"Death Comes to All"

  "This, too, I carefully explored. Even though the actions of godly and wise people are in God's hands, no one knows whether God will show them favor. The same destiny ultimately awaits everyone, whether righteous or wicked, good or bad, ceremonially clean or unclean, religious or irreligious. Good people receive the same treatment as sinners. and people who make promises to God are treated like people who don't.

 It seems so tragic that everyone under the sun suffers the same fate. That is why people are not more careful to be good. Instead, they choose own mad course, for they have no hope. There is nothing ahead but death anyway. There is hope only for the living. As they say, "It's better to be a live dog than a dead lion!"

 The living at least know they will die, but the dead know nothing. They have no further reward, nor are they remembered. Whatever they did in their lifetime - loving, hating, envying - is all long gone. They no longer play a part in anything here on earth. So go ahead. Eat your food with joy, and drink your wine with a happy heart, for God approves of this! Wear fine clothes, with a splash of cologne!" (Ecclesiastes 9:1-8 NLT)

  "LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am. Behold, thou hast made my days as a handbreadth; and mine age is as nothing before thee: verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity." [Selah.]  (Psalms 39:4-5 KJV) 

 Again, we must remember that Solomon here is sharing about living under the sun, which, in case you might have lost sight of that, it is referring to those that live on earth, this rotating ball that circles the sun! By the way, just in case you might have not known, but we are traveling in a circle, which takes 365 days to circle the sun, at a speed of 67,000 miles per hour to go approx. 590,000,000 miles. At the same time, this planet is spinning at a speed of 1,000 miles per hour; every 24 hours we have traveled 24,000 miles in a circle, without even knowing we moved! 

 Strange, but oh so exciting! God made this, designed it to function just as it does. Too bad mankind is not wound up like most everything else; we just seem to do what we want, seeing that we have a choice...

 "Surely every man walketh in a vain show: surely they are disquieted in vain: he heapeth up riches, and knoweth not who shall gather them. And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee. Deliver me from all my transgressions: make me not the reproach of the foolish. I was dumb, I opened my mouth; because thou didst it. Remove thy stroke away from me: I am consumed by the blow of thy hand. When thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, thou makest his beauty to consume away like a moth: surely every man is vanity." [Selah.]  (Psalms 39:6-11 KJV) 

"The Work of God"

 "Then I beheld all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun: because though a man labour to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yea further, though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it." (Ecclesiastes 8:17 KJV)

  ""My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts," says the LORD. "And my way are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts."" (Isaiah 55:8-9 NLT)

 Sometimes we think we have it all figured out, seeing ourselves becoming something; feeling there is something God is doing, moving, or placing us into, without even knowing the plans He has for us, but seemingly thinking we know all that He is working in our lives. In Solomon's case, God blessed him with the wisdom that he asked for; and then He gifted him with great riches, honor and an abundant life. 

 We can only see the mistakes that the person God is working in makes, thinking whatever about their state of mind, their heart, or where they might end up, after God judges them. But, and what if, whatever happens here, in this world, does not necessarily take place in God's Kingdom? Did Solomon make any difference in this world? Did he usher in anyone into the Kingdom of God? 

 I cannot imagine how many people were influenced by Solomon's life, his songs, his proverbs, his example of God's mighty hand upon his life? Even though he might have overindulged with women, horses, chariots, and massive parties, in the end, he remembered God's great mercy and grace! 

 We sometimes judge people based upon what we see in them, or how we feel they might have lost all fellowship with God; but it is God who will judge, not man; it is man that feels his position with God, knowing full well what is wrong and what is right. It is everyone's duty to judge their own hearts, not the right of those who think they know something, even though they may not even know their own hearts; no one can really know their hearts, because we can change in an instant! 

 There are only so many ways to figure this out, none of which will provide a definite answer, except to say, Only God Knows...

"O LORD, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I'm far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, LORD. You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great to understand!" (PSALM 139:1-6 NLT) 

"Divine Dispensations" - 2

 "When I applied mine heart to know wisdom, and to see the business that is done upon the earth: (for also there is that neither day or night seeth sleep with his eyes:)" (Ecclesiastes 8:16 KJV)

 ""Solomon here records the result of his perplexing inquiries into the affairs of men, and the purposes, providence, and works of God. And when he examined with great attention and diligence into the works of God, he found he could neither comprehend nor explain them; and was persuaded, that no application or capacity would enable a man to fathom the depth of the Divine dispensations in the lower world. How vain, then, are all cavils against Divine providence; when we can neither understand, nor comprehend it!"" (Close-Reference Input on Verse 16 &17)

 Looking up this title, "Divine Dispensations," I found there to be seven Divine Dispensations shown in the Bible: Innocence, Conscience, Human Government, Promise, Law, Grace, and Kingdom. Each of which has a purpose in the overall story, tapestry, and composition of God's majestic plan for man to be conformed to His image. 

 We will not see this masterpiece from our point of view, except for mere glimpses and outlines of the pieces that God will show us; but when we are with Him, all that will change, and we will be all but amazed! If there is one thing to be thankful for, on this Thanksgiving morning, it is that we are a part of this amazing work; and if we are on the right side of this wonderful work, we have nothing to fear! 

 That alone should make your Thanksgiving Day a very thankful one, indeed...

"Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil - the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature. By our very nature we were subject to God's anger, just like everyone else. But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's grace that you have been saved!) For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus. So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus." (Ephesians 2:1-7 NLT)  

"Divine Dispensations"

 "When I applied mine heart to know wisdom, and to see the business that is done upon the earth: (for also there is that neither day nor night seeth sleep with his eyes:)" (Ecclesiastes 8:16 KJV)

  "God's purpose was that we Jews who were first to trust in Christ would bring praise and glory to God. And now you Gentiles have also heard the truth, the Good News that God saves you. And when you believe in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago. The Spirit is God's guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify him." (Ephesians 1:12-14 NLT)

 There is more to this than meets the eye, so to speak: as Solomon was gifted by God with abundant wisdom, he ponders 'the business that is done upon the earth,' as if there is something that God is doing, whether we know it or not, that is all part of His plan. After all, God never sleeps! 

 Looking up that word, 'business', we will discover that is has an evil tone to it, as it suggests that all that goes on here on this earth is of little profit, for us. All that we toil and do, although it might be something we feel is special and of benefit to the human race; in God's eyes, it has no value or significance whatsoever! 

 Just think of the things we have designed and produced over these last hundred years; most of which, will be worth nothing without the power to use them, all of which will one day be useless and able to do nothing. Visit a junk yard and see for yourself; things which were once iconic and amazed the masses, are just piles of junk and ready to be recycled or turned into rubbish. 

 What matters more than anything else is God's design and purposes! We can enjoy our things in the moment, but when it's all said and done, even we get recycled and turned into rubbish... 

"You have died with Christ, and he has set you free from the spiritual powers of this world. So why do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as, "Don't handle! Don't taste! Don't touch!"? Such rules are mere human teachings about things that deteriorate as we use them. These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, pious self-denial, and severe bodily discipline. But they provide no help in conquering a person's evil desires. Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God's right hand." (Colossians 2:20-3:1 NLT) 

"Loving Pleasures" - 2

 "Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun." (Ecclesiastes 8:15 KJV) 

  "Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone. See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to all people. Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:14-18 NLT)

 What I believe this means, without being judgmental, is that we enjoy helping others and try hard not to make life seem like such a burden, so that you don't make yourself the doom and gloom person, that no one cares to be around. We have only so many days here, on this earth, we need to be the ones that show forth joy, especially when it counts the most! 

