Faithful brothers and sisters

Today I learned about Coptic Christians.

I am amazed how my brothers and sisters in Christ are firm in their faith,
in persecution for their faith,
even to death.

To learn about Coptic Christians, click here.

When a preacher carries a gun

I heard someone make the statement that it doesn't seem right for a preacher to carry a gun. I think that person might have been questioning how can a 'man of God' also have a job that calls for him
to carry of a firearm with the possibility of shooting someone?  In other words, how could a
preacher voluntarily accept a job requiring him to carry a gun with the potential of killing someone?


Photo credit: mconnors from morguefile.com
 
Let me attempt to answer that question.

Carrying a firearm legally is meant for protection or for hunting. Law enforcement police, detectives, security guards, military, and elite groups trained for special missions to combat terrorist attacks and the such, use weapons to stop or halt criminal acts and prevent the loss of lives of innocent bystanders, hostages and themselves.  It's necessary to carry weapons in order to have a chance to overpower whom they need to 'battle' with, and who most likely are packing fire power.  Men and women in uniform willingly step into a potentially dangerous line of work to protect lives, and the property of others. We should be thankful to those willing to work in positions that come with some degree of personal danger.

So, how can a man be a preacher, who preaches the Word of God on Sunday, also carry a firearm
Monday through Friday?

A church pulpit

Photo credit: ratatosk from morguefile.com
 
Simple. A man can wear multiple hats or uniforms. Wearing a robe in the pulpit is one in which he answered the high calling to spread the gospel of 'good news'.  This man's heart is concerned about the souls of people destined to hell and the Lake of Fire where there will absolutely be no hope of escaping.  He is busy spreading the Gospel of Truth so people can hear the Word of God to know
and understand their spirit needs a Savior.

People are spiritually dead and unless restitution is made for the penalty of their sins, spiritually,
they are going to die in their sins.

Preachers give the good news of the gospel so people can know there is a way to be in good graces with God. The only way approved by God calls upon by faith to invite his Son into your heart to be your Savior and Lord, because his blood shed fully satisfied and paid your sin penalty. With Jesus
you are saved from spiritual death. You'll never taste death if you are 'in Christ'.  Hence the term, 'absent from the body, present with the Lord.'  Your fleshly body will perish, but the real you, your spirit, will never die or be away from the Lord. On the other hand, if you die and your sins have not been paid for or forgiven, you face judgement for your sins. Heaven if the home of a Holy, soverign God. Sin can not reside or inhabit heaven. You will be found guilty of sin by the righteous King,
 and the penalty for your sin is spiritual death- the worst kind of death, because you won't die once as we know death to be, but your spirit will sort of die over and over forever and ever.

It's a death penalty with no ending of spiritual life without God, without hope, without love, without anything good.

And to pour coals upon the fire, the Lake of Fire is a place reserved for fallen angels. They will be there also paying their penalty for turning against and being disobedient to God. And, I don't think they'll be pleasant neighbors to be around- but the neighbors you'd wish they'd go to hell, but
they are and you're with them. So no hope of ever, ever being rid of them. You're stuck.


Photo credit: melodi2 from morguefile.com
 
So, how can a preacher volunteer to take a job in which he could possibly be called upon to
kill someone?

His two positions, one in a church pulpit and one carrying a weapon, seem to contradict each
other. One position is leading people to make a decision to be spared spiritual death, and the
other position is a job in which he has potential to kill.

A person's job that requires carrying a firearm is not so that person can look for an opportunity
to shoot someone.  The position is one of protection, mainly to protect lives and property.
 Only in a last resort situation would weapons be utilized.  Any man should want to  protect
 his family and home from harm by any means necessary and fight with what would have a
favorable outcome for his family and himself.  This goes for preachers of the Gospel as well.
A man of God is still a man of God as long as he's saved and not willfully disobeying the Word
of God by his lifestyle.

A man can qualify to work as a doctor, a paramedic, or a grave digger.  He works to help people,
to be productive, and earn a living to provide for his family. No matter the job, he still has a family
to protect and provide for.


Photo credit: gojo23 from morguefile.com
 
In the Bible, David, was chosen, anointed and was the successor of King Saul. David was a fighter and killed thousands. They made a song about it. God still used David. From the line of David came our Savior.

Samson was given super strength by God, and he judged Isreal for twenty years. Samson killed 
thousands of Philistines who were  idol worshipers.

Men continually wore their swords and carried their spears as they worked rebuilding the wall 
around Jerusalem. (Nehemiah 4:13-23)

There is a time for killing and a time to stop killing. There is a spiritual battle raging, as well as physical battle. The most critical battles are the ones happening in the spirit world.

So, for a man to spread the gospel is one thing, and still quite alright to carry a weapon.
Christian's carry spiritual weapons every day to fight against the spiritual evil of the devil. So for a Christian man to carry a weapon that shoots bullets, isn't contradictory after all. It's all a job, what-
ever that job might be, he does it for the glory of God and provide for his family.

Ecclesiastes 3 is very good for this topic concerning the work God gives a man.
Here in Matthew 7 is what the Bible says about judging another person.

Who knows what might happen tomorrow. One day you might have to call upon someone with to help protect you and your family. If that person coming to your rescue and carrying a weapon also
happens to be a preacher, I don't think you'd mind that at all. He'd be there to save you, your family, and property from harm, and later he can lead you to the Lord, so your spirit can also be saved.
That would put him in a special category of deserving thanks now and later/



Photo credit: melodi2 from morguefile.com

 
My personal conclusions are : What occupation a man chooses is between him and God.
That person alone must answer to God. God places people in many different positions and occupations in order to fulfill his work. Every Christian has their own race, talents, and ministry
to serve and work for the Kingdom. Not all work is done in the pulpit. And weapons are not evil
if used in a wise and safe manner.

Preachers work to spread the gospel of God from the Word of the Bible with the ultimate goal of leading people to make their personal decision to accept Jesus. Jesus does the saving, securing
spirit to heaven, blotting out all marks of sin against you, not the preacher.

 So, with that said, if you've accepted Jesus as your Savior, having spared you from what you
deserve because of your sins, which are against God, you really don't have a thing to worry about.
If you accidently get shot and die, you're on your way to heaven in an instant.

So, is your spirit in right standing with God? Any moment could be your last. Make your choice
before it's too late. Get Jesus.   If you're ready, read through some of my past entries how to easily
seal the deal and know you're securely in God's family, and are free from spiritual death. Now,
that's something to rejoice in the Lord about.

Your flesh is temporary. Your spirit is eternal.  God is Spirit. God created Man in His likeness, to
live forever and fellowship with. But love does not force anyone against their will. If you choose
to accept God's grace and mercy for life, you are blessed. If you choose not to accept his loving
offering of salvation, then.... you're choosing eternal damnation upon yourself.

Comments?



Until next time, the path is narrow, but the rewards of following it are endlessly magnificent.



   

Heaven or Paradise- spiritual or sensual?

