"Living Hope" - 3

 "But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end," (Hebrews 3:6 KJV)

  "Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory." (Romans 5:1-2 NLT) 

 Regardless of what anyone might think, our past is something that is just that, in the past; and there is no way that anything we have ever done can be undone. That said, the forgiveness that we have been given by what Christ did on that cross, is more than enough to undo anything, which basically means, we are justified in God's sight: Just as if we have never sinned! 

 We can dwell on the past, if that is what you think makes you cautious and careful to stay out of trouble; but if you really want to experience the freedom and peace that your salvation has given you, you really need to look forward to sharing in God's glory! In other words, don't dwell on the things which cannot be changed, but focus on the things which can, looking forward to those things which God has provided for you to do. Like an anxious servant, looking for the next adventure the Master has you to do.

 Anywho, that is what I remember most about what works best in this life of serving our King; so that is what I think I will try to keep doing! Try is really not the right motivational word for getting things done, because we fail so often to get it right; but with the Lord's help, trying becomes something that basically means: Just showing up...

"Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ." (Colossians 3:23-24 NLT)  

"Living Hope" - 2

 "But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end." (Hebrews 3:6 KJV)

  "I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15:13 NLT)

 This is actually a real prayer, based upon the willingness to accept that we have been placed within the family of God; that we might trust in Him, that it is His righteousness we are counting on, and not our own! As it is, this morning I woke up thinking about all the things I could have done, should have done, and wish I had never done. After which, I asked the Lord to help me to focus more on Him and less on myself! 

 We might not have to deal with some of what the Gentiles did, as they were first following Jesus. Having to deal with the rejection from being the first converts into the Lord's house, as it were. How amazing God is, in the way He works! No matter who you are or what you might have done, you can always be saved; as long as you are breathing, you have an opportunity to be saved! 

 Whenever we start focusing upon the situations in our lives, no matter what they are, sickness, finances, family issues, or just life being hard, we are looking at life through a totally different direction. There was an illustration I remember, from way back when, where the teacher was showing what life looks like by looking though a construction cone. 

 Regardless of the size of your problem, God is always bigger! We serve a very big God, who loves us, and only wants the very best for us; no matter how big the situation might be, the question shouldn't be why, but what! 'God, what are doing, and what should I do?' 

 Sometimes He answers and sometimes He is quite; but He always has a plan! Rejoice and wait...

"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)  

"Living Hope"

 "But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end." (Hebrews 3:6 KJV)

    "So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold - though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world." (1 Peter 1:6-7 NLT)

 I could help but think of Peter, who denied Jesus three times, on the night that He was arrested and was being tormented, on His way to the cross. As I wrapped up that message yesterday morning, there was something that I remembered which Jesus told Peter earlier that night: "Die for me? I tell you the truth, Peter - before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me." 

 Good news with that, is that Peter was terribly torn up over what he did, and he was seriously sorry for what he did. Believe it or not, but that is what Jesus prayed for, that he would be strengthened and restored! Aren't you so glad that our Lord and Saviour is watching out for us! 

 Sometimes we can really make some big mistakes, even though we don't set out to do anything wrong, we just get caught off guard, and our flesh takes over. But that isn't enough to feel as though you lost the race, as some have felt and walked away from the faith. We must not give up, no matter what...

  "We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves." (2 Corinthians 4:7 NLT)  

"The Purpose" - Too

 "And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after;" (Hebrews 3:5 KJV)

  "Before the way of faith in Christ was available to us, we were placed under guard by the law. We were kept in protective custody, so to speak, until the way of faith was revealed. Let me put it another way: The law was our guardian until Christ came; it protected us until we could be made right with God through faith. And now that the way of faith has come, we no longer need the law as our guardian." (Galatians 3:23-25 NLT)

 Having been saved since 1981, there are still things I have to learn, even though I have learned them before. I heard Pastor Jack, (actually, both Pastor Jack's,) share about the things people did back in the 60's and 70's; as they were excited to fellowship, filling up churches and coming early to spend time in the sharing of the Word, praying for one another, and even playing worship.

 Now, in this day and age, people show up late and leave early; it's more about getting there to show a presence, then it is about being there to have fellowship and experience the love for one another. As they both spoke about it, it was almost as if they had planned it; but the messages were obviously given at totally different times. 

 This how the Holy Spirit works! Much like it was when I went to the service in Mount Shasta; I went there thinking I was going to support my friend and pray for his message; yet the Holy Spirit turned my heart towards the message, and I realized I came to be schooled! God used that message to show me how I needed to share Jesus more, as the whole point that was being given was how Peter didn't share, so it seems, for all the time he was with servants of Cornelius. (Acts 10)

 The whole point of this, whether you can except it or not, is the words, "faithful in all his house". Because our ministry begins at home; meaning, where we live, where we are at, and with those we come in contact with. Even though we might not know how, we are able to share what we know; primarily, that we know the way...

 ""I tell you the truth, everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, the Son of Man will also acknowledge in the presence of God's angels. But anyone who denies me here on earth will be denied before God's angels. Anyone who speaks against the Son of Man can be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. And when you are brought to trial in the synagogues and before rulers and authorities, don't worry about how to defend yourself or what to say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what needs to be said."" (Luke 12:8-12 NLT)  

  

"The Purpose"

 "And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after;" (Hebrews 3:5 KJV)

  ""You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life. Your approval means nothing to me, because I know you don't have God's love within you. For I have come to you in my Father's name, and you have rejected me. Yet if others come in their own name, you gladly welcome them. No wonder you can't believe! For you gladly honor each other, but you don't care about the honor that comes from the one who alone is God. Yet it isn't I who will accuse you before the Father. Moses will accuse you! Yes, Moses, in whom you put your hopes. If you really believed Moses, you would believe me, because he wrote about me. But since you don't believe what he wrote, how will you believe what I say?"" (John 5:39-47 NLT)

 There are certain things which cause us to think about our own loyalty and commitment to the Lord; most of which is when we see those who fall away, when we once thought that they were strong enough to keep the faith. It makes us think about our own abilities, would we have the strength enough to hang in there, even if we might feel offended or whatever else might change our point of view. 

 I have thought about it many times; wondering if I have what it takes to stay in the fight, no matter how hard it gets, or how long the struggle keeps tearing me down. We keep believing that God does not give us more than we can handle; but is it really true? 

 Well, if you really want to know how it really works, the answer is in this simple position we must stay in, which is that of being a servant! If you remain a servant, not a boss, then you have so little less chances to become offended. Moses is shown here as a servant, but when he changed his heart, and became the boss, he took that rod and struck the rock, as if he was no longer a servant. 

 This might sound hard to believe, but it is easier to follow the Lord when you have the attitude of a servant! At least that is my take on the matter, now I just need to keep that same attitude...

