No More Lies!

Trump is averaging -- AVERAGING -- 30 false or misleading claims a day in the last seven weeks. And, per the Fact Checker, he often of late soars far above that average. As one example: On October 22, when he traveled to Houston to hold a rally for Texas Sen. Ted Cruz (R), Trump, said 83 untrue things in a single day. 83!

A recent interview published in Vanity Fair reveals that trump said, "blacks were too stupid to vote for him."

At a rally this past week, trump claimed that President Obama was the biggest liar because he said over a period of time, that people would be able to keep their own doctors (he thought was true at the time) 28 times. Yes, it was a promise that President Obama thought would happen with the ACA, but because of glitches in the program he had no control over, it didn't come true. However, the lies told by trump number over 6 thousand, averaging 30 lies per day--since he was sworn into office.

He's lying to his base about the danger of the "caravans" attempting to come into the United States illegally. He's lying about the need for 5K troops, undermining the military use of soldiers to invoke fear.

He's lying about Democrats wanting to "take your healthcare" when it has been Democrats fighting for access to healthcare for everyone. Republicans have 9 cases in court--to deny health coverage to people with pre-existing conditions through the ACA program. They know if they can deny people the right to health coverage for pre-existing conditions, it will effectively make the ACA ineffective and they can stop providing all coverage.

Some of the pre-existing conditions Republicans in congress don't want covered are: cancer treatments, diabetes, asthma, pregnancies, mental illness/treatment, and opioid treatments. Now, days and hours before the Mid Term elections, they're "lying" about covering pre-existing conditions only because it is Democrats fighting for the protections and they are discussing in their campaigns.

It's time for people to wake up and some have. I've noticed a number of people on Twitter declaring they were Republicans, but are voting for every Democrat on their ballots with the hashtag #GOPVotingBlue! They are tired of the lies, the hatred, the bigotry, the fearmongering and lack of empathy and compassion they've seen from the White House. I don't know if anyone could have imagined a resident of the Oval House complain that coverage of a "mass murder" at a Jewish synagogue interfered with the momentum of his hate rallies. Really? That was his concern. The media wasn't covering his rallies, but were instead covering the loss of lives by a madman, stoked by fear listening to trump. And let's not forget, the idiot trump supporter who mailed pipe bombs to those who have vocally criticized him--members of Congress, past presidents, celebrities and the media. He didn't even take time to condemn the act.

So, if you're as tired of the lies as I am, it's time to do something about it. Democrats are not for open borders--we want sustainable immigration reform. Democrats are not trying to take anyone's guns--we want common sense gun reform so that people won't be able to walk into a worship service and gun down people with an assault rifle. Democrats want reduced taxes for the middle class and working families and want the wealthy to pay their fair share of taxes. Democrats want all workers to have a living wage and not have to work two and three jobs to survive. Democrats want consumer protections to make sure all can breathe the air, drink the water and eat food produced from soil that has not been contaminated by poisonous chemicals. Democrats want every person who desires a higher education to be able to afford getting one, without mounds of debt. Democrats want Senior Citizens to enjoy their final years without worrying about how they're to eat, keep a roof over their heads or to pay for their healthcare. Democrats want every veteran who has served our country to have the benefits they need.

If you haven't already voted, make sure you exercise your right to do so or this may be the last time.  Fascism--taking away the rights as guaranteed every American in our Constitution--is encroaching with trump since the GOP Congress won't do their job. America has no need for a dictator and we won't stand for having one.

The desperation people in hear in trump's voice, invoking fear and hatred is real. That's the only thing he's not lying about, because he knows--a Democratic Congress will hold him accountable for everything he does and he will no longer have a free pass to rape the US Treasury or pass legislation that is vindictive and spiteful. But because he is so fearful and insecure, he will stoke anger and hatred among those who refuse to think for themselves and he hopes enough anger with arise for him to employ martial law--bringing in the military to keep order, while really establishing himself as the lone wolf--instructed by Putin--to destroy our democracy.

