"What and If!" -Too

 "What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before?" (John 6:62 KJV)

  "Then Job replied to the LORD: "I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you. You asked, 'Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorance?' It is I-and I was talking about things I knew nothing about, things far too wonderful for me. You said, 'Listen and I will speak! I have some questions for you, and you must answer them.' I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes. I take back everything I said, and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance."" (Job 42:1-6 NLT)

 Maybe I don't really know as much as I should; have been walking with the Lord for 40 years now, you would think by now I would have this thing in the bag and have better control of my actions, my temper, and my response to the frustrations of life. It is really quite strange, but it's the little things that push my buttons and make me frustrated; the big things hardly bother me at all. As a matter of fact, the big things are what draw me closer to God! 

 When I started this, twelve years ago, I figured it would only be a few years or so, and then I would have the excuse I needed to quit. Not every morning is filled with blessings and inspiration, but there is hardly any morning that I regret that I keep on going. 

 Regarding that comment yesterday about the condition of one's heart to be taken or not: I truly believe that it depends on the filling of your trust in Jesus for your salvation; not that we have anything to offer, because we absolutely do! We are totally and completely dependent upon the blood of Jesus to wash away all of our sin; but we are given the love of Christ, which must be used, as best as we can! 

 That is what we lack in, most, if not all of those that are truly His! We know that we do not have what it takes to love as we should. Loving God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength; and loving others as we should: these two commands are both, unconditional, and impossible to do. They are the Mark we fail to hit, time and time again...

"So the trouble is not with the law, for it is spiritual and good. The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. I don' really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don't do it. Instead, I do what I hate. But if I know that what I am doing is wrong, this shows that I agree that the law is good. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. 

 And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can't. I want to do what is good, but I don't. I don't want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. But if I do what I don't want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.

 I have discovered this principle of life - that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God's law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God's law, but because of my sinful nature, I am a slave to sin.

 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the lifegiving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death." (Romans 7:14 - 8:2 NLT)

"What and If?"

 "What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before?" (John 6:62 KJV)

  "Now Christ has gone to heaven. He is seated in the place of honor next to God, and all the angels and authorities and powers accept his authority." (1 Peter 3:22 NLT)

 There are some things we will not truly understand until we get to Heaven and can witness them for ourselves; and I am totally good with that! Yes, I would like to know why the devil gets to do all that he does, and why God just does not take him out of the way, right now, instead of later; but this is God's way of dealing with things, once and for all; a perfect plan that will secure our eternity with Him.

 As we go into the New Year, I pray that our churches would be strengthened in trusting only in the Lord, not leaning on their own understanding, and that we would be united around one important goal: bringing people with us into God's Kingdom! Needless to say, there are many who think they are good to go, yet they lack the basic understanding that Jesus is the only way that it can happen.

 We are living in a time when there are serious changes being made to the foundation of many churches. What once was the certain truth about the Gospel of Christ, has been altered into uncertain ways to be right with God through service and making changes in our lives, based upon works and human efforts. Not that we shouldn't practice being good, but it is through Christ that we are made new, not though human effort or man's ability. 

 If it could have been done through our own ability, God would not have had to make the sacrifice that He did! Jesus would not have had to die on that cross, paying the price for our inability to be worthy enough to have fellowship with a Holy God! We really need to get this right or be left!

 What and if you are left when the rapture takes place? Would you be surprised? Here is a little thing I think will be surprising: Those they might think they are good enough, will most likely be not; but those that might think they are lacking, most likely, will have what it takes...

"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 towards us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus." (Ephesians 2:4-7 NLT)  

"This is Known"

 "When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you?" (John 6:61 KJV) 

  "Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do." (Hebrews 4:13 KJV)

 Because there are only 24 hours in a day, and at least 16 of those hours are tied up in working, I will not spend as much time as I should in this. However, having been in ministry for as long as I was, I know enough about the hard-cold hearts that can tear at the unity of the church body; and over some pretty stupid reasons; reasons that should never ever be important enough to cripple a fellowship. 

 Bitterness is like a virus within the church body; not only does it spread, like a virus, but it can become out of control, in so much, as there is hardly anything that can be done, except to open the door and let it out. Even then, it is still working from the outside, picking and scratching at the door, hoping to have some sort of influence on the body, from without. 