""But what do you think about this? A man with two sons told the older boy, 'Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.' The son answered, 'No, I won't go,' but later he changed his mind and went anyway. Then the father told the other son, 'You go,' and he said, 'Yes, sir, I will.' But he didn't go. "Which of the two obeyed his father?" They replied, "The first." Then Jesus explained his meaning: "I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the kingdom of God before you do. For John the Baptist came and showed you the right way to live, but you didn't believe him, while tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even when you saw this happening, you refused to believe him and repent of your sins."" (Matthew 21:28-32 NLT) 

"Reason"

 "For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God." (Hebrews 3:4 KJV)

  "The old way, with laws etched in stone, led to death, though it began with such glory that the people of Israel could not bear to look at Moses' face. For his face shone with the glory of God, even though the brightness was already fading away. Shouldn't we expect far greater glory under the new way, now that the Holy Spirit is giving life? If the old way, which brings condemnation, was glorious, how much more glorious is the new way, which make us right with God! In fact, that first glory was not glorious at all compared with the overwhelming glory of the new way. So if the old way, which has been replaced, was glorious, how much more glorious is the new, which remains forever!" (2 Corinthians 3:7-11 NLT)

 One of the first things I learned, in this new life in Christ, is that we must learn to put all of our hope in the salvation which we have been given. It wasn't but a few days after I was saved, that I had fallen into something which made me feel ashamed; it was as if I had done the thing Proverbs 26:11 says: "As a dog returns to his vomit, so a fool repeats his folly." 

 The main thing we must keep in mind, is that we are totally and completely dependent upon Christ and the wonder-working-power of the cross! It is only by His blood that we are made holy; trying to be holy by keeping the law, is a lot like trying to build something which has already been built! He has made the way, which was actually planned, and the foundation was laid, from the very beginning. 

 As a matter of fact, the law was not given for us to try and keep but was given to show us how far we are from keeping God's standards! Hopefully we have gotten the message by now, because the glorious part of this new life we have in Christ, is that He made it happen, not us...

"God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." (Ephesians 2:8-10 NLT)

"The Way" - To

 "For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honour than the house." (Hebrews 3:3 KJV)

  ""I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. I have other sheep too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd. The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again. No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded." When he said these things, the people were again divided in their opinions about him. Some said, "He's demon possessed and out of his mind. Why listen to a man like that?" Others said, "This doesn't sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?"" (John 10:14-21 NLT) 

 Growing up, I was rather skeptical about some of what I saw and heard about Jesus and was confused about who He was, based upon the lessons we were told from the Watchtower and Tract Society. As I have expressed before, they really don't want you to just read the Bible, without reading the Scripture Studies. Those are the books that we would study from, the Bible was just used to verify what you were reading was the truth, as it was instructed to be so. 

 When I was called that day, the day I accepted Jesus into my heart, I was overwhelmed by the truth of who Jesus actually was; so much so, that I lifted both hands when the speaker said, "Raise your hand, if you want to ask Jesus to come into your heart." After that, everything changed! The Bible was no longer a book of stories and passages to try to remember; it became the instruction manual for my life! 

 There is more to this transformation than just knowing who Jesus really is, because we are changed to be something that we never were before. Before we were dead, totally separated from God; after, we became alive, living with the Holy Spirit within us. Some call that a transformation, as it actually is; but within that change, we are also confronted with knowing our sinful lives.

 As to that man that thought God was a bad father, Jesus was more than willing to sacrifice Himself on that cross: It was the reason He came; and the only way that we could be saved...

 ""You were born a total sinner!" they answered. "Are you trying to teach us?" And they threw him out of the synagogue. When Jesus heard what had happened, he found the man and asked, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?" The man answered, "Who is he, sir? I want to believe in him." "You have seen him," Jesus said, "and he is speaking to you!" "Yes, Lord, I believe!" the man said. And he worshiped Jesus. Then Jesus told him, "I entered this world to render judgment - to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind." Some of the Pharisees who were standing nearby heard him and asked, "Are you saying we're blind?" "If you were blind, you wouldn't be guilty." Jesus replied. "But you remain guilty because you claim you can see."" (John 9:34-41 NLT) 

 

   

"The Way"

 "For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honour than the house." (Hebrews 3:3 KJV)

  "Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can't see - such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through him. He existed before anything else, and holds all creation together. Christ is also the head of the church, which is his body. He is the beginning, supreme over all who rise from the dead. So he is first in everything. For God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ, and through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ's blood on the cross." (Colossians 1:15-20 NLT)

 There is only one way for us to be saved; keeping the Ten Commandments, which might make you a good person, won't get you into the Promise Land! I was listening to Pastor Jack yesterday afternoon, and he was sharing a story about a very intelligent man, who was really quite stupid. The main thing he said about that man's stupidity, was that he called God a child abuser, because He sent His Son to die on the cross. 

 Maybe that doesn't sound stupid to some, but as the Bible clearly says, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise and discard the intelligence of the intelligent." (1 Corinthians 1:19 NLT) Before I was saved, the cross was just something we wore around our neck, as a symbol of being part of something, not really understanding what it really meant. 

 Jesus died on that cross for a very specific reason, to pay the penalty for our sins! Each and every one of us could never afford to pay that price, all the money in the world wouldn't help; working to do the things that are good, no matter how hard we tried, there would still be sin in our lives! That is what He died for, to take away the sins we were born with, which is why we needed to be Born Again! 

 I know there are some who will say that it isn't fair, as if people who work hard to be good should be given some sort of waiver or ticket to Paradise; but there is no other way to be saved, other than, truly believing in Jesus Christ and the sacrifice He paid on that cross...

"For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are. But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard." Romans 3:20-23 NLT)  

"Believing!" - Again!

 "Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house." (Hebrews 3:2 KJV)

  "I am writing these things to you now, even though I hope to be with you soon, so that if I am delayed you will know how people must conduct themselves in the household of God. This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth. Without question, this is the great mystery of our faith: Christ was revealed in a human body and vindicated by the Spirit. He was seen by angels and announced to the nations. He was believed in throughout the world and taken to heaven in glory." (1 Timothy 3:14-16 NLT)

 Sometimes, we just need a little jolt to remind us of the amazing love that God has for us; even though we might not deserve it, He loves us more than we could ever really know! When I think about all the stupid things I have done, it hurts my heart every time I think, "What was I thinking!" 

 The main point I took away from Pastor Bryan's message Wednesday night, was Paul's message in Philippians 3:13-14, which he says, "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." 

 The point which is so important is that of "forgetting those things which are behind," because it really isn't about us forgetting the things we did, but more about us not letting those things hinder what God is doing now and onward in our lives. We really cannot forget the bad things we have done, but we can be sure to not allow the past to hinder our future! 

 I heard this funny message yesterday, which really reminded me of what Paul was talking about; it involved all of the great men and women of the Bible that are in the Hall of Faith. We must remember that just about every one of those Saints failed in one way or another; none of them were perfect enough to not have something that they were not proud of doing! 

 From the very beginning of this journey, I had several times when I questioned my faith. Not that I didn't believe in Jesus Christ and the power of the cross, but that I didn't think that I was worthy enough to be a part of what He did, as if the wonder-working-power didn't take hold in my life. 

 If that is an issue with anyone reading this, please understand something sincerely special: If it is a great concern to you that you are seriously broken, then you are right where God wants you to be; totally and completely dependent upon Him...

