they were killed by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated— the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, living in caves and in holes in the ground. These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect. Hebrews 11:36-40 NIV

Most Believers know that Hebrews 11 defines what faith is, and records those who were faithful unto death, but how many of us have read beyond "the faith" of others to see where they are and where others may be?

Many preachers, pastors, families of the deceased comfort themselves with thinking that when people die, they immediately go to heaven or the other place. According to this passage of scripture and in other passages, we see that none are in place yet! When we die, according to God's Word spoken to Solomon--our spirits go back to God, our bodies return to the dust and souls await judgment.  
However, judgment won't occur until Jesus has returned and we are standing before The Throne to hear our fate, together with all who have gone ahead of us.

Now as harsh as that may sound--especially for those who want to believe their loved ones are already in heaven--we must all teach truth and accept truth. None of our loved ones are in heaven, yet! Telling people that loved ones have gone on to heaven is about as foolish as people going to a cemetery talking to the dead. "The dead know nothing" so they cannot hear or feel anything.

I do understand that people are ritualistic by nature and feel they must do something, but to what end? The greatest use of our time--whatever time we have left would be better used in promoting the Gospel to those who are yet breathing, for once we stop breathing, there's no time left.

I have also come to conclusion that funerals are a waste of time as well. Now, I know there are those who believe this is a final opportunity to tell someone good-bye, but those who are dead won't know who's there and if we really want to be a comfort to the remaining family, we should be available to them when they need someone to listen to them or just to encourage them to keep living for The Lord.

There is an industry out there that capitalizes on grief and we spend millions of dollars a year holding onto traditions that most can't afford. What better use could we find for that money? Have a memorial service and give the money to charities who are trying to help people live or to those who are sincerely spreading the Gospel to a dying world.

It's time--no way past time for many of us to learn to say good-bye to people while they can hear us and to show them how much we love them, while they are alive and can enjoy our sentiments. When they're dead--it's too late--and we need to learn how to let it go--for we can do absolutely nothing to bring them back and all we end up doing is making ourselves feel worse.

Is It Time, Yet?

"Whatever is has already been, and what will be has been before; and God will call the past to account. I said to myself, God will bring into judgment both the righteous and the wicked, for there will be a time for every activity, a time to judge every deed." (Ecclesiastes 3:15,17 NIV)

Most Believers who actually study The Word know the beginning of this chapter--a time for everything--and we often quote it in the midst of things we don't understand, but know that God has a purpose in allowing everything we experience to happen. But when we become familiar with certain passages of scripture, do we keep reading and wondering what was on Solomon's mind or for that matter, any of the others to whom God spoke?

God--who is without beginning or end--infinite in mercy and grace--who created all things knows that since the beginning of time--people would continue to do what has already been done--for there is truly nothing new--about the character of human beings--that God has not seen. We--who have only been around for a specified amount of time--have been allowed to see some things--some which amaze us and some which appall us, but we see them nonetheless.

We are amazed with the technological advances of men--whose minds have been ignited and imaginations fueled into creation of things not seen before by us, but where were we when God inspired those of ancient times to build irrigation systems and engineer buildings that are yet standing? The same God who inspired the ancients will inspire any and all who are willing to hear Him and for those who have never understood that inspiration--we will continue to be amazed.

We are appalled at the violence and societal decay that leaves such a stench that many of us can hardly breathe without inhaling the malodorous aura of a civilization rotting from the core of its being. This is nothing new! Civilizations have time after time--created havoc with God's plan and He allowed it so they would see the devastation they wreaked upon themselves. We have but to look at history--and how men who seek power over others because of greed--always decimate the masses and themselves in their folly.

Many people were (and still are) up-in-arms about the decision of the Supreme Court Justices who apparently have no understanding of history repeating itself and certainly do not demonstrate having a relationship with God. None of what we experience is new to God--He's seen it all before and in His timing--He has dealt with all of it. Most of those who choose to live in opposition to God's Word do not like the reference to Sodom and Gomorrah, but the truth of the matter is--they were not the only cities destroyed because of sexual sin, or any other sins and neither will they be--the only cities/regions destroyed because of sin.

