tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90714785515625773262024-03-13T14:25:05.444-07:00FaceForwardFaithThoughts and actions regarding my faith. I'm putting my best face forward to Him who gives me life.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger129125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-39139152170429077022020-12-17T08:46:00.008-08:002021-01-07T20:53:57.144-08:00Your life, the beginningWhen is the beginning of life?<br />
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There are varying beliefs and views to this question.<br />Those beliefs and views depend upon variables such as one's education; experiences; environment; religious affiliation; and up-bringing. <div>A micro-biologist may have a different view and explanation of when life begins compared to a physician's view, or a woman desiring to get pregnant, or the views of a pro-lifer or a pro-choicer.<br />
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<br />Does the definition of the beginning of life boil down to something which can grow and replicate itself if allowed to live so it can have opportunity to do these things?<br />
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Or, what is constitutional? <a href="https://www.liveaction.org/news/landmark-harvard-essay-preborn-child-constitutional-person/?fbclid=IwAR3kWzXRXwfSEF1a800h2ia_H9SUhLvoetHkvIkldray12Dqbwq_VTGkMCs" target="_blank">as in this article I found.</a><br />
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Or, what is the definition of <a href="https://www.wordhippo.com/what-is/another-word-for/beginning.html" target="_blank">'the beginning'</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.focusonthefamily.com/pro-life/what-the-bible-says-about-the-beginning-of-life/" target="_blank">This is what the Bible says about the beginning of life. </a><br />
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<a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/living-organism-artificial-dna_n_5283095">Scientists have created artificial life.</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/cross-check/pssst-dont-tell-the-creationists-but-scientists-dont-have-a-clue-how-life-began/">Scientists are not clear on how and when life began.</a><br />
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<a href="https://pjmedia.com/trending/study-95-percent-of-biologists-say-life-begins-at-conception/" target="_blank">This study of when does life begins according to biologists.</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.lifenews.com/2015/04/08/poll-66-of-americans-say-unborn-babies-are-people-52-say-life-begins-at-conception/" target="_blank">And, this poll of when life begins.</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.justthefacts.org/get-the-facts/when-life-begins/" target="_blank">In your beginning there's a complete elaborate plan from one human cell.</a><br />
<br /><br /><br />Think about it-We all had to have a beginning to our life.</div><div> We were created and known by the Creator of life while growing inside our mother's womb. </div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;">Yes, </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">God</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">knew</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> all about </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">us</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> even </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">before</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">we</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">were</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">born</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;">. </span></div><div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;">In fact, He gave </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">our</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> lives to </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">us</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;">, and </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">we</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> are here because He created </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">us</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> and allowed </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">us</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> to be </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">born</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;">. </span><span class="df_rq" data-entity-tipid="df_rq_tip_Bible" face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"><a h="ID=SERP,5357.1" href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=Bible&filters=sid%3a45780efe-b776-681a-2f6b-7d3635fe12f0&form=ENTLNK" style="color: #660099; text-decoration-line: none; touch-action: manipulation;">The Bible</a></span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> says, “</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">Before</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> I formed you in the womb I </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700;">knew</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-size: 18px;"> you” (Jeremiah 1:5).</span></div><div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #111111;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"><br /></span></span><b>QUESTION- The giver of life determines the beginning of life. </b></div><div><b> Who's to say otherwise?</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>I conclude with <a href="https://fb.watch/2IE012mcm8/" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Ravi Zacharias</a> as only he made many ponder on many issues affecting our lives.<br />
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-78459299349126843762020-12-07T17:09:00.005-08:002023-02-01T09:48:45.689-08:00The Gospel Simply Explained<p> Here's the simplest way I can explain the Gospel.</p><p><br /></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9lcrgumMyJ3hPe-ZmI3Vyf_bSxWNGwNTwRZN2eXMqhABGLmmua8iR22aLrhSrZEqP45TEag7xWGT-Byxgnwu8F2domFMTRRXiNfCwfCkh9QXxWRvwAN_6gQvch7sNTNeLAc4KAgVSAsw/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9lcrgumMyJ3hPe-ZmI3Vyf_bSxWNGwNTwRZN2eXMqhABGLmmua8iR22aLrhSrZEqP45TEag7xWGT-Byxgnwu8F2domFMTRRXiNfCwfCkh9QXxWRvwAN_6gQvch7sNTNeLAc4KAgVSAsw/" width="320" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image source-Google Images</span><p></p><p><br /></p><p> 1. Every person is born with a natural potential to sin. (There has only been</p><p> one living person capable of thinking and acting holy and righteous at all</p><p> times- that person is Jesus). </p><p> 2. God is <a href="https://www.jw.org/en/bible-teachings/questions/what-does-holy-mean/" target="_blank">holy</a>, <a href="https://www.gotquestions.org/God-omniscient.html" target="_blank">omniscient</a> and <a href="https://www.cru.org/us/en/train-and-grow/discover-god/god-is-righteous.html" target="_blank">righteous towards us</a>. He's never, </p><p> ever caught off-guard no matter what, how or when we do or don't</p><p> do something. His will prevails. He also knew The Adversary would</p><p> cunningly and deceptively entice mankind's heart away from God's </p><p> Word. Henceforth, every person has inherited a sinful nature. </p><p> Henceforth, every person has a propensity to sin. No matter the size, </p><p> sin separates us from God. In the beginning, our glorious Creator put into</p><p> place, set forth and lovingly provided a Way for our sins to be </p><p> covered and forgiven so there wouldn't be anything permanently </p><p> separating us from Himself. God's His brilliant plan is progressing as written in scripture in His perfect</p><p> timing. His perfect plan for us can't be derailed by anyone or anything. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjy9dvfshotwgQxTYsRm82bUtSh18qGc2rHnvd42EJBTf-AafLBduEbvScOXJQrhr1EuISQS6QwJh9sCZGcTdaMdDHlVCVBIXgiq37IBeGohmLzRvOWcXQOvGiawMq1EefHX_muE7wS-o/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="255" data-original-width="198" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjy9dvfshotwgQxTYsRm82bUtSh18qGc2rHnvd42EJBTf-AafLBduEbvScOXJQrhr1EuISQS6QwJh9sCZGcTdaMdDHlVCVBIXgiq37IBeGohmLzRvOWcXQOvGiawMq1EefHX_muE7wS-o/w215-h277/image.png" width="215" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image source-Google Images</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><p></p><p> 3. God doesn't force or demand anyone to love or worship Him. He </p><p> gives each person freedom of choice to accept or reject Jesus,</p><p> His Son, who's given His life so anyone desiring His best could have </p><p> spiritual Life, the most precious gift from God to all Mankind.</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_PygDQr8UqQ5saD_BByIldszubdivhsXGk6EaZ2psN8i925AyhBx8-87nNgAVZ8pMvBhSBqUmrcnE0CClKH1pRqUbUtfLHflyf_2xDBABq4UFow3qRCE8e7KuRAY8mnJ2fVoD3vxBw7c/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_PygDQr8UqQ5saD_BByIldszubdivhsXGk6EaZ2psN8i925AyhBx8-87nNgAVZ8pMvBhSBqUmrcnE0CClKH1pRqUbUtfLHflyf_2xDBABq4UFow3qRCE8e7KuRAY8mnJ2fVoD3vxBw7c/w260-h240/image.png" width="260" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image source- Google Images</span><p></p><p> 4. Every person's sin debt is settled when you choose to reject Jesus, meaning you choose to forever be spiritually separated from the goodness and love of</p><p> God because you want to pay the debt yourself for your sins against God.</p><p> Or your choose to accept by faith that Jesus is the Son of God and accept</p><p> Him as your Lord and Savior for his <a href="https://www.cru.org/us/en/train-and-grow/discover-god/god-is-righteous.html" target="_blank">atonement</a> of your sins when He</p><p> was <a href="https://www.learnreligions.com/what-is-roman-crucifixion-700718" target="_blank">crucified</a> on <a href="https://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/The-Cross" target="_blank">Calvary's Cross</a>. Jesus is also the One </p><p> called the Prince of Peace, Lord of Lords and King of Kings.</p><p> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpTzerYIy0YxsR6yJAOBZ9772JHAivcD2gIpDQp8RwEyfgx7b8u-QYpMD0TFLFK12Itx3SR0HNO4R10DGIfGOpSKSCG7D36-pgksK8DsGwzZcT_QYMw1sm3UsJNhhgALE5XcEHfw8KogI/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="190" data-original-width="265" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpTzerYIy0YxsR6yJAOBZ9772JHAivcD2gIpDQp8RwEyfgx7b8u-QYpMD0TFLFK12Itx3SR0HNO4R10DGIfGOpSKSCG7D36-pgksK8DsGwzZcT_QYMw1sm3UsJNhhgALE5XcEHfw8KogI/" width="320" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: xx-small;"> Image source-Google Images</span><br /> <p></p><p> 5. By faith, a person who chooses to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior </p><p> is spared from having to pay their <a href="https://www.patheos.com/blogs/jacksonwu/2015/03/26/why-is-sin-considered-a-debt/" target="_blank">sin debt</a>.</p><p> The moment a person accepts Jesus into their life and heart, that person is </p><p> spiritually re-born; their sins are forgiven and forgotten; they're no longer </p><p> separated from God; they receive the <a href="https://www.learnreligions.com/who-is-the-holy-spirit-701504" target="_blank">Holy Spirit</a>; they become <a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heir" target="_blank">an </a></p><p> <a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heir" target="_blank">heir </a>to the kingdom of God; and, their name is written into <a href="https://www.allaboutgod.com/book-of-life.htm" target="_blank">the Book of Life</a>.</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI4WmPhACbybAA9xL102u6ym5dtgbtia_7GAQpeBOCJxR8C6aQO4bjyEg5aVDTjhck7l4pfh9PiOIyTK-LAkz1Hkx9nLtNOcy6bDuCTseHac2iOyvX6d6pCz2-pMjNTuYmGuF9rjF83i8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="187" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI4WmPhACbybAA9xL102u6ym5dtgbtia_7GAQpeBOCJxR8C6aQO4bjyEg5aVDTjhck7l4pfh9PiOIyTK-LAkz1Hkx9nLtNOcy6bDuCTseHac2iOyvX6d6pCz2-pMjNTuYmGuF9rjF83i8/w240-h269/image.png" width="240" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image source-Google Images</span><p></p><p> 6. The gospel tells of the good news of Jesus Christ! He stepped out of </p><p> heaven. He became flesh and blood so part of the Godhead could </p><p> personally experience life as we do on Earth. He <u>was</u> the perfect, sinless </p><p> Sacrificial Lamb to pay the full sin debt for us! He returned to heaven </p><p> to intercede to the Heavenly Father for us. Jesus is believer's very best </p><p> friend in heaven. </p><p> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilqRwvTS4hcW4hbFpkA5O7SpKQ1C9_4cChXPqKnMTnjcL9hsdUxbFPwN04RMHry_ccsWq6H7Bv-39o4ftWGU68vp4d6Po57jcpAqfOyvySanfzM0YDQS8lf32kIR4JSYzc-npSFSdja90/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="245" data-original-width="206" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilqRwvTS4hcW4hbFpkA5O7SpKQ1C9_4cChXPqKnMTnjcL9hsdUxbFPwN04RMHry_ccsWq6H7Bv-39o4ftWGU68vp4d6Po57jcpAqfOyvySanfzM0YDQS8lf32kIR4JSYzc-npSFSdja90/" width="202" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: xx-small;"> Image source-Google Images</span><p></p><p> 7. The things of God are spiritual. They may not be fully understood by</p><p> our physical senses or our limited intellect, but that's not a wise reason</p><p> to dis-believe, reject or ignore the good news of God's great gift. We're all</p><p> created as physical <u>and</u> spiritual beings. Our spiritual being is far more </p><p> important and enduring than our physical being.