 The seven deadly sins; yet bitterness is, and always will be the top of the list! It pretty much started with Satan. Many believe that it was because he did not like the fact that man was so important to God, that it caused him to be bitter towards God, making him feel as though he was somehow superior or better suited to be in control. In other words, bitterness causes anyone, or anything, to lose sight of any sort of rational thought!

 Then there was Cain, who being warned by God to control himself, ignored God's warning, and became out of control with bitterness in his heart, bitterness towards his brother, and bitterness towards God for choosing sides. It is pretty hard to stop the downhill slide! This is some stuff that always rolls downhill, making a stinky mess as it goes.

 Okay then, now what? What if you might have some bitterness within your heart? Where does it go if you ask it to go away? Even if that was possible, you cannot kill the bitterness; the death that must take place is within you! We must die to ourselves and give up our rights, understanding that because we have bitterness, we have lost the right to judge anything rightly. Is that even possible? 

 If you want to add something to that list, making peace might be a good start to the New Year...

"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." (Philippians 2:1-2 NLT)  

"What Thing is This?" - Too

"Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?" (John 6:60 KJV)

  "There is much more we would like to say about this, but it is difficult to explain, especially since you are spiritually dull and don't seem to listen. You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God's word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn't know how to do what is right. Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong." (Hebrews 5:11-14 NLT)

 Maybe it might be hard to swallow, but it is meant to be chewed on for a while, until it can easily be digested. I remember being told once that I needed to chew on God's word, as a cow chews the cud. As Pastor Bryan always says: "Read God's word slowly!" Now, put these two practices together, by reading God's word slowly, not biting off more than you can chew; and then, chew on what you read until it is very easy to digest. 

 Anywho, I feel as though it is a pretty good practice to put on my list for New Year's resolutions; that and making something that does not set well with me understandable. Matthew Henry points out that Jesus would have most likely explained it better, if they had just asked for help in understanding what He said. How many times does that happen? You hear something said that you don't understand, yet don't want to look stupid asking for someone to explain it? 

 And then, there are those who actually do understand, yet because it makes them feel uneasy or might be a conflict to their lifestyle, they reject even trying to eat it at all. Which is pretty much what Paul is getting at, as someone that can relate very well to what he is talking about. The skill Paul is talking about is quite easy to understand; as with every trade, the tradesman should understand what works and doesn't work in the task of performing what he or she does.

 Here is something to think about, if you are making a New Year's list: If it offends you, don't go away offended, but go away better informed. Better yet, search your heart for the reason something offended you, and ask God how to deal with the offence. There are two major issues involved with offence: anger and fear. Sometimes it just requires a little humility and love to get over both of them...

"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds;) casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; and having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled." (2 Corinthians 10:3-6 KJV) 

"What Thing is This?"

 "Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?" (John 6:60 KJV) 

  "And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight. And remember, out Lord's patience gives people time to be saved. This is what our beloved brother Paul wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him - speaking of things in all of his letters. Some of his comments are hard to understand, and those who are ignorant and unstable have twisted his letters to mean something quite different, just as they do with other parts of Scripture. And this will be their destruction." (2 Peter 3:14-16 NLT)

 As I was driving to church yesterday, I listened to a message regarding leaving the presence of God. It is impossible to get out of God's presence, because God is everywhere at all times; but it is possible to move out of His presence. Simply put, when we know what God wants us to do, and we choose to do that which He does not want us to do, we step out of the presence of God! 

 Yes, I know, it is not really all that simple to picture that in our minds; but it is rather simple to avoid it happening! There are only two choices, obey, or do not obey! Adam had the same options, to not eat of the fruit, or to eat of it; the same simple options, which were really not all that complex. So, what thing is this, that has caused so many to be confused? 

 If you could have been there, where would you stand? How much lack of understanding could you take, before you threw in the towel, and said enough is enough? Curious what or why, yet, confused about the direction! How many times did Jesus say that He came from Heaven? How many that misunderstood have any knowledge of what Heaven is like? Let alone, even really know where Heaven actually might be? 

 And yet, if we can be out of His presence, yet He is always present, then were did we go, or what is it that we have become? Curious to see what that might look like...

"This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all. So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness; we are not practicing the truth. But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin." (1 John 1:5-7 NLT) 

"Many Disciples Desert Jesus"

 "Many of his disciples said, "This is very hard to understand. How can anyone accept it?" 

 "Jesus was aware that his disciples were complaining, so he said to them, "Does this offend you? Then what will you think is you see the Son of Man ascend to heaven again? The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But some of you do not believe me." (For Jesus knew from the beginning which ones didn't believe, and he knew who would betray him.) Then he said, "That is why I said that people can't come to me unless the Father gives them to me."