When we choose to sin and then blatantly flaunt sin--we set ourselves up for judgment here on earth--and then comes the determination of our eternity--at the throne of God. At any given time--we will see the consequences of our actions--before Jesus returns. And if we see with spiritual insight as He reveals it to us--we see it now.

So, in His timing--the world--people from all walks of life, who operate in various roles and practice numerous religions--all will see God's wrath poured upon the earth and some--as in times past--will remain to share the experience with others for not all will perish--God must have a witness until it is time for His return to exact the final judgment upon the righteous and sinner alike. The question we must ask ourselves--is it time, yet?

Why Jesus said, "I Have The Authority to Judge."

"And He has given Him authority to judge because He is the Son of man." (John 5:27 NIV)

Who gave who authority to judge? God the Father, gave God the Son the authority to judge based upon the Father's Word. Lots of Word today since I know most reading this blog won't read the entire chapter for themselves, but I'll try to make it as concise as I can, without distorting the intent.

John 5:19-26 (some paraphrased for brevity)

v.19 The Son can do nothing by himself; he can only what He sees his father doing, because whatever the Father does, the Son also does (or says).

v.20 The Father loves the Son and has shown Him all He does...

v.21  Just like the Father raises the dead as gives them life, the Son gives life to whom He pleases.

v.22 The Father judges no one, but trusts all judgement to the Son.

v.23 So all may honor the Son as much as they honor The Father. If they don't honor the Son, they don't honor the Father who sent Him.

v.24 Whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.

v.25 A time will come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live (for eternity).

v.26 For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself.

In a nutshell, Jesus was responding to the religious group once again, who were trying to kill Him because He dared to heal on the Sabbath. He told them that they shouldn't be amazed at the things He did because He was only doing what The Father said do. If they believed God the Father, then they should believe The Son whom the Father had sent to give people a choice for eternal life.

Basically, what He was saying is that if you believe God, then believe me because I don't do anything of my own accord, but have been given authority by the Father to say and do what must be done--even to the point of judging who receives eternal life and who is not.

He goes to talk about those who will be judged--those rising after death to live and those rising after death to be condemned.

v. 30 By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear (what the Father says), and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but Him to who sent me.

The most important lesson we can learn from Jesus is saying is that, if we believe God the Father, then we should believe God the Son and if we don't believe the Son, we can't believe the Father.
Instead of doing all we can to please ourselves (and pacify people), we should be more concerned about pleasing God and in doing so, assuring our eternal resting place in heaven.

It's not rocket science and we don't need academic degrees to understand this. We simply need to have a right relationship with God and allow Him to speak to our hearts so we'll understand--by faith--all He says in His Word. That requires having an experience with God so He can reveal Himself to us and convict us of sin, so our desire will be to please Him.

It is not having a religious affiliation with any group that will save us. We are saved from eternal condemnation by receiving Jesus Christ as the Lord of our lives and understanding the work on the cross--His blood shed for us--the ultimate sacrifice and demonstration of love, by Love.

If we claim to know God without knowing and understanding His Word, we lie. If we claim to know what Jesus said and meant without knowing God, we lie. When we know Him--Father and Son--we understand how He wants us to live by understanding His Word, and we will not promote sin as right--nor will we live in sin, expecting not to be judged. 

More about what Jesus said and why, next time!

Strengthened by Faithfulness In Our Obedience to God!

"He will guard the feet of his faithful servants, but the wicked will be silenced in the place of darkness. “It is not by strength that one prevails; those who oppose the LORD will be broken. The Most High will thunder from heaven; the LORD will judge the ends of the earth. “He will give strength to his king and exalt the horn of his anointed.” (I Samuel 2:9,10 NIV)

Those who are faithful--obedient out of reverence for The Lord--have no need to fear judgment at the end--for The Lord will judge them according to their faithfulness to Him.

At the same time, those who have not acknowledged God and not obeyed Him, will be silenced in the midst of their wickedness and at the end, they shall appear before God, trembling and shaking and rightfully so.

When children are obedient to their parents, they have nothing to fear from their parents, but can look forward to receiving the just reward of their behavior. Obedient children quickly respond to questions parents may have and own up to any mistakes made, accepting responsibility for anything they did that caused a problem.