</p><p> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguQsqmpKs9IfyZTE-S3WKL-YfR6-ID2st5nBW5jbN6vRLGGpBk35YPLzzNKXpfyAhyphenhyphenbTXMDtYzdoeqHkTRw9NMWrALW5R_j8Bd4mQ4De9ILyQrZ9_krkbAE1fo6dMvXnoEep6iiCXtP-I/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguQsqmpKs9IfyZTE-S3WKL-YfR6-ID2st5nBW5jbN6vRLGGpBk35YPLzzNKXpfyAhyphenhyphenbTXMDtYzdoeqHkTRw9NMWrALW5R_j8Bd4mQ4De9ILyQrZ9_krkbAE1fo6dMvXnoEep6iiCXtP-I/" width="320" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: xx-small;"> Image source-Google Images</span><br /> <p></p><p> 8. When a person accepts Jesus, they have the best, of the very best </p><p></p><p> of God's love. Anyone who chooses Jesus has Life and is truly blessed. </p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc1yDLIzMycHia5AjJyfS-AGDAKFCUEOfpvqnFpe0-uA9qrBBKxAv-vOxTHcqfQIwzmsXEyS-br3rJr1Jb0fKlqJmQeD0DpQST4KsRPBRbDwFj5TbZz5DQ58hX7A8UNzK4KV2gHkn2EqA/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc1yDLIzMycHia5AjJyfS-AGDAKFCUEOfpvqnFpe0-uA9qrBBKxAv-vOxTHcqfQIwzmsXEyS-br3rJr1Jb0fKlqJmQeD0DpQST4KsRPBRbDwFj5TbZz5DQ58hX7A8UNzK4KV2gHkn2EqA/w343-h374/image.png" width="343" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: xx-small;"> Image source-Google Images</span><p></p><p><br /></p><p> I can't think of any <u>better</u> news than that!</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51EObMmdzJN7iJnGPd-QEAXJYmwHx8GsszDj3gprcJn9A67gBbmtC0eGs5rHHed-XNoxye-Cccj7rlx8COKUEOjARKHfkBsUG8uee6ZwXZGPXIfzTHZgWKgZ0lsXNGydY54NRnQyoDVQ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="303" data-original-width="166" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51EObMmdzJN7iJnGPd-QEAXJYmwHx8GsszDj3gprcJn9A67gBbmtC0eGs5rHHed-XNoxye-Cccj7rlx8COKUEOjARKHfkBsUG8uee6ZwXZGPXIfzTHZgWKgZ0lsXNGydY54NRnQyoDVQ/w190-h348/image.png" width="190" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image source- Google Images</span><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-73550053640750079852020-11-27T12:07:00.001-08:002020-12-09T01:34:21.494-08:00Something about Heaven<p> We have so many questions concerning heaven. </p><p><br /></p><p> Did you know there's an intermediate and an eternal heaven?</p><p>This <a href="https://www.epm.org/blog/2020/Jun/3/loved-ones-experiencing-heaven" target="_blank">article written by Randy Alcorn</a> is worthy of sharing. </p><p><br /></p><p> Here's <a href="https://www.christianity.com/wiki/heaven-and-hell/what-is-heaven-like-according-to-the-bible.html" target="_blank">Jessica Miller's article</a> on what heaven's like according to the </p><p>scriptures.</p><p> And, 35 beautiful verses from the Bible, </p><p><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/topical-verses/heaven-bible-verses/">an article by the BibleStudyTools staff.</a> </p><p> Here's a very good <a href="https://morrisonheights.org/all-sermons/heaven-is-true-because-god-is-not-a-liar/" target="_blank">video teaching on heaven with Dr. Greg Belser.</a></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> I've placed 4 links here about heaven. There are many, many others. </p><p>Take some time to learn more about heaven. I've read it's a very fascinating </p><p>place. </p><p><br /></p><p> I've had my sin debt settled so I have my 'welcome to heaven' pass. </p><p><u>Action steps</u>- Humbly, I prayed and asked the Lord to forgive me of my sins. I asked for forgiveness of my sins against God. I've accepted Jesus as the Son of God. In faith, I asked Jesus to be the Lord and Savior of my life. I believed He died on the Cross for my sins. I thanked Him for loving me and dying for my sins in order to save my soul. I've made efforts taking time to read, meditate, study, and listen to teachings of Jesus, the Holy Scriptures, and Biblical precepts so I can keep learning about the heart of God, and live my life as closer and closer as I possibly can so my life, how I choose to live, act and speak and treat others is as pleasing as possible in His sight. This is the least I can do with my life to honor Him for all He did for me. </p><p> </p><p>When you're ready, you can also have your sins forgiven and become a friend of God's rather than an enemy against Him. When ready, the steps to take are simple but instantaneously life-changing and spiritually transforming. </p><p>If a person chooses to reject the free gift of life and chooses not to be forgiven of sins through Jesus the Christ, by default that person is an enemy of God and that person's spiritual destination won't be anything near heavenly.</p><p><a href="https://bible.org/article/what-bible-says-about-hell" target="_blank">A little info about a place called Hell.</a></p><p><br /></p><p>Christ IS coming back soon. <a href="https://www.tomorrowsworld.org/booklets/fourteen-signs-announcing-christs-return/content" target="_blank">14 signs to watch for.</a></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-40115799548114387752020-06-21T07:29:00.004-07:002020-12-18T09:23:40.352-08:00The very nature of sinI came upon this information about sin.<br />
<div>and after reading, I knew it should be shared.</div>
<div>
<br />
<a href="https://seekerstrove.com/articles/in-depth-articles/sin-or-sinner/" target="_blank">What is sin?</a></div><div><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://mrg.bz/I6bIPw" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="350" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To sin or not to sin- which direction will you go?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: xx-small;">
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/pippalou">pippalou</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a></span><br />
<br />
<br />
Why should a person be aware that God is serious about sin?<br />Not nearly enough thought is given to what sin actually does to a person.<br />1. Sin separates us from God.<br />2. Sin keeps us from growing closer to God.<br />3. Sin keeps us from fellow-shipping with God; distrusting and/or not believing Him. </div><div>4. Sin makes our thoughts and hearts vulnerable to the Adversary.</div><div><br />Sin and the consequences we suffer from sin are real. </div><div>We ought to be aware of what we're choosing to do to ourselves by catering to sin. Knowing the truth can get the matter of sin settled once and for all. </div><div><br /></div><div>The flesh is weak, causing a person to sin, but the Spirit is strong. </div><div>The flesh can be strengthened through the Holy Spirit.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our heavenly Father already provided for us the Way, the Truth, and the Light to </div><div>get from under the dark, spiraling downward suction of enticing sin. Sure, sin may look and feel good for a moment, but the penalty of sin is more lasting. </div><div><br /></div><div>God desires us to enjoy life and to be happy and safe. He knows there's danger about. He wants to protect us from what's harmful and dangerous as a loving Father protects those He loves from what's dangerous and harmful to us. </div><div><br /></div><div>However, He won't make you do anything against your will. </div><div>It's your choice and decision to weigh the good vs the bad, the truth vs the lie, life vs death for yourself.</div><div>Then, the consequences are yours as well depending upon your decision.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br />
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-39195818829805261742020-05-13T08:25:00.003-07:002020-05-13T08:25:56.826-07:00Ghost-ride the whip I recently saw a video of a little boy dancing alongside his<br />
<a href="https://www.originalbigwheel.us/" target="_blank">Big Wheel</a>.<br />
Naturally, I was compelled to investigate and find more of this<br />
thing called, Ghost-ride the Whip.<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ztf6ucBw2GY" width="400"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
The definitions of <a href="https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Whip" target="_blank">'whip'</a> and <a href="https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Whip" target="_blank">'ghost ride the whip'</a> in the Urban Dictionary.<br />
<br />
<br />
There's even a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghostride_the_Whip" target="_blank">documentary movie</a> about 'ghost-riding' which was brought<br />
about by the <a href="https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=HYPHY" target="_blank">Hyphe movement</a> in the San Francisco Bay area.
<br />
<br />
<br />
This 2007 video, Mista Fab tells you how to ghost-ride and feel like a star.<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xLvlGVNInw4" width="400"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Here, two dudes show their ghost-ride moves in a parking lot.<br />
Still dangerous but at least no oncoming traffic.<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HIj403DMy0U" width="400"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Compared to some other <a href="https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/thrilling-experiences/index.html" target="_blank">extreme activities</a>, ghost-riding<br />
the whip is performed on land (rather than above ground or under water)<br />
but it does involve being near an uncontrolled, moving vehicle.<br />
Extreme activities are exciting and thrilling because there's a bit<br />
of danger involved.<br />
<br />
Ghost-riding the whip isn't an activity I'm going to engage in.<br />
I enjoy dancing to music without any associated danger.<br />
<br />
But to those who like the thrill of dancing outside your ride<br />
while it's moving, carry on, and I hope you have no ill regrets<br />
in doing so.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-40505998866324191972020-04-29T10:18:00.002-07:002020-04-29T13:06:26.863-07:00Mesmerizing show in the sky <br />
There are many <a href="https://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=AwrExdrekqle9CEA9r6JzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBsZ29xY3ZzBHNlYwNzZWFyY2gEc2xrA2J1dHRvbg--;_ylc=X1MDOTYwNjI4NTcEX3IDMgRhY3RuA2NsawRjc3JjcHZpZAMudFduVmpFd0xqS1ZqckVRV3E4bkhnTnlNVFl5TGdBQUFBRDlSWkMwBGZyA3lzZXRfd2lkZW1haWxfY2hyX3dpbgRmcjIDc2EtZ3AEZ3ByaWQDWUlFcjNjNDNReEdCZnVRSWxUQ1ZlQQRuX3N1Z2cDMTAEb3JpZ2luA2ltYWdlcy5zZWFyY2gueWFob28uY29tBHBvcwMyBHBxc3RyA2F1cm9yYQRwcXN0cmwDNgRxc3RybAMxNwRxdWVyeQNhdXJvcmElMjBib3JlYWxpcwR0X3N0bXADMTU4ODE3Mjg0OQ--?p=aurora+borealis&fr=yset_widemail_chr_win&fr2=sa-gp-images.search&ei=UTF-8&n=60&x=wrt" target="_blank">images of auroras borealis</a>. (northern lights)<br />
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Vdb9IndsSXk" width="400"></iframe>
<br />
I can only imagine gazing up and being mesmerized by something so spectacularly orchestrated in the sky. One day I'd like to enjoy the pleasure of witnessing an aurora borealis marvel with my own eyes.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.visitfinland.com/article/most-beautiful-aurora-shots-from-finland/#2e65a3d3" target="_blank">Here,</a> 8 photographers share their best shots of northern lights over Finland.<br />
<br />
The southern lights are called <a href="https://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=AwrExlR_mKleq30AeSyJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBsZ29xY3ZzBHNlYwNzZWFyY2gEc2xrA2J1dHRvbg--;_ylc=X1MDOTYwNjI4NTcEX3IDMgRhY3RuA2NsawRjc3JjcHZpZANHV0VINFRFd0xqS1ZqckVRV3E4bkhnWUhNVFl5TGdBQUFBQlRMa25rBGZyA3lzZXRfd2lkZW1haWxfY2hyX3dpbgRmcjIDc2EtZ3AEZ3ByaWQDY2tfNDNmSUJUNC4ud0J1Sy5JRmlDQQRuX3N1Z2cDMTAEb3JpZ2luA2ltYWdlcy5zZWFyY2gueWFob28uY29tBHBvcwMzBHBxc3RyA3NvdXRoZXJuJTIwbGlnaHRzBHBxc3RybAMxNQRxc3RybAMzOARxdWVyeQNhdXJvcmElMjBhdXN0cmFsaXMlMjBzb3V0aGVybiUyMGxpZ2h0cwR0X3N0bXADMTU4ODE3MzE3Nw--?p=aurora+australis+southern+lights&fr=yset_widemail_chr_win&fr2=sa-gp-images.search&ei=UTF-8&n=60&x=wrt" target="_blank">aurora australis</a>. and they're equally spectacular!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=AwrExdwvmKleB5gA9xaJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBsZ29xY3ZzBHNlYwNzZWFyY2gEc2xrA2J1dHRvbg--;_ylc=X1MDOTYwNjI4NTcEX3IDMgRhY3RuA2NsawRjc3JjcHZpZANSazRSb3pFd0xqS1ZqckVRV3E4bkhnclRNVFl5TGdBQUFBQk9iREtpBGZyA3lzZXRfd2lkZW1haWxfY2hyX3dpbgRmcjIDc2EtZ3AEZ3ByaWQDY2VWYWlLM0hUNmVDVk1mdUVPeTdMQQRuX3N1Z2cDMTAEb3JpZ2luA2ltYWdlcy5zZWFyY2gueWFob28uY29tBHBvcwM3BHBxc3RyA2F1cm9yYSUyMGJvcmVhbGlzBHBxc3RybAMxNQRxc3RybAMzMgRxdWVyeQNhdXJvcmElMjBib3JlYWxpcyUyMGZyb20lMjBzcGFjZQR0X3N0bXADMTU4ODE3MjkyOQ--?p=aurora+borealis+from+space&fr=yset_widemail_chr_win&fr2=sa-gp-images.search&ei=UTF-8&n=60&x=wrt" target="_blank">Images of aurora borealis from space.</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://rarebear.co/in-search-of-the-northern-lights/" target="_blank"> More images and info of this visible phenomenon in the sky.</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2019/01/northern-and-southern-lights-are-different-here-s-why#" target="_blank"> Northern and southern aurora differences explained in Science Magazine.</a><br />
<br />
Wondrous, dazzling swirling colors in the northern and southern night sky are majestically impressive, but what I really want to share is written by another author, Kathy Manis Findley.<br />
One of her blog posts she's written about God being found in many ways.<br />
This is absolutely true and an encounter with God can change your life-it did mine.<br />
When God is found, that makes the place you met God holy.<br />
Take a few minutes to <a href="https://kalliopekathryne.com/2020/02/14/the-hem-of-gods-garment/" target="_blank">read her post here</a>.<br />
<br />
Seriously, I don't believe there's a better name for a 'majestic magnificent display in the sky than 'The Hem of His Garment.'<br />
<br />
One day I'd like to enjoy the pleasure of witnessing the sights and sounds of an aurora borealis marvel with my own eyes. It will be holy ground for me I don't think I could ever forget.<br />
<br />
I truly believe God's touch is everywhere because His splendorous creation is everywhere! Open your eyes!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-50581181096280655532019-07-01T15:22:00.006-07:002020-05-13T08:40:15.878-07:00THE FINAL WORD on same-sex marriage (and everything else for that matter)Same-sex marriage is an open-ended, continual debate. The consensus on this debate leans heavily on personal interpretation of marriage. Some strongly believe a person should be free to marry a person of their same gender.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://mrg.bz/KcrJiO" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="388" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The condition of your heart is evident in your choices</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/kakisky">kakisky</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a><br />