"For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those that fear him. For he knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust. Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die." (PSALM 103:11-15 NLT)   

"Believing!" - Too

 "Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house." (Hebrews 3:2 KJV)

  "Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask." Jesus told her, "Your brother will rise again." "Yes," Martha said, "he will rise when everyone else rises, at the last day." 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 11:21-26 NLT)

 Just so you know, the word, "faithful," which is shown in the description, "Who was faithful to him that appointed him," is a word that illustrates belief, as in believing, or being a believer. In other words, the faithful quality is the result of believing, being sure that everything will be just as it is meant to be, no matter what! 

 We are given the ability to be an overcomer when we move in that direction, because we believe that God has called us and He will work everything out. If you have any opposition or difficulties, they are not meant to hinder your abilities, but they are meant to cause you to depend more upon God's abilities than that of your own. 

 That is what believing comes down to, the more you trust in God, the more see God work things out, in ways you never expected! This illustration with Lazarus is a perfect way to see how this works. Jesus knew that Lazarus was sick and going to die, and He believed that it was for this purpose, in order to let him die, raising him on the fourth day. The reason for the delay, is because Jewish tradition says that the soul hangs around for three days, but on the fourth day, the soul gives up, and death is certain. 

 Even though we don't know all of the details, like Jesus did, we can still have faith in believing God's hand is guiding and directing our lives. That is also the case when we are dealing with something that is catastrophic, like dying from cancer, or having something wrong that will destroy your whole life, as you have known it! 

 If you truly believe that you have been given eternal life, then that is the direction you should be looking at, believing that is what you are facing! If you really want to overcome the fear of death, then you must be faithful in trusting God for your eternal life...

"The Jewish leaders were infuriated by Stephen's accusation, and they shook their fists at him in rage. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God's right hand. And he told them, "Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God's right hand!" Then they put their hands over their ears and began shouting. They rush at him and dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. His accusers took off their coats and laid them at the feet of a young man named Saul. As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." He fell to his knees, shouting, "Lord, don't charge them with this sin!" And with that, he died." (Acts 7:54-60 NLT)   

"Believing!"

 "Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house." (Hebrews 3:2 KJV)

  "Nebuchadnezzar said to them, "Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you refuse to serve my gods or to worship the gold statue I have set up? I will give you one more chance to bow down and worship the statue I have made when you hear the sound of the musical instruments. But if you refuse, you will be thrown immediately into the blazing furnace. And then what god will be able to rescue you from my power?" Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, " O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if he doesn't, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up."" (Daniel 3:14-18 NLT)

 I chose this portion of Scripture to illustrate something that I believe is important, especially in these times we have the privilege to be living in. This illustration of what it means to believe in the God who saves, I first was shown in the very beginning of my New Life in Christ; it was during the very first Wednesday Night Bible Study. The massage was combined with an additional message from PSALM 103:12, which says, "He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west." 

 There is really nothing on this earth that can separate us from God's love and the promise He has given us for eternal life with Him; if anything at all, we are the only thing that might stand in the way, but even then, it will not be easy to undo what He has done for us! I know that there are differences of opinion on that topic; but I firmly believe, if you truly were saved, then that salvation is noncancelable, no matter how hard you might try to undo it! 

 I know that I will be challenged for that belief, because I was challenged on the night we had these two messages together, because I did not believe that what God has done could be undone. When the officer that was teaching said, "But you can always turn and go the other way," I didn't agree, standing up I said, "How can we undo anything the God has done?" 

 I also know that there are firm believers that can change, turn away and pretend that God doesn't really care if we live or die; but if they were seriously a real believer, God will change their heart; one way or another, they will be saved. That's my belief in this thing we call Salvation, because His power is so much more powerful than ours; just like His love is so much surer than ours...

"All who confess that Jesus is the Son of God have God living in them, and they live in God. We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who line 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 all 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 4:15-19 NLT) 

"Partakers of the Heavenly Calling"

 "Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;" (Hebrews 3:1 KJV)

  ""Yet you say, 'The Lord isn't doing what's right!' Listen to me, O people of Israel. Am I the one not doing what's right, or is it you? When righteous people turn from the righteous behavior and start doing sinful things, they will die for it. Yes, they will die because of their sinful deeds. And if wicked people turn from their wickedness, obey the law, and do what is just and right, they will save their lives. They will live because they thought it over and decided to turn from their sins. Such people will not die. And yet the people of Israel keep saying, 'The Lord isn't doing what's right!' O people of Israel, it is you who are not doing what's right, not I."" (Ezekiel 18:25-29 NLT)

 Why does God allow suffering and bad things to happen, to people that are partakers of the heavenly calling? We have a tendency to think that is wrong; so much so, that many people have walked away from the faith, having been disappointed with God, as if there is something wrong with God for letting it happen. 

 Well, I have felt some of that, now and then, as I think about my wife, wondering why He hasn't healed her or taken her home! It is hard for me to sometimes understand the purpose; yet, when I start to feel as though it doesn't make sense, He shows me the sign of encouragement and love; something that is far greater than the average life, as we know it. 

 Bottom-line, so to speak, is that we live with what God gives us, good or bad, He has made us to be a vessel for whatever condition we find ourselves living in, we are made for His will and purpose! What was it that caused my wife to fall in love with me? My heart breaks every time I think of it! 

 As to this portion of Ezekiel, which has something hidden within the message; we that live by faith, know that we are only righteous because our faith is in Christ, that His righteousness is what makes us holy. Yet, the message of that which we see here, has the position of us obeying the law and doing what is just and right; something that we have no power on our own to naturally do.

 Simply put: Consider Christ Jesus! When you think your life is not being treated fairly or you think you got the wrong end of the stick; stop and consider what Jesus went through, the sacrifice He suffered through, as He gave His life for you! As I have said before, I will say it again: Israel is the perfect image of us, as we have all things in common...

"After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?" "Yes, Lord," Peter replied, "you know I love you." Then feed my lambs," Jesus told him. Jesus repeated the question: "Simon son of John, do you love me?" "Yes, Lord," Peter said, "you know I love you." "Then take care of my sheep," Jesus said. A third time he asked him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt that Jesus asked him the question a third time. He said, "Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you." Jesus said, "Then feed my sheep. "I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don't want to go." Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, "Follow me." Peter turned around and saw behind them the disciple Jesus loved - the one who had leaned over to Jesus during the supper and asked, "Lord, who will betray you?" Peter asked Jesus, "What about him, Lord?" Jesus replied, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? As for you, follow me."" (John 21:15-22 NLT) 

  

"Who Do You Love?"

 "Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;" (Hebrews 3:1 KJV)

  "This letter is from Jude, a slave of Jesus Christ and a brother of James. I am writing to all who have been called by God the Father, who loves you and keeps you safe in the care of Jesus Christ. May God give you more and more mercy, peace, and love." (Jude 1-2 NLT)

 Believe it or not, but this might be one of those mornings when I really don't know where to start; it's almost as if there is something causing me to feel as though I need to change directions, as if I am running a race that is getting me nowhere. Do you ever get the feeling that you are being shunned? 

 Not that it really bothers me, because I believe that I have someone who loves me, worth more than any love I can get from people on earth; but it does cause me to wonder if there is something I am missing. If there is something wrong with me, I would hope someone might actually care enough to tell me what I have done that is wrong. 