On the other hand, disobedient children will deliberately do whatever they "feel" like doing, allowing their emotions to rule over them and then they will lie or blame everyone else for the negative things that happen in their lives. When they are caught in a lie, they become defiant, arrogant and unruly. When punishment is meted out, they become resentful and instead of owning up to their behavior, they blame others for the predicament they find themselves in.

Good parents--parents who are observant and know their children--always know which child did what in their absence. They even know that older, more mature children, will often take the blame for younger, immature children to keep them from suffering a punishment. Parents know who did what when they have paid attention to their children and know their personalities--who's mature and who's not. They know, but sometimes they don't say anything and judge according to the information presented to them.

Those older children who take the blame for the things the younger ones, only exacerbate the problem since the younger ones seldom learn to take responsibility for their actions. Then they go through life, never willing to own what they do, but always willing to blame others.

God knows His children--the good and the bad--and His judgment will be based on the works we do out of obedience and since those who are disobedient don't accomplish much (based upon His plans), they will get their just reward from Him.

Don't get weary doing what is right even though it appears that those who never do what's right seem to get ahead of you in life. They haven't gotten ahead and in the end, they'll discover just how are far behind you they really are. Do good and know your reward is secure because of His love for us and He is faithful to those who are obedient to Him.

Is America The Modern Day Pergamum?

To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, not even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives. Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: There are some among you who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin so that they ate food sacrificed to idols and committed sexual immorality. Likewise, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. " (Revelation 2:12-15 NIV)

Though this message was for the early church in the Middle East, governed by Rome, it still  serves as a reminder to us today. When reading this, I began to wonder if America has become "Satan's Seat" of  all that is wrong with society today.

The message to the church acknowledges that there are some who remain true to their faith and will not renounce the belief and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, even in the face of persecution and those will be rewarded. However, He goes onto to say what He will hold against those tho entice people to sin and to hold onto cultic teachings that worship idols and false gods. This is in reference to the Nicolaitans (those who brought in idolatry and encouragement to live in opposition to God's Word). Doesn't that sound just like what is occurring in the Christian Community today?

Whenever I hear someone attempt to justify a lifestyle that is opposition to God's Word, I know they cannot know God and yet they quote scripture--out of context--that we who know to do right are not their judge. "God said don't judge." They quote it and have no idea what it means. Jesus said in Matthew 7:1,2 "Do not judge or you too will be judged, for in the same way you judge others (without The Word), you will be judged and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." The judgment that He references is based upon man's intellect, not God's Word and it is a warning that when we exclude God's Word as a guide for living, we set ourselves up to be judged by the same standards (man's intellect). They who live according to their flesh have already been judged and condemned by The Word--not us. If they knew God and had read His Word, they would know how ridiculous their attempt to quote Him is to justify their behavior.

And then their claim to sexual orientation is not a choice is further evidence of a lack of understanding about "words." An orientation is a process designed to encourage a practice. A preference is a process of selectively choosing what one wants or does. Both--orientation and preference--are choices, not civil rights or birth designs. This is how Satan deceives and unfortunately, there are many who buy into the deception.

But we can take heart in the knowledge that not all Believers are seduced by a lying devil and we will hold fast to God's Word, no matter what and we will not entice others to participate in ritualistic sin. What we must remember--the messages in the Bible are for Believers--not the unbelieving, for they would not believe it any way. Judgment begins at the household of faith--for all who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ. For those who are not followers in the truest sense of the word, their only hope is repentance and restoration to living a life that is pleasing to God.

We can no longer teach a sugar-coated message of Salvation in an attempt to not offend. Yes, Jesus died for all, but all must come to acknowledge that He is God and nothing in His message when He walked the earth, changed God's Word or intent for mankind. The only hope the worldly have is for those of us who know Truth, to teach God's Truth, not our own. We must say what God says in the context in which He said it.

It's Not Normal And God Said It First!

It has been said through various mediums (scientific studies, documentaries, etc.) that homosexuality is genetically determined before one is ever born. And because they were born this way, they claim their sexual orientation should be treated like any other birth defect or handicap. This theory is inconsistent with The Word of God. God never states that a birth defect or other anomaly or handicap is sin. He specifically states that the act of either men laying with men as they would a woman or women laying with women as they would men (homosexuality) is an abomination and those who practice it will not enter into heaven.