<br />
This has also brought up debates on the subjects of marriage, who to love, family, and adoption issues because once the deception door was opened, any and everything becomes debatable, questionable and alterable rather than trusting the Creator who designed and created it. Once we alter the original design, the ramifications begin to take an altered cause and effect course. Things get messy, complicated and uneasy- which was not the intended design. Remember, what deceived Eve in the perfect Garden is still very much at work and we can see the ramifications of that deception are sill in play today.<br />
<br />
<br />
Most secular debates on the topic of same sex marriage ignore what's spelled out clearly in God's written Word.<br />
<a href="https://biblicalgenderroles.com/why-did-god-make-marriage/" target="_blank">God created marriage for very important reasons.</a><br />
<a href="https://www.christianbiblereference.org/faq_homosexuality.htm" target="_blank">Here is a good bit of info on what does the Bible says about homosexuality.</a><br />
God's Word is pretty clear about a man lying with a man and/or a woman lying with a woman-they are an abomination.<br />
Here are other words to understand what is an <a href="https://www.thesaurus.com/browse/abomination" target="_blank">'abomination'.</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://tinyurl.com/7chf3vr" target="_blank">Does God approve of same-sex marriage? </a><br />
<br />
The debate on marriage -<br />
God created marriage for the purpose of a man and a woman uniting for the purpose of procreating within a loving relationship. Marriage is also meant to mimic the loving-for-life relationship God desires to have with each of us. And the command to go forth and multiply, which is to procreate.<br />
It's not biologically possible for two men or two women to procreate.<br />
<br />
The debate on who to love-<br />
Yes, we are to love our neighbor, and even our enemy. Love is very multi-faceted and wide ranging. Perhaps getting the true grasp of the depth of genuine love is something we ought to try to understand more in depth. True, genuine love is grand between two people who want to share their lives together as one. The heart has the capacity for loving strongly and deeply but there are different kinds of loves we can have for different people in our lives. Certainly it's not feasible to marry every person we love and care for. The special bonding love between a husband and wife is just one kind of love. The sacred union of marriage is reserved for a one man and one woman, united as one unit in the sight of God.<br />
<br />
The debate on the definition of family-<br />
In a family, the father ( male) and the mother (female) unite to have children who are the created equally of the union of both. Together they share in raising their off-spring is the designed intention of a traditional family. When we alter the traditional family in any way, the children and the family are going to lack something vital and problems are definitely going to become more and more evident with each generation of children.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.aamft.org/AAMFT/Consumer_Updates/Same-sex_Parents_and_Their_Children.aspx" target="_blank">Professionals have stated the mental health and emotions of children being raised in same-sex marriages are not negatively affected</a>. Politicians are giving the 'thumb's up' for same-sex marriages to be given equal legal footing as traditional marriages are causes untold changes at every level of society. The debate continues.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.ucanews.com/news/same-sex-marriages-what-do-the-children-think/68242">Here's what one person shares about being raised in a same-sex marriage.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Do the professionals or politicians know what's better than the Creator of love, marriage, family, and children?<br />
<br />
<br />
The debate on sin-<br />
This debate is also altered with personal interpretation on the definition of sin.<br />
Altering God's Word to fit a person's desire to continue sinning as he wishes is very personal.<br />
The first couple believed a BIG lie and THAT LIE is still perpetuated because the lie satisfies the desire to satisfy the desires of the flesh which feel good and perpetrate evil rather than obey God.<br />
Fulfilling the desires of the flesh make us feel good. And who doesn't want to feel good? But there is much more to us that we don't see which is more important.<br />
<br />
When we do what is in direct opposition to God's Word for us, there is a price we are going to ultimately suffer. God is very patiently waiting for us to get enough of suffering at our own expense and wake up and see our mistakes. We can read of those who went against His Word and the consequences they suffered from doing so. A child is warned to not play in the road so they won't get hurt. But if that child's heart is set on playing in the road, they place them self directly in line to be harmed.<br />
<br />
<br />
Man is too proud to stay within the boundaries set for his safety and good.<br />
because<br />
he'd rather make his rules he thinks are better than God's protection and goodness,<br />
and<br />
he'd rather stubbornly continue sinning no matter the cost he's going to endure.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.middletownbiblechurch.org/proverbs/prov11.htm" target="_blank">God created mankind for a divine purpose and God's purposes have a divine order. Any tampering or altering or deviation of what God created will bring disastrous conclusions.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
The remodeling of family and marriage by Man changes hearts and souls.<br />
This agenda is not pleasing to God and it's dangerous for everyone.<br />
The Enemy is pleased when we sin<br />
Sin is hurting and damaging to the sinner, not God.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.middletownbiblechurch.org/proverbs/prov11.htm" target="_blank">Purpose for marriage.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://mrg.bz/lK3uTg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="299" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joining one man to one woman- is God's design</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/phaewilk">phaewilk</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.christianquotes.info/images/5-ways-god-knows-whats-best-for-you/" target="_blank">God knows best what's best for you.</a> Disobedient against God sets into motion things not ideally best to you in the long run. God is loving and patient and won't violate your will, but His grace and mercy are at work, placing situations and people in your life for you to come around to His wonderful and perfect design for you.<br />
<br />
Men and women may interpret that same-sex marriage is fine. However, same-sex marriage is not in accordance with the Word of God, no matter how many professionals deem it to be okay or how many judges grant legality to same-sex marriage.<br />
<br />
Same sex marriage is yet another deception and diversion the Master
Deceiver is using to counterfeit God's design for marriage and family.<br />
<br />
However, <a href="https://www.jw.org/en/bible-teachings/questions/free-will-in-the-bible/" target="_blank">God gives us the free will to choose for ourselves. Our free will can choose to love God and His Word freely and wholeheartedly.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.christianity.co.nz/ident7.htm" target="_blank">Disobedience and sin have a cause and effect- the effect upon a person who willfully sins leads them further and further from God, making them more prideful and foolish, causing them to be unfit to worship God and left without hope. </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<b> <u>The Truth was given for our benefit but the Truth keeps being ignored and shanghaied</u></b><br />
<b> <u> for something counter to the Truth.</u> </b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b><b> <u>Sin blinds the eyes & hardens the heart to a path destined to unpleasantness.</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b><b> <u>Sin is disobedience against God.</u></b><br />
<br />
<b> <u>A sinful lifestyle is willful defiance against God.</u> </b><br />
<br />
<br />
Because of His love, He allows each person their choice and power to choose their destination.<br />
<br />
One must choose wisely because there is no way whatsoever anyone can debate God on His Word which prevails upon every matter of His creation.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-30157568879574094662019-01-05T22:00:00.000-08:002019-06-09T14:44:53.096-07:00Suicide, Suffering, Sin and Jesus I think I speak for most when I say the subject of death isn't a normal discussion topic.<br />
However, if you or someone close to you are facing a serious, challenging health condition<br />
with a grim prognosis, what does a person think or do?<br />
Would one obsess about death or focus on living to make the most of every day and moment of life?<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IqqIV8x82Qc" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
These are tough questions when you know your days are short numbered.<br />
It's not easy simultaneously focusing your thoughts on dying and living.<br />
Nor is it easy dwelling on the subject of death when you're enjoying health.<br />
<br />
I've not been in the shoes of anyone lingering on thoughts of ending one's life.<br />
But, I believe a person can act on ending their life without planning the act.<br />
A sudden change of events can cause a person to taking immediate and drastic actions to end their life without considering the long-term effects on the one's they abruptly leave. As I've already mentioned, I do not have the thought processes of a person in a desperate situation or dilemma.<br />
<br />
My first experience of knowing about a person ending their life really got my attention and made me ponder deeply about this. I was a teenager when I heard the news that the woman who lived next door had killed herself. I'm certain her husband and daughter were shocked and devastated. What could have happened to bring her to want or need to do such a thing?<br />
<br />
Whenever I hear of someone committing suicide, I still have the same questions.<br />
<br />
Much goes on on the inside of a person that is not immediately revealed.<br />
Many things will never be revealed and many questions will go unanswered.<br />
<br />
<br />
Fame and financial prosperity can't shield anyone from all the problems/ills/challenges one may encounter. <br />
<br />
Two examples here-<br />
<br />
<b>Robin Williams- former actor and comedian</b><br />
He was funny, talented comedian and actor, adored by his family and millions of fans. I even remember of him <a href="https://www.shared.com/robin-williams-gorilla/" target="_blank">communicating though sign language with a Koko, the gorilla.</a><br />
<br />
Mr. William's wife says <a href="https://metro.co.uk/2015/11/03/robin-williams-widow-susan-reveals-the-real-reason-he-committed-suicide-and-how-he-only-had-three-years-to-live-5478958/" target="_blank">Robin was suffering from more than one brain disorder which were not going to improve.</a><br />
<br />
No one wants so suffer from a disorder of any sort-it can be devastating and life changing.<br />
We were all shocked when we heard the news that Robin Williams ended his life.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Rick Genest (Zombie Boy)-body-tattooed model</b><br />
Rick was diagnosed with a brain tumor when he was 15. From reading about him he became obsessed with macabre. Insect and skeletal tattoos covered nearly his entire body, including his skull and face. Could looking at his reflection in the mirror have had an effect on his self-image and mindset?<br />
Could the ill effects of having had a brain tumor still affected Rick. I couldn't find any definite reason or reasons why he committed suicide when he was in his 20's.<br />
<a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/zombie-boy-rick-genest-dermablend-video_n_1024151?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAKvYUxuihMn-Bc9Lr0zqpz403PfZXY3nM0W8uHoSW7XyeH8TojjZqOlt2uybTLRgq-wt5RV1YNQKiTyHXYt1zG_N_w5IzUEMFu2PM84zFm8AQPLr5kbcRPnlxhZsRaY2QpkOd6Vk_c7BB_glsdCjKrCF3yof8gw__2iw3MyAOA5w" target="_blank">Click here to see his tattoos covered by a concealer.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We aren't privy to everything about a person-their heart, their soul, nor their motives to gain insight why they chose to end their lives.<br />
Neither riches or fame are proven to insulate a person from whatever may cause thoughts to end one's life.<br />
Thoughts playing in one's mind can be so convincing and lead one into taking action steps within moments.<br />
<br />
Please, please, please immediately seek professional help (call 911) if you ever have thoughts of ending your life. You are needed and your life is precious and very valuable.<br />
Each of us should be reminded of this from time to time.<br />
Each and every life is very valuable, needed and worth living to the fullest.<br />
<br />
And, there are some faced with a choice of life or death- having to make a serious choice to end their baby's life or let it live.<br />
My recommendation is <a href="https://christiannews.net/2018/08/31/couple-who-refused-abortion-entrusted-son-to-gods-hands-after-being-told-condition-was-terminal-learns-doctors-misdiagnosed-baby/" target="_blank">decide to place life in the hands of the one who created life.</a><br />
