"Advise for Young and Old"

  "Light is sweet; how pleasant to see a new day dawning. When people live to be very old, let them rejoice in every day of life. But let them also remember there will be many dark days. Everything still to come is meaningless. 

 "Young people, it's wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it. Do everything you want to do; take it all in. But remember that you must give an account to God for everything you do. So refuse to worry, and keep your body healthy. But remember that youth, with a whole life before you, is meaningless." (Ecclesiastes 11:7-10 NLT)

  "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leak also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish." (PSALMS 1 KJV) 

 It is really strange to have had dreams last night about growing up; but I did sort of know what today's post was going to be about, so really, it isn't that strange after all. If you grew up in the 60's, you were most likely quite a bit freer to do things on your own, without your parents following you around and keeping watch over you. 

 In this current culture, when a small child is seen out on their own, people will report that the kid must be lost; or if the police see them, they will pick them up, find out where they live, and give the parents a citation to show up in court. It is very rare to see any kid walking around the city by themselves; especially a kid that might only be seven or eight years old. 

 I remember going to the store and turning in coke bottles for cash, in order to buy candy bars; I can see it clearly, as I stood there on my tiptoes to watch the coins be counted out on the counter. We played at night, sometimes out on the street; especially on Friday nights, because there was no school the next day. Things seemed so much better then, but maybe that is because 'child-abduction' wasn't such a real and present danger almost 60 years ago. 

 Some of the things I hear about, it is hard to believe some of what I have heard; but I am sure there is some truth in most of it, somewhere. If there were people back in the days of Solomon that were willing to sacrifice their children on the molten images and idols, just to have a good harvest; then why would we not believe people might be willing to sell their children to ungodly people...

 "Professing themselves to be wise, the became fools, and changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things." (Romans 1:22-23 KJV) 

"On the Solid Rock I Stand" -2

 "In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good." (Ecclesiastes 11:6 KJV)

  "The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. For we are both God's workers. And you are God's field. You are God's building. Because of God's grace to me, I have laid the foundation like an expert builder. Now others are building on it. But whoever is building on this foundation must be very careful. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have - Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 3:8-11 NLT)

 There are some things we do that don't really seem as though they make much of a difference; and then there are the things we do that cause great change. But none of these things really will count unless they are built upon the foundation of Christ, the Author and Finisher of our faith! 

 You might hear this said over and over, as if it needs to be repeated over and over again; but that is because it does! There are so many ministries that start out with just the right Foundation; but as time goes on, and as the ministry prospers and gets bigger, the foundation becomes the ministry, based upon what it has become. That is why Paul gives this warning to be very careful. 

 No matter what we might do and how hard we work to make anything happen, Jesus never changes; He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Much like the first day we believed in Him, that amazing power we felt that changed everything we ever knew or cared about, it happens again and again, if we just humble ourselves and put our trust in Him. 

 So, it really isn't a matter of what happens, whether a win or lose, sink or swim, live or die: what really matters is that you believe in Christ Jesus, for all that He has done, and for His promise to get us to the other side...

 "So don't boast about following a particular human leader. For everything belongs to you - whether Paul or Apollos or Peter, or the world, or life and death, or the present and the future. Everything belongs to you, and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God." (1 Corinthians 3:21-23 NLT) 

"On the Solid Rock I Stand"

 "In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good." (Ecclesiastes 11:6 KJV)

  "Meanwhile, the disciples were urging Jesus, "Rabbi, eat something." But Jesus replied, "I have a kind of food you know nothing about." "Did someone bring him food while we were gone?" the disciples asked each other. Then Jesus explained: "My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work. You know the saying, 'Four months between planting and harvest.' But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest. The harvesters are paid good wages, and the fruit they harvest is people brought to eternal life. What joy awaits both the planter and the harvester alike! You know the saying, 'One plants and another harvests.' And it's true. I sent you to harvest where you didn't plant; others had already done the work, and now you get to gather the harvest."" (John 4:31-38 NLT) 

 Looks like there might be something wrong with this title; as it is, there is really nothing to associate the Solid Rock with that of harvesting and sowing seed; especially not the harvest Jesus was showing His disciples, as these, white turbine wearing, Samaritans were ascending up the mountain, from the city below.  

 Something I discovered early on in my New Life as a believer in Christ: our faith in Christ is a river of life; it flows into us, and it must also flow out of us! Every river has to flow to be a river; if it doesn't flow, then it is dried up and worthless; stagnate and unhealthy, the life has dried up, and there are only dead fish left to be seen; any fish that are still alive, are trapped in little pools of water. 

 I know that description might sound rather dramatic, but there is life flowing into us, and it must flow out of us in order to stay alive! Whether we sow or harvest, either one is good! It could just be a blessing you say to someone, just a little, "God Bless You," as you pass by someone you don't even know; that could be enough to cause them to think about the Lord, or if they already know the Lord, to think about sharing Him also. 

 The harvest is the person that accepts the Lord into their heart, which could just happen by a little seed which gets sown. We really have no clue what God will do; but it is our responsibility to be ready to act when the Lord tells us what to do. 

 I have shared this before, but the first message I gave to the High School kids at church, was based upon this very special event: John 4:4 "He had to go through Samaria on the way." (NLT) Actually, the KJV says, "Must," which makes it more about something He needed to do. 

 When we moved the church from Palo Cedro to Shasta Lake, three of the High School kid's mothers made a beautiful picture embroidery of a dove; above it there was the words, Calvary Chapel Shasta Lake, and at the bottom it said, "Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields for they are already white for the harvest!" 

 This was all about Jesus needing to go, because He was prompted to meet the woman at the well; at the very least, He was prompted to go through Samaria; which was not something many Jews would actually do. But He was doing the work He was needing to do! I don't know about you, but whenever I don't do something, I feel prompted to do, I feel this empty feeling deep down in my gut; sometimes it even feels like I got punched in the gut; either way, it definitely doesn't feel satisfying...

"He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word. He was led like a lamb to the slaughter. And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, he did not open his mouth. Unjustly condemned, he was led away. No one cared that he died without descendants, that his life was cut short in midstream. But he was struck down for the rebellion of my people. He had done no wrong and had never deceived anyone. But he was buried like a criminal; he was put in a rich man's grave. But it was the LORD'S good plan to crush him and cause him grief. Yet when his life is made an offering for sin, he will have many descendants. He will enjoy a long life, and the LORD'S good plan will prosper in his hands. When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, he will be satisfied. And because of his experience, my righteous servant will make it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins." (Isaiah 53:7-11 NLT) 

"All The Time, God Is Good!" - To Me!

 "As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all." (Ecclesiastes 11:5 KJV)

  "The LORD says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control." Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the LORD. So rejoice in the LORD and be glad, all you who obey him! Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!" (PSALM 32:8-11 NLT)

 Keeping with the main point, hopefully it doesn't need to be repeated again; we really have no idea what the journey ahead might be, even if we plan it on our own, things happen, times change, and people forget what they were searching for or why they even started. But God, who does not change, when He directs us and watches over us; and we can know that the end of the journey will always be the same! 