I've been reading on some key differences between the Christian and the Muslim religions.
The both claim to have God, either called God, the Heavenly Father, or Allah, and
they both claim to offer Heaven or Paradise to it's believers upon death.

A depiction of angels in heaven

  Photo credit: guilanenachez from morguefile


But, I've come across major differences in how to reach Paradise and heaven, the goal for getting there, what you will do there, and the question of will there be any sex?

(The answer is at the bottom if you must see it right now)


Allah promises the reward of Paradise for men complete with virgins for his sexual delight. Lots of voluptuous, untouched, beautiful, virgins with appetizing vaginas and non-sagging breasts for his pleasure and permanent, eternal erection.  So, the Muslim man has to do good things and he will be heavily rewarded so he may have his sexual desires fulfilled by enticing virgins. Now, for any healthy, red'blooded man, having strength to sexually pleasure virgins might very well thought to be 'Paradise'.  However, if the goal for getting to Paradise, is for his sensual pleasure, that sounds pretty selfish and one-sided. Virgins are there. Is Paradise another place for the females to have to work? Is their Paradise having to use their bodies to pleasure a man? Is there any time females can have a Paradise of their own and not have to be about sexually pleasuring a man?

In Paradise and Heaven- yes or no?

Photo credit: mantasmagorical from morguefile.com

 
 Muhammad the messenger, had strong sexual urges and I've read he married and had sex with a very young girl. This teaching gives the impression that sex appears to be something men can't imagine ever being without and if they see more than a few inches of a woman's skin, they might have lustful thoughts. So the woman has to dress in a manner to not give the man any temptation. She is to dress modesty covering herself from head to toe so men can't view her and become sexually tempted.

The Prophet Muhammad taught sin can be forgiven by doing good and sin is just an act not an inherent nature.  I also read this teaching says even though a believer can do 'bad', they can also do 'good', and that would wipe out their sin. This raises some questions. For instance, who determines how much 'good' is enough to erase sin? What is the definition of 'good' and who can claim to wear the title of 'good'? How much prayer is enough to wipe out a person's sin? How will a person know they've prayed enough? And for a person to do bad, there has to be an inherent nature within them in order to do 'bad' or think 'bad' thoughts. So if there's any speck of 'bad', how can that person remove the nature that is within himself?  He/she may not do 'bad' all the time, but it's still within himself/herself even though they don't necessarily do 'bad' things all the time.

God demands perfection. Even thought Muslims know of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his only beloved son to God. The rest of the story is God stepped in and provided a substitute for Abraham. This was an example showing that substitute later would be, Jesus, God's only Son, who was obedient and was sacrificed to have his blood shed to pay for the sin of mankind. Jesus was the perfect sacrifice because he was part of the godhead, part of the 'us' who created all things. He humbled himself to be born of a woman by the Holy Spirit.  So, God, spiritually stepped down from heaven in human form to become The Sacrifice himself for us. That is of the Spirit, but also of the flesh so Man's spirit could live and not die and his sins be forgiven. No other way would have sufficed. If God provided of Himself to pay for our sins, then no imperfect man can do "good' if he is himself imperfect.  When Adam and Even sinned, a sinful nature was passed on to every person born of human parents. What is a sin nature? A good explanation can be found here, and 'the misconceptions of sin nature' paragraph is especially good.

Photo credit: lebewesen from morguefile.com


In the Bible, heaven, is promised to those who repent and who's sins have been forgiven through accepting by faith of His Son, Jesus, the Messiah- whose shed blood was the once and for all sacrifice paying the penalty of sin for that person's soul. Through His Son, your 'spirit man' can live forever in a glorified body in heaven, or be out of the presence (spiritual death) of the Lord, in hell and ultimately the Lake of Fire.  Sin can't enter the home of the Holy Father, whom is Holy Spirit, and heaven is eternal. and the spirit of man is eternal. Being good can't pay the price to get into heaven. There's nothing that man, a sinful person can do- no amount of good works or living good or being a martyr will rid him of his sinful nature, so man can't be a perfect sacrifice to pay for his sin, thus he is incapable of saving himself.

 In heaven, even with glorified bodies, we will be recognizable. Glorified bodies will not have fleshly desires. God designed sex to be for a husband and his wife for the purpose of procreation. In heaven, there will not be a need for marriage, therefore no need for sex. The church IS the bride and Jesus whom we're eagerly waiting to be with. Marriage on Earth is for raising families. Christians will be the family of God.
The goal in heaven is to worship the Son and rule with him.

I especially like this site to read questions that are answered using Greek word translation that really help with the meaning of scripture.

So, there are many major philosophical differences.


                          MORE COMPARISONS ----

1. The Bible is printed 200 million copies every year.
    The biggest Quran publisher has printed 240 million books since 1984.
                                                                    ***
2.Mohammad self appointed himself as a prophet, he got his first revelation from God at age 40 and he died from and illness that was feverish.

Jesus, meaning 'The Anointed One' is more than a prophet. A prophet is a messenger with a word from God. Jesus is the Word, made flesh and came and dwelt among us. He is our Great High Priest, which is much more than a messenger.
                                                                 
In the Bible, the Messiah, or the 'anointed one' is Jesus, even Islamic believe Jesus is the promised Prophet and Messiah and would return to Earth to defeat the anti-christ.
                                                                   ***
3.Mohammad was born of two earthly parents and died by the effects of being poisoned.
 Jesus was born as prophesied in the line of David of a virgin and the power of the Holy Spirit. His  birth was announced by angels and always was with no beginning or end.
Jesus was before Abraham, meaning he always was with the Father. He died on the Cross, spent time in Paradise to get the keys of death from Hades and was resurrected on the third day. His tomb is empty because he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God, interceding for the saints. His name is more majestic than the angels.
                                                                   ***

4.Mohammad had many women and children enslaved and he died years after being poisoned.
Mohammad also fought in many physical battles. He did no healing or sacrificing of himself to save anyone.
 Mohammad claims to have had contact with Gabriel, an angel.

Jesus was about His Father's business at an early age, and did not seek possessions, wives, concubines or have anyone killed or enslaved. He purpose on Earth was solely to spread the love of God, and be the final sacrifice so our spirits can enter heaven and thus escape the due penalty of death our sins demand, thus saving us from hell and the Lake of Fire.

Jesus only did what was pleasing to the Father. He is the Light of the World and came to free people from their sins.
Jesus has direct contact with the Father. Angels worship him.
Jesus is God's firstborn ( Hebrews 1: 6)

Jesus came to free us from the penalty of sin

Photo credit: bosela from morguefile.com


Jesus is the immortal King of Kings, Lord of Lords of the everlasting Kingdom of God. The Kingdom is spiritual, as God is Spirit. The enemy is spirit. The battle is spiritual. Jesus has victory for us in this arena. Just have to wait for the right moment when Jesus returns and all the children of God  will then see The Kingdom at hand with Jesus ruling on high. The spiritual victory has already been won.

Check out this site- three sections breaking down- The Son is God, Jesus is God, and Jesus is Jehovah.

CONCLUSION- Things of a sensual, sexual nature have nothing to do with heaven or paradise. 