<br />
There are many other examples to write on this controversial and complex subject, but I'm left pondering situations and causes to why some might want to end their life-<br />
Chronic, debilitating pain<br />
Depression<br />
Poverty<br />
Divorce<br />
Physical disfigurement<br />
Feeling unloved or abandoned<br />
Incarceration for life<br />
Public humiliation<br />
Shame<br />
Guilt<br />
Loss of a dear, loved one<br />
Hopeless<br />
No purpose or fulfilling goal to pursue<br />
Many have suffered but were able to recover from the above heart-jerking agony to enjoy fulfilling lives once again or for the first time.<br />
When you can't get from under the heaviness that's stealing your joy, seek help so you can start on the journey toward better days.<br />
<br />
One thing for sure.<br />
Our Lord and Savior took the heavy load of a world of sin upon His shoulders.<br />
He took it all and He suffered horribly, publicly, and bled profusely.<br />
He did not deserve any of the suffering or torture that he endured.<br />
Jesus suffered while taking the suffering He did not deserve. He did it for you and me.<br />
He suffered so any suffering we endure in this life will one day end, and we will experience an eternity of glory beyond our most extreme imagination anyone could ever imagine.<br />
For believers, the best is yet to come.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.gotquestions.org/God-allow-sickness.html" target="_blank">Read the testimony at the end here-a persona's suffering was seen as a blessing.</a><br />
<br />
I believe suffering has it's place.<br />
In suffering we get a taste of what Jesus went through for us.<br />
Our hope is this suffering is temporary, because one day we'll join Him in glory.<br />
Our life here is just a vapor. Eternity is forever.<br />
With that in mind, that's why we are to share the good news with everyone.<br />
Whatever is afflicting your body and/or mind will not continue forever.<br />
Yes, years ago when I was going though a time when I could not see how I was going to survive, I had a momentary thought of ending it all, but a small voice told me, "Hang on, just hang on. Jesus loves you unconditionally and forever."<br />
<br />
<br />
Suffering isn't what anyone pines to experience.<br />
But the Lord can use even suffering for a better tomorrow for you and I.<br />
There is hope, a future and life in and through Jesus, The VICTOR over spiritual death.<br />
There is life everlasting through Jesus, the Christ, the Messiah.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>There may be suffering for a while, but it can't compare to the great glory that awaits those who trust in the Lord.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
Action steps-<br />
<b>-Believe Jesus is the Son of God. </b><br />
<b>-Ask Him (Jesus) to save you from the penalty of your sins.</b><br />
<b>-Invite Him into your heart and your life. </b><br />
<b>-Thank and praise Him for having bore the penalty of your sins, thus saving you from </b><b>spiritual </b><br />
<b> death.</b><br />
<b>-Repent of your sins. </b><br />
<b>-Make it your passion to live a life pleasing to Him. </b><br />
<b>- Meet with other believers, read and mediate upon the Word to grow spiritually in the Lord and deepen your relationship with the Lord.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Jesus is to be trusted and believed</b><b>. </b><br />
<b>Believers aren't perfect but their sins are forgiven and they are permanently secure in the Lord. </b><b> </b><br />
<b>So, welcome into the family of God as one of His precious adopted children, and heir to His Kingdom. </b><br />
<b>Your quickened spirit shall never die because it is alive with the Son of God.</b><br />
<b> </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-4995250875394567302018-11-21T22:57:00.001-08:002019-07-01T15:28:26.915-07:00Laminin- how awesome a cohesive molecule!Laminin. Have your heard of it?<br />
<br />
Laminin is a protein molecule like no other molecule.<br />
Basically, you're held together by laminin.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGBfPhxKbyI" target="_blank">Watch and listen to this video!</a><br />
<br />
The tissues of your body are held together by a cross-shaped protein.<br />
That is just like something God would design.<br />
<br />
After learning about laminin, I can see this as one more thing pointing to what Christ accomplished on the cross. The cross symbolizes we have hope because our Lord bore the penalty of our sins in full view on the Cross of Calvary for us. Because of what He did, all things are held together by Him, for Him and through Him. This is even symbolized inside the molecules of our bodies! How awesome is that!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.zazzle.com/z/1q4ib" target="_blank">Yes, the Creator of the universe fashioned our bodies together fabulously and wonderfully!</a><br />
Simply mind-blowing awesome!<br />
<br />
Take a look what this site shares about <a href="https://www.truthorfiction.com/laminin/" target="_blank">laminin</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-23624755327945084642018-06-11T23:44:00.003-07:002019-07-01T15:37:23.261-07:00David Cassidy's last wordsI remember watching <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Partridge_Family" target="_blank">The Partridge Family television sitcom.</a><br />
<br />
David Cassidy was a young, attractive, musician and singer who acted on the The Partridge Family show. I thought it was a popular and entertaining show.<br />
<br />
David Cassidy was also on the cover of Teen Magazine multiple times.<br />
I remember this because I bought and read Teen Magazine.<br />
<br />
I was a teenage in the 70's when America was settling into integrating schools.<br />
The Vietnam War was behind us and the Cold War was cooling down.<br />
The news and media programs fed us segments of vivid, colorful images for our hungry eyes to feast upon space exploration images. We were kept in-the-know on professional athletes on the field, courts, tracks and raceways. We saw Walt Disney hosting his wonderful world. Journalists, photographers and reporters, producers and directors gave us people and animals of foreign lands to view in our living rooms in technicolor. Movies for television and the big screen were alluring, interesting and entertaining, from The Wizard of Oz to Gone with the Wind and the Sound of Music. And speaking of music, Jazz, New Age, Hard Rock, Easy Listening- they were all vibrating ear drums in stereo from live stages, radio stations, or sound systems that spun records or tapes.<br />
<br />
Television shows were basically wholesome in that the entire family could watch television together and not hear any profanity, see cleavage, or unmarried people in bed together. The Brady Bunch, The Sonny and Cher Show, The Carole Brunette Show, Bonanza, Gun Smoke, The Green Hornet, Dragnet, Adam-12, and Star Trek were shows I liked.<br />
<br />
I was shocked when I heard David Cassidy had passed on November 21, 2017. He was 67.<br />
In reading of his passing, his daughter,<a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/3883396/david-cassidys-last-words/" target="_blank"> Kate, shared his final words.</a><br />
<br />
<b>"So much lost time."</b><br />
<br />
These last words spoken by David Cassidy before he took his final breath were so poignantly true to life. <a href="https://stream.org/learning-david-cassidys-last-words/" target="_blank">This author apparently thinks so, too.</a><br />
<br />
I have to say I am guilty of wasting too much precious time on frivolous nothingness.<br />
I have to say I am guilty of wasting many precious moments, hours, months, years on stuff that are NOT ever going to positively lead to anything positive or worthwhile.<br />
<br />
Time not spent frivolously is a very sad, grieving loss to me.<br />
<br />
I'd rather spend precious time involved in promoting a positive life change for the better. And time spent promoting a spiritual change of my heart is the best use of time because it's effects are not just temporary, they're eternal.<br />
<br />
I've wasted and lost too much time on temporary, unimportant stuff. I can relate and agree with David Cassidy's last words.<br />
<br />
I don't want to not come to my last moments and be regretful of 'so much lost time.'<br />
<br />
I want to be passionately focused on not mounting up much more lost hours, weeks, months and years than necessary.<br />
How about you?<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-51375082433088481512016-03-27T20:43:00.000-07:002020-06-21T08:03:49.606-07:00Trust, Belief and Faith<br />
<br />
Trusting and believing in a person leads to having faith in that person.<br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="375" src="https://mrg.bz/CmJCRX" width="375" /><br />
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/Prawny">Prawny</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a>
<br />
<br />
It's NOT possible to have faith in someone you neither trust or believe.<br />
<br />
It requires time to grow to trusting and believing a person.<br />
Their talk must match their walk. Should you detect that person<br />
can't be fully trusted, this brings a degree a doubt, and trust can't be<br />
built within doubt.<br />
<br />
A person's reputation and character coupled with their actions and speech are just a few<br />
relevant factors to determine if a person is worthy of your trust and can can be believed.<br />
<br />
You feel completely confident in a person you trust.<br />
<br />
A person you believe in is a person you can place your full acceptance in what they say, their character, morals and values.<br />
<br />
Placing your FAITH is a step beyond believing and trusting.<br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="350" src="https://mrg.bz/QEeyLV" width="350" /><br />
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/anitapeppers">anitapeppers</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a><br />
<br />
<u>Faith</u> exists without concrete evidence physical evidence, per se.<br />
Not all evidence can't be touched, seen or presented in court to be cross-<br />
examined or even studied under a microscope.<br />
<br />
<u>Faith</u> is a matter of the heart and spirit.<br />
And, like your spirit, it's intangible, but it's very real.<br />
<br />
Putting your faith in a person is placing your total (heart, mind and soul) acceptance, trust and belief in that person.<br />
<br />
Jesus is worthy of being trusted and believed.<br />
But more so, he's the One whom you can place your <u>faith</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
Why? Because He gave his life for your soul.<br />
He cares for you that much to have died for you so that the real you,<br />
your spirit, that part of you which will never cease, can live in a heavenly home after His return.<br />
<br />
Jesus has paid the just penalty for the sins you and I have committed against a Holy God.<br />
<br />
Yes, we should have to pay for our sins, but thank the Lord, because of his love for you and I, on the Cross of Calvary He's paid our sin-debt in full.<br />
A person is saved from having to pay their sin debt when they accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior.<br />
Yes, Jesus is faithful. He's worthy of being trusted and believed.<br />
<br />
<br />
To be in the good graces with God the Father, God the Son must be your Lord and Savior.<br />
The way to get Jesus into your life is by <u>faith</u>.<br />
When you open your heart to invite Him into your life by <u>faith</u>, you can then say you need him, you believe what he did for you on the Cross, and you trust him to lead your life as Lord of your life.<br />
<br />
Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life.<br />
<br />
Jesus is God in the flesh-He came to do what had to be done concerning the spiritual matter of sin, removing the separation between Man, Woman, Child and God, so anyone desiring to move from double and death to spiritual Life and an eternal inheritance.<br />
<br />
Sin separates us from God, but God made a Way.<br />
<br />
Jesus brings those saved from sin into the family and kingdom of God. <br />
<br />
God never reneges on any of His promises to us.<br />
<br />
He who has the Son, has the best gift from God.<br />
<br />
The best is yet to come for those in Christ.<br />
<br />
When you accept the gift of Jesus by faith, you step into receiving of the bountiful and lavish gratuity of God's loving charity which has no expiration. Take the leap of faith!<br />
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Answer for yourself these questions.....</b><br />
<br />
<b>Do you know that because of your sins, you're an enemy of God and deserve to pay the penalty with your life?</b><br />
<br />
Jesus paid the penalty you owe for your sins. But when you accept him by faith into your life and heart, and believe who he is and what he did for you, you're pardoned from the penalty you owe from your disobedience and sinning against a holy, righteous and just God.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b> Do you want to know Jesus personally? </b><br />
<br />
If so, then seek him and he can be found. Open your heart and study of his life in the Bible and<br />
inquire of someone whom you can trust to point you to him? He will reveal himself to you if you earnestly seek him.<br />
<br />
<b>Are you a sinner saved by grace or a sinner in enmity with God?</b><br />
<br />
God's gift is life and peace and joy. God's gifts are promises for those in his Kingdom to enjoy. Jesus is the way to the Kingdom of God. Without inviting Jesus into your heart and life, you're already walking dead with no hope for the future. Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Light. <b> </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-69675249149322755182015-10-25T15:08:00.001-07:002018-05-08T16:21:01.748-07:00Church of Cannabis in Alabama<br />