Oh, and the lies people hear in churches--are designed to keep those listening under control. It's really a shame that many good people are sitting in churches everywhere, listening to the lies being told by church leadership--just to control them. They will never tell people the truth--God gives us choices and respects our choices. Religious folks simply want to control others and their bodies (except for the men). I will say this one more time--just in case people didn't "hear" it before--

God did not choose trump to lead this country; fearful, hateful, bigoted people chose trump!

If people haven't figured this out by now, God help them. But if they have, do like those who are now voting for Democrats--Vote Blue--because whether some like it or not, Democratic values are more aligned with Scripture than anything the Religious Right are demonstrating. Don't take my word for it--read the bible for yourself (Matthew 25:31-45).  Of course, understanding the Bible would mean a person has a relationship with Christ and He is dwelling in their hearts, so full of love there is no room for hate or fear.

Did not Jesus tell us in John 8:32 that if we held to His teaching (not men's), "We shall know the truth and the truth shall set us free?"

We're also told in the bible that Satan is the father of lies, a master of deception, and his only job is to kill, steal, and destroy. We see all the character traits of Satan in trump in all he says and does. His constant lies indicate who his father is, his invention of problems where there are none--deceptive to get media attention; he's killing people by withholding subsidies for healthcare, stealing from tax payers on a daily basis, and trying his best to destroy our democracy. Pay attention, America!

I've already voted and I voted Blue--for the people--all the people! What are you going to do?

Women Must Read!

https://medium.com/@educatormary/open-letter-to-alabama-women-4f93ced78fad

Now is the time to stand up and speak up about predatory behavior against females everywhere. We believe you!

Assistance Needed!

One of my followers on Twitter is in need of assistance and I have pledged to donate half of the proceeds from the sales of my book myBook.to/ElevatedHijinks through Saturday.

I pray those who have a heart will purchase--just 0.99 and encourage others to do so as well.

Thanks for assisting in doing what Jesus would have us to do--help the needy.

When The Deceivers Charm!

"As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately. "Tell us," they said, "when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of this age?" Jesus answered: "Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Messiah,' and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not charmed.  Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains." (Matthew 24:3-8 NIV)

Not too long ago, there were Tweeters posting the end of the world on September 25, 2015. At least that's the date I remember, I could be off by a day or two. I remember seeing the Tweets, but I refuse to engage in the rhetoric.

Jehovah Witnesses have proclaimed the return of Christ for decades and will debate the issue and charm those who do not know what Jesus said and why.

There have been people all over the world, proclaiming when the end will come and because foolish people would rather believe those who deliberately deceive, they are manipulated by them.
How about this? Let's all read the Bible, seek understanding, and then just believe what The Word says. "NO MAN KNOWS WHEN JESUS WILL RETURN--NOT EVEN HIM--ONLY THE FATHER!" And since His return will be as a thief in the night, there will be no warnings of His imminent return--we simply need to be ready and not deceived by those who know how to charm the foolish!

What happens when deceivers charm? People commit suicide influenced by false leaders. They pack suitcases waiting for that "ride" to heaven. They sell their homes and businesses and empty bank accounts. They build bunkers and hoard food and water. WHEN THE END COMES--WE WHO BELIEVE WILL BE GONE BEFORE WE CAN BLINK OUR EYES AND THERE WILL BE NO NEED FOR FOOD, WATER, TICKETS, OR LUGGAGE!

I'm praying for those who are consistently deceived by those who do much talking and manipulating of The Word in order to convince others they have been chosen by God to proclaim His return--specifically by date and year. God didn't choose them--at least the God of Heaven didn't choose, but the god of this world--most certainly did. 

Let's stop being foolish and supporting fools in their attempts to be more than they are.

God's Word is true and everyone who is not saying what God has said is a liar and deceives the easily charmed.

Hold Onto The Word--No Matter How It's Obtained!

"So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word." (2 Thessalonians 2:15-17 NIV)

In the days of the prophets--those used by God specifically to speak what God wanted them to say, they encouraged the Children of Israel to hold onto God's Word and obey.