God is Spirit (VIDEO)


 -There is no intent on disrespecting anyone's belief or religion. This blog entry is only my brief understanding of the subject and is not intended to suggest that I know all there is to know about any religion-

Still on my journey along the narrow path set before me.

Please leave your comments.

Evangelist Billy Graham's big events

I've been thinking about Mr. Billy Graham. Checking on his date of birth, he's in his nineties.  I remember back in the late 60s and early 70s watching his televised crusades with my grandmother. It was special televised programming and at first I didn't know why it was such a big event. But now I do. Those crusades are no more, but those crusades were a ministry through which  Mr. Billy Graham was instrumental in spreading the gospel to thousands upon thousands of people.

Those crusades attracted thousands of people in the cities which they were held, and when Mr. Graham gave the invitation, I watched and remember thinking that some people had to walk down many flights of stairs then out onto the center of the field to gather around the stage Mr. Graham was speaking from. He waited. And I watched with my grandmother, while we shelled peas as the people made their way to accept the invitation. Then Reverend Billy Graham prayed the sinner's prayer and the people repeated after him what he had prayed.

The prayer, if prayed sincerely from the heart, was asking Jesus to be Lord and Savior and believing upon him as the Son of God who died in the sinner's place having paid the dept owed for sin. When this prayer was said, sinners are adopted into God's family by faith.  Their 'dead in trespasses' souls were made alive- born again, instantly. The prayer doesn't save anyone, it's Jesus that did and still does. It's a God and grace thing, but it takes knowing we humans are sinners and we have to exercise faith in God to believe in his divine plan that saves us from spiritual death. As I grew older I understood the significance of those crusades and I will always be grateful that I get to view them with my Grandma Lillie Bell when I was a youngster.

Here are some early photos of Billy Graham, intent on spreading the gospel far and wide.

His speeches are priceless, timeless, and very easy to understand. View Billy Graham in the video below. He gives such good examples and mixes humor with truth when he speaks.




Do you want to be pardoned from you sins?
There's no other way but by Jesus. It's only left that you want it and accept what's already been provided for you. It's a decision you make deep down in your heart. Like those many people at Billy Graham crusades, who walked to the center of the field and stood or kneeled and gave their heart's to the Lord.

If you missed his crusades, that's alright, you can receive the Lord into your heart and be saved just the same. In your room or quietly where ever you are right now, what matters is that you realize you owe a debt that must be paid to God for your sins. You can't pay the debt yourself because it requires the shedding of blood, the death, of a pure sacrifice to pay the penalty. Jesus was that sacrificial lamb for you, in your place so you (your soul)could live in heaven when your fleshly body dies.  

It will be a big event in your life, and one monumental event to your soul, when you invite Jesus into your heart. God bless you and God bless Mr. Billy Graham for his ministry leading thousands of souls to the Lord so they could be made spiritually alive by accepting Jesus Christ as their Savior.

Another classic video of Billy Graham speaking about excuses  for not making your commitment to Christ.




May TODAY be the day you make your commitment to know Christ in your heart. RIGHT NOW is the time to settle it. Now!

From carnal-minded to true Christian

There are two categories of Christians- carnal-minded and true. It's God's desire for every soul to willingly accept Jesus into your heart, the first step in your 're-birthed' spiritual life. I don't think God intended anyone to accept His gift of salvation  as a free-ticket to heaven with disregard to your Christian responsibilities.  Carnal-minded Christians put greater importance on how salvation can benefit them here and now, rather than on the spiritual things of God.  The thoughts of a carnal-minded Christian go something like this, "If Jesus died for me, and I accept him as my Savior, my sins are forgiven, so I don't have to give up anything and I can continue doing everything I like to do."  This selfish Christian is not willing to let go of the bondage sin and isn't making the spiritual things of God important in his/her heart which are necessary to grow and mature in their spiritual relationship with God.

The Lord loves righteousness and justice 

 









                                                 




Photo credit: southernfried from morguefile.com



A Christian is a follower of Christ. An imitator of Christ.

It's my belief that when you truly understand the significance of Jesus' dying in your place has on your eternal future, (you're supernaturally transformed from being spiritually dead to being spiritually alive with your soul's eternal future assured and your heavenly inheritance secure), you can focus on sharing how you acquired your wonderful fortune with others so they also can know how they can have the same, and you can of service to them showing them the love of Christ.  Jesus conquered death for you, making no longer any need to fear dying. [Absent from the body, present with the Lord.(2 Cor 5:6-9)}  Once this realization is grasped, you can't help but turn from  ''a lifestyle of temporary pleasure for the body', to a lifestyle of one that shows gratitude, appreciation, humbleness, and desiring your loved ones to experience the same saving grace upon their souls.  Compared to that, no amount of money or temporary 'good feeling', or tangible possession can even touch what goodness is in your future because  Jesus redeemed you back into good grace, standing and fellowship God.  And all it takes is to first believe, and accept Jesus as your Savior and Lord.  When someone opens a world of life to you, naturally want to thank that person.  And since there's nothing you can give God that he doesn't already have, the best way to honor him is by obeying His Word. As you become more mature in your Christian spiritual journey, you begin to do less and less of the 'bad' things. You'll begin to want to make changes you know will please God in your lifestyle choices.  Your actions and choices are the evidence showing the change that has occurred on the inside of you. Your 'spiritual re-birth' enables you to better live up a higher standard of holiness, this is  'your living sacrifice' to God.  Yes, you could continue doing the things you knew aren't pleasing to God, but now your desire is more for the spiritual things of God.  And if you slip up, and we all do, those 'bad things' or actions don't seem as enjoyable any more when we do fall back into them. In other words, we aren't perfect but lifestyle choices reflect our heart's desire in more on spiritual things of God and not just on pleasing ourselves.

True peace is freedom from sin's bondage

Photo credit: dpower from morguefile.com


It's easy to be a carnal-minded Christian living in a physical world.  On the contrary, it requires a willful decision upon each fresh morning and throughout every day to be a true, spiritually-minded Christian. God doesn't force anyone to do anything. He allows you to choose what you will do because if you do it willingly, that shows you want it without force.  Love never demands or forces anyone into anything.  It's easy to 'fake a smile' but be unhappy on the inside. The truth shows about your inner being by your outward actions, habits, and lifestyle. Let your relationship with the Lord be a testimony and honor to show Christ died to pay the penalty of sin, and you know sin is not looked upon as what a Christian should be okay to keep doing, even though Jesus has already paid the price with his life.

I believe God desires Christians to grow spiritually mature and not remain 'thinking like the world'. In essence, a carnal-minded Christian wants to "keep Jesus nailed to the cross" so they may continue living as an 'unbeliever' .

My list of points pertaining to carnal-minded vs spiritually minded.