 I might not understand why certain things happen, or why they happen still; but I know that God loves me, and He watches over me, and whatever might happen in this life doesn't compare to the glory and majesty that is waiting for us in Heaven. Nothing on this earth can come close to being with our Lord, for ever and ever! 

 As to the point about Jesus on the cross: Everyone that witnessed His death thought it was tragic, or disgusting, or even something that He deserved; depending upon what you might have thought of Him. But we know, beyond a doubt, it was the power of God working to save the entire earth! What might have appeared to be something tragic, became the greatest thing that could ever happen. What might have been disgusting, became the manifestation of God's love. What might have appeared to be His punishment, was actually ours! 

 These might be things that many people don't quite understand, but understanding that God really does love us, is really not that hard to do...

"Who has believed our message? To whom has the LORD revealed his powerful are? My servant grew up in the LORD'S presence like a tender green shoot, like a root in dry ground. There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance, nothing to attract us to him. He was despised and rejected - a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care. Yet it was our weakness he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins! But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God's paths to follow our own. Yet the LORD laid on him the sins of us all." (Isaiah 53:1-6 NLT)  

"All The Time, God Is Good!"

 "As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all." (Ecclesiastes 11:5 KJV)

  ""To whom will you compare me? Who is my equal?" asks the Holy One. Look up into the heavens. Who created all the stars? He brings them out like an army, one after another, calling each by name. Because of his great power and incomparable strength, not a single one is missing. O Jacob, how can you say the LORD does not see your troubles? O Israel, how can you say God ignores rights? Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint." (Isaiah 40:25-31 NLT)

 Just so you know, I went to bed last night thinking I was going to do another post on the last verse, again! But there is only so much I can say, even though there is more that needs to be said; but that is the beauty of God's word, there is always more it be explored and found; the deeper we look, the further His word will amaze us! 

 Yes, even if the things we see, and experience, are not all looking good, God is never able to make those bad things into good things, ever! We see things as they are, in this fallen world; most of which are the result of sin, brought about because of our sinful nature. But God sees the result of His mercy and grace; the things we might take part in but will hardly ever see the real results; at least not until we are safely up in Heaven!  

 By the way, just because we might suffer through something that is ugly, painful, and terribly tearing us into pieces, that doesn't mean that it doesn't work for the good. If you are God's child, everything He allows for you to go through is for your good, as well as the good for others, and for His purposes; most of which you do not even know. 

 If you really don't see that or understand how something so terrible can be good, then you really need to practice looking at the cross of Christ! See what horrible things the Son of God suffered through, what terrible humility He took upon Himself, as He hung there on that cross! The Creator of heaven and earth was crucified and humiliated on a cross: What might you be going though that could be any worse?  

 They say that the Book of Job is the oldest writings in the Bible; most likely that is for a very important reason: All The Time, God Is Good...

"Then Job spoke again: "My complaint today is still a bitter one, and I try hard not to groan aloud. If only I knew where to find God, I would go to his court. I would lay out my case and present my arguments. Then I would listen to his reply and understand what he says to me."" (Job 23:1-5 NLT) 

"Let Go and Let God!" -Too

 "He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap." (Ecclesiastes 11:4 KJV)

  "For God, who said, "Let there be light in the darkness," has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great message. This makes is clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves. We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We are knocked down, but we are not destroyed. Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies." (2 Corinthians 4:6-10 NLT)

 As I was thinking and praying about this post this morning, I was reminded about the way many people react to opposition and difficulties in starting or walking out something God has asked them to do. There are two simple facts that we should keep in mind when God's assignment is challenged or attacked: either the enemy is trying to stop what you are doing, or God is sharpening you for the journey ahead. 

 Either or, maybe even both, if there isn't any sign of something that is opposing your path you are on, you might actually be on the wrong path! Just a little FYI for those that are interested in taking on any sort of ministry or even a change in the way you are living. Please believe me; once you start doing all that you can to please the Lord, you will instantly have a target on your back, because the enemy will try to stop or hinder you, any way that he can. 

 That said, there are a couple things I feel can be illustrated by this verse, as to what it is that makes us give up or not go forward. The "wind" that is being spoken of is more like the spirit, good or bad, this is the way we feel or have emotions, such as fear or anger or sorrow. In case you might not know, but those who are hero's and risk their lives to save others, it is not because they don't have any fear, but because of the risk involved overcomes the fear, because they die to themselves. 

 If you are going to start focusing on your fear or doubt, then you will most likely quit at the slightest opposition or obstacle that gets in your way; especially if it involves something that you don't want to lose or get rid of. Which opens up a whole different view, that of the Spirit! How often do we not allow the Holy Spirit to guide and direct our lives? Or is just me that hesitates obedience? 

 I'm not talking about the little things we go through each and every day, even though they do happen; I am talking about things that will affect great changes in our lives; like moving to a place, you know nothing about, or quitting a job to start some sort of ministry. Things that will actually turn your life upside-down; or right-side-up, if you actually will trust the Lord and go forward, no matter what! 

 The other thing we can get tripped on, is "the clouds." Darkness is that which is observed, but it may not be real or something that cannot be taken down; but it should never be something that we look for in the outcome of what we do by serving the Lord! We need to look for be Light in everything God's hand is upon; even things that might look dark and destructive.

 This word "reap" is both good and bad, depending upon what we sow; but more than that, it is also what we believe in our hearts! Is God really good, all the time? Even when it might not look like a good thing is happening...

""Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command - be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."" (Joshua 1:8-9 NLT)  

"Let Go and Let God!"

 "He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap." (Ecclesiastes 11:4 KJV) 

  "Trust in the LORD with all your heart: do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take." (Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT)

 Without thinking too hard about it, there are two major points to this verse that will put this into the right perspective: Sowing and Reaping, which are two totally different things, but they work together, as one. There is this one point made in 1 Corinthians 3:5-11 about those who sow and those who water; but this is about something totally different. 

 Again, making this relevant to the uncertainties of life, there is certainty shown here, but it is learned by the individual, not something that they plan for or carry out. Case in point: the point about observing the wind, basically means that if it is windy out, then the person concerned about the wind will not cast out their seeds, because they fear they will not go where they want them to go; and regarding the clouds, if there is chance the rain might come during the harvest, the stored produce might get moldy or soggy. 

 These are not bad things, for the farmer; but if we are talking about someone that is letting God lead their life, then we are talking about a whole different subject. The are uncertainties and then there are things we must be certain of; when it comes to letting go and letting God take control of our life, we might be uncertain about what might happen along the way, but we can be certain God will carry us through whatever we might have to go through. 

 This life is totally and completely filled with uncertainties, there is no doubt about it! But God's plans are certain: they will be carried out, to the very end. He knows the beginning and the end...