 One of the definitions of 'Pleasure,' is, "a state of gratification." I know that it might be hard sometimes to do, but waking up this morning, is one of my first gratifications of the day! I get to live and do and be, one more day, another day to hopefully shine and be a light for Jesus! 

 That doesn't happen every day, I hate to say, because there are days when I feel sad and alone, which is usually because I forgot to count my blessings. We need to focus upon those things which God has given us to do, knowing that we have a purpose, big or small, it really doesn't matter; God works the same in every situation, even in the smallest expression, such as a smile and friendly hello. 

 Has your joy been hidden or taken away? Do you feel as though your life does not warrant joy or happiness? There is a very good reason that we must always be joyful, because we have been saved and no matter what, we have eternal life in Christ Jesus, our Lord! There is no greater pleasure...

"Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again - rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:4-7 NLT) 

"Loving Pleasures"

 "Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun." (Ecclesiastes 8:15 KJV)

  "Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons. These people are hypocrites and liars, and their consciences are dead. They will say it is wrong to be married and wrong to eat certain foods. But God created those foods to be eaten with thanks by faithful people who know the truth. Since everything God created is good, we should not reject any of it but receive it with thanks. For we know it is made acceptable by the word of God and prayer." (1 Timothy 4:1-5 NLT)

 Now, let's think about this for a moment, as we ponder the things which are acceptable, alongside those things that are not. Is it okay to laugh and enjoy times with families? There might be some who say it is not, as if the thought of having a good time is wrong, because brothers and sisters are being persecuted all over the world; so, what gives you the right to be merry? 

 Let me tell you something that I enjoy, more than anything else under the sun, (besides fellowship at church), having meals with my family, with at least 12 or more people sitting at the table. We have a great time of sharing with one another; not that everyone is a believer, but because we are all family. There is hardly a time when the whole restaurant doesn't notice us, because we spend more time sharing and laughing, then we do, eating our food.

 Things seem to be even better when Marianne is also seated at the table. That might be because she is there; giving everyone a reason to enjoy life, while it can still be enjoyed! If you like gatherings, then you would know what I am saying. There is nobody there on their phone, ignoring what is going on, because if they were, they would just feel convicted. Not to say that doesn't ever happen, because there are a few of the family that just want to be alone. 

 If you don't mind, Solomon is, in a strange sort of a way, is making a toast to those times we can be together, celebrating the life God has given us, under the sun...

"Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life." (1 Timothy 6:17-19 NLT)  

"The Blame Game"

 "There is a vanity which is done upon the earth; that there be just men, unto whom it happeneth according to the work of the wicked; again, there be wicked men, to whom it happeneth according to the work of the righteous: I said that this also is vanity." (Ecclesiastes 8:14 KJV)

  ""Why doesn't the Almighty bring the wicked to judgment? Why must the godly wait for him in vain?"" (JOB 24:1 NLT)

 We that have been pressed, (a nice way of saying crushed), are not weary in the journey, because we find it is something to be strengthened by; adjusting to whatever it might be, we make it count towards the good, in any way possible. Like that old saying, "The world gives you lemons, so you make lemonade!" 

 At least that is what I have found, whether it gets hard or harder, there is a way to find peace and joy, in just about every situation. All you need to do is to thank God for everything, even if it might be some sort of thing that seems bad; God can and will make it into something good! 

 Basically, there are only two things that are going to cause the righteous to be tormented and suffer any sort of hardship: either one, is good, if you are willing to allow God to get the glory. You might need to suffer through something, in order to draw closer to God, as it was with Job; or you might need to suffer through something to make something happen, as it was for Joseph. 

 The first of which can be a form of discipline or awakening, either way, it will be good for you, in the long run. That is, if you accept it as such, knowing that you have a Good Father, who doesn't allow you to go through something that doesn't do you good! 

 The second, is mysterious and can be exciting, if you are aware of something that God might be working in your life. Patience is the best way to live through whatever that might be, because the longer it takes, the bigger the work is going to be. At least that is how it usually turns out, unless you give up; and even then, like in the case of Moses, God doesn't quit! 

 As for the wicked, theirs is the fate of circumstance and judgment! They will have no one to blame but themselves, because God gives everyone a chance to turn to him, in one way or another. They might live richly and have everything they could ever want; but that will just make it harder and harder for them to surrender their lives to God. 

 Vanity comes into the equation when we feel as though we don't deserve whatever, however, or without, as if God owes us something! In that case, we need to look towards the cross! Then the blame game, becomes the shame game! Shame on you for thinking God's is to blame...

"Yet it was for our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins! But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God's paths to follow our own. Yet the LORD laid on him the sins of us all." (Isaiah 53:4-6 NLT) 

"The Great Divide" - 2

 "But it shall not be well with the wicked, neither shall he prolong his days, which are as a shadow, because he feareth not before God." (Ecclesiastes 8:13 KJV)

  ""Now listen to the explanation of the parable about the farmer planting seeds: The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message about the Kingdom and don't understand it. Then the evil one comes and snatches away the seed that was planted in their hearts. The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. But since they don't have deep roots, they don't last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God's word. The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God's word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out be the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced. The seed that fell on the good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God's word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as they planted!"" (Matthew 13:18-23 NLT)

 Hope and believing, that is the main divide between those who don't have what it takes, and those that end up walking away; because of doubt and unbelief, they cannot see hope is possible or part of their future. Those who truly believe, don't give up, because we know that He is for us, He doesn't give up on us, and He will get us through this, (whatever this is for you,) and on to the other side! 

 I really don't know if you can understand this, but every single one of those seed illustrations that Jesus had pointed out, we all deal with them, (some just a few, others, every single one,) in some seasons of our walk with the Lord. It just is life, living out our time here in this world, we sometimes can get distracted or taken off the path. But those who endure and don't give up, they are the ones that have learned to accept their weakness and believe that He is greater, and much more faithful than we could ever be, in this life. 

 I hope you can understand what I am trying to say, because it is not about us, it is about Him! Put all your cares on Him, for He cares for you...

"For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable. So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most." (Hebrews 4:12-16 NLT) 

"The Great Divide"

 "But it shall not be well with the wicked, neither shall he prolong his days, which are as a shadow; because he feareth not before God." (Ecclesiastes 8:13 KJV)

  ""I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life. And I assure you that the time is coming, indeed it's here now, when the dead will hear my voice - the voice of the Son of God. And those who listen will live. The Father has life in himself, and he has granted that same life-giving power to his Son. And he has given him authority to judge everyone because he is the Son of Man. Don't be surprised! Indeed, the time is coming when all the dead in their graves will hear the voice of God's Son, and they will rise again. Those who have done good will rise to experience eternal life, and those who have continued in evil will rise to experience judgment. I can do nothing on my own. I judge as God tells me. Therefore, my judgment is just, because I carry out the will of the one who sent me, not my own will."" (John 5:24-30 NLT)

 Yesterday I had a conversation with someone about the J.W.'s hold on people that don't know the real Jesus and why faith matters more than doing works. Not to say that works don't matter, because they do, if you are doing them out of love, and not doing them to gain eternal life or salvation. Isaiah 64:6 says, "We are all infected and impure with sin. When we display our righteous deeds, they are nothing but filthy rages. Like autumn leaves, we wither and fall, and our sins sweep us away like the wind." 