1. Jesus knew no sin. Allow him be your example to live by in being a servant.
2. Jesus taught to live by the truth of the living Word.
3. Jesus suffered a cruel, public death as 'The one sacrificial Lamb' for all of man's sins.
4. Jesus conquered the power of death. He was resurrected.
5. In Him alone, you will have life everlasting. He is interceding for all saints right now.
5. Satan is a liar. If you listen to him, you're listening to lies. for only lies come from him.
6.The Christian life includes a spiritual relationship with the Spirit of God which encompasses His three spiritual forms- God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.  A true Christian has the Holy Spirit as a counselor to help him understand the Word.
7. A true Christian is spiritually-minded and desires a lifestyle of obeying and working out 
    their salvation to show to God a pleasing and holy sacrifice, and to produce good works, & point others to Jesus---all this to show 'thanks' for what Christ has done taking them from death to life, and their promised inheritance in heaven will be theirs.This is in addition of bypassing hell and spiritual death in the Lake of Fire.
8. A true Christian is thankful and humbled that Jesus loved them so they wouldn't have to die. True Christians, being human will never be sinless, but when they do, it's  uncomfortable knowing it was wrong, are regretful and ask forgiveness and try not to do it again.
9. A carnal- minded Christian would prefer Jesus stay on the cross so their continual sins be continually forgiven.  Carnal-minded Christians can show no outward evidence showing their inner re-birth status reflecting Christ living in their heart. They want to do as their flesh dictates and have no regard  to be Christ-like or be of service to others or share the gospel. Their main concern on themselves and worldliness.
10. The difference between a true Christian and a carnal-minded Christian has to do with the change on the inside to do what's pleasing to God and be of service to others.
11. God desires a holy church. And people make up the church.
12. Christians should repent of their sins. Which means 'to turn away' rather than make  a willing lifestyle to practice that sin continually.
13. A Christian's priority should be spiritual, not carnal or worldly.  Anything you place more important than God is considered idolatry, which also is sin.


An excellent video so you can be a true and free Christian





This testimony will make you also see there must be a change in your life




There is only one thing which can give true satisfaction in life... and that's a relationship with the Lord, through Jesus Christ.



BONUS: God sent his precious Son, Jesus, to us to save us from the separation that sin caused as a gulf between us and God, and spiritual death.  Jesus in your heart, or not in your heart is what will determine your present, future and eternal destiny.  God patiently waits for you to make your choice. He is a fair, just, righteous God. and will judge all accordingly.
No need to fear anything, or worry, when you will not be in lack any good thing in the family of God. So smile, use your energy and love to share to others and show them the 'light of life' burning within you... this is the sign of a true spiritually-minded Christian.

Time for service. 


Scripture references. Type any scripture reference or keyword into the box below to read.

 Psalms 98:9; 33:5; 89:14; 49: 16-18; John 14:6;  Romans 8:6-8; 8:21; Luke 4:18; 1Cor 3:1; 3:3; 10:23;  Gal 6:8; James 4:4; 2Cor chapter 5; 2Cor7:10; Titus 2:11-13 : 1Sam 8:19-20; Job 20:4-29 and
Job 21:11-15; Gal 5:19-21; Col 3:5; 1Peter 4:3; Matthew 6:25-34

Lookup a word or passage in the Bible

Wise words...found in 1 John 2:15-17 - Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world,  If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world,  And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. 


In conclusion...1John 2:28-29 - And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.  If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.

Question- Which category of Christian do you fall under? Are you carnal-minded and still more interested in self and things of this world?  Or, does your life show you're more interested in the spiritual things of God, which is the sign of a true Christian?   The answer is evidently clear where you stand- Are you sharing the gospel?  Are there changes in your life from when you were unsaved? And, do you have a heart for service to others.


God bless all who take the journey on the path less traveled leading to your glorious Son.

The transformation that matters

Christian's aren't perfect. That deserves repeating, Christian's aren't perfect people, not by a long shot. After accepting and receiving the Son of God as our Lord and Savior by faith, people think followers of Jesus automatically turn into perfect people. That's impossible. As long as anyone is  living a human existence, it's impossible to be perfect. The best we as Christians can do and become is a better person in God's eyes by following the example of Jesus,(WWJD),and strive each and every day to be better than the day before as we work through our mistakes, mishaps, shortcomings and inadequacies, in other words 'our imperfection' as we are molded more and more into the likeness of our Lord on the inside, and that transformation starts to be seen outwardly in our actions, our speech, how we conduct ourselves, etc..

caterpillar is transformed into a butterfly

Photo credit: natureworks from morguefile.com

 
Even though Christians have the Holy Spirit guiding our quickened spirits, we still dwell within our fleshly bodies. The difference that can't be seen to the naked eye is the inner spiritual transformation. The difference is Christians are not held hostage any longer by sin, and are more sensitive to sin than before when sin was a way of life and we had no concern about it one way or another. Our hearts were made spiritually alive when we accepted Jesus into our lives. What a transformation that is!
                                                            Being spiritually alive to the things of God makes us children of the Almighty God and heirs to His promises. We yearn to please Him, our heavenly Father, and we know our sins are forgiven through the redemptive blood of our Savior. We live by faith and know our Father in heaven loves us unconditionally. We may look the same as before, but a spiritual surgery has been performed on the inside. Our insides 'so to speak' are perfect and that's all that really counts. 

Christians are not perfect, but we're hooked up with 'The One' who is, and that's what matters anyway.

2 CORINTHIANS 3:18 And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

Things to ponder-

Jesus was the only man who was perfect. He was born of a woman in order to be the sacrifice for all Mankind. He was also God in that He was without sin so He could be The One Perfect Sacrificial Lamb in order to please God the Father so Sin could be forgiven.

To worship and live a Christian life, one must worship in  spirit and truth for God is Spirit.

To accept Jesus is an act of faith in what God provided for us so we can have life, spiritual life. The body will die but the spirit will live forever. We are body, soul and spirit. It's the condition of the spirit that matters.


So the question is- have you been transformed from 'death into life?' What are you waiting for?



I like this website.


Keeping that upward trek on the narrow path set before me.

Mary Stewart Relfe, Ph.D.-My Tribute

I got news that a very dear friend, Mary Stewart Relfe, Ph.D, has completed her work on Earth and has been called 'home' by God the morning of August 7th, 2011.  Mary Stewart Relfe was an amazing woman. She was a woman with a mission that has spanned the globe affecting the lives of thousands of people in need of a loving hand and heart, while ministering to their souls, most importantly, so they can know of the goodness God has for them now and forevermore.  She was a faithful praying, Christian woman. She was a giving woman. She was a smart and talented woman. Her gifts and talents of speaking and authoring #1 best seller books were all put to use unselfishly to help others.  Authoring timely newsletters and compelling books, she poured her all into them until the finished products were completed, and all without need of fanfare or a pat on the back. Many times when I was at her home I saw or heard by way of Sally of Mary working hours on end, and never did I ever hear or know of her thinking of taking a vacation. She was a perfectionist because she didn't do anything unless it was done right, because too many precious lives and souls were at stake.

Honoring the life of Mary Stewart Relfe, Ph.D.