"This is what the LORD says, "You will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you," says the LORD. "I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land."" (Jeremiah 29:10-14 NLT) 

"The Power of God's Word" - 2

 "If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be." (Ecclesiastes 11:3 KJV)

  "All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT)

 Looking at this from a little different angle, Solomon makes two points that are the of the same instance, based upon the colon, which makes the second portion amplify the first. Even though they might seem to be two totally different subjects, there is something that they have in common, that bases the reason for there to be a certain connection, in a special way. 

 What pray-tell could this special connection be? For one, Certainty! Much as God's says in Isaiah 55:11, "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." If God proclaims it will be, then that is what it will be, end of the argument! 

 As to the uncertainties of life, who can say with certainty when there will be rain, or which way the tree might fall? There is no one who can predict when and what might happen, except God! I get so messed up by planning my activities based upon my phones forecast of the weather. They might have a pretty good call of what will happen within the hour; but when they start giving weather reports a week out, it's just speculation most of the time; so, don't plan for a trip to your favorite campsite, if you aren't willing to get wet. 

 This is the main argument for the authenticity of the Bible, that God's word shows us things that were to happen, way before they actually happened. Just the things which were happening when Jesus came to die on the cross, He fulfilled something like 300 prophecies. They say that just eight things which had happened, enter the realm impossible.

 There might be some things in the Bible which cannot be understood, but there is nothing that cannot be believed...

"Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. Through their faith, the people in days of old earned a good reputation. By faith we understand that the entire universe was formed by God's command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen." (Hebrews 11:1-3 NLT) 

"The Power of God's Word"

 "If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be." (Ecclesiastes 11:3 KJV)

  ""The rain and 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."" (Isaiah 55:10-11 NLT)

 Again, "The Uncertainties of Life," come into focus, because what happens here on this earth, may not be what is or could be, because God's in control of the outcome; He has made this very obvious in His word, over and over again. Yes, the devil might be the ruler of this earth, but he only has a certain amount of power to cause trouble and take as many of us with him, into the final judgement. But in the end, God will win! 

 There is something special about the true way to understand and treat God's word; the most important thing of all, is to trust that it is actually His Word, believing that He ordained every single thing that was written. Once you have accepted that to be true, no matter how hard it might be to understand whatever you don't know, you will just practice believing it; understanding that it is what it says it is, and that settles it! Some might say you are foolish, but obviously, what they say doesn't count. 

 Anyone who tries to tell you that everything in the Bible isn't true, should really not be paid attention to, because God's Word is TRUE! Even if there is something you don't understand, there are a lot of things we don't understand, even about the things of this earth. Why doesn't everything just fly off of the earth, at the rate of speed that this earth is spinning? 

 Last week I was eating at Applebee's, watching the drag races on the tv screen. It was amazing to watch the way they sometimes just lifted up off the ground, rolling and breaking apart as if they were like a leak being sweep up off the ground. That was just from going several hundred miles an hour; imagine what it would be like if they were going 1,000 miles an hour! 

 Then, as if a 40 mile an hour wind couldn't do much to a plane, there was a plane that flipped upside down on the runway, just by being in the right position, at the wrong time. They could try to practice that maneuver over and over again, and it probably wouldn't happen. 

 There are a lot of things on this earth that are hard to understand; but trusting in God isn't one of them...

"You faithfully answer our prayers with awesome deeds, O God our savior. You are the hope of everyone on earth, even those who sail on distant seas. You formed the mountains by your power and armed yourself with mighty strength. You quieted the raging oceans with their pounding waives and silenced the shouting of nations. Those who live at the ends of the earth stand in awe of your wonders. From where the sun rises to where it sets, you inspire shouts of joy." (PSALM 65:5-8 NLT)    

 

"The Power of Forgiveness" - To

 "Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth." (Ecclesiastes 11:2 KJV)

  "Then Peter came to him and asked, "Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?" "No, not seven times," Jesus replied, "but seventy times seven!"" (Matthew 18:21-22 NLT)

 What we are looking at, (remembering that we are sharing about 'The Uncertainties of life'), is the idea of being prepared for that which you must do, not being concerned over how it affects you, but more about what it does for others. Jesus said, "Do unto others as you would have them do to you," so in clear view of what that looks like, we are prepared to do right, no matter if we might be treated wrong in the process. 

 In other words, because of the love and compassion that we have been given by our Heavenly Father, we must have love and compassion for others, which basically means, that we are willing to show others the love and compassion, no matter what! That might sound easy to do, (not), but as much as we might plan to be loving and compassionate, when we get offended or taken advantage of, we turn and care more about ourselves. 

 As crazy as it might sound, but this power of forgiveness is closely associated with the cheerful giver, as everything is to be done in a way to honor God, not ourselves! Actually, there is so much more that they have in common; but the main point of what our responsibility is, as a child of God, is to give glory and honor to Him, in all that we do; especially with the way we treat others...

"So get rid of all evil behavior. Be done with deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all unkind speech. Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment, now that you have had a taste of the Lord's kindness. You are coming to Christ, who is the living cornerstone of God's temple. He was rejected by people, but he was chosen by God for great honor. And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What's more, you are his holy priests. Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God." (1 Peter 2:1-5 NLT)  

"The Power of Forgiveness"

 "Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth." (Ecclesiastes 11:2 KJV)

  ""But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you. If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek also. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt also. Give to anyone who asks; and when things are taken away from you, don't try to get them back. Do to others as you would like them to do to you."" (Luke 6:27-31 NLT) 

 Maybe this is a case of me scratching the surface, looking for things which might not exist; but, then again, if we are trying to set some sort of example, this might be a very good place to start. There is a special hidden secret about the power of forgiveness: The biggest benefactor in the act of forgiving is the one that forgives! 

 If you really must know, you don't even need to forgive someone face to face; although it does help to know what they think and how they might react. But there are sometimes those who we want to forgive, but they might have already passed on and we have no chance to tell them that we forgive them. What then? Do we wait to hopefully great them in heaven? 

 Why should we punish ourselves for something that was done to us? Forgiveness means that you have the power to forgive; whether they can be reached out to, or can never be found, this is something that takes place within our hearts; a decision we make, which helps us to love someone, regardless of what they might have done. 

 Guess who knows what you have done: The One that matters most of all...

""If you love only those who love you, why should you get credit for that? Even sinners love those who love them! And if you do good only to those who are good to you, why should you get credit? Even sinners do that much! And if you lend money only to those who can repay you, why should you get credit? Even sinners will lend to other sinners for a full return. "Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to get repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate."" (Luke 6:32-36 NLT)   

"The Cheerful Giver" - To

 "Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days." (Ecclesiastes 11:1 KJV)

  "Don't be misled - you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessings if we don't give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone - especially to those in the family of faith." (Galatians 6:7-10 NLT)

 Understanding what it means to, "Don't let the left hand know what the right hand is doing," we must first understand why we serve the Lord, is it out of love or is it to satisfy a personal need or passion. Do we have something of an idol, that is part of why we give or serve? If what we do is built upon, then it could be just that, an idol: which is something we place value in, as if it will bring about that which we are longing for! 