 One of the reasons so many people get trapped in cults, is because there are promises of protection given to people for being members and for doing works that benefit the organization. They end up being trapped because they have a sense of security by their works. While, in the case of true Christianity, faith is the thing that matters the most, because without putting our faith in the cleansing power of Christ Jesus, there is no real salvation, we are still lost in our sins. 

 I know it might not seem real to some, only because they haven't put their faith in action; if you are not using the faith that you have been given, then you will not experience the power of the new life in Christ! When you get to a certain point where you don't see any change, you tend to doubt that you have any real salvation. Some will end up looking for something that actually counts on works, membership, or having a person pardon you from your sins. 

 Why I have brought this up, is mostly because there is a great divide in the way people see salvation, on different levels. The one area that stands out the most has to do with those who believe, and those that do not believe; those who want to know God, and those that refuse to know God. 

 Another area are the people who have accepted Christ and believe that He has died for their sins and given them eternal life; and those people who believe in God, but don't see Christ as the true way to be saved. 

 And then we have another area, one that is a little harder to see, and is just as deadly; those who actually believe that they have been saved, but do not fully believe the Bible! Not only that, but there is no real power being manifested in their lives, because doubt so many things in the Bible are either not true, or they are just allegories that show a particular point. 

 You can take it for what it's worth, or you can make it be worth more than you can take...

"Seek the LORD while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them run to the LORD that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously." (Isaiah 55:6-7 NLT) 

"A Great Contrast"

 "Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him." (Ecclesiastes 8:12 KJV) 

 "Later, God condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and turned them into heaps of ashes. He made them an example of what will happen to ungodly people. But God also rescued Lot out of Sodom because he was a righteous man who was sick of the shameful immorality of the wicked people around him. Yes, Lot was a righteous man who was tormented in his soul by the wickedness he saw and heard day after day. So you see, the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials, even while keeping the wicked under punishment until the day of final judgment." (2 Peter 2:6-9 NLT)

 Maybe there are more questions than answers, to this very complex interpretation; mostly because there is such a great contrast between two types of people: those who fear God and depend upon Him for their salvation; and those that ignore God's ability to save, continually living in sin without caring about what might happen. The bottom-line, in this life of being righteous, with pure righteousness, is our righteous state is not our own, but is dependent upon what Christ Jesus has done: His grace makes all the difference in the world! 

 I know, there are many different shades of glory, but the whole purpose that Christ did what He did, was to save all those who put their faith in Him! As simple as that might sound, it covers a wide range of possibilities and differences in people's lives, here on this earth. Samson was a prime example, who did not actually do that which was required, as a Nazirite, but lived contrary to most everything except the cutting of his hair. But we all know how that turned out; yet he is still listed in the Hall of Faith. 

 David was called by God, "A man after His own heart," not because he was perfect and never sinned; but because he loved God and depended upon God for his salvation! All of those who were called Saints, could have been looked at as if they were sinners, because we all sin, each and every one! If there could have been a way for someone to be without sin, then Jesus would not have to had died on the cross for our sins, period! 

 We are set free from the sin, only because of what Christ Jesus did, not because of anything that we can do on our own; with Christ we have holiness; without Christ we are surely condemned...

"All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into his family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. So we praise God for the glorious grave he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son. He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins. He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding." (Ephesians 1:3-8 NLT)  

"God is Patient and Kind!"

 "Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set to them to do evil." (Ecclesiastes 8:11 KJV)

  "You may think you can condemn such people, but you are just as bad, and you have no excuse! When you say they are wicked and should be punished, you are condemning yourself, for you who judge others do these very same things. And we know that God, in his justice, will punish anyone who does such things. Since you judge others for doing such things, why do you think you can avoid God's judgment when you do the same things? Don't you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can't you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?" (Romans 2:1-4 NLT)

 For the moment, let's pretend that this portion of Scripture has a positive message; one that will bring us back to the cross, where we once believed God's heart was that everyone would be saved, and no one would be going to hell, if that could even happen! Besides, we are all guilty of this, so called judging people, forgetting that we ourselves are guilty of the same sinfulness. 

 Here is what we are looking at, just in case you don't see what is being said. Say you are doing something that you know you shouldn't do, oh, say we are talking about surfing the web and looking at things which you know God does not like you to do; but you really don't feel He is going to punish you, since there is nothing happening to you so far; so you continually do it, even with greater desire and intent. 

 You have got to understand, God's mercy does have a limit, because He wants us to be faithful and good children; so, He will, as someone has said, "Get up off the couch and give you a spanking!" However, that is usually the reaction for those that are His children; those that do not want anything to do with Him, He will attempt to get them to listen, but they must make that choice.

 Because He loves us so much, He will not allow us to continue in a life of sin; sooner or later, He will make a move and cause us to be totally depending on Him! Besides, we that have been born again, and do not any longer belong to "the sons of men," we are now, the children of God...

"If it seems we are crazy, it is to bring glory to God. And if we are in our right minds, it is you your benefit. Either way, Christ's love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that have all died to our old life. He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them. So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!" (2 Corinthians 5:13-17 NLT)

"The Abuse of Power" - 2

 "And so I saw the wicked buried, who had come and gone from the place of the holy, and they were forgotten in the city where they had so done: this is also vanity." (Ecclesiastes 8:10 KJV)

  "God presides over heaven's court; he pronounces judgment on the heavenly beings: "How long will you hand down unjust decisions by favoring the wicked? Interlude "Give justice to the poor and the orphan; uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute. Rescue the poor and the helpless; deliver them from the grasp of evil people. But these oppressors know nothing; they are so ignorant! They wander about in darkness, while the whole world is shaken to the core. I say, 'You are gods; you are all children of the Most High. But you will die like mere mortals and fall like every other ruler.'" Rise up, O God, and judge the earth, for all the nations belong to you." (PSALM 82 NLT)

 Actually, it is rather sad to watch, as those who think they have control, realize that they really don't. But that isn't anything new! I am praying that those who are given the power to perform the right things, as great a task as that might be, will always remember that they are only servants, doing only that which is needed and never doing their own will and agenda.

 There are a couple of things about the things which Solomon had taken notice of; most of which was the fate of the wicked and how there was so great of a waste of opportunity to do right, but they choose to do what was wrong. The greatest example of this would be the devil himself as he was given such glory and great opportunities, being in the presence of God and in charge of the worship. 

 The spirit of envy is that which sees someone greater, and that wants what is not theirs for the taking! This goes way beyond that which is part of the church; this is something that started long ago at the very beginning, which was when Adam began naming the animals. God put that spirit within him, to see the thing that he was missing, giving him the desire for a mate of his own.

 It was not anything that Adam could make happen, which caused to have a great desire. Something that God responded to, saying, "It is not good for the man to be along. I will make a helper who is just right for him" (Genesis 2:18 NLT) I can only imagine what was not good; but I know that God needed for Adam to desire there to be a mate himself. 

 Moving on, as Adam became familiar with his mate, he also became more and more accustomed to the idea and feel of power; having the responsibility to rule over the garden and all that was in it, it caused him to want more power. You can see by this message, where this is going! 

 The one thing that he had not, but so desperately wanted, was the one and only thing God said he couldn't have! What is vanity? In the context of what Solomon is sharing, it is emptiness and become unsatisfactory. In other words, that which you thought would satisfy your craving, has taken from you that which would have done you good, making you empty and worthless...

"Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their own foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done. Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, quarreling, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip. They are backstabbers, haters of God, insolent, proud, and boastful. They invent new ways of sinning, and they disobey their parents. They refuse to understand, break their promises, are heartless, and have no mercy. They know God's justice requires that those who do these things deserve to die, yet they do then anyway. Worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too." (Romans 1:28-32 NLT)  

"The Abuse of Power"

 "And I saw the wicked buried, who had come and gone from the place of the holy, and they were forgotten in the city where they had so done: this also is vanity." (Ecclesiastes 8:10 KJV)

  ""For in just a little while, the Coming One will come and not delay. And my righteous ones will live by faith. But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away."" (Hebrews 10:37-38 NLT)

 Bottomline, those that do wickedness and love evil, will have their day; those who are wanting to follow Jesus, will have their way! I really don't know how else to explain it, because the Lord really doesn't make it complicated to understand: we just need to need Him, knowing that without Him we are lost and don't have a chance! 

 What was it like when you first accepted Christ into your heart? Were you desperate to be saved, knowing that you needed to be saved, because you were lost and dead, and needed new life? It is that humility and that acceptance of your great need, your chance to be redeemed and forgiven of sin, that freed you; nothing to do with your abilities and talents, but only Jesus and the wonderful work that He did! 

 Again, we can see this example illustrated in Elijah, after he defeated and killed the prophets of Baal, and then prays for rain. At the words of Jezebel, which were given to Elijah in a message, he was afraid and fled for his life. This is not about Elijah being afraid, but about Elijah assuming he had power, which is that same thing that happens to almost everyone, from time to time. 

 If we get to a point where we assume that we have the power to be good, righteous, or love as we should, then we are setting ourselves up for a fall and a great disappointment. Hopefully, we will recover from it by repenting and gaining back our humility.

 So, what next...

"What do you think the Scriptures mean when they say that the spirit God has placed within us is filled with envy? But he gives us even more grace to stand against such evil desires. As the Scriptures say, "God opposes the proud but favors the humble." So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world." (James 4:5-8 NLT) 

"Throwing Down the Gauntlet" - Too

 "All this have I seen, and applied my heart unto every work that is done under the sun: there is a time wherein one man ruleth over another to his own hurt." (Ecclesiastes 8:9 KJV)

  "Then Pilate went back into his headquarters and called for Jesus to be brought back to him. "Are you the king of the Jews?" he asked him. Jesus replied, "Is this your own question, or did others tell you about me?" "Am I a Jew?" Pilate retorted. "Your own people and their leading priests brought you to me for trial. Why? What have you done?" Jesus answered, "My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world." Pilate said, "So you are a king?" Jesus responded, "You say I am king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true."" (John 18:33-37 NLT)

 To be perfectly clear, things will be changed, but only for a very short season; much to the shame of man's will to love evil more than goodness and righteousness. However, the whole world needs to see clearly the difference between right and wrong. Those that love what is right, will see the vast difference; those that hate what is right, will pursue wickedness and evil. Unfortunately, wickedness and evil will temporarily win, once the church is taken up to be with the Lord! 

 That is not a prophecy, it is an observation. God has given us a chance to see what wickedness does and what it clearly looks like; now we get to see what mankind might try to do in order to fix it. We should be on the side that looks to defeat the wrongs and put forth the rights that have been taken, because it is the thing to do. After all, we are to be salt and light!

 Anywho, that's my thoughts, and I am sticking to it! This is a very pivotal moment in history, we should make every effort to pay attention, while at the same time, tell everyone we know that Jesus is coming very soon. We must be ready, and one sure way of being ready is to make sure we know He is coming! 

 During the Passover in Egypt, when God caused to first-born to die, those who survived did so because they not only marked their doorposts with blood, but they were dressed, had their shoes on, and were ready to go somewhere. They were prepared to go! 

 Hopefully we are ready to go, having our belief in His coming sure, believing it is true...

""Wake up! Strengthen what little remains, for even what is left is almost dead. I find that your actions do not meet the requirements of my God. Go back to what you heard and believed at first; hold to it firmly. Repent and turn to me again. If you don't wake up, I will come to you suddenly, as unexpected as a thief."" (Revelation 3:2-3 NLT)   

 

"Throwing Down the Gauntlet"

 "All this have I seen, and applied my heart unto every work that is done under the sun: there is a time wherein one man ruleth over another to his own hurt." (Ecclesiastes 8:9 KJV)

  "And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped spread the Good News. For everyone here, including the whole palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ. And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers here have gained confidence and boldly speak God's message without fear." (Philippians 1:12-14 NLT)

 Okay, sorry for the late post, but I slept in today. Just call me a sinner, I can take it! This morning, I am going to try and express something that has been heavy upon my heart. There are some in the church that want to put down what is happening in our country, but it is actually happing everywhere, across this entire world. You can call it a spiritual awakening, if you like; but I would like to refer it to something that is more about 'eye-opening'; where people are starting to wake up and pay attention to what is going on in this world.

 To start with, this county here called, the United States of America, was founded upon something that was not based upon kings and rulers, but upon the rule of law! Not just any laws, but upon the Commandments of God; using the Bible as the guide to establish how our country should be governed. 

 Secondly, they made another very unique and new proclamation, wherein, the people were to control the government, not the government controlling the people. The government was to be there to protect and carry out the laws, based upon the laws as they had been written. So, first and foremost, this nation was built to be a republic, governed by the rule of law, and based upon the laws, the people were to choose their leaders to carry out what the laws required, which made up our democracy.

 I am not any sort of expert in history, so don't judge my observations. But just as it was in the last verse of Judges: "In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes." (Judges 21:25 NLT) So it is and was here, having the rule of law less of a priority, they put the democracy first and foremost, which made the law less important, and the choices of the people what mattered the most.

 If you know your Bible, then you should know that the people's choices don't usually agree with what God wants, but is established based upon what they want, as the majority get to choose how things should be done. What that looks like, was what we saw happening these last 4 years! 

 I don't know if you saw Sulvester Stallone's announcement, calling President Trump the "Second George Washington," because it was pretty awesome. But what he was saying had to do with what had happened and what was happening. This is bigger than Trump; because God is doing a work, to get things to hurry along! 

 Get ready church, and pay attention...

"It's true that some are preaching out of jealousy and rivalry. But others preach about Christ with pure motives. They preach because they love me, for they know I have been appointed to defend the Good News. Those others do not have pure motives as they preach about Christ. They preach with selfish ambition, not sincerely, intending to make my chains more painful to me. But that doesn't matter. Whether their motives are false or genuine, the message about Christ is being preached either way, so I rejoice. And I will continue to rejoice." (Philippians 1:15-18 NLT)   

   

"The Wicked and the Righteous"

  "I have thought deeply about all that goes on here under the sun, where people have the power to hurt each other. I have seen wicked people buried with honor. Yet they were the very ones who frequented the Temple and are now praised in the same city where they committed their crimes! This too, is meaningless. When a crime is not punished quickly, people feel it is safe to do wrong. But even though a person sins a hundred times, I know that those who fear God will be better off. The wicked will not prosper, for they do not fear God. Their days will never grow long like the evening shadows.

 "And this is not all that is meaningless in our world. In this life, good people are often treated as though they were wicked, and wicked people are often treated as though they were good. This is so meaningless! 

 "So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this world than to eat, drink, and enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives them under the sun. 