 At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. Then Jesus turned to the twelve and asked, "Are you also going to leave?" 

 Simon Peter replied, "Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God."

 The Jesus said, "I chose the twelve of you, but one is a devil." He was speaking of Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, one of the Twelve, who would later betray him." (John 6:60-71 NLT)

  "And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." (Joshua 24:15 KJV) 

 Before I start this subject, I need to get a few things off of my chest. First off, I know that there are many things that I have allowed to creep into my life over the last 40 years, mostly due to compromises I have made as I served myself over serving the Lord; but I also know, without a doubt, that Jesus has forgiven me for each and every thing that I have ever done: because no matter what, I have always trusted in Him to never let go of me!

 Secondly, this is a choice we are given! Yes, He knows those that are His sheep and those that are not; but we are totally and completely blind to that information! I know that might sound bold; but we might think we have what it takes, until what we think we have is destroyed and we are left trusting in the world more than in the Lord. 

 This Christmas I gave Bibles to everyone in hopes that they might try to read them, by letting them know, if they read 20 minutes a day, they will have read the whole Bible within one year. I also gave everyone three verses to investigate and ponder: Psalms 118:8, Psalms 138:2, and Malachi 3:16. Not really all that popular to many, but very significant, none the less. 

 Do not give up of believing, no matter what! He has hold of you and is not letting go; don't you ever forget that! Stay, stay, stay in His Word...

 "I lift my eyes to you, O God, enthroned in Heaven. We keep looking to the LORD our God for his mercy, just as servants keep their eyes on their master, as a slave girl watches her mistress for the slightest signal. Have mercy on us, LORD, have mercy, for we have had our fill of contempt. We have had more than our fill of the scoffing of the proud and the contempt of the arrogant." (PSALM 123 NLT)

"Christ-Mass"

"These things said he in the synagogue as he taught in Capernaum." (John 6:59 KJV)

  "Then I said, "Look, I have come. As it is written about me in the Scriptures: I take joy doing your will, my God, for your instructions are written on my heart." I have told all your people about your justice. I have not been afraid to speak out, as you, O LORD, well know. I have not kept the good news of your justice hidden in my heart; I have talked about your faithfulness and saving power. I have told everyone in the great assembly of your unfailing love and faithfulness." (PSALM 40:7-10 NLT)

 Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Christ, as well as His death; as the term, "Mass," is a term that represents death. (Just in case you might not have known.) Never mind about its origination, because to be perfectly clear, no matter from where it came from on this earth, it was and is being used of God; so, if you want to declare where it came from, in truth, it came from God! 

 If you really want to spend some time searching the Scriptures for proof, you don't need to spend much time discovering how much God uses pagan and worldly things to get stuff done. A short little lesson is discovered by looking at the story of Christmas written by Dr. Luke, otherwise known as Saint Luke, in Luke 2. The easiest thing, Luke shares right off the bat: "And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed." 

 You really couldn't get more pagan and worldly than that; yet that was the way God was able to get Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, the place where Jesus was to be born. Then, to look at His death, we again see that the Romans were the used again, as they were not only ruling the world, but they had perfected the use of the cross for execution. 

 I really don't want to get into all the other forms of torture they brought forth, besides the cross; but Jesus has to be beaten enough, as to not even be recognizable. Again, God used the world to make that happen. So, we must take a different look at some of the things we see happening all around us, even if they might appear to be overreaching and out of control. 

 Oh, and by the way, Jesus used very little proof of His defense during His trial, except this truth: "I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing." (John 18:20 KJV) I am curious to what Scripture Jesus was teaching on, besides answering questions...

""Come now, let's settle this," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them white as wool. If you will only obey me, you will have plenty to eat. But if you turn away and refuse to listen, you will be devoured by the sword of your enemies. I, the LORD, have spoken!"" (ISAIAH 1:18-20 NLT) 

  

"Sum-Thing to Consider" - Too

 "This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever." (John 6:58 KJV)

  ""I tell you the truth, anyone who believes has eternal life. Yes, I am the bread of life! Your ancestors ate manna in the wilderness, but they all died. Anyone who eats the bread from heaven, however, will never die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live forever; and this bread, which I will offer so the world may live, is my flesh."" (John 6:47-51 NLT)

 If this were a football game, I believe this would be the Two-Minute Warning! Knowing how that might work, from what little football I have watched, those two minutes can go be quickly, or they might even last 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the score and which team is in control of the ball. Let me assure you: God is absolutely in control of this ball! 