Beyond the prophets of old--Jesus and those who followed Him--said the same thing--hold onto the Word and obey.

Near Paul's end, he encouraged all--not just those in Thessalonica, but all who would believe and obey the Word--whether they heard it directly from Timothy or others sent to them or by the letters he wrote to them.

Today, there is no excuse for anyone to claim they have no access to The Word. The Word is being preached on television, preached in churches on just about every corner, taught in bible studies in homes across America, and streamed on the Internet. Bloggers who are faithful Believers are constantly explicating The Word in order to break it down so all who read can and will understand. Bible apps are available for every type of digital technology, anyone could own. And yet--so many either won't believe or obey The Word of God.

For those of us who will continue to proclaim God's Word--we know and understand the consequences of our actions. People may not like us or follow us on social media, but God is pleased and our goal--to please God is obtained.

I'm always amazed at some who follow me on Twitter--especially when my profile clearly identifies me as a Believer and Follower of Jesus Christ. I guess some don't bother to read the profiles or the posts before deciding to follow me and then quickly unfollow me when I post something that contradicts what they believe or rather--reveals the foolishness of unbelief in the Most High God.

The unfollows don't bother me--I simply shake my head and smile. But no matter how many people unfollow me--I will hold fast to The Word and continue to explicate it as God directs me. If something is said that convicts others of sin and wrongdoing, Amen! The Word--if taught correctly--should convict all of sin and encourage us to live to please God, and that includes the one who writes the blog. I know what I've written has often hit me over the head and made me realize just how much growing in grace I have yet to do. And that's okay--The Word--sharper than a two-edged sword--cuts going in and out. What He gives me to say is not just for those who read it, but for the one who writes it. Ouch! I'm not immune to convicting power of The Word.

Now, even though I study The Word and profess it, gladly with the least provocation--I realize just how much I have to learn. I don't think I could live long enough to reach a place where I could legitimately think--I've learned it all. So, even though what I write may sting others, it has found it's mark in me, but I will hold onto The Word, no matter how it's obtained and allow The Word to wash me, thoroughly cleansing and igniting desire to know more.

This day, I am encouraging all to study The Word, hold onto The Word and obey and get ready to receive God's promises, fulfilled in your lifetime.

God Still Has True Prophets Speaking His Truth!

"They have chosen their own ways, and they delight in their abominations; so I also will choose harsh treatment for them and will bring on them what they dread. For when I called, no one answered, when I spoke, no one listened. They did evil in my sight and chose what displeases me.” (Isaiah 66:3b,4 NIV)

When the prophet spoke to the those who were willing to listen, he revealed God's thoughts and declarations and promises. And this is the role of a prophet--to hear God and speak what God says--not what they want to say.

One of the reasons the children of Israel did not want to listen to any of God's prophets is because they spoke God's Truth rather than tell the people what they wanted to hear. It's not always easy telling people the truth; especially when they choose to not hear it and then get angry because someone dared to speak truth. When the king had enough of Isaiah prophesying against all the evil they were doing, he ordered Isaiah to be cut in half--like they cut up the bulls for sacrifice.

In the face of all this persecution and ultimate death, not many people wanted to tell the people what God said out of fear. That was then and it is still true. People would rather pacify others than speak God's Truth out of fear of persecution from those in leadership positions. We who know God, hear God and love Him have no need to fear anyone else. They can only kill the body, not our souls or keep us from receiving our just rewards from God.

Is there anyone out there who God is speaking to but afraid to say what God says? Are we yet willing to hear, but don't want to upset the apple cart or care too much about what others will think of us? Is there anybody left on the planet who is as bold and courageous as the devil, willing to speak up when they hear God?

There are a few people who are bold enough to say what God says--no matter what others may think. I see them what they have to say on Twitter without anonymous profile pictures. I see them on Facebook, and Tumblr, and Google. We are here to stay and we have no fear of those who choose to live in opposition to God's Word and we don't care what their title is or what their position in government is--WE WILL SAY WHAT GOD SAYS AND BE JUDGED BY HIM AND HIM ALONE!