 "In my search for wisdom and in my observation of people's burdens here on earth, I discovered that there is ceaseless activity, day and night. I realized that no one can discover everything God is doing under the sun. Not even the wisest people discover everything, no matter what they claim." (Ecclesiastes 8:9-17 NLT)

"The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward." (Psalms 19:7-11 KJV)

 After thinking about this, somewhat controversial topic, I have decided it is a topic that needs to be put in the right perspective and settled into the side it belongs to be placed upon. Without giving too much of it away, it is the topic of the election which took place last week, and the results of what happened, based upon the difference between the wicked and the righteous! Enough said for now...

"So Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many."" (Mark 10:42-45 NLT)    

"No Cheating Death" - 2

 "There is no man that hath power over the spirit to retain the spirit; neither hath he power in the day of death: and there is no discharge in that war; neither shall wickedness deliver those that are given to it." (Ecclesiastes 8:8 KJV)

  "Jesus told her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?"" (John 11:25-26 NLT)

 You can go ahead and put your own name at the end of that question, asking yourself, "Is this what I truly believe?" It is most likely that most important link to the reason that Jesus was manifested here in the flesh, because we that live in the flesh cannot be holy, because there is a constant battle between the flesh, which wants to be taken care of, and the Spirit within us, that wants us to manifest holiness.  

 As for those five foolish virgins, there has always been a debate within the church as to the oil; was it the Holy Spirit, that they lacked; which they seemingly had some of it, but not enough: or was it belief in the power of God, in which that had been given, but used to little of? Something to think about, but also something that we can assume it to be one of the same! 

 As Paul says, (back to Romans, a book about 'The Normal Christian life'), "When he died, he died once to break the power of sin. But now that he lives, he lives for the glory of God. So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus." (Romans 6:10-11 NLT)

 We will not have the ability to remain sinless in the fleshly body; it is just a fact that we must understand is not going to go away; but that doesn't mean we cannot be sinless and holy by walking in the Spirit, for those who abide in Christ, are freed from the power of sin, because sin has no power over their lives. 

 Do we still sin? Yes! Unfortunately, we sin sometimes without even being aware of what we do; but the Holy Spirit will show us and teach us a much better way to live, by loving one another! Brother to brother, we need to understand how much we can be unloving at times to one another. Pastor Bryan has mentioned something several times within the past couple of weeks, say, "Women are more sensitive to the spiritual matters than men," which is obviously true, based upon Eve's deception in the garden. 

 There is a reason that the men must be the head, because judgment and order is determined in the mind, while the heart is governed and motivated by feelings and sensitivity. But why I am making these things part of this message? Well...

"Did I keep my heart pure for nothing? Did I keep myself innocent for no reason? I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain. If I had really spoken this way to others, I would have been a traitor to your people. So I tried to understand why the wicked prosper. But what a difficult task it is! Then I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked. Truly, you put them on a slippery path and send them sliding over the cliff to destruction. In an instant they are destroyed, completely swept away be terrors. When you arise, O Lord, you will laugh at their silly ideas as a person laughs at dreams in the morning.

 "Then I realized that my heart was bitter, and I was all torn up inside. I was so foolish and ignorant - I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you. Yet I still belong to you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. Whom have I on heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever. Those who desert him will perish, for you destroy those who abandon you. But as for me, how good it is to be near God! I have made the Sovereign LORD my shelter, and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do." (PSALM 73:13-28 NLT) 

"No Cheating Death"

 "There is no man that hath power over the spirit to retain it; neither hath he power in the day of death: and there is no discharge in that war; neither shall wickedness deliver those that are given to it." (Ecclesiastes 8:8 KJV)

  "They trust in their wealth and boast of great riches. Yet they cannot redeem themselves from death by paying a ransom to God. Redemption does not come easily, for no one can ever pay enough to live forever and never see the grave. Those who are wise must finally die, just like the foolish and senseless, leaving all their wealth behind." (PSALM 49:6-10 NLT)

 It might seem as though we are somehow changing the subject; as if the topic of death is not somehow associated with the point of what it actually takes to be ready when the Lord returns, to take up His bride? What, pray tell, could that association be, if there was one indeed? 

 To start with, our spirit belongs to God; no matter how hard you can try to work something into your body, to try to keep your spirit in; or have something that tries to keep your spirit inside you, you will never succeed, because that spirit belongs to God! Sorry if that is something you might not have known, but it needs to be something you can except and can understand that you cannot charge facts, no matter how much money you might have. 

 Additionally, before we can be filled with God's Spirit, (totally different Spirit than the one just talked about,) we must first be willing and able to die to ourselves. The Holy Spirit is willing to come into us, who have been cleansed from our sins, because we have been reborn and made new by the power of Jesus' death and resurrection. 

 Paul confronts this mysterious topic in his letter to Rome, saying, "Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in sin? Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives." (Romans 6:1-4 NLT)

 I find it rather interesting that Jesus shared about the 10 virgins after talking about the evil servant that thought his master would not be back for quite a while. There were five virgins that had oil in their lamps. and five that didn't have enough oil in their lamps. Those that had their lamps filled with oil were able to go with the Lord; yet those that did not have enough, were left behind. 

 Does anything here make sense? Is there actually something that can be put inside us, that will allow us to cheat death? Something to think about...

"And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ died once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him." (Hebrews 9:27-28 NLT)  

"Be Ready for Changes" - Too

 "For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him when it shall be?" (Ecclesiastes 8:7 KJV)

  "Now concerning how and when all this will happen, dear brothers and sisters, we don't really need to write you. For you know quite well that the day of the Lord's return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. When people are saying, "Everything is peaceful and secure," then disaster will fall on them as suddenly as a pregnant woman's labor pains begin. And there will be no escape." (1 Thessalonians 5:1-3 NLT)

 As many of you should know, we really don't know the day or the hour; but we can discern the season! A little-known fact is that seasons come and go; so, even though the season feels right, doesn't mean that it is yet that time for the Lord's return. Jesus clearly said, "However, no one knows the day or the hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows." (Matthew 24:36 NLT)

 My understanding in this, "Only the Father knows," is based upon something that Jesus has said regarding the Father's role in a person's ability to come to Christ: "For no one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them to me, and at the last day I will raise them up." (John 6:44 NLT) Adding to that, what Paul states, saying, "I want you to understand this mystery, dear brothers and sisters, so that you will not feel proud about yourselves. Some of the people of Israel have hard hearts, but this will last only until the full number of Gentiles comes to Christ." (Romans 11:25 NLT)

 Basically, what that means, in the easiest way to say it: The Father is waiting for the bride to be, to be ready, which only He knows. And when she is ready, the Father will say to the Son, "It is time for you to go get your bride!" And immediately, the Church will be snatch up off of this earth, without any warning! You can only imagine what the world will think, and how the powers to be will react; it will cause the whole world to go into a panic. If you thought Covid was bad, this will be overwhelming...

"But you aren't in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won't be surprised when the day of the Lord comes like a thief. For you are children of the light and of the day; we don't belong to the darkness and night. So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded. Night is the time when people sleep and drinkers get drunk. But let us who live in the light be clearheaded, protected by the armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation." (1 Thessalonians 5:4-8 NLT) 

"Be Ready for Changes"

 "For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him when it shall be?" (Ecclesiastes 8:7 KJV)

  ""So you, too, must keep watch! For you don't know what day your Lord is coming. Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would keep watch and not permit his house to be broken into. You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected."" (Matthew 24:42-44 NLT)

 Forgetting what just happened, there are several reasons we need to stay watchful for the Lord's coming. First and foremost, the reason it will be least expected, will be because there will seem to be peace and good things happening, which will cause many to feel comfortable and secure. Secondly, there will be a time of cleansing in and about the church: cleansing being that which causes division, but at the same time, it will cause unity among those that are faithful and really love one another. 