Let’s look at things another way. None of us are born gay or straight—we are born male or female (with a few exceptions pertaining to those born with both genitalia as a result of hormonal imbalances during gestational development). Babies do not lie in a hospital nursery right after they’re born with any conclusions about themselves. They are incapable of making any choices at that point. We choose what we do—and that becomes our sexual orientation—our actions which is why—some profess to be born—bi-sexual—they like having things their way—any way they can. Having an attraction towards someone of the same sex does not determine a person is gay. It is acting upon the attraction that puts one on the path of destruction and being labelled gay. Every one of us—chooses our actions.

We can be tempted to steal from a pile of money sitting in front of us for hours on end. We don’t become a thief until we actually steal some of the money. While this is a rather simplistic analogy, the premise is true for any situation. We do not become something until we act upon our desires.

And if God in His infinite wisdom, truly allowed someone to be born gay—surely, this is justification for them to become “born-again” and live the life God intended them to live, receiving all of His many benefits. This is why Jesus told Nicodemus that we must be “born again” in order to enter into heaven. (John 3:5 paraphrased).

It's Not Normal And God Said It First  available on amazon. com

http://www.amazon.com/Its-Not-Normal-Said-First-ebook/dp/B00SX3CR0W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422566801&sr=8-1&keywords=Its%27+Not+Normal%3A+And+God+Said+It+First

It's Time!

"And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight. And remember, our Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved. This is what our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him" (2 Peter 3:14,15 NLT).

Peter's letter reminds us of all that will happen "in that day" and assures us that just because it has not happened, yet--it will happen. His admonition is about what we can expect--fiery endings, all things destroyed, and new heavens and a new earth--it's still going to happen, but he also says, while we wait--we must use the time to make sure everyone is saved--this why God's promise for Jesus' return has been delayed--He's waiting for us to promote a true Gospel in how we live and for others to accept His Son as Savior and Lord.

Now, I know there are some religious groups who believe that the "new earth" is simply this one replenished, but that is simply an error in understanding or deliberate misinterpretation because it is taken out of context. If we look at the entire letter, we see that Peter has predicted "all the elements destroyed by fire". In other words, everything needed by mere mortals--earth, water, and wind. But for those who have a relationship with God--we understand that the new heavens are not like anything we know, neither is the new earth like the one we know, because we will no longer be mere mortals. The real problem with people trying to determine that "one segment of scripture" means anything by itself is that it is religious propaganda born of a need to control others.

In this letter, Peter also reminds us that when Jesus returns, He will come as a thief in the night--completely unannounced--except for the sound of the trumpet and we're all out of here in the twinkling of an eye (Paul says). There is no need to pack a bag, save food or money for this event--we won't have time to grab it and I for one, am glad that all of our needs have already been anticipated and provided as we rise to live and reign with Him. Hallelujah!

At any rate, the message here is clear from Peter's letter--while we're waiting--we should "live according to God's Word" loving and enjoying peace, doing nothing in His sight for which we might be ashamed.  During our wait--we are developing patience and while patience is developing, we are (or should be) promoting the Gospel of Jesus Christ so that none are left to experience the fiery ending that is promised.

No Fear For Doing Right!

"For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended" (Romans 13:3 NIV).

When we look at what is occurring all over the world and we see the effects of misguided leadership, we need to pray. Apparently, they did not understand what this means; especially those who proclaim to know the Living God! They have forgotten that their leadership is limited and should have guided by the One who truly rules and when all do right--there is no need to fear, but when they do wrong--look out!

If we desire freedom from fear from God (not mankind), when we do what is right, we can be confident in walking in His favor. But if we do what is wrong in order to appease misguided leadership, then we should be fearful of the wrath of God. For His wrath will fall on the just as well as the unjust.

The rulers Paul references in this passage of scripture are those who are led by the Spirit of God in their governance of people. And when we know that leadership has gone astray, being influenced by another spirit, we must pray that God will remove the scales from their eyes and they can see themselves clearly, as everyone else does.