 First of all, everything belongs to God! The money we make, the life we live, the family we have been given; all that we do, whether giving or serving, it is all for Him and to Him, because it is all from Him! Therefore, if it is something that is done through us, it is His as we live out the life of Christ in our lives: He is working in us and through us. 

 After knowing that, we can then understand a little better why it is not our power that is doing the work or our money that is given away; but it is all about Him, the One who gives and takes away! Which is what makes us the cheerful giver! We are blessed to give away, as God gives us the ability to give, we are just a conduit for Him to help and bless others. 

 That might not satisfy everyone's needs to understand how giving and serving shouldn't be kept track of, as if you are counting all those you have blessed, or how much you have given; because these things are not the blessing you should keep track of, because, what you give away is between you and the Lord. But what God blesses you with, that is what makes you the cheerful giver; and that is what pleases God and cannot be taken away... 

""Watch out! Don't do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. When you give to someone in need, don't do as the hypocrites do - blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get. But when you give to someone in need, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you."" (Matthew 6:1-4 NLT) 

"The Cheerful Giver"

 "Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days." (Ecclesiastes 11:1 KJV)

  "Remember this - a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say, "They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever." For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you." (2 Corinthians 9:6-10 NLT)

 Rather interesting verse, as to be expected. In the commentary or Cross-Reference for this verse, specifically on the word, "cast," there is a little bit of information about what this might look like, compared to the giving or work, which ever, because everything should be done out of pleasure to give, not expecting to get anything in return: "'So thy seed or corn on the face of the water;' in plain terms, sow without any hope of a harvest: do good even to them on whom your benefactions seem thrown away." 

 This might be hitting really close to home, as it is, this first month of the year has really tested my trust in God's promise to give, expecting that there would be something good from giving generously. Yet, when we expect it to happen, we should not make light of the fact of why we give, in the first place. We should not give to receive, but we give because of what we have been given! 

 Case in point: When you give, you give from your blessings: blessings that are so plentiful, you could never give enough! Therefore, where you cast your offerings to, are not really to produce for you, but they are meant to bless others; eventually or in the end, you will reap great rewards...

""Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me to your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.' "Then theses righteous ones will reply, 'Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?' And the King will say, 'I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!'"" (Matthew 25:34-40 NLT)  

"The Uncertainties of Life"

  "Send your grain across the seas, and in time, profits will flow back to you. But divide your investments among many places, for you do not know what risks might lie ahead. When clouds are heavy, the rain comes down. Whether a tree falls north or south, it stays where it falls. Farmers who wait for perfect weather never plant. If they watch every cloud, they never harvest.

 "Just as you cannot understand the path of the wind or the mystery of a tiny baby growing in its mother's womb, so you cannot understand the activity of God, who does all things. Plant your seed in the morning and keep busy all afternoon, for you don't know if profit will come from one activity or another - or maybe both." (Ecclesiastes 11:1-6 NLT) 

  "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour; whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen." (1 Peter 5:6-11 KJV)

 Just so you know, I spent quite a while yesterday thinking about something I said, involving the ways we might feel disappointment with something which might happen in our lives; whether to us or to a loved one; and to whether or not that disappointment is somehow a form of doubting God? Can we have any form of disappointment in a matter, and still trust God has everything under control? 

 I thought about certain examples of what that might actually look like: Abraham's challenge to sacrifice his son; David's fasting and prayers for the dying son of Bathsheba; and Jesus' reaction to Peter's third denial of knowing Jesus. Each and every one of them expressed some sort of disappointment in the process of what was going on; but they all still believed that the matter would be handled, in one way or another. 

 We seriously have no control over the uncertainties of this life; when bad things happen, we might mourn and weep, feeling the disappointment in what has happened: but in one way or another, God will make everything work towards the good, through every single travesty or situation! Does that mean we don't need to mourn or feel disappointment in the process of the way things look? 

 My heart broke the night my wife was brought out of surgery, after being in there for over 8 hours. She looked as if she was on ice and had tubes in her everywhere. They told me I needed to go home or else I would need to be hospitalized also. But when I got home, I could do nothing but breakdown and weep; weeping so hard, I could hardly catch my breath. 

 All that I could say, is "Why!" It might sound strange, but after almost an hour or so, I saw a vision of Jesus hanging on the cross; and all of the sudden I felt a peace. It didn't really cure my disappointment in what had happened, but it gave me peace, as if there was this tragedy that has taken place, but things can only get better; they surely couldn't have gotten any worse! 

 When Jesus died on the cross, each and every one of His disciples were so disappointed in the outcome that had taken place; most of them couldn't believe that it actually happened, as if it was just a dream, and maybe it would soon be over. And this disappointment was foretold to them, several times: at one point Jesus even told them that they would be undone and greatly saddened; but that they would be filled with joy after He had risen again! 

 So, yes, I feel that there is always a good reason to have disappointment in the process; but we must always have hope in the end...

"Then Jesus said unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet I will never be offended. Jesus said unto him, Verily, I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples." (Matthew 26:31-35 KJV)   

"Stand Your Ground" - Too

 "Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the air shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter." (Ecclesiastes 10:20 KJV)

  "As he rode along, the crowds spread out their garments on the road ahead of him. When he reached the place where the road started down the Mount of Olives, all of his followers began to shout and sing as they walked along, praising God for all the wonderful miracles they had seen. "Blessings on the King who comes in the name of the LORD! Peace in heaven, and glory in highest heaven!" But some of the Pharisees among the crowd said, "Teacher, rebuke your followers for saying things like that!" He replied, "If they kept quiet, the stones along the road would burst into cheers!"" (Luke 19:36-40 NLT)

 Because it matters, I ask that there be some sort of goodness in this world; at least something that will cause some people to pay attention and start to turn towards the Lord, feeling that they see hope in all that is being done. Other than that, when the church will be taken up, there will be a great number of people who will believe; but they will be forced to stand up for what they believe, losing their heads in the process! 

 I have heard it said, multiple times: "If you can't confess Jesus now, with the out fear of facing death, what makes you think you will confess Him then, while you are going to be killed if you do?" Those who pretend that they will believe when they see proof, as if there is such a thing as, "seeing is believing," will find out soon enough, seeing really doesn't change the human heart. If you saw all of the miracles that Jesus did, why then would His disciples flee, when they witnessed, Him being put to death? 

 Think about those who walked through the Red Sea, while the water was held up like walls, as they safely walked through the sea: Did they have undeniable faith after they saw that mighty miracle? No; after all of what God did to deliver them from Egypt, every time they felt the need, they complained, "If only the LORD had killed us back in Egypt!" 

 No wonder it matters more about faith, than it does about seeing! We must have faith to believe, because seeing is only for a moment, then it flees: "Out of sight, out of mind!" Just because you have been disappointed over something that might have happened in your life, it doesn't mean that you cannot still have faith. What God does with those things which disappoint us, we really don't see how or why, but they will somehow all work towards the good, in one way or another. 