I wrote earlier about the First Church of Cannabis in Indiana.<br />
<br />
I understand there's now a <a href="http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/videos/news/2015/10/16/74066048/" target="_blank">First Church of Cannabis in Alabama</a> looking to be situated in Montgomery.<br />
<br />
<br />
After viewing the video I have to wonder---<br />
if a plant, mineral, vegetable, or object is deemed 'good and peaceful' by Man,<br />
is that Man's reason to worship it?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://mrg.bz/i480nx" height="400" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A church building where believers meet for group worship to the Lord</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/Sgarton">Sgarton</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a><br />
<br />
<br />
And, for what ever reason or excuse, isn't worshiping anything other than God considered <a href="http://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-modern.html" target="_blank">idolatry</a>?<br />
Cannabis may not be a statue or a graven image, but replacing the worship to God with worship to an herb is what I would call 'modern day idolatry'.<br />
<br />
Jesus, the Son of God had proven he's 'good and peaceful' and through him a person can have everlasting peace with the God of creation, (the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob). Cannabis can't give that.<br />
<br />
In my humble opinion, smoking an herb will not gain me any peace with God. It may gain me a few minutes of pain relief. I don't wish anyone to suffer with pain. If I was suffering in chronic pain I'd also like to have some relief. But anything I take for pain I do not think is on any level with Christ the Messiah.<br />
<br />
And, cannabis isn't the only substance easing discomforts of pain,<br />
What's next, the Church of the pain-relievers Codeine, Aleve® and Oxycontin®?<br />
<br />
I believe the Church should only be about the message of the Bible which telling of the need of a personal Savior or Messiah because no one other than Jesus can say they've not sinned against God. Sin is serious and separates us from a holy and just God. The church is a gathering place to teach and instruct about being a disciple of Jesus.<br />
In learning of Christ in Bible scriptures we learn about the heavenly Father, what's pleasing to our heavenly Father and how to live a more spiritually and more Christ-like.<br />
<br />
The Lord alone deserves all of our worship because in and through him is the only way for us to inherit God's promises and for our spirit to be quickened with the Holy Spirit.<br />
<br />
Food, water and air are beneficial as well and necessary. But I don't see any church gatherings to worship these life necessities supporting physical well-being. Smoking cannabis has it's place and it's benefits but cannabis worship is far fetching where worship to it doesn't belong, in my opinion<br />
<br />
<br />
I do pray those seeking healing to first and foremost seek after the true healer with all their heart, mind and strength and place total faith and trust in Him who truly is worthy to be worshiped and praised.<br />
<br />
'Nuff said.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-90962555696052058532015-06-08T14:10:00.001-07:002015-06-10T11:23:36.001-07:00The First Church of Cannabis, and how far are we willing to go?<br />
Here's some trendy news. <br />
<br />
I read about a<a href="http://news.yahoo.com/tune-in--toke-up--smile-big--introducing-the-first-church-of-cannabis-155421770.html" target="_blank"> church in Indiana, called First Church of Cannabis, where the parishioners can </a><br />
<a href="http://news.yahoo.com/tune-in--toke-up--smile-big--introducing-the-first-church-of-cannabis-155421770.html" target="_blank">legally smoke pot.</a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://mrg.bz/uf0MZO" height="300" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="300" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">dried marijuana (cannabis) leaves/stems</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/growweedeasy">growweedeasy</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a>
<br />
<br />
I'm not certain if pot smoking is the whole criteria of their religious belief, but the article does read 'they' believe cannibus can heal the world and formed a church to claim pot smoking is part of their religious practice.<br />
<br />
<br />
Here are four news articles on the science of the healing benefits of Cannabis, which is the medical term for marijuana.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://thehealingcentermedicalclinic.org/medical-cannabis-info/" target="_blank"> This article states medical marijuana will have different effects for different people when </a><br />
<a href="http://thehealingcentermedicalclinic.org/medical-cannabis-info/" target="_blank"> used under different conditions.</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/medical-use-for-cannabis-and-it-s-healing-properties" target="_blank">This article tells about medical types-Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, and Cannabis Ruderalis.</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cannabishealing.com/medical-marijuana-use.html" target="_blank">This article tells about the different ways of getting the best medicinal effect from Cannabis.</a><br />
<a href="http://www.cannabishealing.com/medical-marijuana-use.html" target="_blank">(for example, if smoked, a vaporizer will help cut down lung and bronchial irritation).</a><br />
<br />
And <a href="http://www.alternet.org/drugs/healing-power-marijuana-has-barely-been-tapped" target="_blank">this article tells about a strain of cannabis with high CBD (cannabidiol) to low TCH (tetrahydro-cannabinol), medical studies of Cannabis and Parkinson's Disease and cancer, a cannabis drink and more.</a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://mrg.bz/oAYexb" height="400" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="350" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">church pews</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/Sgarton">Sgarton</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Okay, back to The First Church of Cannabis.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Church" target="_blank">A church is a building, a structure where people meet.</a><br />
A place where they can gather together, but should church be a place to smoke pot?<br />
In Christian terms, 'the' church refers to the collective followers of Christ. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion" target="_blank">What is religion? </a><br />
Has the First Church of Cannabis based it's doctrine around a plant because it helps with many physical afflictions? <br />
<br />
<a href="http://news.yahoo.com/tune-in--toke-up--smile-big--introducing-the-first-church-of-cannabis-155421770.html" target="_blank">A religion or organization where the people worship pot.</a><br />
After reading this article, I'm questioning if the parishioners of the First Church of Cannabis have <i>elevated</i> marijuana to a status of divinity?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Worship" target="_blank">What is worship?</a><br />
Are the parishioners of The First Church of Cannabis worshiping a plant because of it's therapeutic benefits?<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.gci.org/God/worship" target="_blank">This is one of the best writings I've come across on what is worship.</a><br />
God alone deserves our praises and true worship.<br />
Here are <a href="http://www.openbible.info/topics/worship_god" target="_blank">34 scriptures on worship God</a>. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Idolatry" target="_blank">What is idolatry?</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-modern.html" target="_blank">Here are some modern forms of idolatry</a><br />
(Idolatry is placing honor or reverence on anything other than God).<br />
<br />
Here are <a href="http://www.openbible.info/topics/idolatry" target="_blank">100 scripture verses on idolatry. </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/06/02/indianas-church-of-marijuana_n_7496084.html" target="_blank">Indiana's church of marijuana is a legitimate entity.</a><br />
Does this 'count' as what a 'church' was designed to be?<br />
<br />
Have the parishioners of this church taken something intended to be utilized for the spreading of the gospel and turned it into a format or tool so they can legally and religiously partake in a substance for pleasure or benefits?<br />
Facts state this plant gives good, healthful value, but elevating any substance to the status of being worthy of being worshiped is questionable. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.abideinchrist.info/judgment.html" target="_blank">The true determination of it's position as a true church, what the parishioners believe and practice, and their worship to a plant will ultimately be determined by the true and righteous Judge, Jesus.</a><br />
<br />
My thoughts....<br />
How far shall Man allow himself to turn away from God? <br />
What will sinning ultimately profit any one?<br />
(I'm not advocating to live with pain - it's always helpful to seek a way to be pain-free,<br />
but <a href="http://www.7stepstogod.org/documents/lesson1.pdf">the condition of a person's eternal soul is much more important than any condition of the body,</a> which has a termination date. The soul does not.<br />
<br />
Scripture verses on <a href="http://www.openbible.info/topics/turning_away_from_god" target="_blank">turning away from God. </a><br />
<br />
The living God loves each of us so much.<br />
Sin lessens our love for Him.<br />
<a href="http://www.gotquestions.org/God-hate-sin.html" target="_blank">Why does God hate sin?</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.apttoteach.org/Theology/Humanity/pdf/411_Results_of_Sin.pdf"><b>The results of sin</b></a>-<br />
<br />
<a href="https://bible.org/seriespage/man-trinity-spirit-soul-body">In our 'soul' is where sin is birthed.</a><br />
Sinfulness breeds more sinfulness unless checked, and this is The Way. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ucg.org/the-good-news/why-do-we-sin">Why do we sin? </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Spiritual-Blindness,-Results-Of-Sin">Blinded eyes and hardened hearts keep us going the sinful way. </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://biblehub.com/romans/1-24.htm" target="_blank">God does not approve of any sinful behavior-it's not for our ultimate good. Satisfying any fleshly desires feels good, but some have negative consequences.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
When the condition of the state of Mankind in general keeps looking more dreadful<br />
rather than positive and encouraging, it should be obvious--- STOP Make a change and turn<br />
around before it's too late.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://mrg.bz/YhOJdn" height="300" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="300" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stop sinning - it leads only to danger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/clarita">clarita</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a>
<br />
<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Sinning leads only to danger. </i><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>But for some it's more important to have a religious right to legally 'light up' </b><br />
<b>and feel good for a few hours....</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>and, so... </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>with blinded-eyes, hardened hearts and total disregard for their very souls,</b><br />
<b>some continue plunging <i>downward</i> towards the abyss of utter darkness.</b><br />
<br />
<br />
P.S. I'm not judging any person. This is a discussion about how sinfulness has lead to the forming of a church being about marijuana and not about Jesus, the Son of God, who loved us so much he died to pay the penalty for our Sins.<br />
<br />
Until next time, I shall keep moving upwards my glorious future on that small, less traveled path set before me.<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-56970439614705727112015-05-10T17:04:00.004-07:002022-11-12T21:15:20.486-08:00The source of PeaceShort and simple.<br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="400" src="http://mrg.bz/X04dY3" width="375" /><br />
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/Prawny">Prawny</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a>
<br />
<br />Desiring to be at peace with God ought to be the most important peace we desire, more than the peace we desire within ourselves and with our neighbors.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.gotquestions.org/Prince-of-Peace.html" target="_blank">The only way to have peace with God, is through Jesus.</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.gotquestions.org/way-truth-life.html" target="_blank">Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life.</a><br />
<br />
You CAN have peace with God through Jesus. It's a peace unlike any other peace imaginable. There isn't an adequate way to describe the inner peace Jesus gives to those who accept him as their personal Lord and Savior.<br />
<br />
Through Jesus, a person can be at peace with God. Peace means to not be in <a href="http://search.yahoo.com/search?ourmark=4&ei=utf-8&fr=freecause&type=100311&p=conflict+definition" target="_blank">conflict</a> against God because our sins are forgiven through Jesus' sacrificial dying on the cross at Calvary, and we can have no fear of death any longer. (spiritual death). Those who believe will enjoy eternal, spiritual life because your spirit will have been quickened (made alive) by the Holy Spirit, the same power that raised Jesus from death. <br />
<br />