 Not that Jesus is done speaking about eating His flesh, and drinking His blood, because there is more to come; but this verse from John 6:58 is a summary of what has already been said, because He knows that they most likely did not understand most of what was said! Typical, don't think of Pink Elephants kind of mentality, where you hear something that you don't understand, and instantly you mind repeats it over and over, till you give up, only to catch the next misunderstood message. 

 Yesterday I had a little chance to share about the Virgin Birth, which for some, is not what they believe actually happened. Let me assure you, not only is it the way that it happened, but is should not even be a question; the real question should be: Why does anyone that believes in God, think that it cannot happen! 

 Anywho: I am stuck on stupid, because I continually wake up every morning to Fox and Friends First, and get the first hour of Fox and Friends in, before it's time to start praying. This morning I was pulled into the drama that is taking place at airports all over, on what could have been one of the most important days of travel for many people. Hundreds of flights were canceled, at the very last minute! 

 Personally, the first thing that came into my mind, was that it was a set-up; totally and completely planned out., most likely months ago. Don't think for a moment that all of this is not for a reason, because the way things will change after the Rapture, this is all to make controlling those that are left, so much more common and easier to do. 

 I am so looking forward to getting out of here...

"He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon!" Amen! Come, Lord Jesus! May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with God's holy people." (Revelation 22:20-21 NLT)   

"Sum-Thing to Consider"

"This is the bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever."  (John 6:58 KJV)

  "Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high. As many were astonished at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men: so shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for that which had not been told them shall they see; and that which they had not heard they shall consider." (Isaiah 52:13-15 KJV)

 Thank you for putting up with me; this is my favorite, least favorite, time of the year! I am one of those guys that flash-shop the last two days before Christmas. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but I just miss how I would go shopping with my wife, her present was the only one that I really had to think about! Besides that, I had great opportunities to give out Tracts, which was one of my favorite things to do in the Malls at pretty much any holiday. 

 I know this is a time when we are meant to be celebrating the birth of Jesus, so it might seem odd to talk about the death He suffered upon the cross; but this is why He came, as a little helpless Baby! Not that He did not have help, because the angels were protecting Him around every corner; but in that little Child dwelt the Eternal Living God! (Chew on that for a moment!) 

When Jesus says, "This is the bread which came down from heaven," He literally means what He says! The seed that entered into Mary was of God, none other than the I AM, the Father from Heaven! This is why Jesus was the Only Begotten of the Father, because there had never been, nor will there ever be, another birth that is the same. 

 I have listened to so many different messages about the Biblical versions of what took place, versus the traditional images that are on display, that I have about had enough of the bickering over the small and insignificant stuff that really does not matter at all! Who cares how many Wise Men there were? Or where they came from? Or what they did for a living! There is no difference in that, and the way the Jews were reacting to and treating Jesus, who was actually God in the flesh! 

 That is all that really matters, Jesus Christ was born: Emanuel, God is with us, became one of us, that He might save us from our sins, which is why He was named, JESUS the CHRIST! If you know the Season, season up your communication with a little bit of the Truth; don't let an opportunity to share about Jesus go to waste, because this is what the majority of the world is expecting to hear about: Seriously...

 "And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." (Luke 2:8-14 KJV) 

"Life in Jesus" - x2

 "As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father; so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me." (John 6:57 KJV)

  ""The rain and snow come down from heaven and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause 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)

 Well, it is well with my soul, whatever the case might be, I live to fight another day! Isn't that really what we are expected to do? Just like the children of Israel in the wilderness as they gathered manna, they were expected to follow God's instructions, gathering all that they might need to one day, with the exception of the day before the Sabbath, they were to gather twice as much. 

 Some days I feel as though I need twice the strength, praying that God would give me a double portion of His Spirit to face the day; not that it ever happens in a way that I can tell, but, nonetheless, I seem to make it through. Waiting on the Lord, as many might call it, is really not about being idle and staying still; even though the most popular verse people associate with waiting might say, "Be still and know that I am God." (Psalms 46:10) 

 I have tried to share this with some friends and family, from time to time, as they might say that they prayed for a new job, and they wait at home for God to answer their prayer. Not that God could not do what they are expecting; but Jesus could have made enough bread and fish to feed 10,000 people, with just a wave of His hand. Instead, He divided the loaves and the fishes, letting His work multiply through the people. So too, we must do our part! 