 I have tried several times to imagine why God has allowed what happen to my wife; but each and every time, although I am disappointed by it, I still trust that He is working things out, in ways that I could never really fully understand. We don't get to see the whole picture, just glimpses of the things we might be part of, but most of the miracles happen where we cannot see. 

 Anywho, that's my take on what I feel God is saying, through Solomon; if that is really true, as we have been so mightily shown! Is this really His Word? Do you sincerely believe it is so? If you do, then stand your ground and don't back down...

"For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes - the Jew first and also the Gentiles. This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, "It is through faith that a righteous person has life." But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities - his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God." (Romans 1:16-20 NLT)   

"Stand Your Ground"

 "Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the air shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter." (Ecclesiastes 10:20 KJV)

  ""Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell. What is the price of two sparrows - one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. "Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven."" (Mathew 10:28-33 NLT)

 I hope I didn't offend anyone yesterday, but I was a little bit upset over the treatment of President Trump, as well as Elon, who, by the way is not asking for anything, but is giving up his time to search out fraud and abuse that is being wasted with our taxes. It is very interesting to see those who are protesting what is being discovered, as if it was their money, not ours! The more power that is given, the more power will be taken; until it is we the people who serve the government, not the other way around as it was meant to be when this nation was founded. 

 I can remember my mother telling me, back in the 60's, that most governments don't last more and 200 years. We are preparing to celebrate 250 years, soon enough; and this really could be the last President that we have, because there is sure to be some sort of great revolt. By the way, there is a special message in the Book of Revelation, one which is a reference to "the last trump". Many believe that this is the point at which the rapture happens, when the last trump is sounded, it will suddenly happen, in the blink of an eye! 

 Don't get too comfortable, thinking that everything is under control; because there are some serious, extremely evil, sources at work throughout this entire earth. We cannot see the magnitude of what is at work, but it will all soon be revealed; just you wait and see! If you have ever gone surfing at the beach, you know that there is going to be a big wave, when the water starts to go out into the sea...

""Don't imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword. 'I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. Your enemies will be right in your own household!' "If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it."" (Matthew 10:34-39 NLT)  

"Yes, LORD!" - Yes!

 "A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things." (Ecclesiastes 10:19 KJV)

  "Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to your name goes all the glory for your unfailing love and faithfulness. Why let the nations say, "Where is their God?" Our God is in the heavens, and he does as he wishes. Their idols are merely things of silver and gold, shaped by human hands. They have mouths but cannot speak, and eyes cannot see. They have ears but cannot hear, and noses but cannot smell. They have hands but cannot feel, and feet but cannot walk, and throats but cannot make a sound. And those who make idols are just like them, as are all who trust in them." (PSALM 115:1-8 NLT)

 There is something about idols which can be hard to acknowledge, because they are part of what makes us what we are, without even knowing that we have actually made ourselves an idol. I know that might sound a little confusing to think about, but even our families can become an idol, if that is what we make it out to be. 

 When the Bible says that everything belongs to God, it isn't just talking about all the physical things that we can see and touch; it also includes the things we plan and prepare for; our livelihood, our finances, and even our families. If you haven't realized that by now, then you should ask yourself about the amount of stuff you brought into this life and then show what it is you will take with you when you leave. I am willing to bet that the answer is absolutely nothing! 

 This morning, I woke up and turned on my favorite news segment, "Fox and Friends First," which airs from 2am to 3am pacific time. Most of the time it highlights things which most reporters will stay away from, which is the reason I like watching them so much. This morning, they were sharing a little secret that Elon discovered, something about a special mineshaft where Government records are kept; actually, in manilla-envelopes; records of retirees from the Government.

 Apparently, according to some of the records, there are retirees that are still alive at the age of 150 years old. Which is really hard to believe; but when it comes to the Government, anything is possible: Not! I really am looking forward to what takes place today! How did it come to pass that we the people are the ones that work for the government, when it was meant to be the other way around: the government is to have been working for us? 

 With that, I will ask something which I feel is simple to see: Can you imagine what might be going on in this world right now, if Trump hadn't won the election? If you listen to the Pastors that have the right sense, this is God's way of saying, "Last Call!" We are only righting a sinking ship! 

 By the way, I was given the honor, (or should I say the duty,) of being stationed in Port-Steering during our General-Quarters drills, on an aircraft carrier, to say the least. Do you know what that station is and what it represents? We are the last ones to leave; if we are even allowed to leave at all, because we go down with the ship! Four men that are there to keep that ship turning in a two-mile radius, while everyone else abandons the ship. 

 Think of it this way: If the things didn't stop, for this small window of time, most of our churches would have had to either convert to being Woke or shut their doors. That doesn't mean it won't still happen, because it most likely will. But it surely won't happen on the Trump watch! Today is a time to start saving your families: God is giving everyone the "Last Call" chance...

"As they were walking along, someone said to Jesus, "I will follow you wherever you go." But Jesus replied, "Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place even to lay his head." He said to another person, "Come follow me." The man agreed, but he said, "Lord, first let me return home and bury my father." But Jesus told him, "Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead! Your duty is to go and preach about the Kingdom of God." Another said, "Yes, Lord, I will follow you, but first let me say goodbye to my family." But Jesus told him, "Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God."" (Luke 9:57-62 NLT) 

"Yes, LORD!" - Too

 "A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things." (Ecclesiastes 10:19 KJV)

  "One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to have dinner with him, so Jesus went to his home and sat down to eat. When a certain immoral woman from the city heard he was eating there, she brought a beautiful alabaster jar filled with expensive perfume. Then she knelt behind him at his feet, weeping. Her tears fell on his feet, and she wiped them off with her hair. Then she kept kissing his feet and putting perfume on them. When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would know what kind of woman is touching him. She's a sinner!" Then Jesus answered his thoughts, "Simon." he said to the Pharisee, "I have something to say to you." "Go ahead, Teacher," Simon replied. Then Jesus told him this story: "A man loaned money to two people - 500 pieces of silver to one and 50 pieces to the other. But neither of them could repay him, so he kindly forgave them both, canceling their debts. Who do you suppose loved him more after that?"" (Luke 7:36-42 NLT) 

 As much as I would like to say, 'I told you so,' I feel as though there is more to this than just simple illustration and the reason the Holy Spirit has brought me to this Scripture. I have heard it said that it is easier to save someone that truly knows that they are a sinner, than it is to save someone who has been raised up in the church, thinking that they really don't have any sins, to speak of. 

 This might not be easy, but I will try to explain what this might look like, today or tomorrow; either way, it has got to make sense! There are three things that Solomon is bringing to the table: A feast, wine, and money. All three of them have something in common, but they don't necessarily mean what is being shown that they might do. 

 Starting with the last, because it is the sum of all three, all balled up into one: Money truly does not answer all things! Jesus gives this illustration in several different ways, throughout every one of the Gospels. Yes, money does make a difference; some for good, and some for not; but we should never count on money to take care of us or treat money as if it is the answer to all that we need. 