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I hadn't seen Mary in two or so years and heard that she was barely eating. She was always on the thin side and being very watchful of what she ate. Mary was so generous to me in giving me a job of cleaning her home when I needed additional work every couple weeks and I will always remember her the generous wedding gift she gave me in 1999, and her wise counseling she took time to offer me when I told her of my marriage problems.  I first met both Mary and Sally, her faithful assistant, in1988, when they came to my very first office on Walnut Street in Montgomery after Mary read about me and my services in the local newspaper.  Immediately we become friends, which has deepened over the years since then.  Many hours while I helped ease the tension from Sally's back with massage therapy I learned of League of Prayer, it's mission, and of Mary and those by her side operating her global mission.  In the years since, I'd been invited to League of Prayer functions and their home in Montgomery and Prattville. The newsletters written by Mary over the years were always so descriptive about people in various countries League of Prayer was assisting in education, jobs, food, clothing, spiritual health, you name it, League of Prayer was fulfilling a necessary need to hurting people.  I witnessed when League of Prayer had a food pantry, went to Russia, and later when the League of Prayer website was launched.  Mary extended her love by outreaching and touching the lives of many showing the love of God out to the small and forgotten children, women, and men literally around the world. There are really no words to fully describe what this woman has done for so many locally and on the other side of the world. She had a shining, pure heart of gold and her heart beat to do the work of God. God blessed her for that, without a doubt, and I know that's what sustained her until her work was complete. She gave and gave until she was escorted by angels to her heavenly home.

I'm sure Mary's legacy, League of Prayer, will continue on. It has been the lifeblood to many people around the world for years. League of Prayer was her heart, hands, and feet and her blessing to the world exuding the love of Jesus. I pray I can be just one-tenth the respected, Christian woman she showed the world she was.  I can honestly say it was she who inspired me to be a better, Christian woman.

Remembering Mary Stewart Relfe, Ph.D

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Books authored by Mary Stewart Relfe, Ph.D.

                                    


On August 7th, 2011, Mary entered into her heavenly reward. I bet she has a truckload of crowns to cast at the feet of Jesus. That thought makes me happy for all her labor she so tirelessly gave for so many. God bless her soul.


Look at the many scripture references on rewards for your labor the Lord.


As my dedication to Mary, I'm gonna strive even harder to be more like Jesus. My prayer is you strive for that also. The days are shorter then we think.

Three- in- one

I've heard scores of great messages and if I could apply even half what I've learned from each of them, I would be a much better Christian today.  I've taken notes and jotted down things in my Bible and underlined scripture and have stars the margins of my Bible.  But today, one scripture I happened upon in the short book of 1John, fifth chapter, got me to stop and think a bit longer. It's the three-in-one.  This three separate entities make the Christian faith very unique. God is the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit is our counselor, our guide for us and bear witness for us during Jesus's absence on Earth.
These three-in-one have the same goal, same mission, same love, just different manner of showing us. They are different, but at the same time inseparable making up one. Sort of like taking three ingredients, mixing them together making it impossible to unmix them. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are all Holy in that way we refer or communicate about them, but they are one. There is nothing impossible for God to do for us. That is the beauty and magnificence in which no other religion on the Earth can compare. God has covered it all in all ways for us. In other words, He's got our back no matter what, no matter when, no matter where.

 Inseparable bound by love

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Imagine, all the stories and messages I've heard over the years about God.  His Spirit on Earth has been here to bear witness to me when I hear His truth. His Son, came to Earth as a man, the perfect once-and-for-all sacrifice for any person to call upon Him to be their Savior so their sins would be forgiven. And, the Heavenly Father, which can't be seen by our eyes, ( He's too holy for our eyes to see), and is in heaven loving us. All three-in-one, one-in-three, difficult to explain, but nevertheless, I am so thankful my God is supplying all my needs in every way, even paying and providing my sins be forgiven and allowing me to learn the truth of him and how to live in light of pleasing Him.

What are your comments?

Scripture reference-1 John 5:6-8

On the journey of that Son filled road

Ten Commandments reduced to two

Now and then I see car stickers that read, "Keep the Ten Commandments".   I ask myself why keep the Ten Commandments? In my limited knowledge of what I read in my Bible,  Jesus explained that the Ten Commandments are done away with and replaced with just two. Before Jesus came Moses presented the Ten Commandments from God on stone tablets for people to live by. But that was B.C. (before Christ).  When Jesus came, He summed the entire Ten Commandments into two things to do. Jesus broke it down into......... 

1. Love the Lord God with all your might, all your heart, all your mind and all your soul.
2. Love your neighbor as yourself. (your neighbor happens to be any person other than  yourself).

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The Ten Commandments can be grouped into two categories- what was pleasing to God in your relationship and worship of Him, and, how you are to relate with people.

Jesus summed these two categories also into- love God with all your might and love your neighbor as yourself.  Simple and to the point. Love. If you love, you are doing every commandment.   The Bible is full of stories of love and Jesus definitely showed us about love more than anyone else.

Bottom line- If you desire to know the mind of God and what's pleasing to Him, it's in His written Word, the Bible, and following after Jesus. The Bible is the written story of God's love for us. It's full of examples and people for us to learn from.  It does take time to read and comprehend and apply, but if you really are sincere to know, the Holy Spirit will reveal the mysteries of God's word to you a little at a time. The scriptures come alive and you'll be forever changed as the words in the Bible feed your soul unlike any other words from any other book ever can. Read it for knowledge of who God is, and the mighty love He has for you. God wants His precious creation, us,  to rely upon and trust Him. He is our loving, heavenly Father. When you have the Word in you, there's a change that happens from the inside and expresses itself on the outside in your actions and desires and wants. You'll be more apt to live your life in a manner more pleasing to God, thus showing your love to Him. You will be able to do things you never thought you could with God in your life.  And, when you love your neighbor as you love yourself, you're fulfilling God's Commandments.  God loves all, but hates the sin. We should make it our passion to love as God loves and be patient and forgiving as God is with us. Remember, when you do as Jesus would do, you're doing what's pleasing in God's sight.  Bottom line, the Bible is for you to discover all these wonderful things and to know God's commandments for His people.

Any comments?

scripture references- Matthew 22: 36-40; 1 John 5:1-3;John 14:15; 2John 6

Until next time, keep traveling the upward road with the bright Son as your guide........

Some big pluses are yours?

"What's in it for me?" A very reasonable question to ask. So, let's break it down into little nibblets the big pluses coming your way when you make your choice for Jesus.

#1. Your sins being forgiven and forgotten. This might not sound like you'll be receiving a big plus, but on judgement day you'll be glad your sins are all wiped clean and the dept for your sins paid-in-full. Trust me,this is a big plus because the only way God forgives sin is there has to be some blood shed as payment, and not any old blood will do. The blood has to be from a pure, acceptable sacrifice. That is why there were so many rituals of animal sacrifices in Old Testament time that had to be performed by priests.  For us today the accepted and approved sacrifice we can stand firmly on is Jesus'. Jesus only had to willingly give Himself once to shed His blood. He was the sacrifice that would end the need for any more sacrifices. His sacrifice did it once and for all. God saw it, was pleased and accepted it. So, when you have Jesus, your sins are forgiven through His shed blood on the Cross. Period. Having your sins forgiven is a huge plus.