 To be frank, we really haven't a clue what God will or will not do with our situation; but even though we don't know what He is doing, we can still believe that He has some good purpose in mind for whatever it is that we might be dealing with, no matter how long it takes, it only gets better and better, the bigger and bigger the issue becomes. The bigger the issue, the more glory goes to God!  

 At least that is what I believe God is doing. He is a loving and caring God, that never gives us more than we can endure; and as of yet, I haven't given up! So, if you are dealing with anything this Christmas that might seem to be overwhelming you, don't entertain the thought of giving up; but think about all the wonderful things that God might be doing! Count your blessing, and don't dwell upon the things which you have no way to explain. 

 Believe it or not, this is my interpretation of, "Life in Jesus," because when we are in Christ, there is nothing wrong with anything we might be dealing with, it doesn't matter how bad it looks or how much it might cost, it is always being used towards the good...

""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. There events will bring great honor to the LORD'S name; they will be an everlasting sign of his power and love."" (Isaiah 55:12-13 NLT)  

"Life in Jesus" - 2

 "As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me." (John 6:57 KJV) 

  "In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins." (1 John 4:9-10 KJV)

 'Believe it or not.' That is a very interesting statement; it reminds me of a message I heard about asking God for something, and saying, "What's the worse that can happen: He will say no." Just believe, and don't let not be an option! Pastor Robert mentioned a joke, or maybe it was a real story, I really don't know; but in the story, a golf-pro went the visit a Saudi Prince, I believe it was to give him golf lessons. The Prince was so impressed and enlightened by the lessons, he offered the Pro anything he wanted in return. The Pro answered, 'You don't need to do that, it was my pleasure.' The Prince insisted, so the Pro, making it be a simple gift, said, 'Okay, how about a golf club?' The Prince answered back, 'Fine, you got it." 

 I am pretty sure that I have prayed at least over 10,000 times for the Lord to heal my wife; and that is a conservative number. Does that mean that I have prayed enough? No, absolutely not! I am not giving up, because she is still here, and God can do anything! Believe it or not, but He has the power to cause the dead to rise, bones to come to life, planets to appear from nothing; there is nothing God cannot do, He is ALMIGHTY! 

 Just in case you might not have known this, but Jesus was appointed to die on the cross for us, even before the earth was made! Yes, believe it or not, before there was even an Adam, God planned for the Second Adam to come and retore what the first Adam destroyed. How many times did God think about what He was going to someday do? 

 Anywho; the Golf Pro went home, anticipating the golf club would soon arrive. After several months went by, he began to wonder. 'Did he forget?' 'Maybe he is having it made special; with jewels and gold, and all sorts of splendor?' And then one day an envelope arrived; and filled with disappointment he opened it. Inside the envelope was the Title Deed to a Golf Resort! 

 Yes, you got it! The things we ask for, are things that seldom reach the level of what God delivers! We think heal, God thinks bigger and better...

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

"Life In Jesus"

 "As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me." (John 6:57 KJV)

  "The LORD lives! Praise to my Rock! May the God of my salvation be exalted!" (Psalm 18:46 NLT)

 You really need to try and think what these Jews were doing, trying to wrap their heads around all of these things Jesus told them; most everything they heard Him say, they seriously could not comprehend or begin to figure out. Matthew Henry illustrates the dwelling in aspect, we in Him, and He in us, as He is being our Rock and a Stronghold; we are being a house, in which He is the Master. 

 To be totally clear, the reason we live by faith, is it becomes our responsibility to abide in Him. He will never leave us, nor forsake us; but we must abide, take shelter, cling to; whatever expression you like, to show that you need to hold on tightly to Jesus, it is the only way to experience life in Christ. I really don't know how else to explain it, rather than to say, my life depends on abiding in Jesus Christ. 

 Whether you are a new believer or have been a believer for fifty years or more, we all deal with the same issues and have the same questions about our security in Christ; even those that have taught on the gift of salvation, making the point of security in heaven, they still have days when they might have doubt. If you don't believe me, read up on some of the great evangelist that had issues; because the greater the message was that they spoke, the greater the issues they dealt with. 

 Anywho, this makes me think about all the craziness that is going on in this world, as I think about what Jesus said regarding those that might fall away or be deceived in the last days. You would think that this would cause people to hold on tighter, not fall away. Which reminds me of another issue that was talked about the other day, as one of the Pastors shared about someone he knew, who had just bought a new house, saying, 'I hope Jesus delays his coming, long enough for me to enjoy my new house.' 