When leadership allows all manner of people into an environment that should be sanctified and holy, the spirits of all those who are not holy, are left behind and they congregate to influence all who come into their presence. When we pray, we must pray against the influence of evil spirits who inhabit and dwell in places when given room to do so. And we pray that God's Will is fulfilled in all that is done. However, when we see leadership actively opposed to God's purposes, we must remove ourselves before we are also infected with wrong thinking and doing likewise.

In order to take fear out of the equation--love unconditionally and do what is right at all times. God will take care of the rest, according to His purposes and plans.

When No Relationship Exists!

"In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes." (Judges 17:6)

Considering all the events in this country for the last two years, we are living "in those days" when no one in authority has a right relationship with God. That's basically what the writer in Judges is saying. When no relationship exists with God, men (mankind) do whatever they want to do and then chaos reigns. We know that chaos reigns in the midst of our society--especially in the United States--because of the decisions that "men" have made to pacify flesh with no regard to doing what is right in God's sight--only their own.

When no relationship with God exists--men legalize sin--in all sorts of manners (condoning same-sex relationships, drug use, pornography, prostitution, all manner of whoredom) and then the same people who applauded the legalization of sin--condemn anyone who dares to disagree with them--spouting their first amendment rights. What happened to the first amendment rights of Christians? Are we not citizens in this country, eligible for the protections of the same laws? Or is it that only the anti-Christ are in position to change laws to appease flesh and promote hatred of those to speak what God says? There appears to be a double-standard here, but only those in relationship with God can see it.

When no relationship with God exists--confusion enters in and takes control. Men and women are confused and promote the confusion in the schools and community so that children also become confused. God is not the author of confusion, but we know that Satan is. Unfortunately, the devil has blinded the eyes of those who follow him and they do not see the pit he is digging for them and by the time they realize what has happened, it will be too late.

When no relationship with God exists--men are subject to the debilitation of all manner of sickness and disease that  occurs, in many instances, as a result of sinful living. There are some who would argue this point, but the bottom line for sin is this--"the wages of sin is death." God is not mocked! We can do whatever we want to do--but in the end, God's Word will not come back void, and it will perform all that it says it will.

When a right relationship exists with God, peace and prosperity reign in the land. Healing exists for those in right relationship with God. Love for all mankind and God exists for those in right relationship with God. Wisdom exists for all those in right relationship with God. Insight exists for all those in right relationship with God. For all who are not in right relationship with God--they lack the wisdom of God to see the conclusion of the matter. They have forgotten the history of mankind and sin and what God does and they are therefore, doomed to repeat the tragedies of the past.

Father, in the name of Jesus, help us to see the need to stay in right relationship with You. Remove the scales from the eyes of those who have been deceived so they can see the end of their lives, right now. Strengthen the minds, hearts, and determination of all who are in right relationship with You to stay the course You have established for us. Thank You for loving us enough to give us one more chance to get living for You right.

No Way of Escape!

"For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries" (Hebrews 10:26,27 ESV).

Under the law--animal sacrifices were made to atone for sin--the shedding of blood on an altar had to be made for the people--once a year.

Under grace--the blood sacrifice of The Lamb of God to atone for the sin of mankind--has been made on the cross--once for all times for all who receive the sacrifice on the altars of their heart.

If we understand the sacrifice made, the blood shed on the cross, the love of God for us in willingly taking on the likeness of flesh so we might be saved from ourselves, we would not deliberately sin--do all or any of those things that God says is sin. For if we deliberately sin--there won't be another sacrifice made--only the assurance of a fearful fate of judgment by God.

If we have a relationship with God, we want to please Him and only do those things that are right in His sight, receiving His love and loving Him and others in return.

If we have a relationship with religion--rules and rituals created by man to control others in order to pacify men and justify doing anything they want to do (changing what God has said), we will not inherit the right to enter into heaven, but leave ourselves open to the judgment of Christ--with no escape.

If we have never acknowledged, or accepted the sacrifice Jesus made for us, we will be still be judged if God's truth has been revealed to us and we simply refused to accept it.

There is only one way to achieve entrance into heaven and to shore up our eternal resting place--accept God's Word--The Truth of the sacrifice made--and choose to live according to God's directions and instructions--and not by the dictates of our flesh.  If we choose to ignore God and all whom He has used to warn and teach us, we have no escape from our deeds, but certain judgment awaits us, for the wages (the payment) for sin is death.