 People who don't understand what money can do, don't realize it soon enough, until they have none; at which time, they either will trust in God, or they will search for ways to make money! I would say, look to find ways to honor God, letting Him be the source that keeps them fat and happy...

"This is what the LORD says: "Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Could you build me such a temple as good as that? My hands have made both heaven and earth; they and everything in them are mine. I, the LORD, have spoken! "I will bless those who have humble and contrite hearts, who tremble at my word. But those who choose their own ways - delighting in their detestable sins - will not have their offerings accepted. When such people sacrifice a bull, it is no more acceptable than a human sacrifice. When they sacrifice a lamb, it's as though they had sacrificed a dog! When they bring an offering of grain, they might as well offer the blood of a pig. When they burn frankincense, it's as if they had blessed an idol. I will send them great trouble - all the things they feared. For when I called, they did not answer. When I spoke, they did not listen. They deliberately sinned before my very eyes and chose to do what they know I despise."" (Isaiah 66:1-4 NLT) 

"Yes, LORD!"

 "A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things." (Ecclesiastes 10:19 KJV)

  ""So why do you keep calling me 'Lord, Lord!' when you don't do what I say? I will show you what it's like when someone comes to me, listens to me teaching, and then follows it. It is like a person building a house who digs deep and lays the foundation on solid rock. When the floodwaters rise and break against the house, it stands firm because it is well built. But anyone who hears and doesn't obey is like a person who builds a house without a foundation. When the floods sweep down against that house, it will collapse into a heap of ruins."" (Luke 6:46-49 NLT)

 If you thought that there might have been no real proof that peace really comes from God, you should pay closer attention to what wasn't said, because there is where the real proof is more real, than what might be actually seen or heard. If you are truly obeying what the Lord says, even though you might go through the storms with everyone else, your peace will remain and you will know, no matter how hard it gets, it will be well with your soul; because if God is for you, nothing can come against you! 

 Does that mean you won't get harmed or there will not be something tragic happening to you or your loved ones? Sad to say, but no! There will be tribulation; there will be times of storms and some kind of destruction or tragedy. The same things fall on the just and the unjust, the saints and the sinners. We, on the other hand, have more to look forward to, then anything this world has to offer; and anything that is lost, is still not worth more than what we will gain in Heaven! 

 Basically, what I am trying to say, is that peace comes from being sure that you are being obedient to the Lord. If you know that you are pleasing the Lord, then you don't really have any worries from anything that might be going on all around you. But, if you have convictions and feel as though you have not been a faithful servant, then you really won't feel the peace that comes from God, because you will feel as though you are disconnected, because of sin...

"Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it." (James 4:17 NLT)  

  

"Peace Like a River" - TO

 "By much slothfulness the building decayeth; and through idleness of the hands the house droppeth through." (Ecclesiastes 10:18 KJV)

  ""Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn't obey it is foolish, like a person who builds his house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash."" (Matthew 7:24-27 NLT)

 Back to the beginning, when we first started this journey through this very strange and interesting Book, I shared about this being meant for those that are secular humanist; and yet, there are those within the church, at all most every level, who in their hearts are no different than the average secular humanist, with the way they obey and follow everything that the Lord tells them to do. It is almost as if they don't need to listen; either because they serve within the church; or they give enough money that don't need to listen or are immune to having to obey. 

 Besides that, there are those who see the Bible as just a book that has stories and allegories of things which didn't really happen or are more about things to make us think. When in the real and perfect world in which God has given us this Love Letter for, it is not so much about thinking, but about His Word changing the persons heart! 

 We are told in God's word, by this same Preacher: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the LORD and turn away from evil. Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones." (Proverbs 3:5-8 NLT)

 You see, the text, which is so popular, is just the beginning of what is meant to be; we must make the choice to put what we have been told, to work. If it isn't put to the test, then there is no reaction; if there is no reaction, then there is no real connection with the Source! Yes, He gives us the peace we need to get though every situation; but it is His peace, which means that it reflects back to Him...

"By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world's corruption caused by human desires. In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God's promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone. The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But those who fail to develop in this way are shortsighted or blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their old sins. So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away. Then God will give you a grand entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2 Peter 1:3-11 NLT)   

"Peace Like a River"

 "By much slothfulness the building decayeth; and through idleness of the hands the house droppeth through." (Ecclesiastes 10:18 KJV)

  "Our great desire is that you will keep on loving others as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true. Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God's promises because of their faith and endurance." (Hebrews 6:11-12 NLT)

 There is something special about this title, if you are wondering how it might compare with this very strange and interesting verse dealing with slothfulness and idleness: Putting off that which God has given us to do, will wear you down and you will not have peace! Do you need some examples? 

 ""I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is good for you and leads you along the paths you should follow. Oh, that you had listened to my commands! Then you would have had peace flowing like a gentle river and righteousness rolling over you like waves in the sea."" (Isaiah 48:17-18 NLT)

""Anyone who doesn't love me will not obey me. And remember, my words are not my own. What I am telling you is from the Father who sent me. I am telling you these things now while I am still with you. But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative - that is, the Holy Spirit - he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. "I and leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid."" (John 14:24-27 NLT)

"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)

And who can ignore: "The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me." (PSALM 23:1-4 NLT) 

Father, I pray that you would help us to be good stewards of the wonderful peace that you have given us, not forgetting the great hope we have in your promises and your amazing love for us, that you proved by sending your Son to die for our sins. Help us to be vessels worthy of your calling and the purposes you have for our lives. Make us know and understand that nothing we might go through in this life can take away the eternal life we have been given; and nothing will ever be able to remove us from your hand! In the name of Jesus, our KING, Amen...

"The Joy of the Lord!" - Too

 "Blessed art thou, O land, when thy king is the son of nobles, and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for drunkenness!" (Ecclesiastes 10:17 KJV)

  "Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Oh, give me back my joy again; you have broken me - now let me rejoice. Don't keep looking at my sins. Remove the stain of my guilt. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Do not banish me from your presence, and don't take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you. Then I will teach your ways to rebels, and they will return to you." (PSALM 51:7-13 NLT)

 Yes, there is a connection, based upon the "Woe" we witnessed before, and the "Blessed" we see being shown today; the "O land," remains the same, yet it has somewhat of a different meaning. In this instance there is the involvement of all of creation; specifically, heaven and earth! If you don't mind, it is the part of this illustration that takes what is worldly, making it that which includes heaven, as if there is more than just a connection, there is blessed hope! 

 If you get right down to it, without hope, joy is really not realized; even though our joy in the Lord is a choice, our joy comes from knowing He has saved us, eternally, and there is assurance that He will keep us safe and secure, no matter what! Discouragement and doubt are the two most important tools the devil has to try and get us to stumble and give up on the hope we have been given. Unfortunately, many of our fellow saints have fallen away, having been hit with either one, or both; usually it includes the beginning of one to trigger the other: doubt will cause discouragement, and discouragement will cause doubt. 