That's some special kind of peace. And a special kind of life to look forward to in God's Kingdom.<br />
<br />
Throughout history, does it look like peace is on the horizon between people living on this planet? No, people like conflicts, so peace isn't possible.<br />
Peace is always out of grasp because the ingredient for peace can only come about through one Way.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.voiceofjesus.org/peaceofjesus.html" target="_blank">Jesus offers peace because He is the source of Peace.</a><br />
<a href="http://www.voiceofjesus.org/peaceofjesus.html" target="_blank">Jesus is the source of all good and all love.</a><br />
<br />
My paraphrase-You're at peace with God when you have the Son whom God has given all authority to. <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+3%3A34-36&version=ESV" target="_blank">(John 3:34-36)</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/bible-verses-about-peace-20-great-scripture-quotes/" target="_blank">Look at these scriptures on peace.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-6212478612966999292015-04-07T09:36:00.000-07:002015-04-07T09:36:02.266-07:00Peace - beyond our hopes and dreams World peace.<br />
No more wars, weapons or warring against each other.<br />
<br />
Conflict with other people all gone.<br />
<br />
World peace.<br />
Is it possible? Can all nations and all people be peaceable towards one another?<br />
Could the need for military and armaments be obsolete?<br />
Could focusing on getting along like 'best of neighbors' happen? <br />
Could surveillance and intelligence be unnecessary?<br />
<br />
World peace.<br />
As much as I want to live in a world with no wars, no threat of wars, I know better. <br />
All it takes is one to bring it on, and back we return to warring, hatred and killing.<br />
<br />
People claim to want world peace.<br />
But unless all are willing to give their all totally to the cause of world peace, it will never happen. <br />
Warring, killing, stealing, lying, corrupting, and the likes, make for hostility, aggravation, discord, and those things are not conducive to bring about peace.<br />
<br />
Some are going about practicing the 'opposite of peace' to usher in peace. <br />
<br />
I repeat, those things aren't conducive to peace. <br />
Only peace bring peace.<br />
<br />
Some
have the notion world peace will be a reality when all opposition to
their certain set of rules or beliefs has been obliterated.<br />
In other words, the world will be at peace when the world is totally dominated and inhabited by one group of people.<br />
<br />
********<br />
<br />
There is another kind of Peace.<br />
Better than world peace. <br />
Imagine a peace that's truly 'peaceful'.<br />
Peace without force or fear.<br />
This peace is waiting, patiently.<br />
It's a peace that fills your heart and no Earthly words of any language can adequately describe.<br />
<br />
This peace- is a peace so delightful that no man or woman can steal it from you. But they can have their own.<br />
This peace is a gift that resides in your heart to whomever invites Jesus in. Just ask.<br />
This peace means there is no longer a divider between you and your creator, the heavenly Father. A close relationship can happen when you aren't warring with God the Father. A close, loving relationship can develop.<br />
This peace means you are looked upon by God the Father as one of his precious little ones. And God takes mighty good care of his children.<br />
This peace means you can look forward to a super, super eternal future. A heavenly one.<br />
This peace means you can rest and stop fighting, stop being an enemy of God. Instead call him, 'Abba, Father'.<br />
This peace fills your heart, changing it, quickening your 'dead' spirit, and you being repositioned to rightful standing with God.<br />
This peace brings about a connecting, close relationship with God the Father.<br />
This peace is beyond all our hopes and dreams of world peace. God's blessings are awesomely good!<br />
This peace is an internal peace, an individual, loving, satisfying peace with an infinitely, loving, heavenly Father.<br />
This peace won't end and will fill our hearts over and over and over and over beyond our hopes and dreams.<br />
<br />
Jesus IS peace AND offers peace with God.<br />
This peace is more glorious than world peace.<br />
Peace with God is peace, indeed.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-89409312083603074242015-04-07T08:33:00.003-07:002015-04-07T08:33:58.927-07:00Faithful brothers and sistersToday I learned about Coptic Christians.<br />
<br />
I am amazed how my brothers and sisters in Christ are firm in their faith,<br />
in persecution for their faith,<br />
even to death.<br />
<br />
To learn about Coptic Christians, <a href="http://www.patheos.com/blogs/christiancrier/2013/10/20/what-do-coptic-christians-believe/" target="_blank">click here.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-89305328450049506792015-03-07T08:41:00.000-08:002015-04-07T08:59:33.464-07:00To liveLittle Walter Joshua Fretz spent only 19 weeks developing in his Mother's warm womb.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://chicksontheright.com/blog/item/27657-19-week-old-blob-of-cells-is-changing-minds-and-saving-lives" target="_blank">I read this article</a> and gazed at the photos of him.<br />
<br />
He was a tiny fully-formed baby boy.<br />
<br />
"So perfect," his Mother stated. She said she could see his heart beating.<br />
<br />
<br />
At 19 weeks, that 'blob of cells' is a tiny baby.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://mrg.bz/Xz9TzP" height="350" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="350" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Life is a gift from God- be happy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/Prawny">Prawny</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a><br />
<br />
In the womb, a developing baby boy or girl is getting nourishment and growing until time to make their entrance into the world. Their life was already progressing before they exited the birth canal.<br />
<br />
Here are some links you can search on <a href="http://search.yahoo.com/search?ourmark=4&ei=utf-8&fr=freecause&type=100311&p=being+knit+in+the+womb+in+the+bible" target="_blank">the creator knowing and forming you</a> inside your Mother.<br />
<br />
Every life is fearfully, masterfully, wonderfully made in the spiritual image of God.<br />
<br />
God is the creator of life.<br />
Not Man nor scientists. <br />
<br />
Some individuals, whose Mother's granted them the opportunity to continue living,<br />
want to rob a developing new life that same opportunity. <br />
<br />
God designed human life to develop within their Mothers until birth. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://blogs.plos.org/dnascience/2013/10/03/when-does-a-human-life-begins-17-timepoints/" target="_blank">This geneticist says week 22- when a premature fetus can survive outside the Mother is when life begins. </a><br />
<br />
On a personal note- <br />
<br />
I don't believe God intended for parents to kill their own flesh and blood before their developing baby can live independently of it's Mother.<br />
A developing baby is an alive baby.<br />
<br />
I don't believe God sees a developing baby at 9 weeks of age any differently than a developing baby at 19 weeks or a developing baby at 24 weeks. God sees a young soul.<br />
<br />
Man makes excuses about life and death with science and medicine practices in mind. <br />
If medicine and science improves so that an incubated 10 week old fetus treated can be sustained until it's lungs develop, will that mean changing at what point the baby isn't any longer considered a' blob of cells'?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.princeton.edu/~prolife/articles/embryoquotes2.html" target="_blank">When does life begin? </a><br />
<br />
At your beginning when a sperm cell penetrates an unfertilized egg. The DNA of both are necessary for life to begin dividing and multiplying cells- the beginnings of a life.<br />
<br />
Life is necessary for there to be any development.<br />
<br />
Life continues developing after birth-through adolescence, puberty, adulthood, middle age and through the elder years. <br />
<br />
If you want to get technical, we're all made of cells, so we're all a blob of cells, cells that have been given the breath of life.<br />
<br />
If God has knitted you together, and knew you when you were in utero-<br />
You've been given the <a href="http://www.gotquestions.org/breath-of-life.html" target="_blank"><b>'breath of life' </b></a>. -the gift of physical life.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.openbible.info/topics/womb" target="_blank">38 Bible verses about the womb</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.openbible.info/topics/pregnancy" target="_blank">15 Bible verses about pregnancy</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://biblehub.com/psalms/51-5.htm" target="_blank">Cross references- babies being sinful</a><br />
<br />
<br />
It was God's will that little Walter Joshua Fretz not have a long, physical life.<br />
I find it very heart-warming his parents named him.<br />
<br />
His short life has made an impression upon the hearts of many.<br />
I know he has upon mine.<br />
<br />
The gift of spiritual life is what you receive when you invite Jesus into your heart and life.<br />
And spiritual life is eternal life. A gift God wants each person to want to choose.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-50129212098132190312015-01-14T06:13:00.004-08:002015-01-14T06:20:46.327-08:00Snowflake wonderment I was thinking about snowflakes, well actually snow crystals. <br />
These tiny flakes come in beautiful shapes.<br />
<a href="http://www.webdesignerdepot.com/2009/12/incredible-examples-of-snowflake-photography/" target="_blank">Each flake different</a>.<br />
<a href="http://www.its.caltech.edu/~atomic/snowcrystals/" target="_blank">Each snow crystal is different. </a><br />
And to think no two are exactly the same is beyond comprehension.<br />
Every flake is dependent upon <br />
temperature and humidity factors forming the shape will become.<br />
And God. He is in sole control of the elements.<br />
<br />
God has each flake designed into a shape and never runs out of designs.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://mrg.bz/okWSwS" height="400" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="375" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">snow crystals magnified</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/FidlerJan">FidlerJan</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a><br />
<br />
Most of the time we don't see these beautiful shapes. We just see snow.<br />
But thanks to photography, we're able to admire the detail of these magnificent works<br />
of art up close and really be blown away by their individual splendor. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://mrg.bz/K8eyqj" height="375" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="375" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How many snow crystals does it take to make this scene?</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/IJY">IJY</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.hannahscupboard.com/wake-dec05-13.html" target="_blank">And, I like how this author sums up the subject of snowflakes.</a><br />
<br />
Thinking on that should warm your heart. <br />
<br />
Until next time, <br />
taking it step upon step, along that small, narrow path, leading homeward to promised splendor and glory with my Lord God and all the saints.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-8507237815154354972015-01-03T07:36:00.006-08:002015-01-06T14:43:14.886-08:00Happiness and joy to all. What if?Surrounded by happy people is a place I believe every one would choose to be and stay.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walt_Disney_World">Disney World</a> makes it's reputation being a destination you're going to be happy being there. Every year people by the million pay handsomely to go to a place manufacturing emotions of happiness for each visitor entering the turnstiles to the world of wonder and delight for all ages.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://mrg.bz/XG5n4P" height="236" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joy touches deeper than happiness</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/earl53">earl53</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a><br />
<br />
So, what if the entire world could be a happy, happy world?<br />
<br />
We wouldn't need to travel to any one destination to experience happiness for a day or two. We'd have happiness day in and and day out in every place we lived or went, including hospitals, schools, offices of all sorts, every place.<br />
<br />
Happiness would be the normal state of affairs globally for any and every person wanting or desiring to be happy.<br />
<br />
Is this asking too much? If every one wanted and desired happiness, couldn't this be so? <br />
<br />
Doesn't every one want to feel happy and experience a state of happiness every day for as long as you wanted?<br />
<br />
We could all make the pursuit of happiness the in vogue <a href="http://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-the-difference-between-an-epidemic-and-a-pandemic.htm">pan epidemic</a> 'bug' you'd want to get bitten by.<br />
<br />
What if everyone had the same or very similar <a href="http://science.howstuffworks.com/life/what-is-happiness.htm"> definition of happiness</a>?<br />
We'd all be on the same page about happiness.<br />
We'd all be striving for the same, we'd all know the next person is just like us, and we'd help each other reach the happy destination together, which would reinforce every one's daily happiness quota.<br />
<br />
There'd be worldwide unified happiness in which we'd be surrounded by happy people everywhere.<br />