 This is not our home! Try to get that into your heart and your head! We live in Christ, and He is in heaven: so, where does that place our new home? Remember your goal...

"If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things of the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory." (Colossians 3:1-4 KJV) 

"To Remain as One" - Two

 "He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him." (John 6:56 KJV)

  "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy." (1 John 4:12-13 KJV)

 Never give up! That's what I have to say to that! The greatest tool against any believer, that the devil has, is discouragement; and oddly enough, deception is how discouragement is presented and used. Jesus clearly said, "No servant is greater than his master," more than once He said it; so, we must remember, what He said, every single time that we are overwhelmed and feel as though we are outnumbered. 

 Here is what I pray, for myself, as well as anyone I know that is dealing with discouragement: 'That God would please forgive me for my lack of faith, open the eyes of my heart to the truth that He has spoken, and fill me with His Spirit, that I might have the strength enough to stand and not grow weary.'

 I know that Jesus is never letting go of me, so that part of the question is easy to deal with; but the thing that always makes my heart overwhelmed is my struggle to just rest in His arms, making my focus be upon Heaven, not of the things of this world! Maybe that's just me, but I really don't feel alone. 

 As I was listening to Jan's, Understanding the Times, yesterday, I got to hear some pretty good answers from a few Pastors that have studied end-time events. As I was listening, it dawned on me that I am living in the last days of my life here on earth, right now; regardless, if Jesus comes now or later, my time is just around the corner. 

 That sort of put a little different spin on, Understanding the Times, if you know what I mean! That said, I want to encourage my brothers and sisters about one thing I heard yesterday: If you are a mid-trib or post-trib believer, don't worry about a thing, because that does not count against your salvation, only your belief about when the rapture might take place. But when it does happen, it won't matter what you think about that time; because, you will become, in the blink of an eye, a pre-trib believer! 

 Pray for our churches and stay in the Word. Avoid getting caught up in all this craziness that is going on in this world: this is not our home! Look forward to being caught up to the Lord! If you die first, you go first...

"Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up." (James 4:8-10 KJV) 

"To Remain as One"

 "He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him." (John 6:56 KJV)

   "Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the LORD: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him." (Psalm 91:1-2 NLT) 

 How are you doing? That is something to place into your conversations with those you might frequently share your time with; to simply pause whatever you might be talking about, and ask: How are you doing? Most of us that might be feeling torn over something, do not share about those things which might make us look weak or perplexed. Sometimes we just need to be nudged! 

 On a slightly different note, God hates divorce! You might not know this, but I have a grave marker that is already placed above our grave site, which happens to have our wedding picture, and the remark: Forever One. Actually, we are all one in Christ, each and every one of God's children are One in Him, forever! So, we really can't claim it for just a couple, because we are all part of the very same Body, the body of Christ.

 Sometimes I feel as though I can't go much further, and then I feel God's hand pressing against me, urging me to keep on going. And then, sometimes, I just want to sit here and cry, knowing that it will soon all be over. If you don't know what I mean, don't worry about that, because it is probably just me. But God has everything under control, that much I absolutely believe with all my heart.

 So then, why be discouraged? Why cry? Well, that is a really deep subject: I will need to ask Jesus when I see Him, face to face, because even Jesus faced discouragement and wept: knowing how everything turns out, still does not take away the pain...

"When I think of this, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God." (Ephesians 3:14-19 NLT)

"The Substance"

 "For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed." (John 6:54 KJV)

  "There be many that say, Who will show us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us. Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased. I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety." (Psalms 4:6-8 KJV)

 If you have ever really hungered, then you might understand what it means to really desire to be feed; to need nourishment enough to be able to live, because you feel as though your very life depends upon it! Well, the substance of what is being said, that is pretty much the point that Jesus is making. If you do not, personally, eat and drink of Him, then you are not going to live! 

 No one else can eat a meal or drink any fluid, that will cause your thirst or hunger to be satisfied; so it is totally left upon you to do what is needed to have a Spirit filled life! And it is only Jesus who can give you what you need, both meat and drink, to give you the life to live in the Spirit, by His Spirit living in you.

 Yes, I know, it is pretty much one way, and there are many that don't feel as though that is right; but it is the only way, because only Jesus can provide us with eternal life...