 Either, or, we still have a choice! There is really nothing left for us to do, except believe! Renew your faith by just trusting in your Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus, knowing that He has paid the price for you; yes, you! That might seem too simple for some, but there is nothing different from that, and what took place when you first believed. The only difference, is now, you are closer than you have ever been to the glory waiting on the other side! Rejoice and give Him the glory...

"Forgive me for shedding blood, O God who saves; then I will joyfully sing of your forgiveness. Unseal my lips, O Lord, that my mouth may praise you. You do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one. You do not want a burnt offering. The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God." (PSALM 51:14-17 NLT)  

"The Joy of the Lord!"

 "Blessed art thou, O land, when thy king is the son of nobles, and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for drunkenness!" (Ecclesiastes 10:17 KJV)

  "Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were interpreting for the people said to them, "Don't mourn or weep on such a day as this! For today is a sacred day before the LORD your God." For the people had all been weeping as they listened to the words of the law. And Nehemiah continued, "Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!"" (Nehemiah 8:9-10 NLT)

 Before this gets too far gone, let me say it again: There are two very distinct ways to see what is being said, if, that is you are willing to take this as something which is meant to change the human heart. From the very beginning of the message, Solomon has been illustrating two totally different ways to accept what is happening on this earth; one is through the eyes of those who are earth-dwellers, the other, through the eyes of those believing in God, looking forward to something far greater than this earth! 

 You can choose to accept it or reject it; but no matter what you might believe, in the end you will know the truth, but by then it will be too late to make your choice; it will be judgment time! Much like this verse of encouragement in Nehemiah: when you read and understand the word of God, there will need to be a time to rejoice! There is joy in knowing God's love and will for us, because He truly does care for us, more than we could ever realize, while living here on this earth. 

 From the very beginning, when Adam and Eve lived in the garden, God's one simple law, "Don't eat of that fruit," was not something that satisfied them, but instead, it caused them to feel the need for more, as if God was holding something back from them. Exactly, just what the serpent told them! 

 It is all about making the right choices! If you do what God says to do, then you will experience great peace and joy; but if you don't, you will be lost and afraid, missing out on all the blessings...

"Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them. It is shameful even to talk about the things ungodly people do in secret. But their evil intentions will be exposed when the light shines on them, for the light makes everything visible. This is why it is said, "Awake, O sleeper. rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light." So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do." (Ephesians 5:10-17 NLT) 

"Living for Jesus!" - Two

 "Woe to thee, O land, when thy king is a child, and thy princes eat in the morning!" (Ecclesiastes 10:16 KJV)

  ""Therefore, the kingdom of Heaven can be compared to a king who decided to bring his accounts up to date with servants who had borrowed money from him. In the process, one of his debtors was brought in who owed him millions of dollars. He couldn't pay, so the master ordered that he be sold - along with his wife, his children, and everything he owned - to pay the debt. "But the man fell down before his master and begged him, 'Please, be patient with me, and I will pay it all.' Then his master was filled with pity for him, and he released him and forgave his debt. "But when the man left the king, he went to a fellow servant who owed him a few thousand dollars. He grabbed him by the throat and demanded instant payment. "His fellow servant fell down before him and begged for a little more time. 'Be patient with me, and I will pay it,' he pleaded. But his creditor wouldn't wait. He had the man arrested and put in prison until the debt could be paid in full."" (Matthew 18:23-30 NLT) 

 I you have been following this blog for any length of time; about 7 years ago, I think it was, I shared about this particular parable Jesus gave, based upon forgiveness. Much like that verse from Isaiah 5:18-19 that was the start of yesterday's post, my opinion about this unforgiving servant, was that he knew he would fall into debt again, therefore his forgiveness from the king, although it was greatly appreciated in the moment, it would not have lasted long, because he would end up being back in debt again. 

 Part of our forgiveness involves us being set free from our old sins, which takes us making the choice to actually forgive ourselves, in the process. Yes, the old man is to be considered crucified with Christ; but we don't then, take him down from the cross and strap the dead carcass on our back! That just makes us stink and feel very uncomfortable, to say the least. 

 To put this into something which might make more sense: The 'Woe to thee,' which is given to, "O land", is speaking to the earth, 'especially when a land is put for the inhabitants.' The funny thing about this, is that we who have been made right with God, no longer are the earth's inhabitants; we are now just pilgrim's, waiting to be taken home, into Heaven. 

 Those things of the past are still part of the earth, but we have no more debt to pay for anything here on this earth. Does that mean we don't have any obligation to make good on the things we once did that were wrong? Absolutely not! As a matter of fact, the wrong which was once part of us, is now used for God's glory, as we use the things which once caused us to sin, to be things which are blessings to others! 

 Much as this Unforgiving Servant: As he was forgiven such a big dealt, his forgiveness was meant to be something he would show forth to others. If you were once something unloving, hurting and beating up others; then you are now someone that loves others, making those who are beaten and hurt feel better; that they can see Jesus' love through you. 

 The other portions of that verse describe the other side of all of that: "when thy king is a child, and thy princes eat in the morning," this is about being irresponsible and wasting the opportunity to do what is right, what is required, and what pleases the Father, who watches you from Heaven...

"Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God - truly righteous and holy. So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. And "don't sin by letting anger control you." Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. And do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you." (Ephesians 4:21-32 NLT) 

"Living for Jesus!"

"Wow to thee, O land, when they king is a child, and thy princes eat in the morning!" (Ecclesiastes 10:16 KJV)

  "What sorrow for those who drag their sins behind them with ropes made of lies, who drag wickedness behind them like a cart! They even mock God and say, "Hurry up and do something! We want to see what you can do. Let the Holy One of Israel carry out his plan, for we want to know what it is."" (Isaiah 5:18-19 NLT)

 Before you judge me for something that might not seem relevant or in context with this Scripture, try and think about what it actually means to be Living for Jesus; because there is more to this than just trying to be good, or hoping to not fall or stumble. Those who live to serve the Lord are those who are usually going to be judged and hated, because there are more people that will be offended by His servants, then there are those that feel comfort and joy, if they are actually preaching. 

 The more I think about this, the more it makes for something to talk about. How often we hope to see God's power put to work, yet hope that it doesn't shape or change us, personally? And if it looks like it will, we find any excuse to make our way to the door! 

 I wish there was a way to undo certain things that I have done; but there is nothing that is possible to change my sins and turn them into good works. But I know someone that can; but in order to make that happen, He must be Lord of my life, from morning to morning, every single day and night! If you get right down to it, there really isn't a holiday or time off, for the servant of the Lord! 

 As far as those four faces that represent whatever they represent, they surely represent the Lord: but at the same time, just as they represented the tribes of Israel, they also represent us, those who are the children of God; those of us that are trying to be like Christ, will experience being the man, the ox, the lion, and the eagle. 

 Where do you think the name, "Christian," first originated from? We don't always get what God might want us to do, but we should always get what God expects us to do...