<br />
Disney World might not like that.<br />
<br />
But, being happy is different than being joyful.<br />
Don't get me wrong. Happiness is a very desirable emotion and mental state.<br />
But in my humble opinion,<br />
being joyful is preferred over being happy.<br />
<br />
I like how this person puts it in describing <a href="http://kevinmartineau.ca/what-is-the-difference-between-joy-and-happiness/">differences between joy and happiness.</a> <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.differencebetween.com/difference-between-joy-and-vs-happiness/">And this description of the differences.</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.richchristianpoorchristian.com/2010/04/difference-between-happiness-and-joy.html">And this one.</a><br />
<br />
And being that, what if we all sought after joy?<br />
<br />
What a world this would be.<br />
<br />
What if? <br />
<br />
It may be an unrealistic dream to wish happiness and joy for all people in the world,<br />
but one person at a time is all it would take to get<br />
the 'Joy bug' passed around to catch on.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://mrg.bz/pLNiP0" height="350" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="350" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inner joy warms the heart, radiates outward and is lasting.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/Melodi2">Melodi2</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
It's joyful for me to wish this. (my heart's smiling)<br />
<a href="http://www.everystudent.com/features/gettingconnected.html"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.everystudent.com/features/gettingconnected.html">How you can know God personally, the One who gives you life and wants you to </a><br />
<a href="http://www.everystudent.com/features/gettingconnected.html">enjoy life to the fullest, and so much more. </a><br />
<br />
<br />
Until next time,<br />
I'm treading along that small path, enjoying <b>inner joy </b>that surpasses<br />
all understanding.<br />
<a href="http://www.christianpost.com/news/the-source-of-joy-91493/">The source of my joy comes from who I know.</a> <br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-92143807305041236942014-09-20T06:42:00.002-07:002014-09-20T06:44:56.185-07:00"Can God have a son?"I'm so happy I happened upon the perfect answer to the question, "Can God have a son?"<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://mrg.bz/QqQHPt" height="350" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="350" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">precious feet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/kamuelaboy">kamuelaboy</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a>
<br />
<br />
There are those who object, discredit and disbelieve Jesus as deity because they get tripped up on<br />
how can Jesus be the Son of God.<br />
<br />
Long before the Earth and Man came into being, God know Man would stumble<br />
into sin. With sin in the picture, this brought the need of a perfect way of removing that 'filthy' sin which would be the <a href="http://www.christinyou.net/pages/fallman.html" target="_blank">'Fall of Man</a>' and be the 'impenetrable wall' separating Man, now filthy because of sin, from a just, perfect and holy God. (Sin and holiness do not mingle)<br />
<br />
God did not want Sin and the <a href="http://billygraham.org/decision-magazine/february-2010/saved-from-the-penalty-of-sin/" target="_blank">'penalty of sin'</a> to be the finality of Man. In other words, God did and does not want our demise to be due to our disobedience, (even thought it's what we deserve for disobeying God, he loves us more than we deserve to be loved).<br />
What a loving, merciful, heavenly Father we have.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.teachingtheword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=6092&view=post&articleid=64878&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0" target="_blank">Read the brief explanation and click to listen to the sermon.</a><br />
<br />
Become enlightened with the knowledge of truth, and then you too, can answer any one's questions about how can God have a son. <br />
<br />
Spoiler alert- God came to our rescue.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.teachingtheword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=6092&view=post&articleid=64878&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0" target="_blank">Make sure to listen to the sermon on this.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
The above link, the "Fall of Man" contains good info on the 'Tree of Life' and the 'Tree of Knowledge of Goodness and Evil'.<br />
<br />
<br />
My journey on straight and narrow path is such a wonderful a walk, I don't want to be on any other.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-29151223621909666502014-09-07T15:07:00.002-07:002021-08-11T18:42:24.029-07:00Repertoire and reserveLast week <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joan_Rivers">Joan Molinsky, commonly know as Joan Rivers,</a> breathed her last breath.<br />
<br />
I came across the term, 'Repertoire and reserve', while reading an article explaining the throat procedure surgery that presented complications for Ms. Rivers.<br />
<br />
Any kind of surgery poses stress upon the body.<br />
Surgery comes with unpredictable complications, and more so for an older person because of diminished 'repertoire and reserve'.<br />
I guess diminished 'repertoire and reserve' refers to the weakened inner strength needed to overcome or cope with stress introduced to the body by any surgical procedure.<br />
<br />
Joan Rivers was born in 1933. She had reached her 81st birthday.<br />
She had lived fourscore years.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+90%3A10&version=KJV">Psalms 90:10</a> reads that God limited man's lifespan.<br />
<br />
<br />
God, in His infinite, perfect wisdom pulled back the years of Man's lifespan from 800 or 900 carnal years to 80 years. Some are blessed with strength to breathe on past 960 months. If you live to 100, that's 1200 months.<br />
<br />
Surgical procedure or not, it may have been Ms. River's time. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_verified_oldest_people">List of 100 people verified living a long time</a>.<br />
<br />
God has power over death, not Man. <br />
<br />
Diminishing 'repertoire and reserve' is built into DNA.<br />
The body becomes weaker and can't tolerate or handle 'stress' as it formerly did.<br />
<br />
I hope the clinic where her throat procedure was performed and the medical staff are found to have performed all medical procedures as dictated by the medical establishment.<br />
<br />
I'm sure no medical personnel intentionally desired to do anything wrong or harmful to Ms. Rivers.<br />
<br />
It's most likely that Joan had reached her allotted number of days.<br />
She must have undergone plenty of plastic surgeries to her face to give herself a youthful appearance. But none of that can change the fact that when it's your time to depart, one can't do much to change that.. <br />
<br />
I have a feeling Ms. Rivers was keenly aware of her mortality and she was grateful for her life and her talent for making people laugh.<br />
<br />
She will be missed by many.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-91006138842992721982014-09-02T13:24:00.002-07:002014-09-09T15:12:58.350-07:00Contemplating more about Jesus, Part 2Jesus left us with so much to contemplate and digest.<br />
Jesus came to Earth giving us a body, a face, a model so-to-speak, of what God the Father is like.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Son of God was the perfect sacrifice for Man's sins</td></tr>
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Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/jorgeyu">jorgeyu</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a><br />
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<br />
How can Jesus speak of God and also be God?<br />
That has been a puzzling question I've wondered about for years.<br />
The best I've come to understand is while Jesus was on Earth, he demonstrated to us how we are to<br />
have respect and reverence to the Holy Father. While he was walking amongst us, he was fully a man, with emotions, feelings of hunger and thirst, bleeding when punctured, etc, but he was also of the Holy Spirit, meaning he concurrently retained his godliness while in his temporary human body form.<br />
<br />
Remember, <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+1&version=NIV" target="_blank">John 1:1</a>, in the beginning was the Word, the Word was with God, and the Word was God. <br />
I take this to mean always Jesus and God were One. They are one in the same. <br />
And, <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+1%3A14&version=NIV" target="_blank">John 1:14</a> reads the Word was made flesh, meaning God was made flesh and we know his name to be Jesus who came from the Father, and Jesus is full of grace and truth.<br />
<br />
Though not a perfect example, I can't think of any thing giving a closer example to an Earthly 'one-ness' than marriage. Marriage is two people united together in the sight of God becoming one, sharing the same name, the same household, the same goals, the same life.<br />
<br />
<i><b>The Holy Trinity</b></i><br />
<br />
There is a hierarchy in the unity of three.<br />
The Holy Trinity is comprised of the three <i>persons </i>of the holy God.<i> </i>Each attribute or person is God and each is holy, and each distinction of the Trinity has a distinct role or functioning in unification.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jesus.org/is-jesus-god/holy-trinity/the-roles-of-the-trinity.html" target="_blank">I like how Charles Stanley explains the roles of the Trinity.</a> (<i>creates, implements and administers the plan</i>)<br />
<br />
Jesus came to bring glory to the Father. While on Earth, he mission was to point us to the Heavenly Father and to put a 'face' on the invisible God for us to have a model to see, hear, and touch. He was submissive and obedient in his mission to give glory to the Father. Jesus while on Earth in a human form, he was also still God the Son. He was both God and man.<br />
And, <a href="http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermons/five-reasons-that-jesus-came-to-earth-jim-butcher-sermon-on-easter-good-friday-57337.asp?Page=1" target="_blank">Jesus came to purchase our freedom</a> from spiritual death which we should rightly pay for the sins we've done against a holy, and righteous God.<br />
<a href="http://questions.org/attq/how-could-jesus-be-both-god-and-man-at-the-same-time/" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="http://questions.org/attq/how-could-jesus-be-both-god-and-man-at-the-same-time/" target="_blank">Could Jesus be both God and man?</a><br />
<br />
Is there any thing what-so-ever out of the realm of God to do? Of course not.<br />
Our finite minds may have a hard time wrapping our thoughts around Jesus being God. From the beginning this was The master plan for our good. God had to become the sacrifice in order to satisfy God for all of Mans' sins. Nothing less would do and there was no sinless person. God had to step down from heaven and become a man to be the pure, sinless acceptable sacrifice once and for all mankind who'd want him to be their Savior. And it has been done. Only thing remaining is for you to accept that he was who he said he was and accept his love and what he did for you upon the cross at Calvary so you can enjoy eternal life. <br />
<br />
The Father glorifies the Son, whom we must go through to access the Father. <br />
<br />
The Holy Spirit dwells within the hearts of believers giving direct communication/heart talk/ understanding/spiritual counseling connection between the believer, God the Father and Jesus the Lord God.<br />
<br />
Jesus prayed (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2017&version=NIV" target="_blank">John 17:1-25</a>) mentioning multiple times that he had glory with God before the world was created and that he and God are one. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/quicksearch/?quicksearch=with+whom+I+am+well+pleased&qs_version=NIV" target="_blank">The voice from the clouds</a>, (the voice of God) spoke Jesus was his Son and whom He was well-pleased.<br />
I would say this is confirmation from God the Father to His Son. <br />
<br />
More s<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/quicksearch/?quicksearch=seen+the+Father&qs_version=NIV" target="_blank">criptures in Matthew, John and 1John</a>. (God and Jesus are One)<br />
<br />
Jesus is the God-way to the heavenly, Father God. The Holy Spirit is the God within for our personal God- teacher and heart consciousness helping us with how to conduct and think and live the way fitting to God.<br />
<br />
Jesus, the Messiah came and the world hasn't been the same.<br />
Jesus changed so many lives and because of him, any person accepting him as being the<br />
Son of God and their Lord and Savior, surely gets <a href="http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermons/walk-in-newness-of-life-shawn-rose-sermon-on-change-135354.asp" target="_blank">a new life</a> ( in many ways) and can expect a glorious life in the eternal future.<br />
Until then, all believers have the Holy Spirit as our personal God within to help us to righteousness and point us to Jesus and to the heavenly Father.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jesus hung on the cross to give us hope and life</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/LittleJack">LittleJack</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermons/getting-through-customs-jeff-strite-sermon-on-blood-of-jesus-183368.asp" target="_blank">Want to get rid of what will keep you out of heaven?</a> (What to do to get through the gates)<br />