Jesus was victorious on the Cross 

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#2.  Did you know you some pretty neat rights as an adopted child? And the same goes for anyone in the family of God. Being a child of God, and this pertains to grown-ups as well, gets to be in on the inheritance of all the good God has to shower upon His precious children. And that inheritance is part of the inheritance that Jesus will get as well. Every one of God's children will receive great inheritance with magnificent eternal perks. That's something to look forward when you choose Jesus making you an adopted child of God. So, another great plus you get when you choose Jesus.

#3. With Jesus, you move from darkness into light. Without Jesus, you have no choice but to be in the dark. It's only when you accept Jesus into your heart that the Light of the world comes in and your spirit is awakened.  You're a reborn person because your spirit has been awaken and enlightened with the Light of the world.  I know this sounds impossible, but this is what happens spiritually.  Your spirit is that part of you that is not flesh nor blood but is made in the image of God, and it's the you that will live forever, the true, real you. God is Spirit, and your spirit is what is brought to light when you choose Jesus. So, your spirit moving into the Light is another great plus you get.


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#4.  Your home is being prepared in heaven by the hands of Jesus, and it will be a mansion tailor made for you. All the palaces in the world will pale in comparison to your heavenly mansion because it will be absolutely perfect in every way and made just for you.  Where else and who else has that in store for you? The answer is no one.  Don't miss out by letting another day or minute pass without Jesus in your life.

#5.  This plus has to do with God, the creator of the world, the universe, and maker of all things. Before your sins were forgiven, you were an enemy to God. Sin separated us from God. So, another big plus is Jesus changed all that. Jesus redeemed us back to God when anyone accepts Him as their savior. How to get back in right standing with God is as act of faith. Simply in faith know this is how God wants it. His Word says so.  Ask Jesus into your heart. Be sincere knowing you are a sinner and there's no way you can pay the price that sin demands in order to be forgiven.  But Jesus stepped in and up on the Cross and stood in your place as the one, acceptable sacrifice that God approved of and when you have Jesus, you thus possess great pluses that come as a package with Jesus.

#6. Another plus I can share that you get when you choose Jesus is security. When you are in Him, there is nothing that can happen to you that will alter your inheritance or any other plus. Nothing can change your eternity other than maybe getting to heaven sooner. But no one knows the day Jesus will return. But that really doesn't matter. Your future is secure no matter what. That secure feeling is a good feeling to have even during the worst of days here on earth.

#7.  Purpose. What's the use of going through life without a purpose for living?  As I've gotten older, it's becoming more important to have some purpose in life. Yes, there's purpose to get an education, etc. but the deeper purpose in the end is to have lived a life that was pleasing to God since it's Him whom we all will gave to give an account of how we utilized all the blessing we received during our lifetime.  Purpose gives life meaning. What will you have to leave when your time comes to an end? With a purpose your life can be worthwhile and have deeper, lasting meaning and your legacy will be a worthwhile one to those still here.  God gives us a good purpose and that's to lead others to Him so they can know about Jesus and make their choice for Jesus, too. What greater purpose is there than that? And what a wonderful feeling to know you had a purpose and part in leading another soul to heaven. Knowing that God wants no soul to be lost, I can only bet He has some pretty good rewards for anyone being a part in getting more people to chose Jesus and thus heaven bound. It will be rewarding to see those souls in heaven you had a part in showing them the way there.

Well, there you have it- 7 pluses you get when you ask Jesus into your heart. Remember, Jesus won the victory for all over sin and death and when you have Him, you are brought into right standing with God.  All these pluses (and there are more)are waiting and are instantly yours the moment you pray to ask Jesus into your heart. I think the best pluses are yet to come.  Question is, do you want them?  If you do, Jesus is the key. I can't think of any better pluses in the entire world. 

The light from the Son

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Bottom line- What's in it for you? When you choose Jesus, you get the best God has to offer and you also have some pretty big pluses and so much to look forward to.

New year goals and my sprint to the finish

Today is December 31st. The last day of the year 2010. The first decade of this century is about to end and in a few hours, and the second decade is about to start. I'm not working today, but I wanted to type in today's date December 31, 2010.  This year has been quite a year, this one really got to me, but I'm proud of myself for the manner in which I've overall handled myself.  For example, there were times I've raised my voice in talking to someone when I felt frustrated,  I don't like doing that, and times I've just kept my mouth shut, rather than open my mouth and insert foot. The times I remained quiet a few seconds to gather my thoughts and think how I should respond to show I have a little bit of wisdom and intelligence, I liked that.  I need to practice that more often.


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On this last day of 2010, I want to thank God for letting me wake up to see this morning. There's no guarantee or promise that I will see the close of this day, but for now I'm grateful I was allowed to open my eyes this morning.  If it's God's will, I will sleep tonight and open them to a new year and a new decade.  Another blessing that will be, to live to see the beginning of a brand spanking new year on the calendar and start fresh. Well, not really start fresh, but to continue to serve God in the best of my ability with the blessings and talents and life He puts in my body. My greatest desire is to give honor and glory to Him. My most earnest desire is to make use of each hour and each day and each month that I am alive to run the race set before me. One day will be my last day in this body, and I dream to hear the Lord say to me, "Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things, enter thou into the joy of the lord."  Matthew 25:23 

I'm ready when God's says it's the right time for me to enter into the joy of the Lord.  It might be today, or tomorrow, I don't know which day that may be. Only God knows.  I strive to work at being ready every day, and will continue to do what I know in my heart is pleasing to Him.  It's taken me a while, lots of years of errors, mistakes, selfishness disregard for what's really important,  but thank God for his grace and mercy,  I've gotten on the right track and now  each year I'm maturing firmly in the knowledge of the Lord. It's so satisfying and rewarding knowing it's all about Him. It's all about Him. What I am and what I do is all about pleasing Him, my Lord and Savior, Jesus.

My other goals for 2011 are to live on less stuff, and stop worrying about stuff. God is in control and will never leave nor forsake me. I know that. I need to act more like I know that. And, I want to start an email prayer circle.  Of course I have minor goals, like balance my checkbook and stop procrastinating, and cut out eating sugar all together.

I did some figuring. If it's God's will, and the Lord doesn't return, and I live 24 more years to  age 76, that will be 8,760 more days. I've already lived approximately 18,980 days. I've been a Christian approximately 9,855 days. I want my latter days to make up for the days I've squandered. I need to sprint to the finish. Lord help me. And, thank you Lord for being patient with me and giving me so many blessings every day of my life and for allowing me to serve you. 