"And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true; and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life." (1 John 5:20 KJV) 

"His Word!" - 2

 "Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day." (John 6:54 KJV)

  "But what things were gain to me, those I count loss for Christ. Yea, doubtless, I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I might win Christ, and be found in him, not having my own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: that I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his suffering, being made conformable unto his death; if by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead." (Philippians 3:7-11 KJV)

 If it feels as though we are going in circles, it is because we are! Call it for what it is, the circle of life; which is really not that difficult to comprehend, because we never stop learning how to cope, because we never really run out of hope. Besides that, Jesus has given us His word: He will raise us up at the last day! 

 I guess if it takes understanding, then I have failed to understand everything that I should; but, if you are really interested, it is really best to just keep it simple: Love God and do good, for He is GOOD! If you don't know by now, it is not really up to us to make anything happen; we just need to obey God and be amazed. Let God work out all of the details, we just need to do whatever He leads us to do, not asking questions. 

 The more you think about it, the more you try to make it about you; the harder you think about it, the more complicated it becomes. Why do you want to make things complicated or personal? Make it a habit of saying, 'Lord, I don't know what you are doing, but I trust you; use me to do your will.' 

 Long story short, Live out Christ...

"For he has not ignored or belittled the suffering of the needy. He has not turned his back on them, but has listened to their cries for help. I will praise you in the great assembly. I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you. The poor will eat and be satisfied. All who seek the LORD will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy." (Psalm 22:24-26 NLT)   

"His Word!"

 "Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life: and I will raise him up at the last day." (John 6:54 KJV)

  ""Come in with me," she urges the simple. To those who lack good judgment, she says, "Come, eat my food, and drink the wine I have mixed. Leave your simple ways behind, and begin to live; learn to use good judgment."" (Proverbs 9:4-6 NLT)

 You must realize what this means; and if, for whatever reason you can't figure it out, make sure you seek out the answer! You are responsible for your own salvation! Therefore, you must find the answers that you need, not neglecting to make an effort to either figure it out, or ask for help in understanding. And, whatever you do, make sure that God's word confirms and affirms anything you find out or are told. 

 To try as hard as I know how, let me say, I am very simple; or at least I try very hard to not complicate matters, or at least I try to find simple solutions. If I don't quite know what to do or how to react, I pray and ask God to show me the how or the way. That said, if I really want to hear any answer, then it is my duty to stop and listen! If I will not take the time to stop and listen, then He will provide me the opportunity to it, whether I like it or not. 

 Case in point: yesterday I was dealing with several issues and matters that were beginning to cause me to be frustrated for answers; so, I simply cried out to the Lord for help! My busy schedule does not really give me much time to rest, let alone to pause and relax long enough to listen to what God might have to say; even though I am searching for answers. 

 So, God provided me a chance to listen, called a 4-mile-long traffic delay! One of my issues had to do with my reaction to the mask mandate which is to start today; as I know in my heart that it is being administered to control and hinder our freedoms, not to control any kind of spread of a virus. I felt as though I wanted to refuse any such order, refuse to honor any business that followed the order, or simply stop eating out and order all my food online. 

 I know, the sound of that is really stupid and childish; but the whole thing is getting stupider by the day! However, the name given to this new variant is very similar to Omega, or the sound of (O) that is used to say it; which is all Greek to me! That said, I believe God told me to be a good person; in what condition that might represent, I believe that it requires not being bad! Do what is good in every situation or circumstance; whether you like it or not, do not put yourself over others and try to love those that might hate you or mistreat you. 

 It might seem a little sheepish, but I am pretty sure that most stores and eating establishment are not out to hurt anyone, but are just trying to stay in business. I do however think that our churches are being taken for another serious ride, as it requires a proof of vaccine to gather together; or some such nonsense! 

 My advise to anyone that might be looking for answers: Read God's Word!!! Get as much of His Word into your minds as you possible can! Take your Bible with you, whether it is a pocket Bible or a large big print Bible that weighs 10 pounds; if you must, use your phone or tablet; but get into His Word and let His Word get into you...