 Anywho, there are bigger and better things to talk about, most of which is the love we have for Christ Jesus, our Lord! Jesus was not kidding when He said, "Don't imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword." (Matthew 10:34 NLT) There must be nothing greater that we love than Christ Jesus; He is first and foremost, our very first love! 

 Maybe there needs to be some definition of what first love actually means? By the way, I was wondering where Pastor Bryan was going, as he shared about some people's last rights and having to get the chance to go gracefully into that good night? Will we be looking for something better, or looking back at the things we might miss? 

 Hopefully we have the kind of love for Jesus that looks towards Him! I really need to get a grip, because the sadness of being told your time is up, shouldn't be sad, it should be expecting something glorious and amazing; something that is what we are partakers of, The Heavenly Calling...

"For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better." (Philippians 1:21 NLT)   

"Jesus Our High Priest"

  "And so, dear brothers and sisters who belong to God and are partakers with those called to heaven, think carefully about this Jesus whom we declare to be God's messenger and High Priest. For he was faithful to God, who appointed him, just as Moses served faithfully when he was entrusted with God's entire house.

 "But Jesus deserves far more glory than Moses, just as a person who builds a house deserves more praise than the house itself. For every house has a builder, but the one who built everything is God.

 "Moses was certainly faithful in God's house as a servant. His work was an illustration of the truths God would reveal later. But Christ, as the Son, is in charge of God's entire house. And we are God's house, if we keep our courage and remain confident in our hope in Christ. That is why the Holy Spirit says,

     "Today when you hear his voice, don't harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled, when they tested me in the wilderness. There your ancestors tested and tried my patience, even though they saw my miracles for forty years. So I was angry with them, and I said, 'Their hearts always turn away from me. They refuse to do what I tell them.' So in my anger I took an oath: 'They will never enter my place of rest.'"" (Hebrews 3:1-11 NLT)

 "For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness: When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my work. Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways: Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest." (PSALM 95:7-11 KJV)

 Every day is a new day, so practice making it something new...

"For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:16-18 KJV)  

"He Is Able!" - Too

 "For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted." (Hebrews 2:18 KJV)

  "Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault. All glory to him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are his before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time! Amen." (Jude 24-25 NLT)

 As I was saying, with some experience in dealing with self-control, there are times when we simply need to spend less time speaking, and more time listening; especially when it comes to loving others as we are told we should! What is the scale, meter, or the distance involved with that? "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you!" 

 Both James and Jude had something in common, as they were both half-brothers of Jesus; and having grown up with Him, they mocked Him because they did not believe He was who He said that He was; at least not until He rose from the grave! What a difference the resurrection made, for a whole lot of people! 

 As I was thinking about this yesterday, there is something very similar with that resurrection, which is still to come; actually, it could happen any day! There will be the Rapture of all of us that are Saints! Imagine what a difference that will make too many people's lives, as they see the departure of those who they knew were followers of Christ Jesus.

 There will be very similar reactions and changes to their hearts, just as when Jesus rose from the dead, the same power will have taken all of us up into Heaven, in the twinkling of an eye...

"Yet when I am among mature believers, I do speak with words of wisdom, but not the kind of wisdom that belongs to this world or to the rulers of this world, who are soon forgotten. No, the wisdom we speak of is the mystery of God - his plan that was previously hidden, even though he made it for ultimate glory before the world began. But the rulers of this world have not understood it; if they had, they would not have crucified our glorious Lord. That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him." But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God's deep hidden secrets." (1 Corinthians 2:6-10 NLT)   

"He Is Able!"

 "For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted." (Hebrews 2:18 KJV)

  "The people surrounded him and asked, "How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly." Jesus replied, "I have already told you, and you don't believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father's name. But you don't believe me because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father's hand. The Father and I are one." Once again the people picked up stones to kill him." (John 10:24-31 NLT)

 As much as I try, I cannot avoid messing up! This might not sound like the perfect time to share, but the stress of the work sometimes makes me really want to stop, even though it is the only thing I actually am really good at, it is still overwhelming me! That, in case you didn't know, is actually part of the curse: "And to the man he said, "Since you listened to your wife and ate from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat, the ground is cursed because of you. All your life you will struggle to scratch a living from it."" (Genesis 3:17 NLT)

 How I wish that I actually did something else! Even those who trust me, if they don't like what I say, I become the bad guy, even though I am just being honest! (That is just the way things are, we all have a cross to bear; something is going to offend someone, no matter who's side you are on!) 

 Anywho, this is most likely the most clearly part of picture that we can actually see to understand; mostly because Jesus is tempted the same as anyone else, yet He has one main purpose, to help us that fall into temptation! No matter how hard we might try, there will be times when we are going to fall; sometimes a little, and other times, we fall hard. 

 Before you think it isn't so, think about the love you have for someone that might offend you. Does the love actually prove that you care, or is it just for show? James is someone who had a really good way of expressing that! Yesterday I was reminded, we have two ears and one mouth: our ears need to be doing twice as much as the mouth does...

"Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls." (James 1:19-21 NLT) 

 

"A Branch from David's Line" - To

 "Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people." (Hebrews 2:17 KJV)

  ""Come to me with your ears wide open. Listen, and you will find life. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. I will give you all the unfailing love I promised David. See how I used him to display my power among the peoples. I made him a leader among the nations. You also will command nations you do not know, and peoples unknown to you will come running to obey, because I, the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, have made you glorious."" (Isaiah 55:3-5 NLT)

 Before I go any further, I need to point out this little hidden jewel that is so easy to miss, if it were a snake, it would have bite you. The first portion of this verse, which says, "Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren." Because this is more than just becoming a man, this is taking on the whole passions and desires; yet having the ability to overcome the temptations! 

 Maybe it is too much to take in, all at once; but Jesus was "behoved," which actually means that be was bound, as if there was a price to pay; putting it another way, He was born with a debt to pay, which basically means, He owed the guilt that was ours! Imagine what that must have felt like! It might put another light on the reason Jesus wept, having to deal with the death of a friend. 

 I keep hearing people say, "God knows the beginning to the end," yet, when it comes to understanding that God knew beforehand that Adam was going to sin, there is a pause, as if God was waiting to see if he might change his mind. The way I see it, in God's timeline, Adam was already guilty, even before he had eaten the fruit; God had everything ready, long before he had sinned...

 "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)  

"A Branch from David's Line"

 "Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people." (Hebrews 2:17 KJV)

  "Out of the stump of David's family will grow a shoot - yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root. And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on him - the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. He will delight in obeying the LORD. He will not judge by appearance nor make a decision based on hearsay. He will give justice to the poor and make fair decisions for the exploited. The earth will shake at the force of his word, and one breath from his mouth will destroy the wicked. He will wear righteousness like a belt and truth like an undergarment." (Isaiah 11:1-5 NLT)

  Most of what we have known and understood about this salvation has been linked to faith; not just the faith in knowing what Jesus did on the cross, but also the faith we hold dear, as to the work Jesus has done in us. Believe it or not, but sometimes it is easier to believe the miraculous and supernatural things, then it is to believe that we have been made totally and completely right with God! 

 Yes, Abraham was faithful, believing God for all that He had promised; but his struggle to understand his own place in this world, shall we say, was sometimes full of doubt. There really isn't any reason, in case you are looking to find the cure; we just forget what we are and how important it is to believe that God has a firm grip on us, even when it might feel as though He has let go! 