Every morning, the first thing I do is to read what God has said and then He speaks to my heart and I respond by writing an explanation, exegesis, poem, analysis, or whatever anyone wants to call my blogs. This is the will of God for me and I will continue to do it as long as I have life since my life belongs to Him. When people choose to live outside the will of God, they choose the consequences for disobedience and when they will not hear or heed God's people warning them, their just reward is all they can get. Those of us who love God, love people enough to tell them the truth, and not just what they want to hear.  And we will keep saying what God says, whether people want to hear it or not!

Praying For You!

"For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better." (Ephesians 1:15-17 NIV)

Many of us often receive prayer requests for various reasons--someone is having surgery, a child is missing, a life has been lost, someone has lost a job, and for those who are ill and suffering. When I pray for anyone, based upon a prayer request, I ask for the reason I'm praying since I don't really like "generic prayers" for anyone. We have an awesome God who responds to our faith, about the specific details of our lives, so I like to pray specific prayers.

But for those who profess a faith and belief in God as indicated in their response to something I've said in a blog or by following me on Twitter or any other social media, I pray the type of prayer Paul discusses in this passage.

I always thank God for the connection with other like-minded Believers and with those who have shared interest in writing, the arts, literacy, and education. I pray for wisdom for all--those in authority and those who are governed by those in authority. I pray for wisdom for parents in guiding their children in knowing how to live a life that glorifies God. I pray God's wisdom for spouses that their love will grow and cement their commitment to each other. I pray healing for all--from the crowns of heads to the soles of their feet and every organ, bone, muscle, and tissue in between. I pray God's wisdom in all decision-making for everyone faced with tough choices. I pray for all to accept God's love so we may have peace in our homes,  in communities,  in the nation, and in the world--with no hatred or violence against anyone. I pray for strength and courage for all who are tempted to succumb to depression and doubt and for those who stand firm in their faith, never wavering. I pray for all to come to a place where they accept the work on the cross and Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

And when I've finished these requests, I praise God and thank Him for hearing and responding to my requests and for speaking to the hearts of all who need to hear from Him in all things. I know that it is done in Jesus' name.

Someone wrote a song indicating they understood someone--maybe someone they didn't even know, had prayed for them--"Somebody prayed for me and I'm so glad they prayed." I know some of the people who prayed for me when I was living my life for me and I'm so glad they prayed, I'm so glad they prayed for me! So, I do not hesitate to pray for others, whether I know them or not, God knows every need, and I expect, with great anticipation, that He will respond to those needs. Hallelujah!

Be encouraged, I'm praying for you!

Why God, Why?

Why does God allow certain things to happen to people?

I seriously do not have an answer for every specific thing that happens to people; only God knows why He does what He does. If I had the answers, I'd never have to be concerned about anything else in life. But then, God wants us to seek Him for answers, and not one another.

A follower on Twitter posed the situation to me:  He said, "My wife had a heart attack and died in front of our year and half baby. Why did God allow that to happen?"

My response to him was this: I don't know why God allows things to happen to people. My brother was killed by my mother and I suffered from the event, but the same event brought me into relationship with God and now--not only can I have joy in my life, but I can encourage others. God knows what He's doing and all things will work out for our good. Just trust Him!

While some may not agree with my response, I know without a doubt that it was the best response I could give Him. All too often many try to explain why God does things when they don't know any more than anyone else. God is God. He doesn't have to explain Himself to us and He certainly does not need our permission to do anything.

However, there are some things in life that we do to ourselves that bring about certain consequences. If we are not conscious about our physical health and how we treat our bodies, we put ourselves into position to suffer the consequences of--heart attack, stroke, diabetes, certain cancers, etc. If we are not conscious of how we treat others, we will suffer the consequences of depression, loneliness, and other mental illnesses. Drug abuse, alcohol abuse, tobacco use, lack of exercise, overeating, unprotected sexual activity, and just plain meanness can create situations that cause us harm and could lead to death. Let's face it, if we would simply read and understand The Word, follow the instructions, and know God's voice and obey, we could avoid a lot of negative stuff occurring in our lives. It's all in there--we just need to know what "it" is and live to the glory of God!