"I and crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." (Galatians 2:20 KJV)  

"Means Everything!" - Too

"Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you." (John 6:53 KJV)

  "Then he said, "I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven."" (Matthew 18:3 NLT)

 Now I know, regrettably, that there are many paths we can go down in this walk through this world; but the path God has chosen for us, surprisingly, is more than likely the path that we went down. Don't try to figure that out, because it is beyond our ability to put all those puzzle pieces together. I can only tell you what the Bible says, what we know all so well, but fail sometimes to figure out, because we seriously don't have a clue: "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." (Romans 8:28 NLT)

 That said, we must endure some suffering, whatever that might look like; knowing that God is working in us and through us, to perform a good result for His purposes! I guess that might be the simple way to say it, but it is something really difficult, sometimes impossible, to see what that is all about! Best to just let that be up to God and just do whatever it is that you feel God is telling you to do. 

 Turning back to an earlier point, it is so important that we never try and assume that we are good enough or strong enough to handle anything on our own; but with prayer and earnest expectations, we rely on God for the guidance and strength we need to do whatever it is that we need to do. That can be just about anything and everything we put our mind to, because everything is given and taken by God. 

 Looking at the verse above from Matthew 18:3, if you think of what it might be like to become like a little child; children are dependent upon their parents to provide for basic needs, food, shelter, love, hope; whatever it is that makes them confident and feel secure growing up. It is pretty much that line of thinking we need to consume all that Jesus Christ offers, knowing full well, we could never ever be able to provide for it on our own. 

 Case in point: LOVE! I have this simple little quote on the desk wall: "I may not love Him perfectly, but I know that I love Him sincerely!" Trust, Wait, Love: not quite sure how or why, but those are vital for giving Hope to Cope though the most difficult times: I Trust God, for my life; I Wait on Him, for He is good; I Love Him, because He loves me, more than I could ever know...

"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, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us." (Romans 8:35-37 NLT)  

"Means Everything!"

"Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you." (John 6:53 KJV) 

  "He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life." (1 John 5:12 KJV)

 So, as with almost every other principle of faith and redemption, there are the things that are towards the life, real life; and then there are things which are towards death, which is the life in the flesh. I might not be able to articulate well the meaning which I speak; but, based upon my observation of the spiritual condition found in many churches, there is a very thin line between what we choose to believe, but a very large gap between the life and death that result.

 In the beginning, God told Adam, "But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it; for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die." (Genesis 2:17) Die! What is die? It must have been something that was explained a little bit; or was Adam able to figure out what it meant? Then, Satan comes along and throws out this little lie, "Ye shalt not surely did." (Genesis 3:4) Surely is a word that does not mean maybe! 

 Thus, we have this very thin line, which based upon what you believe, becomes a very large gap! And when I say large, I mean that the gap is between mortality and immortality! Basically, that is the sum of what I believe makes us true believers or earthly believers. Those that realize what life really means, and those the choose this life as the means! This life is just a vapor; a puff of smoke that is soon carried away by the wind!

 By the way, I have some truth to say about all these sever weather conditions: It is not climate change that is bringing all the wind, fire, snow, and hail; it is because The King is Coming to take us home! This is not our home, and this earth has seen nothing yet...

"But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. For the Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works thereof shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with a fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness." (2 Peter 3:8-13 KJV)   

"What Manner?"

 "The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat?" (John 6:52 KJV)

  "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not." (1 John 3:1 KJV)

 First of all, their big issue that they must deal with, is the fact that Jesus was not just a man! If they could possibly get past that, then at least they might have some sort of chance of understanding that this was something far greater than just flesh and blood. Besides that, there were forces at work to cause them not to see what they should have otherwise seen: because Jesus came to be sacrificed on the cross! 

 Not sure how much we truly understand how important it is for people to understand why Jesus came; it was not possible for us to be set free from sin and death, had He not died in our place upon the cross! I have shared this before, but I had one of my wife's nurses ask me once, with much distain, "Why would God need to come and die on a cross for us?" 

 Somehow, I really hope she is able to see why and how much that needed to happen! For those that do not understand, it is not only inconceivable, but it is foolish to even try and figure it out. I know this, because I was once there too; thinking I knew God, yet I did not know God's love, and the total sacrifice that was given on my behalf! 

 Do you understand what this means? Is it real enough for you to grab ahold of and make it your own? It has got to be ours, personally, ours for the taking, or it does not even count. I know way too many people that do not think God loves them; even though they still believe that, "God so loved the world," they somehow do not see themselves included. 

 May we have the heart enough to reach out and share God's love, especially to those who do not think they are loved by God! Things are getting seriously closer and closer to the Lord's return, so I think it should be time to step it up a bit: Share the Good News...

"For Moses writes that the law's way of making a person right with God requires obedience to all of its commandments. 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." (Romans 10:5-9 NLT)