 He never let's go! Do you believe that? I am amazed at the number of times I have felt as if He has quit holding me secure; only because I have my focus on this earth, and not on Heaven. It really doesn't take a whole lot of effort to take our eyes off of the prize, if the prize becomes something to fulfill the flesh...

 "For God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ, and through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth be means of Christ's blood on the cross. This includes you who were once far away from God. You were his enemies, separated from him by your evil thoughts and actions. Yet now he has reconciled you to himself through the death of Christ in his physical body. As a result, he has brought you into his own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault. But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don't drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News. The Good News has been preached all over the world, and I, Paul, have been appointed as God's servant to proclaim it." (Colossians 1:19-23 NLT)    

"The Seed of Abraham"

 "For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham." (Hebrews 2:16 KJV)

  "So the promise is received by faith. It is given as a free gift. And we are all certain to receive it, whether or not we live according to the law of Moses, if we have faith like Abraham. For Abraham is the father of all who believe. That is what the Scriptures mean when God told him, "I have made you the father of many nations." This happened because Abraham believed in the God who brings the dead back to life and who creates new things out of nothing." (Romans 4:16-17 NLT)

 Whatever we do, we must not stop believing, even when we might not feel like things are working for good, because what we might think is not good, God is good, no matter what! I hope you did get the point I was trying to make yesterday, because it might seem rather simple; but it is only simple because God has made it so. I believe because God said it is so, therefor what I believe, will not change, because He doesn't change, period! 

 That said, I know that I change, with every single trial and tribulation! 'Is this something God is making me go through because I have sinned?' 'Is this something that God wants me to go through to make me stronger?' 'Can I even know what He is doing, or is it just me not listening?' 

 I have learned something over the years, sometimes over and over again; you would think by now I would get it right; but every season is another lesson in keeping the faith...

 "Even though there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping - believing that he would become the father of many nations. For God had said to him, "That's how many descendants you will have!" And Abraham's faith did not weaken, even though, at about 100 years of age, he figured his body was as good as dead - and so was Sarah's womb. Abraham never wavered in believing God's promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises. And because of Abraham's faith, God counted him as righteous. And when God counted him as righteous, it wasn't just for Abraham's benefit. It was recorded for our benefit, too, assuring us that God will also count us as righteous if we believe in him, the one who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. He was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised to life to make us right with God." (Romans 4:18-25 NLT) 

"Beyond The Grave!" - Too

 "And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage." (Hebrews 2:15 KJV)

  "Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful." (Colossians 3:12-15 NLT) 

 Besides all of the reasons we have for being thankful, the major point in this story is the life we have waiting on the other side! How many times I think of my wife, as she lays there in her bed, waiting for her perfect body, her perfect mind, that has been promised her; as I tell her over and over, she will be healed, one way or another! 

 Make every effort to remember what Jesus has done, not just what He did on the cross, but how He rose again, how He spent 40 days walking around, showing Himself to all those that would be spreading the Good News! This is more than just a story, it is a fact! So, if you have any doubt, whatsoever, put these things first and foremost at the front of your mind, knowing that this is for real, and then securing them, as if in a vault, which can never be challenged.

 That said, I know we have tendencies to drift off, thinking there could be some doubt; but that is where faith needs to be stronger than what we actually see. We see life in this world, as if it what it is, but in the walk of faith, there is so much more; more than we could ever imagine...

 "And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. Don't let anyone capture you with empty philosophies that come from human thinking and from spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ. For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority." (Colossians 2:6-10 NLT)  

"Beyond The Grave!"

 "And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage." (Hebrews 2:15 KJV)

  "Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later. For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. Against its will, all creation was subjected to God's curse. But with eager hope, the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God's children in glorious freedom from death and decay. For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. And we believers also groan, even though we have the Holy Spirit within us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children, including the new bodies he has promised us. We were given this hope when we were saved. (If we already have something, we don't need to hope for it. But if we look forward to something we don't yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.)" (Romans 8:18-25 NLT)

 When I was in 11th grade, going to school in Carthage Texas, I enjoyed my Creative Writing Class, as the teacher was very excited about teaching her class. There were several short stories that I had written, and she took those stories and put them on display for all her students, in every class, to see and read. The one that really toped the rest, was called, "The Sparrow's Flight." 

 Basically, it was a short story about someone who jumped off of a cliff, but in the body of the story, there was something on the face of the cliff that needed to be seen, which could not be seen without actually jumping off and looking at it, on the way down. There is more to that story than meets to eye; because there are certain things we will not know without having experienced death. 

 That might sound morbid and sad, but, if there is one thing I have discovered within this life of living, that real life doesn't start until this life on earth is totally done...

"Who then will condemn us? No one - for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God's right hand, pleading for us. Can anything ever separate us from Christ's love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? (As the Scriptures say, "For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.") No, despite all these things, overwhelmingly victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow - not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below - indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:34-39 NLT)  

"Behind The Looking Glass" - 3

 "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;" (Hebrews 2:14 KJV)

  "Dear children, don't let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it shows that they are righteous, even as Christ is righteous. But when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil. Those who have been born into God's family do not make a practice of sinning, because God's life is in them. So they can't keep on sinning, because they are children of God. So now we can tell who are children of God and who are children of the devil. Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God." (1 John 3:7-10 NLT)

 Some mornings there is just too much to say, I can't contain myself; while other mornings, I feel as though the entire message is worthless and doesn't match the whole story: this is one of those mornings when there is just too much to say! Oh, how much I miss having conversations with my wife! We used to spend hours upon hours sharing, on long drives, sharing about God's word. Talking about the recent message from church; as we would find a Calvary Chapel to go to, no matter where we went, there was always a fellowship that we would feel right at home in. 

 Now, these days, we still stop into certain churches, however they don't quite seem the same, as the service gets distracted by our presence; it almost always ends with the saints wanting to pray for us, laying hands on my wife, and sometimes trying to find out why we came, as if we were looking for a miracle to happen. We just wanted to enjoy being part of the family; that is all we ever wanted; or should I just say, all that I ever wanted, as Marianne sometimes doesn't really enjoy being a distraction and someone that people don't know how to approach.

 When I take her to restaurants, we usually try to find a seat that is in a corner of the room, as there are some people who do not want to see her, while they try to enjoy their food. I get that, but at the same time, I feel offended by it also. And I also realize that Marianne knows! She might have a serious brain injury, but her heart is strong and always full of hope; as a caring doctor once said, "Where there is life, there is hope!" 

 That is far from matching this story, or is it? My heart hurts so bad right now, that I really don't know how to finish this message; except to share about what Jesus must have felt, having to suffer through death in order to save us! Imagine what it might have been like, for God to give His Son, let alone, that the Son would be prepared for something that would hurt so badly...