 This is not me thinking this, because I have heard many others say these things; but most importantly, it is written in the Scriptures for us to read and ponder what is being said. If two people are walking together, and one is taken and the other one left, then there must have been something wrong with the one that was left. I pray that I and not one that is left! 

 Why do I say that, if I believe that I am saved and will be taken? Because we change! Not so much because we want to change, but because we allow ourselves to be changed, by the world all around us! Nobody sets out to plan for a fall; a fall happens by us talking our eyes off the Lord and focusing on the world's ability to provide and give us the things we desire. 

 It doesn't have to be riches and fame; it could simply be an acquaintance or a new lover; something that will distract us from being ready, instead we settle down and get comfortable in a new way, and new day, of living. It could be a new job, a new habit, and new house; whatever it is, there is likely to be some kind of change, unless we can stay focused on the Lord. 

 So, it's not that I think I won't be ready, because I really hope and pray that I will; but if there is any kind of change happening in me, I hope it is the kind of change that draws me closer to Jesus! That is to be our number one desire, to be closer to Jesus, each and every day. Unfortunately, every day is a new day, and we are still bound by the laws of gravity, being secured to this earth...

""A faithful, sensible servant is one to whom the master can give the responsibility of managing his other household servants and feeding them. If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward. I tell you the truth, the master will put that servant in charge of all he owns. But what if the servant is evil and thinks, 'My master won't be back for a while,' and he begins beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk? The master will return unannounced and unexpected, and he will cut the servant to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."" (Matthew 24:45-51 NLT) 

"Time and Judgment" - Again

 "Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore the misery of man is great upon him." Ecclesiastes 8:6 KJV)

  ""But have you not heard? I decided this long ago. Long ago I planned it, and now I am making it happen. I planned for you to crush fortified cities into heaps of rubble. That is why their people have so little power and are so frightened and confused. They are weak as grass, as easily trampled as tender green shoots. They are like grass sprouting on a housetop, scorched before it can grow lush and tall. But I know you well - where you stay and when you come and go. I know the way you have raged against me. And because of your raging against me and your arrogance, which I have heard for myself. I will put my hook in your nose and my bit in your mouth. I will make you return by the same road on which you came."" (2 Kings 19:25-28 NLT)

 Obviously, there is more to this than just the things we have heard or have understood them to be. The whole point of this passage of Scripture that Solomon is putting forth, is about how little we do now; in that state of mind, we are miserable trying to think what might happen, hoping for the best, but planning for the worst. 

 This message from the LORD to King Sennacherib of Assyria, is given because of his arrogance and pride; as he has sent a letter to King Hezekiah of Judah, warning him that he doesn't stand a chance trying to defend his country, as he has destroyed even country he has come against; saying, "Don't let your God, in whom you trust, deceive you with promises that Jerusalem will not be captured by the king of Assyria." 

 As we can see, God had planned for the kings of Assyria to have conquest and victories wherever they went; they were all part of God's plans. These are the things we don't understand, because we have no way of knowing the complete picture of the way God's purposes are carried out. They could happen in a short amount of time, or they could take centuries to all fall into order. 

 No king or president could ever know what will happen, they can only plan according to what they think should be done, hoping it will happen as they planned, but expecting there will be opposition and difficulties along the way. That is why prayer is needed, which is exactly what Hezekiah did when he had read the letter from the king of Assyria; He went to the Temple, spread the letter out before the LORD and prayed! 

 I do believe that President Trump has a purpose that is directed by God; and I absolutely believe that it is the time for that purpose to be put forth. The judgment part of that purpose will depend upon God's perfect plans, as He opens and closes doors, those who are planning need to pray and ask Him for the proper guidance.

 You might have read my illustration of the difference between God's will and His perfect will; well, His will is always perfect, we just don't know the complete purpose...

"Look here, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit." How do you know what your life is like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog - it's here for a little while, then it's gone. What you ought to say is, "If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that." Otherwise you are boasting about your own plans, and all such boasting is evil. Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it." (James 4:13-17 NLT) 

"Time and Judgment" - To

 "Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore the misery of man is great upon him." (Ecclesiastes 8:6 KJV)

  "Tell the godly that all will be well for them. They will enjoy the rich reward they have earned! But the wicked are doomed, for they will get exactly what they deserve. Childish leaders oppress my people, and women rule over them. O my people, your leaders mislead you; they send you down the wrong road. The LORD takes his place in court and presents his case against his people! The LORD comes forward to pronounce judgment on the elders and rulers of his people: "You have ruined Israel, my vineyard. Your houses are filled with things stolen from the poor. How dare you crush my people, grinding the faces of the poor into the dust?" demands the Lord, the LORD of Heaven's Armies." (Isaiah 3:10-15 NLT)

 There is something else we should be looking for, besides the Lord's return; we need to be watching out for those that are trying to disrupt our church's and those who will pretend to be godly but are only trying to cause division and misleading those who are weak in the faith. This is not just a time to pay attention to everything going on, but a time to discern and judge what you see, as if you are looking for knowledge! 

 Yesterday I heard a message that was rather interesting, which had to do with the difference between a portion of Scripture about the man's role in the knowledge of his wife. I didn't get to hear the whole message, not even the actual Scripture's address, but none the less, I got the point. The message was regarding the King James interpretation, versus the NIV interpretation; because KJV make this a matter of knowing, as in the manner of being one, while the NIV makes it a matter of just paying attention.

 If you don't really get that meaning, it is really not that hard to figure out. We can pay attention to all that is going on, but if we don't have the right heart and the proper perspective, knowing God's ways verses man's way, then we are only paying attention, but not actually trying to figure it out.

 The same is with the husband who knows his wife, because he not only pays attention, but there is a bond that makes him figure out what she needs, paying attention to her wants and desires, making her cares and concerns, his cares and concerns, also. 

 It really shouldn't be a big surprise; because it is sometimes referred to as the Nearly Inspired Version; however, it is also the most popular Bible for those who lean in the world's direction. (That's all I will say about that!) 

 Whether you can accept it or not, the role of the husband is very similar to Christ and the church. Jesus doesn't just pay attention to the church; the church is His body; which He cares for, giving her all that she needs, knowing her wants and providing for what is best for her. 

 As for this recent election and the turnout of what actually happened. I truly believe that President Trump was chosen by God for several things he did in his last four years, and because of the constant battles and trials he faced during that four-year period, God took him out, just to show all who are paying attention what the opposite of his role was: basically, waking up the people. 

 Hopefully now he might be able to get more down, but maybe that doesn't matter much to the church! Aren't we just supposed to focus on the Scripture and on the cares of the church? Really? Doesn't it matter to the church what happens in our communities, our families, and our schools? Aren't we called to be light and salt of the earth, which actually means that we do something? 

 Abraham is a pretty good example of what I am talking about, as he didn't need to go to war and rescue Lot, but he felt obligated to do so. And because he was faithful, Melchizedek shows up to bless him...