"What can we bring to the LORD? What kind of offering should we give him? Should we bow before God with offerings of yearling calves? Should we offer him thousands of rams and ten thousand rivers of olive oil? Should we sacrifice our firstborn children to pay for our sins? No, O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." (Micah 6:6-8 NLT)  

"Resting in Jesus" - 2

 "The labour of the foolish wearieth every one of them, because he knoweth not how to go to the city." (Ecclesiastes 10:15 KJV) 

  ""Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink - even if you have no money! Come, take you 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)

 Sometimes we fail to read the Manual, which in this case is The Bible! I don't know about you, but there is meant to be certain things which that are easy to figure out, without having to find out the hard way that you have been going down the wrong road. In the case of this, "city," which the foolish have no clue to find their way there; this is a place that is fortified and safe, a high tower of refuge and strength, not a place of worry and fear.

 How many times have you worried about your situation, as if it is something that God can't help you through? Or what do you think about when your life seems to be going the wrong way? Where do you go the find the right way, and how hard do you think you must work to find it? 

 There was a time when I really felt as though I could learn how the let go, without thinking about where it would take me, or how it might look like when God catches my fall; or if He even would! Sometimes we just need to surrender! Or as my pastor of 1989 once said, "Sometimes, we just need to learn how to drown!" 

 I feel as though there is something I am missing, something about this message which goes from speaking of plural foolish ones, to that of a singular context. Could be that the foolish are double-minded and just spinning in circles trying to find rest? Maybe it might have four different sides, like Ezekiel's vision of four cherubim had four faces, one was the face of ox, then the face of a man, the third the face of a lion, and the fourth the face of an eagle. They seemed to move as though they had no pattern, but when they moved, the wheels moved, and when they stopped, the wheels also stopped. 

 When the children of Israel were moving through the wilderness, they had four flags that had this same illustration; each flag had one of these same creatures, which represented the particular tribes and their formations. Interestingly enough, the four Gospels have the same representation; all of which have the faces, as it is also in Revelation.

 Whatever this means, I am sure one day it will be easy to understand; but until that day comes, we must focus upon Jesus and totally surrender to whatever He has for us to do: If it isn't down through Christ, it really won't be of much worth...

"So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone, a new life has begun!" (2 Corinthians 5:16-17 NLT)  

"Resting in Jesus"

 "The labour of the foolish wearieth every one of them, because he knoweth not how to go to the city." (Ecclesiastes 10:15 KJV)

  "Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light."" (Matthew 11:28-30 NLT)

 Just so you know, most people will think that we are fools for believing in Jesus; as a matter of fact, you can talk to some people about God, but as soon as you mention Jesus Christ, they will roll their eyes and pretend that they have somewhere else to go. Which is quite alright with me, even if they might think I am a fool! I would much rather be a fool for Christ, than someone who is going to end up in hell! 

 Which is where we have stepped into today: "Resting in Jesus", is not just a place we get to go to, it is a practice that we must make into a habit, each and every day. Yet, many of us make it a pledge or a goal, but seldom live it out, because there is just too much stuff we deal with from day to day. When we make it a pledge, it will soon fade and be forgotten. And when we make it a goal, it is like chasing the wind. 

 By the way, that thing about the Bible, as to what it is as a noun, or a verb, or an adjective; we could say all the above! And, if you really want to get right down to it, you could describe it as an adverb, because it is God's Living Word! This is no joke, because there is nothing in all creation that is not associated with the Bible; absolutely nothing! 

 There is something that might help to make this seem simple and easy to understand: Trees that grow fruit are not working hard and stressing out to produce the fruit that grows on them, the fruit grows on them because they are a tree that produces that fruit. When Jesus says that His yoke is easy and the burden He gives is light, that is because we are resting in Him! He is the Vine, we are the branches...

""Yes, I am the vine, and you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father."" (John 15:5-8 NLT)  

"What Faith Does!" - Too

"A fool also is full of words: a man cannot tell what shall be; and what shall be after him, who can tell him?" (Ecclesiastes 10:14 KJV) 

  "Some time later, God tested Abraham's faith. "Abraham!" God called. "Yes," he replied. "Here I am." "Take your son, your only son - yes, Isaac, whom you love so much - and go to the land of Moriah. Go and sacrifice him as a burnt offering on one of the mountains, which I will show you."" (Genesis 22:1-2 NLT)

  Now, about that "little book," the one that the large angel of the LORD held in his hand. A voice from heaven told John to go and take that book, (or scroll), from the hand of that angel, which he did by asking him for it; and the angel replied, "Yes, take it and eat it. It will be sweet as honey in your mouth, but it will turn sour in your stomach!" (Revelation 10:8-9 NLT)

 There are certain things we just can't explain; as much as try to make sense of them, they just don't fit into the way we think they should be. Whatever situation you might find yourself walking into, your words might try and convince yourself that God's in charge, but your gut tells you that things could get out of control and life changing. 

 Take this little situation the Abraham was walking into. God has already told Abraham that Isaac would be the one by which He would make a nation from; yet, in this situation, God tells Abraham to take his only son, Isaac, and sacrifice him on a mountain; not just any mountain, but one that He would show him. 

 You really need to place yourself in his sandals, making this your little experiment of being tested by God. What would you think God might do? Pretending you didn't know the outcome, imagine what it was like for Abraham to carry this out, as far as he did; all the way to the point of standing over his son, who was tied up and ready to be killed, as he held a knife over him! 

 There are many people that say Abraham believed that God would raise him from the dead, if it had to be done! I don't know about that, except it might have been something that had gone through his mind. As you read into the story, I seriously believe that Abraham truly thought God would change His mind. He might have had a habit of telling lies, but I truly believe he felt God would replace sacrificing his son, with a something else, which was why he told his son what he did: "God will provide a sheep for the burnt offering, my son." (Genesis 22:8 NLT)  

 If there is one thing I have come to understand, God is always there right when you need Him most! You might have to take your testing all the way to be final stage, but at just the right moment, He will flip the whole thing upside-down! What you thought was going to be a disaster, will be turned into a blessing; and not just for you, but for others too, most of which you don't even know who they will be. 

 This faith that we have, is stronger than anything this life will show us. I wish it wasn't so, but we are human, we will have times of doubt; even after God does something spectacular in our lives, we can still find ourselves in situations where we don't know how things will turn out. We might even think God has given up on us, or He is punishing us for our sins. 

 As I have said before, and I will say it again: Israel is a mirror of who we are as God's children. If you want to know what you are capable of doing, then you should look into that mirror and see yourself. If you ever got to see the presentation of "Toy Maker and Son," we are misfit toys that need to be fixed; even when we get fixed, we still need fixing, over and over again! 

 There is something special about putting all of your faith in God: you don't need to put any trust in yourself, because when you do, you will see just how broken you really are... 

"This is what the LORD says, "Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, who rely on human strength and turn their hearts away from the LORD. They are like stunted shrubs in the desert, with no hope for the future. They will live in barren wilderness, in an uninhabited salty land. "But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit. "The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is? But I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve."" (Jerimiah 17:5-10 NLT)