Father, in the name of Jesus, give us understanding of how to treat our bodies--the temple where Holy Spirit lives and how to live to Your glory. Comfort the hearts of those who have lost loved ones and guide them in their grief to You, as only You can. Pour onto us Your wisdom so we may encourage one another to endure to the end and finish this race, in life.

Stimulating Wholesome Thinking!

"Dear friends, this is now my second letter to you. I have written both of them as reminders to stimulate you to wholesome thinking" (2 Peter 3:1 NIV).

When I read this passage this morning, I was reminded of the reason I write. I don't expect people to agree with everything I say; not even some of what I say, but I write to encourage and stimulate wholesome thinking especially in how we treat people.

We live in a society where are constantly bombarded with everyone's thoughts through various types of media--online media, television, radio, blogs, all the social media, books, magazines, hand-bills, posters, bill-boards, and online news commentaries. Some of the thoughts we read can readily be dismissed when we recognize the influence behind the thoughts. Some of the thoughts, we may actually consider to be genuine from rational people, until we continue to read what they write. And some, thoughtful writers will actually challenge us to think.

How do we know when we see "wholesome writing" that will ignite "wholesome thinking?"

If what someone says aligns with The Word, explains The Word, expounds on The Word, and is not judgmental, obscene, or profane, or full of hate; we can probably conclude that the writer is thinking wholesome thoughts.  If what someone says, denies or scoffs at The Word, is in opposition to The Word, then we know who is influencing the words they write. What they say will not lead to wholesome thinking, but to chaos and confusion designed to get people off track.

How far off track are we in our society today? Should not our thoughts be the same as the thoughts of Christ?  If we have the mind of Christ, should we not have the conduct of Christ? Should not our heart be as His--loving, full of compassion, and always forgiving?

Nothing in life is fair--God did not promise us fairness. He said, "the just shall live by faith."
 So, don't be bitter about things that didn't "seem fair", move forward and know that if we continue in The Word, we shall receive God's many benefits and He is not slow to fulfill His promises to us! We are the "just" and "the righteousness of Christ" because He said so, not us.

Now, think on these things--whatsoever is pure, lovely, and of a good report--all leading to wholesome thinking. Remember to love and forget all the things that would cause you to hold onto bitterness and unforgiveness. Keep your focus on the prize ahead of you in Christ Jesus! Rational Thinking > Rational Decisions > Rational Behavior--towards all!

Delight!

"Take delight in the Lord (learn how to please Him) and He will give you the desires of your heart" (Psalm 37:4)

When we take pleasure in finding ways to please God, it gives Him great pleasure to give us the desires of our heart--even the hidden things we not vocalized.

When I look at the sky, the clouds, the birds and squirrels playing, the mountains that I love so much, and the water--no matter where you find it and peace--I am always amazed at God's creations.  When I hear about selfless acts that people do for others, I am equally grateful for our ability to have compassion for others.  I delight in what I see God has already done for us collectively, and I am always humbled by His favor--every where I go.

I am delighted with His love for me and the life He has allowed me to have.  I try at all times to do those things that I know will please Him, but I'm not perfect and I'm sure I don't always make it, but I never stop trying.

Yesterday was a particularly delightful day for me when I was "under attack by unbelievers" online.  What I realized is that the more I am doing right for God, the greater the attack by those the enemy has influenced.  I did not get angry or belligerent, but thanked them for paying attention to me.  I knew that God had to be pleased with the fact that I openly acknowledge Him at all times and the enemy was afraid of how my words might influence others to come to themselves and acknowledge God's existence.  I am also grateful that over 90% of my followers on Twitter are Believers!  Hallelujah!

If you have not received your heart's desires "yet", think about what you're doing.  Are you spending your time pleasing God or pacifying "man"?  Delight in all He has done, is doing and will do in your life and watch those desires--the ones you have not even voiced--come to pass!