"But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God's love. And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives." (Jude 20-23 NLT) 

 

"Time and Judgment"

 "Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore the misery of man is great upon him." (Ecclesiastes 8:6 KJV)

  "Then one night the LORD appeared to Solomon and said, "I have heard your prayer and have chosen this Temple as the place for making sacrifices. At times I might shut up the heavens so that no rain falls, or command grasshoppers to devour your crops, or send plagues among you. Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will forgive their sins and restore their land. My eyes will be open and my ears attentive to every prayer made in this place. For I have chosen this Temple and set it apart to be holy - a place where my name will be honored forever. I will always watch over it, for it is dear to my heart."" (2 Chronicles 7:12-16 NLT)

 It seems pretty clear that there are some who didn't receive the message; or if they did receive it, they are just shaking it off and figuring that it was a foolish message, put forth by uneducated people, who don't really have the right to disrupt their way of doing things. Well, if this becomes what I think it is shaping up to be, this ride will become quite interesting, to say the least! 

 For those who do not know, Israel is still God's chosen people! Yes, I know that there are many people who might call themselves Christian's, but if you think the God has somehow abandoned His people and replaced them with the church, you really don't know the heart of God! When God makes a promise, He will always keep it, right up to the very end...

"I ask, then, has God rejected his own people, the nation of Israel? Of course not! I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham and a member of the tribe of Benjamin. No, God has not rejected his own people, whom he chose from the very beginning. Do you realize what the Scriptures say about this? Elijah the prophet complained to God about the people of Israel and said, "LORD, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too," And do you remember God's reply? He said, "I have 7,000 others who have never bowed down to Baal!" It is the same today, for a few of the people of Israel have remained faithful because of God's grace - his undeserved kindness in choosing them. And since it is through God's kindness, then it is not by their good works. For in that case, God's grace would not be what it really is - free and undeserved." (Romans 11:1-6 NLT) 

"Suffering for Doing Good" - Too

 "Whoso keepeth the commandment shall feel no evil thing: and a wise man's heart discerneth both time and judgment." (Ecclesiastes 8:5 KJV)

   "[Aleph] Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the LORD. Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths. You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with your commands. As I learn your righteous regulations, I will thank you by living as I should! I will obey your decrees. Please don't give up on me!" (PSALM 119:1-8 NLT)

 Before you judge what is being spoken of, you need to know why this in important, whoever you think is right, or whatever you think is wrong; God has chosen this man for such a time as this! I am not just saying that because I want to see him become President again; although, it is pretty amazing that he won, and pretty decisively! There was no doubt, "too big to rig," was what we witnessed the other night. 

 This man has no need to for the financial gains for being in office; his purpose is all that he is about: to make America great again, is his ambition! Is this something that is wrong? I have been overwhelmed by the difference between my generation going to school, and the current school systems today. We had Wood Shop, Metal Shop, and Auto Shop, in Jr. High School! Where are the trades being taught today? 

 Growing up, I knew what it was like to earn a living, by the time I was 10 years old. My stepdad lost his job, so we went around the neighborhood pulling weeds and mowing lawns. When I turned 11, I had a paper route, which consisted of 150 customers. Every morning before school, I delivered my newspapers, starting by folding papers and stuffing my bags when they were delivered at 5:30 in the morning. On Wednesday and Sunday, they were delivered by 5:00, at the latest; because on those days I had to add inserts, which meant that I would pack 3 sets of bags, just so I could load all 150 newspapers all at once. 

 When Christmas time came around, I would collect Mistletoe from trees around the neighborhood; then bag it up in sandwich bags, tied with a red ribbon. Then I had my sister and brothers sell them outside the local grocery store; they sold them for a quarter, and I gave them a nickel for every quarter they earned. 

 I am only saying this because we need to raise up our children to provide for themselves; not to be people that count on others to hand out money to them! That is what President Trump is all about! He is about making people count for something, not just count as constituents, but actual people that make a difference in this life! You make people's lives better with purpose and ability to do something good!

 Now you know how I feel, regardless of his flaws, his goal is what matters most of all! By the way, you might not agree with everything that he says, but most of everything he has planned for is what needs to be done to fix this crazy and broken mess we have been living in. Is there something wrong with that...

"If you are wise and understand God's ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with humility that comes from wisdom. But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don't cover up the truth with boasting and lying. For jealousy and selfishness are not God's kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind." (James 3:13-16 NLT)  

"Suffering for Doing Good"

 "Whoso keepeth the commandment shall feel no evil thing: and a wise man's heart discerneth both time and judgment." (Ecclesiastes 8:5 KJV)

  "Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don't worry or be afraid of their threats." (1 Peter 3"13-14 NLT)

 Well, hopefully this will at least make some things be corrected in this crazy messed up world; but even then, there will always be wicked and evil, because there is no way that the enemy will surrender. If you don't know what I mean, it is because he knows first-hand that he will be defeated and that there is not any chance in hell that he will win; but he doesn't care, because he wants to take as many of us as he can with him, just to prove a point! 

 If you don't know what it is that the devil is trying to do, it all comes down to making man unworthy in God's sight. What a stupid and undoable plan! God already knew of man's unworthiness, long before He decided to create him, He already had a plan to make that which was unholy, Holy! We are justified in Christ, just as if we had never sinned; Ever! 

 And yes, the next President of these United States has suffered quite a lot, suffering being impeached, having his home raided, trial after trial, being arrested and charged as a felon; and for what? For trying to make this country a better place; a place where people can live safer, live free from oppression; actually, have a right to share their faith, without being told to shut their mouth! 

 We will have a President that is for life, love, peace, hope, and God! What is so terrible about that...

"We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world. Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love. We love each other because he loved us first." (1 John 4:16-19 NLT)

"So Let It Be Done"

 "Where the word of a king is, there is power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou?" (Ecclesiastes 8:4 KJV)

  "Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God." (Romans 13:1 NLT)

  You know by now how I feel about this election, as I have been an advocate for the rule of law, God's law, more than anything else. However, we have come to a serious crossroad, where there are major differences in the way some people see that laws should be enforced or carried out. Some laws are being ignored, while others are being enforced, even if they really don't exist. 

 Free speech was once something that was never censored, because it was part of the debate and a right that was established long ago; but we have torn that right, right out of the Constitution, without even having a vote! Hopefully things will get turned around, but I wouldn't be surprised if it doesn't actually get worse. 

 Whatever happens, I believe there is justice being poured out; whether good or bad, it will always be for the good of the church! Before Covid showed up, everything was starting to get turned around; at least those things that made our Nation prosperous. But behind the scenes, and within the hidden bureaucracies, sinister things were tearing at the roots of our Nation. 

 It wasn't until we had to be locked down, that people started to pay attention to the wickedness that was hidden all throughout our government, especially our public schools. People started to realize that their kids were being captured by something they did not approve of; something that they never expected to be taught, let alone something to be hidden from them, as if they had no rights to know. 

 Then we had the privilege of living through four years of stupidity and chaos; where those who were called to be in charge, had really no right to be doing anything that they were assigned to do. And if they were doing it wrong, they were awarded for it, as if there was nothing wrong.

 Help me if I don't know what I am talking about, because I could just be making stuff up! Who could possibly make up the stuff that has taken place over these last four years; but regardless, God is still in control! The question we must ask ourselves, as Christians, is how this has affected the church? Has it made the church stronger? or has it just made us more willing to get in line? 

 Maybe, just maybe, we as a Nation needed to see what could be, and the church needed what is: because The KING is coming, soon and very soon...     