<br />
<br />
I shall keep contemplating more and more about my wonderful Jesus, my Lord, my God.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-54482899267380234102014-08-21T15:21:00.005-07:002014-09-09T15:27:40.109-07:00Contemplating all Jesus isI've read that followers of other religions, including followers of the Islam religion consider <a href="http://www.soundvision.com/info/jesus/inislam.asp" target="_blank">Jesus a prophet and nothing more because they do not believe Jesus is the Son of God; nor was he crucified or resurrected; nor is there any Holy Trinity.</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.churches-of-christ.net/tracts/job083u.htm" target="_blank">More interesting info on what the Quran says about Jesus and the Bible. </a><br />
<br />
Question- If Jesus is <i>only </i>a prophet, what about these <a href="http://www.truthandgrace.com/Jesus.htm" target="_blank">facts about Jesus?</a>, <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jesus, Son of God came to save us from the penalty of sin</td></tr>
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Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/mensatic">mensatic</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-a-prophet.htm" target="_blank">A prophet is seen differently by people of different religions.</a><br />
Mainly, a prophet is a person chosen of God to voice a direct message to his people.<br />
<br />
<br />
Here's a list of <a href="http://positron6.blogspot.com/2008/12/70-contradictions-in-al-quran_04.html" target="_blank">70 contradictions found in Al-Quran.</a><br />
I'm not a scholar of the Quran, but if there are these many contradictions, could information<br />
written in the Quran about Jesus be erroneous? <br />
<br />
<a href="http://lds.about.com/od/jesuschrist/a/names_of_Jesus.htm" target="_blank">There are over 200 names referring to the person of Jesus</a>. It's quiet an impressive list referring to Jesus. I would conclude Jesus can be called more than just a prophet. (and one of his names is Everlasting Father which means he is God. God is limitless and He chose to be of three distinct attributes. Jesus is God incarnate so we could get a visual glimpse of God who is without form because God is Spirit, and so a part of God could be born of flesh in order to become the perfect, sinless, approved sacrificial-lamb for mankind so we can have our sins placed upon the perfect sacrifice for our sins to be forgiven by God.<br />
<br />
God's master plan for the redemption of Man was in the making from the very beginning, long<br />
fore Man came on the scene. That's some awesome master plan God has in the works!<br />
<br />
And a prophet is a man or woman with a sin nature just as we all have. <br />
Jesus came into his earthly body <b><i>without</i></b> a sin nature being conceived of the Holy Spirit.<br />
I'd say Jesus is much more than a prophet. He did much more than voice a message from God.<br />
<br />Can you imagine that the Lord, relinquished part of his deity and became a growing fetus, dividing cells and all, within the uterus of Mary with human <b><i>and</i></b> holy DNA. What a miracle!<br />
Jesus temporarily relinquished his everlasting spirit form and become one of flesh and bone and blood. He was born into the physical world by developing as a baby inside the chosen virgin named Mary, but he held onto his deity as Mary was visited by another attribute of God in the form of the Holy Spirit. <br />
<br />
This holy, miracle impregnation proves nothing beyond the reach or is impossible to God.<br />
<br />
Contemplate all Jesus is and all <a href="http://www.jesus.org/death-and-resurrection/ascension/what-is-jesus-doing-now.html" target="_blank">Jesus has and is doing for you right now. </a><br />
This is far beyond prophet material. No mere prophet can be God and man. <br />
<br />
No ordinary prophet was given authority to take away any one's sins. <a href="http://www.gospelway.com/topics/god/jesus-forgiving-sins.php" target="_blank">Jesus does.</a><br />
<br />
We are not awaiting the return of an ordinary prophet.<br />
Contemplate what Jesus is yet to do for those who call upon him as their Lord and Savior.<br />
We are awaiting the return of Jesus, the Son of God.<br />
<a href="http://www.jesus.org/early-church-history/promise-of-the-second-coming/what-do-we-do-in-the-meantime.html" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.jesus.org/early-church-history/promise-of-the-second-coming/what-do-we-do-in-the-meantime.html" target="_blank">Here are what we should be doing until his return.</a><br />
<br />
And while we are waiting, if we pray according to his will, <a href="http://biblehub.com/john/14-12.htm" target="_blank">we can do great works in his name.</a> How cool is that? And it's all because when we hook up with Jesus, through him we are empowered to do great things. Again, God gets the glory, through Jesus, not us. No ordinary prophet can do this.<br />
<br />
May I suggest a thorough study of the Bible with the goal of searching for the truth should one wish to know who
Jesus is.<br />
And, I say 'is' because he IS alive.<br />
He's our <a href="http://www.compellingtruth.org/Jesus-high-priest.html">High Priest</a> and our <a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/advocate">advocate</a> in heaven and is busy <a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Mediate">mediating</a> for us and preparing a place for us.<br />
And at the appropriate, <a href="http://www.returnofjesus.com/">he will return</a> in all his glory and the
world will know without a doubt he is King of Kings, and Lord of
Lords.<br />
<br />
<br />
Until next time, I'm walking on my glorious, narrow path leading to my Lord. <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-82378424568751289892014-07-30T05:54:00.001-07:002014-07-30T05:59:14.577-07:00An amazing book with a valuabe, life-giving message It's a book comprised of many books. And together, the continuing story, the saga, the conflicts and drama---a lead up to the long awaited Messiah coming on the scene. The Bible tells of the future of mankind and spiritual beings. The Bible. The Holy Word of God. It tells of history so we can learn. And it tells of the future so we can be prepared.<br />
<a href="http://www.ptl.org/alive/whyscripture.php" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.ptl.org/alive/whyscripture.php" target="_blank">Five reasons why this book is 'THE' book printed and read more than any other book in the world. </a><br />
<br />
The Bible has a message for you. God speaks his personal message to you in his written Word. You can only know it if you read it. In His Word you will find out about him, about what people did in the past and what happened to them. It tells about people who drew near and worshiped God and about people who distanced themselves from God and worshiped idols. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">God's Holy Word for you to read</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/RoganJosh">RoganJosh</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a>
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<br />
You will discover a lot about yourself in the stories in the Bible. Man and woman haven't changed that much at all in their wants and desires. God knows us all too well. <br />
<br />
But you won't know anything unless you open the book and read it for yourself. Even reading a page a day will be to your benefit.<br />
<br />
The Bible is a spiritual book and speaks to the spirit of man. When you're on the same spiritual channel, it's a truly amazing book.<br />
<br />
No other book has changed more lives than the Bible.<br />
<br />
Has your spirit been married with the Holy Spirit so the pages of the Bible come to life for you and for a change in your life that's nothing short of miraculous.<br />
<br />
The message is simple. Your spirit is brought to life and quickened when you choose to believe.<br />
Jesus walked on earth as the embodiment of God in the flesh.<br />
He came to give life. Your spiritual life. <br />
Your sin debt stands between you and a Holy God. Jesus is the Mediator between<br />
God and Man.<br />
Don't delay in accepting Jesus into your heart to be your lord and savior. It's the most important decision in all of eternity you will make.<br />
Choose Jesus and you choose your valuable, precious spirit life.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">God's message for LIFE is within the pages</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/jeltovski">jeltovski</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a><br />
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God wants you to have spiritual life. How you can have life is by the Way, the Truth and the Life, found within His Son, Jesus. <br />
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P.S. The gift of life is free.<br />
You can't earn it or work for it or deserve it.<br />
It's totally free.<br />
All you have to do is ask Jesus into your heart and it's yours because God loves you.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9071478551562577326.post-40530548257133548552014-07-23T07:42:00.001-07:002014-07-23T16:37:43.163-07:00The clash still rages loudlyThe middle East is a hot-bed of war and hate. The sentiment has trickled down from man to their sons and to young women taking their stand in the hostile actions of that land. The war has been a long one with no end in sight- only more loaded barrels, rockets and explosives aimed at each other.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ucg.org/news-and-prophecy/why-israel-focus-muslim-hostility/" target="_blank">Why such hostility? </a><br />
<br />
The Muslims, including neighboring Arab countries and Palestinians want the Israelis out of the land. <br />
This is the battle involving the entire world. It's a battle not only of who has the right to the land, but who's religion and who's God is supreme.<br />
<br />
The stakes are too high for one side to give up anything. The life one loses or sacrifices are mounting daily.<br />
<br />
Hate and hostility has sunk to deeper depths. I can't begin to understand what it must be like to live in a land where every day war rages with more killings.<br />
<br />
Is there any possibility of peace in the Middle East?<br />
Is there any win-win solution for these two groups of people living on this planet?<br />
How much more killing and death? Is this solving anything?<br />
<br />
<img border="0" src="http://mrg.bz/tT3A8J" height="300" width="400" /><br />
Photo credit: <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/creative/KingofColeslaw">KingofColeslaw</a> from <a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">morguefile.com</a>
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<br />
<br />
Now, the story of a young Palestinian woman, Wafa al-Biri, is one that touches me.<br />
I can't imagine what her life has been to have brought her to want to be a martyr.<br />
<br />
She's most likely suffered by seeing more death than any young person should be exposed to in the refugee camp where she lived and this affected her so deeply that the only way she saw to escape was to inflect and reciprocate the same in retaliation and end her suffering at the same time.<br />
<br />
A very unfortunate accident started all this which caused extensive burns over her body.<br />
She needed special medical treatments to survive the infections and she was able to receive <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skin_grafting" target="_blank">skin grafting</a> free of charge for her burns at a Jewish clinic.<br />
She survived and her wounds healed, but not her emotions. And she was left with some disfigurement. This would be difficult and tragic for anyone.<br />
In addition to her physical suffering, she must have been doubly devastated when her fiance backed out on her, and her situation brought shame to her brothers and other family members.<br />
She must have felt her suffering was unbearable and was never going to end. <br />
<br />
She entertained the thought of being a martyr as her only way to end her suffering.<br />
<br />
Militants were all to eager to grant her her wish and showed her just how to make the most of her willingness to end her life and supplied her with explosives and instructions. <br />
<br />
This young woman was willing to take the lives of those who had personally cared for her over the course of half a year in the burn clinic.<br />
<br />
She knew the names of the people who had treated her in the clinic.<br />
She knew they didn't have to treat and care for her.<br />
But they did.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.nbcnews.com/id/8330374/ns/world_news-mideast_n_africa/t/descent-patient-suicide-bomber/#.U8-zlKiSPbw" target="_blank">Watch this video of a 21 year old woman who attempted to be a suicide bomber.</a><br />
<br />
I have never been burned to need <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skin_grafting" target="_blank">skin grafting</a>. But I do know it's a choice what a person can do with the rest of their life after severe burns.<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._R._Martinez" target="_blank">This man chose to inspire and be a positive influence after his burn accident.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_modern_conflicts_in_the_Middle_East" target="_blank">There has been fighting in the Middle East for a long time. </a><br />
<a href="http://bibleresources.org/war-in-the-middle-east/" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="http://bibleresources.org/war-in-the-middle-east/" target="_blank">What the Bible says about war in the Middle East.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
In war, there are no rules but to survive or die with the hope of having made a final stand.<br />
<br />
<br />
God have mercy upon one and all.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0