"When I turned to see who was speaking to me, I saw seven gold lampstands. And standing in the middle of the lampstands was someone like the Son of Man. He was wearing a long robe with a gold sash across his chest. His head and his hair were white as wool, as white as snow. And his eyes were flames of fire. His feet were like polished bronze refined in a furnace, and his voice thundered like mighty ocean waves. He held seven stars in his right hand, and a sharp two-edged sword came from his mouth. And his face was like the sun in all its brilliance. When I saw him, I fell at his feet as if I were dead. But he laid his right hand on me and said, "Don't be afraid! I am the First and the Last. I am the living one. I died, but look - I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave." (Revelation 1:12-18 NLT) 

"Behind The Looking Glass" - 2

 "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took place of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;" (Hebrews 2:14 KJV)

  "Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on a cross." (Philippians 2:1-8 NLT)

 Which part of this story does the most to cause us to be overwhelmed? Is it that Jesus humbled himself, making the mortality part of His time on earth the focus? Is it the fact that He could have fought off those who wanted to kill him, by simply speaking out a single word? Maybe, if we could possibly think about the time and urgency of His being here, it was a powerful, critical moment, that had been planned out, from the very beginning of time! 

 Going back to the Second Day of creation, that day when the Creator made Heaven, which was the separation between God's divine nature and that of the created earth; we must understand that God already knew how things would turn out; especially the actions that would take place from the devil! When God judged Satan for what he did, He had already made the plan for Christ to die on the cross; each and every part of what the Son would do, had already been written, each and every sequence of His journey had already been set in motion. 

 Oddly enough, Adam had somehow been told all that was going to happen, as he renamed his wife, who he originally called "Woman," meaning that she was bone of his bone, and flesh of his flesh; to the name "Eve," which meant, "The Mother of All Living." Death was going to be defeated, this much was already known; now it was just a matter of time; and the time was the critical moment...

"Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory. We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God's sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God's condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son. So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God." (Romans 5:1-11 NLT)  

"Behind The Looking Glass"

 "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;" (Hebrews 2:14 KJV)

  "The Scriptures tell us, "The first man, Adam, became a living person." But the last Adam - that is, Christ - is a life-giving Spirit. What comes first is the natural body, then the spiritual body comes later. Adam, the first man, was made from the dust of the earth, while Christ, the second man, came from heaven. Earthly people are like the earthly man, and heavenly people are like the heavenly man. Just as we are now like the earthly man, we will someday be like the heavenly man. What I am saying, dear brothers and sisters, is that our physical bodies cannot inherit the Kingdom of God. These dying bodies cannot inherit what will last forever. But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies." (1 Corinthians 15:45-53 NLT)

 So, this is rather strange, as it just so happens, the Title that I felt to use for this verse, is also the title of the "First Ever Documentary about the wives & children of Trans-Identified Men." Such as, Bruce, who is now called Caitlyn. So strange, that Paul's talking about us being transformed, and this weird title has the connection with those that are transgendered. 

 Anywho, whatever that has to do with anything, might point is something that is on a whole different level! As I have alluded to, in some way or another, this temporary life in these mortal bodies is just a small dash in what is meant to be everlasting life. What we experience in the here and now, is really not what will be the transformed body we will be given in Heaven! 

 Having understood the process of our Salvation; there is three steps to this, so called process: the first of which is that we are Justified, which basically means, that the blood of Christ has washed us, making us to be, "Just as if we have never sinned!" This first step is something that Peter describes as being already secured away in heaven; where it cannot be destroyed or hampered with; meaning that it is locked away and belongs to the Lord! (1 Peter 1:3-5) 

 The second step, if you will, is: Sanctification, which is the time we will spend on this earth, going through trials and times of troubles; falling in and out of fellowship, walking in and out of faith; all of which are what we experience in this, "Normal Christian Life!" 

 The third and final step, is the transformation that Paul is talking about: Glorification! We will all be transformed into glorious bodies, that will never die; ever...

"Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: "Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?" For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless." (1 Corinthians 15:54-58 NLT)   

"The Seed Manifested"

  "Because God's children are human beings - made of flesh and blood - the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.

 "We also know that the Son did not come to help angels; he came to help the descendants of Abraham. Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested." (Hebrews 2:14-18 NLT)

  "Then began he to speak to the people this parable; A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time. And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen, that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty. And again he sent another servant: and they beat him also, and entreated him shamefully, and sent him away empty. And again, he sent a third: and they wounded him also, and cast him out. Then said the lord of the vineyard, What shall I do? I will send my beloved son: it may be they will reverence him when they him. But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, This is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them? He shall come and destroy these husbandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others. And when they heard it, they said, God forbid. And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner? Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind them to powder. And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on him; and they feared the people: for they perceived that he had spoken this parable against them." (Luke 20:9-19 KVJ)

 There is something to be said for the way God makes things to happen; some of which, might seem as though the work is caused by the devil, and some might appear to be caused by evil men; but when it comes to God's will, all sorts of things which breakdown, tear up, overturn, and destroy, can be the hand of God, used and carried out by the things of this world...

"Behold, I have created the smith that bloweth the coals in the fire, and that bringeth forth an instrument for his work; I have created the waster to destroy. No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD." (Isaiah 54:16-17 KJV) 

"I Will Put My Trust in Him!" - 2

 "And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me." (Hebrews 2:13 KJV)

  "I and the children the LORD has given me serve as signs and warnings to Israel from the LORD of Heaven's Armies who dwells in the Temple on Mount Zion. Someone may say to you, "Let's ask the mediums and those who consult the spirits of the dead. With their whisperings and mutterings, they will tell us what to do." But should people ask God for guidance? Should the living seek guidance from the dead? Look to God's instructions and teachings! People who contradict his word are completely in the dark." (Isaiah 8:18-20 NLT)

 As I was saying, there were times when I was certain God wanted me to share with someone, yet I ended up running out of time, having another appointment to go to, and being pressured to explain my findings, but lacking the wherewithal to share the Gospel Message, concerning the souls of them God instructed me to share with. As I told that to Bruce, when we went to lunch, he simply said, "If you didn't share with them, God most likely got someone else to do it!" 

 I surely hope that was the case! My schedule is usually very tight; the more inspections I have, the tighter the appointments are to one another. Sometimes I barely have time to explain all the findings; I simply tell them that the Report will be emailed in the morning, and they can call me after reading the Report, if they have any questions. 

 That said, even if I do have the time to share, sometimes I might feel as though the person God wants me to share with, is not the least bit interested in hearing about Jesus. If I feel that way, I should be judged accordingly! I absolutely know better than that, because I need to just share, the results are up to God, not up to me! We don't know if we are planting the seed, or watering the soil, or reaping the harvest! 

 This is more important than our own comfort and dignity; if God says to share His Son with someone, we need to make sure that we make every effort to do so! If we fail to do so, we lack the opportunity; if we lack the opportunity, we might not be given another chance...

  "As the Scriptures tell us, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced." Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. For "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, "How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!"" (Romans 10:11-15 NLT) 

"I Will Put My Trust in Him!"