"You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!" 
(2 Timothy 3:1-5 NLT) 

"Pilgrim's Discipline" - To

 "Be not hasty to go out of his sight: stand not in an evil thing; for he doeth whatsoever pleaseth him." (Ecclesiastes 8:3 KJV)

  ""After this time had passed, I Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever. "His rule is everlasting, and his kingdom is eternal. All the people of the earth are nothing compared to him. He does as he pleases among the angels of heaven and among the people of the earth. No one can stop him or say to him, 'What do you mean by doing these things?'"" (Daniel 4:34-35 NLT)

 I feel at peace regarding all that will happen, regardless of what might happen! No matter what, I know that God has a firm grip on this world, because He is the Creator of heaven and earth; it is His to do with, whatever He wants! And based upon the amazing thing He did on that cross, I can be assured that His plan we be amazingly awesome!  

 So, anyone out there that might think we have got to be worried, we don't need to worry about anything except those who will be lost, deceived, and reject Jesus Christ! If you want to worry about something, you need to worry about them. This world is going to be torn to pieces, but that doesn't affect anyone that saved: even if we are torn to pieces, lit on fire, and thrown into the deepest sea, we have a place waiting for us in the Kingdom of God, guaranteed! 

 Hopefully you can believe that is true, because it is what this life of faith is all about. There is nothing that happens here on this earth that God does not allow; not that He is pleased by what is bad or evil, because that is not something He would do; but everything is going to be dealt with, sooner or later; and all those who are not written, in the Book of Life, will be judged accordingly. 

 If you are so inclined, pray for those who plan and plot evil, that they might be changed. It could happen: If it happened to Manasseh, the evilest king that Judah ever had, it could happen to anyone, no matter who they are or how evil they become. 

 Keep your focus on loving the Lord and praying for those you want to be saved...

"Since everything around us is going to be destroyed like this, what holy and godly lives you should live, looking forward to the day of God and hurrying it along. On that day, he will set the heavens on fire, and the elements will melt away in the flames. But we are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth he has promised, a world filled with God's righteousness." (2 Peter 3:11-13 NLT) 

"Pilgrim's Discipline"

 "Be not hasty to go out of his sight: stand not in an evil thing; for he doeth whatsoever pleaseth him." (Ecclesiastes 8:3 KJV)

  ""If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you."" (John 15:18-19 NLT)

 I know what you might be thinking, 'Do we just lay down and give up our rights?' Well, here is the part of any circumstance that might actually make some sense: We are not greater than our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! He was God, who came into this world, of which He created; yet He gave up His rights, in order to be a sacrifice for this entire world! 

 Giving up His rights, does not mean that He did not use the powers and abilities of God, because He most surely did! But when it came to the matter of why He came, He humbled Himself and became like one of us, totally and completely vulnerable to punishment, humility, and death. 

 We are really no longer part of this world; but does that mean that we are no longer useful to do what is right and just? Absolutely not! If the church would do what they were called to do, especially in this nation, the United States of America, where we have certain rights, (which, by the way are being stripped away, daily,) then there would not be so many evil things being done by evil people! That's a fact! 

 The whole point of this part of our journey, is to be a light, because we are of the Light! We are meant to be reconciling people to God, not just trying to avoid being part of the world; because as long as we are able, we are called to spread the Gospel and be a servant of the Lord; doing that which Jesus did, touching lives and making disciples, making know that which is right, shining light on that which is evil; praying for those that need to be saved! 

 The bottom line in all of this crazy and confusing story, is that this world is evil, so we should not be surprised by that fact; but at the same time, we love the sinner but hate the sin; we pray for those that are held captive and praise God for those that have been delivered; and most of all, we must come to the complete understanding that we are not at war with flesh and blood...

"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For our weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled." (2 Corinthians 10:3-6 NKJV)   

"The Oath of God" - 2

 "I counsel thee to keep the king's commandment, and that in regard to the oath of God." (Ecclesiastes 8:2 KJV)

  "My child, fear the LORD and the king. Don't associate with rebels, for disaster will hit them suddenly. Who knows what punishment will come from the LORD and the king?" (Proverbs 24:21-22 NLT)

  This morning, I was awakened by dreams of some serious fighting and destruction, from where and to what cause, I really could not tell; but I do feel fairly certain that it was something real. We are living in some very interesting times, and I am more than certain that the nation I currently live in is not going to be able to make it through what is coming ahead. There might be a reason that the country does not appear in the last days, unless that is, we actually are the "The Great Whore, The Harlot; The Mystery Babylon."  

 Anywho! This is more about the role of the church, than it is about what might happen to this messed up place, so called earth. God has more to do, more than we could ever imagine! Our role in this requires us to stay alert yet stay calm and collected. We are better off just being the ones that love others, even if we don't like what they do or don't do, we must still love the sinner but hate the sin! 

 As I said before, I truly want to see the good guys win, because it feels better knowing that evil was defeated; but evil will still try to win, no matter what! Reading the end of His-Story, there will be a time when evil has its day, but that time still has over a thousand years to go, before it all ends...

""Put away your sword," Jesus told him. "Those who use the sword will die by the sword. Don't you realize that I could ask my Father for thousands of angels to protect us, and he would send them instantly? But if I did, how would the Scriptures be fulfilled that describe what must happen now?"" (Matthew 26:52-54 NLT) 

"The Oath of God"

 "I counsel thee to keep the king's commandment, and that in regard of the oath of God." (Ecclesiastes 8:2 KJV)

  "Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God." (Romans 13:1 NLT)

 We might not like to hear it, but even those who are evil and don't respect God or God's people, they too are allowed to be governing authorities over nations, states, or cities. If you don't believe it, we have a very obvious proof with the ruler that has been appointed over this world, Satan himself! 

 Whether you like it or not, it is true; we don't have the ability to vote him out of office, but we are more than able to not obey what he might tell us to do! Just because someone has authority over us, does not mean that we must do all that they tell us to do! If you don't believe it is so, look at those three Jewish boys that refused to bow down to Nebuchadnezzar's golden statue. 

 Besides that, here in this State of California, it is not legal for a Christian to try to convert someone who might be gay, especially by telling them that what they do is a sin against God. When I was taking a class about being a School Chaplin, the instructor of the class warned us not to do that, even if the child came to us, as a believer, saying that they were dealing with the possibility of being gay. 

 What do you do with that? How much would you hold back, having a kid that believes in Jesus, but has doubts about their condition to be something, even though they have convictions about doing it? I had several minutes of challenging questions with the instructor over that situation; but she wouldn't allow me to make my case. It was at that point of the lesson that I understood that we were living in a very evil State! 

 I'm still here, living in the evil world, but where can we go! We are here to shine the light of Jesus, no matter how bad it gets, we must remain faithful and share the Good News, no matter what! The best answer to any questions regarding the sin someone might be dealing with, especially if they say that they believe in Jesus, is to simply say, 'pray about it and read your Bible!'

 You really don't need to point out sin in someone's life, if the sin is pressing upon their heart; just point them to the One that can change the direction they are headed, and let God do the work, so that you don't get blamed for changing them. If they might take their own life, you might feel guilty for telling them something, they probably already knew. Or worse than that, you might be arrested for causing them to take their own life; wouldn't that be a terrible thing! 

 This current election might be one of the worst situations that I have seen in my lifetime! One side, although they spout about commitment to democracy, they can't stand the thought about 'the republic on which we stand'; that is because the Republic we have been founded upon is based upon God's law, not the law of man! I really hope that you understand what I am saying, because man's law is all about doing what mankind wants to do, not what God wants us to do...

 "Own nothing to anyone - except for your obligation to love one another. If you love your neighbor, you will fulfill the requirements of God's law." (Romans 13:8 NLT)