I pray everyone take a few minutes and make your willful choice, so you know within your heart of hearts that you've chosen whom you will serve and know according to God's Holy Word, when it's your time, your soul will be called home to heaven for eternity with the Lord. No sin can enter heaven, so unless your sins have been forgiven, when it's your time, your soul will be sent to a holding place called hell, which will later be cast into the lake of fire for eternity without Him. Revelation 20:14-15

Bye bye 2010

You're worthy

Bad. Yeah, that was me. And knowing that, I knew I wasn't worthy to receive God's gift. I am a sinner. I've done things I am not proud of.  I've behaved badly. I've thought horrible thoughts. I've been selfish, self-centered, evil, filthy, corrupt, and didn't care what anyone thought. I've lied, even cheated, and heavens knows all the things I've done. But God was patient and loving to not give up on me. Let me back up to when I was a youngster. I was privileged and blessed with two of the sweetest, gentlest grandmothers.  Whenever I was with either of them on a Sunday, it was a given we'd be going to church. Back then, I didn't know too much about religion,Christianity, and such, but I watched my grandmothers. They were solid and true, and I thank God for them, bless their souls. One was in the country and one was in the city and when I think of her I think of her playing the organ.

As a child I enjoyed listening to my grandmother play the organ

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 Mom made sure us kids were in church on Sunday mornings, too. So I had an introduction to hearing the Word of God, and most of the time I don't think I got a single thing out of those Sunday sermons. To me sermons were always too long and boring, but I was there mostly doodling on paper and standing when it was time to stand, and sing when it was time to sing from the hymnal. Sunday school was better, because got to do something artsy, and move about or take part in discussion or something besides sit and hear a boring sermon.  I did have one Sunday school teacher whom I loved and enjoyed being in her class so much, that I didn't want to advance to the next class and leave her. It was in her class I learned the names of all 66 books of the Bible. I remember that being a major accomplishment. When you're a kid, 66 of anything is a lot.  All this was the foundation of what was to happen later.

Jesus- the solid foundation of Christianity

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I joined the Marine Corps. I distinctly remember a fellow Marine, just an acquaintance, come up to me and tell me that I needed to get saved. I thought it odd that he would tell me that at that time. I knew he was right, but I wasn't ready. I don't think I wanted to make that decision right then, because I was busy enjoying my independence and having fun on the weekends with the guys, and actually having the time of my life.  But what he told me remained in the back of my mind for a long time, especially on Sunday mornings when I was sleeping in. Looking back on my life, and the things I had done, I started thinking  I wasn't good enough to receive the good things of God.  I kept putting God on the back burner, and that also was adding to my guilt of not going ahead in making my decision.  There was conflict going on in my head because I knew that as long as I didn't decide for God, I was really deciding against God, and I knew that was wrong, too, and that added to my guilt feelings even more. One Summer I remember reading every word of a book about Malcolm X, and was impressed with the routine praying times of Muslims. I remember thinking seriously about Islam, but deep inside it conflicted with what knew about God and Jesus. In Christianity you can pray and talk to God any time of the day or night and not have to stop and pray in a certain direction at specific times of the day. The Word taught God loved all equally. The Word taught humbleness, gentleness, goodness, patience, peace, patience, self-control, joy and love.  Something important was missing I didn't see was offered in the Muslim religion, I couldn't put my finger on it- was it the men and women were separated during religious services?  I wondered about that, but I definitely knew something very important was missing. I kept these feelings and thoughts to myself, but kept wondering what choice should I make.  Thank God, He remained patient with me. I had never told anyone about my pondering of becoming a Muslim until typing this right now.  It came down to a major illness to someone dear to me for me to wake up and see that each day is a very precious gift from God and stop wasting time and make up my mind. Life is short. And Islam didn't offer or promise me what I knew Jesus offered. I was a teenager when my brother first got sick, and on into my twenties when God called him home. I used to think I had plenty of time, plenty of years to decide. I was wrong. My brother, six years my junior died in my arms after 6 years of chemo and surgeries dealing with a childhood kidney disease. During those six years not once did I have the thought he would die, until the morning of the day he died. I cried all day long. That day I realized my brother wasn't going to graduate high school or get married, or grow to old age. The world was not going to be the same without this a fabulous young man in it,  and I also thought God wanted my brother with him. Why not me, I thought? Through my red and puffy eyes, that night my eyes were opened I think for the first time, to spiritual things. I willingly opened my heart and asked God to forgive me for all my sins. It took the death of my brother, to finally get me to make the one decision I'd been putting off.  I saw that departing this body actually is beautiful when you're a Christian, because it's true, angels escort you out of here. I was in my brother's hospital room because God wanted me to witness this just as real as real can be. I didn't see angels, but I felt something very strongly that I can describe must have been angels about my brother. I can honestly describe it was peaceful and beyond any words can describe, and it was at that moment that it all made sense to me. It's spiritual, and God's ways are far, far above and far, far better than man's logic and thinking. God does things in a way and manner that can't be explained, but later I can look back and see His hand was in it for the good of all concerned. My brother is fine, I know it, and I was glad he was released from severe pain his body had endured, and his heavenly escort was there to take him into the presence of the Lord.

God's gift of Jesus to you is for the asking

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I quietly in my heart, by faith, accepted Jesus, God's greatest gift to me later that night of March 17,1982.  My decision was the right decision, and my faith continues to grow stronger. My spirit rejoices more and more, there's nothing else like it.  My experience that night taught me there's no fear to die. God's word tells that after the last breath here, the next breath is with the Lord.  If you haven't already asked Jesus into your heart, why are you waiting? The gift from God is waiting to be received by every single person, and all you have to do is ask, and God's greatest gift, Jesus, is yours. He's already paid-in-full the penalty for your sins. The greatest love in all the world has been demonstrated by God for all people. Take it.

 And you're worthy.

Before and after extreme make-over

The reality programs about before and after extreme make-overs are popular television shows. It's amazing what television productions and a small army of professionals can do to revamp a house in such a short time compared to remodeling a house even a decade ago. Or how surgeons change the outer shape and appearance of a person with plastic surgery and liposuction. I was thinking these things are all well and nice, but they're merely superficial, temporary changes and modifications.  With time, the house will need repairs and will slowly change from a new house to an old, outdated house.  And with time, even the body altered by surgery to be shapely and knockout gorgeous, will one day begin to sag and get aged. These are only temporary external fixes or changes. They look good for a while, but with time they both will be confronted with the what happens to everything- it ages and starts to wither, fade, weaken, tarnish, shrink, deteriorate and become out of shape. The luster dims and age sets in.     
 Being a Christian, I've got something much better and permanent to look forward to.  I don't have to settle for temporary.  God's Word tells His children not to fear, He has triumphed.  Living on this earth is the worse it's ever gonna get for Christians. There's so much better to come. And just knowing that, makes it so much easier to cope and handle all the negative and bad going on around me.  I'm certainly looking forward to what's still to come- Now that will be the greatest extreme make-over from the life we know now to the life that's awaiting in heaven. I will not be in this aging body, but will have a glorified body. What a make-over that will be!  And I will have a mansion prepared by Jesus. Imagine, my own custom-made place just for me. All the man-made extreme make-overs combined will not ever be able to touch what the Lord can do. All things will be new, the old will be gone.  And in heaven nothing will ever fade or get old or fall apart.  That will be an extreme, heavenly, before and after!  More glorious beyond my wildest imagination!  If there are trees in heaven, I think I'd like a tree house mansion, or even a tee pee mansion to be my place.   No matter what it will be, I know I will absolutely fall down on my knees in humble thanks, because it will be so perfect in every way for me. Who knows, my tee pee might be made of fabric woven with strands of got.