 "And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold, I and the children which God hath given me." (Hebrews 2:13 KJV)

  "The Sovereign LORD has given me his words of wisdom, so that I know how to comfort the weary. Morning by morning he wakens me and opens my understanding to his will. The Sovereign LORD has spoken to me, and I have listened. I have not rebelled or turned away. I offered my back to those who beat me and my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard. I did not hide my face from mockery and spitting. Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore, I have set my face like a stone, determined to do his will. And I know that I will not be put to shame. He who gives me justice is near. Who will dare to bring charges against me now? Where are my accusers? Let them appear! See, the Sovereign LORD is on my side! Who will declare me guilty? All my enemies will be destroyed like old clothes that have been eaten by moths!" (PSALM 50:4-9 NLT)

 So, here is something I feel was rather interesting about yesterday, if anyone is interested in hearing the thing that God worked in my life; without me knowing what He was doing. My Pastor and friend, Bruce, was invited to share at Moutain Christian Fellowship; so, I decided to go up to that church to support him and pray for the message. 

 Little did I know, but his reheated message, which I might have heard two or three times before, shook me to my core, making me think of all the times I was told to share with someone, but because of the lack of time, I did not have the opportunity. Some of their faces flashed before my eyes, as they were people who I actually visited once a year, servicing their house for Termite Control. Yet, the last time I was there, was the last time I would see them on this earth! 

 The message was given from Acts chapter 10; the subject seems to be towards a centurion named Cornelius; but in reality, the real subject of the story was Peter, who spent several days with the men from Cornelius' household, as the Spirit spoke to Peter saying, "Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them." 

 Oddly enough, I had just shared a story with Pastor Bruce's wife, about the church I came from in Southern California, back in 1990; and the on-staff Evangelist who was Ray Comfort. I had made a recommendation to the Pastor who headed up the Men's Ministry, to ask for Ray to come up and share at our Men's Retreat, which he did. And I positioned myself in the first row, right in front of his podium. 

 As it were, Ray decided to play a little joke on me, and had a stack of tracks which he caused to fall to the floor. As I jumped down to the floor to pick them up, he jumped back away from the podium, exclaiming: "Stand up, I am just a man!" 

 It was a powerful trigger in Peter's story, because a soon as he arrived at Cornelius' house, "Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man." (Acts 10:25-26)

 At this point in the message, I closed my Bible and began praying for the closing message. Little did I know, but the closing message was God way of speaking to me! This was a set-up, from the very start! I went thinking I was supporting a friend, which I did; but God brought me there to speak directly into my heart...

"But faith's way of getting right with God says, "Don't say in your heart, 'Who will go up to heaven?' (to bring Christ down to earth). And don't say, 'Who will go down to the place of the dead?' (to bring Christ back to life again)." In fact, it says, "The message is very close at hand; it is on your lips and in your heart." And that message is the very message about faith that we preach: If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved." (Romans 10:6-10 NLT) 

"The Gathering"

 "Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee." (Hebrews 2:12 KJV)

  "Praise the LORD! I will thank the LORD with all my heart as I meet with his godly people. How amazing are the deeds of the LORD! All who delight in him should ponder them. Everything he does reveals his glory and majesty. His righteousness never fails. He causes us to remember his wonderful works. How gracious and merciful is our LORD!" (PSALM 111:1-4 NLT)

 Having the understanding that any and all trials and difficulties we might go through are good, even though they might seem bad during the time we are dealing with them, we can actually find peace and joy, by taking the time to praise Him in the storm! It might not feel right at first, but the more you praise Him and thank Him for the chance to suffer, the more our suffering becomes less important, and His mercy and grace shines deeper within our hearts. 

 There are actually several times in my last almost 22 years, (specifically starting on August 12th, 2003,) when I have broken down and wept profusely, as if I was shaken to my very core. Each time, as far as I remember, I could feel a hand upon my shoulder, as if to comfort me. But there was one time, I think it was back in 2012, when I continued to cry, even though that hand was on my shoulder; and I felt that hand withdraw, as if to say, "Okay, that's enough!" 

 I might sound crazy, but that was enough! Almost instantly, I felt an amazing peace and joy; and my tears became tears of joy, no longer were they tears of sadness. The one thing I tried very hard to do, was not to break down in front of my wife! When I did one time, she gazed up at me, as if there was something terribly wrong; she actually looked as if something horrible was happening. I never wanted her to feel like that again! 

 Now, I make every effort to smile in her presence, telling her that I love her; showing her that everything is perfectly fine. Believe it or not, but she knows when I enter the room and when she hears my voice she looks in my direction. There is still love worth fighting for, no matter how difficult things might appear! 

 Anywho, this was meant to be about us going to church! Make every effort to go to church, if you must, ask someone to take you; if you can't get a ride, walk up to five miles, and you might get healthy in the process. But for the sake of fellowship, make every effort to get to church...

"All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Supper), and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshipped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord's Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity - all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved." (Acts 2:42-47 NLT)   

"All of One!" - Too

 "For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren," (Hebrews 2:11 KJV)

  "And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory. What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?" (Romans 8:27-31 NLT)

 This is one major principle I have dealt with, over and over, through many trials and times of being in a place of despair: God is always on our side, even when we mess up and absolutely show Him no respect, He is always ready to receive us into His loving arms! This is the heart of our Father! He knows us, so much more than we know ourselves, that He has already prepared a path for us, even though we don't know it, His ways and further our ways.

 The passage from Romans, is always used to express certain things that help us get through difficult times, as if this is the sure-fire answer to everything the seems to come against us. But, (and this is a very big but,) sometimes the very difficult time is made for our benefit, even though we can't understand why or for what reason God is allowing us to suffer through such a terrible time.

 That might seem hard to understand, when you are actually going through the fire; but there are just some things we need to have burnt out of our lives; things we wouldn't have given up on our own, but God knew in advance what needed to be done; but we have no clue. Even when we think that we have figured it out, we see a door that is right in front of us; but God has doors that are opened, we have no clue they are even there.

 This is the beautiful message of the cross; we all have a cross, as Jesus said, "Pick up your cross, and follow me," as an indication that the thing which destroys us, is also the thing that restores us and makes us whole... 

"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. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory." (Colossians 3:1-4 NLT) 

"All of One!"

 "For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren," (Hebrews 2:11 KJV)

  ""I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one - as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me. "I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one. I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me."" (John 17:20-23 NLT)

 Just so you know, this is actually, "The Lord's Prayer," the other one, that starts out, "Our Father, which art in heaven," is actually Jesus teaching the disciples how to pray, not necessarily to copy what He says, but to understand the steps we should have, such as: Acknowledging God's holiness and glory, His will be done, that He provides, His forgiveness, and our responsibility to forgive others, and that His Kingdom reins! 

 Basically, we need to just trust God, whether we are doing good or having the worst day ever! He is still on the Throne, He is still holding onto us, and no matter what, we have the same outcome when it is all said and done! That's my take on things, so I am sticking to it. If you have something different in mind, you can just keep it to yourself, because I will not be moved! 

 By the way, I sing to my wife. That might sound weird to some people, but when I sing to her, she looks at me and watches my lips; sometimes, she even moves her lips also, as if she wants to sing also. How many of you men sing to your wives? How many of you read to you wives? How about laying on hands, and praying for her? 

 Maybe it's a little different for me, because she has no choice but to listen and put up with me. But as I have said before, she is the most perfect woman that I know, because she is uncapable of sinning; of that I am totally sure...

"Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory. Remember that Christ came as a servant to the Jews to show that God is true to the promises he made to their ancestors. He also came so that the Gentiles might give glory to God for his mercies to them. That is what the psalmist meant when he wrote: "For this, I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing praises to your name." And in another place it is written, "Rejoice with his people, you Gentiles." And yet again, "Praise the LORD, all you Gentiles. Praise him, all you people of the earth." And in another place Isaiah said, "The heir of David's throne will come, and he will rule over the Gentiles. They will place their hope in him." I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15:7-13 NLT)   

"The Captain of Our Salvation" - Two

 "For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through suffering." (Hebrews 2:10 KJV)

  "Think of it this way. If a father dies and leaves an inheritance for his young children, those children are not much better off than slaves until they grow up, even though they actually own everything their father had. They have to obey their guardians until they reach whatever age their father set. And that's the way it was with us before Christ came. We were like children; we were slaves to the basic spiritual principles of this world. But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children. And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, "Abba, Father." Now you are no longer a slave but God's own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir." (Galatians 4:1-7 NLT) 

 Just so you know, there are several different versions of what Heaven might look like; something that Paul spoke about, was about the sound he witnessed, which didn't even matter what could be seen, the sound alone was something too special and amazing to even talk about. So, it really shouldn't matter how you think Heaven will be; just the thought of being there is enough to cause us to hope and long for, the place that awaits us is real! But, no matter what, these bodies of corruption will not be there! 

 Anywho; whatever state I might be, whether a stone upon the wall, or a paver that gets walked upon; or being woven into the fabric of the bride's wedding gown; just being there is enough great pleasure for me! God has a place for each and every one of us, no matter what! 

 Besides that, there are men of valor who actually believe that they will be used in Heaven, as they were used here on earth. Men that face death to save others, not caring for their own lives, but do acts of great courage, just to save someone that cannot save themselves. They seriously believe that their training and great courage does not end at the grave; that they will have a purpose to use their conditioning when they end up in Heaven.

 So, don't judge anything based upon what you might think; most of what we think we know to be true, will appear totally different than what we expected! If you don't understand what I just said, look at the simple illustration of the cross. Jesus was brutally beaten and punished beyond recognition; His body was torn, His face disfigured; a crown of thorns placed upon His head, with the spikes of the thorns piercing into His scull. His hands and His feet, nailed to the cross as if to assure that His punishment was final!  

 What a difference was the result of that horrible punishment; nothing that was meant for punishment was not undone and brought to total victory! That is just a glimpse of what Heaven will be like: what we thought was overwhelming and unforgivable, God will turn it into something totally new, something that has a better outcome, then we could have ever imagined...

""My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts," say the LORD. "And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. "The rain a snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it. You will live in joy and peace. The mountains and hills will burst into song, and the trees of the field will clap their hands! Where once there were thorns, cypress trees will grow. Where nettles grew, myrtles will sprout up. These events will bring great honor to the LORD'S name; they will be an everlasting sign of his power and love."" (Isaiah 55:8-13 NLT) 

"The Captain of Our Salvation"

  "For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through suffering." (Hebrews 2:10 KJV)

  ""Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink - even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk - it's all free! Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength? Why pay for food that does you no good? Listen to me, and you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the finest food."" (Isaiah 55:1-2 NLT)

 Pretend for the moment that Jesus is speaking through these two verses in Isaiah, as if He is showing us the vast difference between doing what is right, verses doing that which hinders your fellowship with Him; all because you feel as if you are intitled to certain pleasures, even though you know they don't make you stronger, but actually cause you to be weaker and less attentive to the power of the Holy Spirit. Not that Jesus doesn't want to help you make the right choice, because He does; He is the one that gives you the abundant life; but we are the ones that allow it to be just that, abundant! 

 I heard Pastor Jon share on something, whether or not it is real, I don't really know; but it made perfect sense, if it turns out to be that way, I believe we get what we work for, even though we might work to serve ourselves. He basically called it, "Banging on Pans." The whole point was showing the ones who end up in Heaven, like young children, that are banging on pans, as if that is pretty much all they have learned to do. 

 I know it sounds strange; but there will be some kind of separation, as it were, an inner court and an outer court. Those who lived out their lives serving themselves, will be them who end up serving others; while those who served others, will be serving before the throne of God. At least that was the major point of Jon's message. 

 Personally, I will be happy just to be there, whether it's banging pans or handing out refreshments; just to be called a child of God, living in His Kingdom, is enough for me! If you have been following this blog, it was about the time my son passed away, I was reading Isaiah 6:1, which says, "In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple." 

 As I sat my Bible down, I closed my eyes and tried to envision what Isaiah saw; but what I saw was not a royal robe, as if it was a long red robe; but it looked as if it was the train of a wedding dress; white and filled with all sorts of beautiful patterns. As I focused into a certain part of the train, I could see that there was something within the pattern. And, as I looked closer and closer, I saw myself woven into the pattern, with a smile up my face, holding onto the fabric...   

"I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God's way of making us right with himself depends on faith. I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!" (Philippians 3:7-11 NLT) 

"We See Jesus!" - 2.0

 "But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man." (Hebrews 2:9 KJV)

  "For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity - the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time." (1 Timothy 2:5-6 NLT)

 Something else, we must talk about, if anyone might be the least bit interested: the stupid stuff we do, that we pretend Jesus isn't watching us do! If you are looking for a way to make those things less important, then you must, with all your heart, place Jesus in the room! He is really already there, you just must, (and I say must with the earnest expression,) acknowledge His presence and allow Him to be Lord of every part of your life. 

 I love my son, but I did him no favors, when it came to being a strong example of a Christian man. They say that ministry needs to start in the home; and it is for a very important reason. I watched my son as he judged me for being an unfaithful husband, which really caused by soul to cry out for forgiveness. There was a season in my life when I was hooked on porn; so badly hooked, that I would actually look at it online, with my wife in the room, as if she didn't know what I was doing! 

 When my wife became disabled, there was a season when porn was not anymore of an interest, but once things leveled out and became routine, I was back at it again. My son was living in a little trailer at the house, and I was sitting out on the back porch with my laptop opened away from his line of sight; but I guess I forgot that there was a glass door behind me. My son stormed out of his trailer, went into the house, and pounded his fist onto the tile kitchen countertop.

 Talk about a reality check! I flashed back to the days when my wife was healthy and had a routine of watering the front yard at night, while I sat in my office on my computer. The blinds were shut, but they still could be looked through, which meant that the computer screen could be seen. I thought about the stupidity of my actions, how I not only hurt her heart, but I also caused my son to think that my faith wasn't all that real. 

 But for the grace of God, I have slain that dragon, and I never want to be captivated by that sinful mess, ever again! When my son passed away, there was something I needed to get right; although I couldn't actually ask him for forgiveness, I could ask the Lord to let him know how sorry I was for being a terrible example of a godly man. 

 We might think that this kind of sin is not hurting anyone, and that it's just something we do to ourselves; but that kind of sin is poison which spreads into everyone in your family. It is just as bad as cheating on your mate and stealing hope from your children. That is why we must see Jesus! He needs to be with us at all times, making us realize that He is always guiding us, cleaning up our lives, and showing us what real love looks like...

"I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him, even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief. Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus. This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" - and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst of sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen." (1 Timothy 1:12-17 NLT)