  I've been holding onto a catalog from this company that makes tee pees for over 15 years. I get goosebumps thinking about living in a tee pee. Don't worry, your place in heaven will be just as wonderful. But first, are you assured you're heaven-bound so you can have your perfect mansion? God's Word says there's only one way to be assured, and that's in His Son, Jesus. Now the mansion may be figurative, but still Jesus said he was going to prepare a place for those who believe. And if he's preparing it, it's got to be better than anything I can imagine. I still get goosebumps thinking about what that's gonna be. Have you asked Jesus for your heart make-over? Read this about excuses and reasons for not getting saved. When he gives you an internal make-over, it's the best ever make-over.

Tee pees (tipi's)- fine, simple living I can appreciate

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Scripture references- Acts 4: 12; 1 John 5:11; John 14:1-7; Matthew 6:19-34

My face feels warm and serene thinking of what the Lord has in store.

Mid Morning Watermelon and Three Converts

I don't know about you, but I sure do enjoy good watermelon.  I just had to include this photo after my last entry to show I'm still partaking of my garden surprise. While others may be thinking pumpkin this last Monday of October, I'm eating juicy watermelon from my garden, compliments of the One who gives me abundantly all good blessings. (See my previous entry about how I came upon this watermelon in my garden).

My mid morning watermelon plate

One additional thought for today's entry. Jesus started his public ministry when he was 12. That's pretty young if you think about a young man being about his Father's business.
Yes, young people can make the decision to serve God at an early age. If they are mature enough to make that decision about right and wrong and have knowledge to make that decision willingly, why shouldn't they?  It's my opinion that all parents should raise their children to be responsible, aim to have wisdom, and give them the foundation for serving God. The young are just as important in the family of God as anyone else.  God can use them just as he can anyone. So really, age is irrelevant.

Three young new Christians

The above is a photo I took of three wise young Christians. They understand what sin is, they know about Jesus and what did to pay for their sins,  and what it means to be saved. They each accepted willingly into their hearts Jesus as their savior and have also been water baptized to show our congregation symbolically what's happened in their life and hearts.   Their parents and grandparents must be so proud these precious children have come to want to accept Jesus at an early age. Praise God.

Scripture reference-
Luke 2:42-49
3 John 1:4

Keep forward facing in faith always

Open Your Eyes, Remove the Blinds

I have a very good friend, I'll refer to her as Debbie. She and I have been the best of friends since the early 1990s. We used to see each other every week but now maybe once a year.  We have that kind of relationship that we know our love is still in tact and just as strong through time and distance. We're solid friends without a doubt. Almost like sisters I will even say. But here is what I want to write today about my friend. She is Jewish by birth. And she is Christian by choice of her faith- she believes in her heart that Jesus is the Messiah. I have always found this to be so interesting about her. She's Jewish and a Christian. Wow! Jesus came from the line of Jews in his miraculous human birth by the virgin Mary, chosen of God, and Jesus is the Messiah, the very one foretold to come by the prophets in the Old Testament.    
                                                                                                                                                    I asked Debbie a few years ago how did she come about to believe Jesus was the Savior and Messiah. This is so amazing what she said to me and I will never forget it. It was so simple, but so profound.

Ask for the blinds be taken off you can see God's Truth

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Debbie told me she prayed for God to open her eyes.
That was it. And God did. God took the blinds off her Jewish eyes and her eyes were opened to the truth about Jesus.  She doesn't ignore her heritage as a Jew, but she lives and practices her Christian faith. There's no doubt that she has the love of Christ in her heart.  Her belief and faith in the God of the Bible is very evident in her life. She's active in her church, along with her husband. She embraces her Jewish heritage but it's completed, in my humble opinion, with her having accepted the Messiah that the Jews are looking for. To all Jewish people, your Messiah has come already!  He was born to a virgin, lived, did miracles, taught, then was crucified exactly as the prophets foretold, and then Jesus arose from the grave after three days and was seen by multitudes before He ascended to heaven. Jesus reigns as the Son of God. He is the Messiah. The Prince of Peace.  And he will return just as it's written in the Holy Bible. If you're waiting for a sign, you've already received it.  You only have to ask for the blinds taken off your eyes and it will be so plain to see.
But my friend did much more than wait for a sign. She did what's so simple, but so profound-she took God at His Word. She opened her heart, mind and spirit to something called faith. Faith is believing what can't be seen with the human eye, but knowing and acting it to be real because it's the truth of Word of God.  God operates in the realm of faith. It takes the will to go up to faith, then you too will see God's mystery that's kept hidden for those not believing yet.  Just ask by taking or praying to God sincerely, then believe God at His Word. He is so eager to give and you have only to graciously receive His gift of salvation for all your sins to receive your new rebirth into the family of God with eternal heavenly inheritance, and you can have your newness of life right this moment when you do.  That's what happens when by faith you accept Jesus in your heart.  Ask and receive. God will hear you no matter where you are, if you ask loudly or speak softly, and no matter what you've done in your life. God's only concern is that you mean if from your heart and believe that His Son died for your sins and you accept Jesus into your heart as your Savior.  God the Father, Jesus, the Savior to a world so in need of Him, and the Holy Spirit- all Holy, all God in One. How can that be? Virtually impossible for the the human mind to comprehend,  but to the person saved by the grace of God, it makes more sense than anything I know. 

Supporting scripture - Matthew 12:39 and  Matthew 16:4 ;  Luke 2:12, Luke 11:29, Mark 8:12, 1 Corinthians 1:22,  2 Corinthians 3:13-16, John 20:29, and 1 Corinthians 2:5. And read Hebrews, Chapter 11 about many times the impossible was made possible through faith.  And I really like this website with some very interesting and amazing Bible facts, including comment about the over 10,000 Bible prophesies that have come TRUE!


'Til next time, I am facing the Son.

Steeples to heaven

I was driving and passed this church in the country. The sky, the clouds, the knockout roses and the steeple looked so pretty, so I had to shoot a couple pictures.

Knockout roses

Church steeple was taken by me on September 25, 2010

 I  came across this photo of another country church steeple.

Country church with tall steeple located in Sugar Hill, NH

Photo credit: earl53 from morguefile.com


Oh, yesterday I received my latest Woman's Health magazine. Inside is an article about a secret ingredient for your face.  Pear is the secret ingredient.  Can you believe it?  Just last week  I made up a facial mixture with some crushed pear, and it was a wonderful.  The pear, buttermilk, yogurt, lavender essential oil blended together made for one mighty fine facial. My skin was so smooth feeling that I kept touching my face, it felt that smooth.  I'm going to be using pear  in more facials I made up in the future.

Until next time, keep you face toward the Son