Who Is On The Lords Side?

To put this into a coherant series of statements seems almost impossible as it involves observations that are merely a portion of  transpirations which are far greater. One such observation concerns the saints. Lately it’s been encouraging to hear from many who discern the times and are drawing closer to the Lord Jesus. They’re finding themselves in a place spiritually, where they are letting go of the temporal and laying hold of that which is eternal. Increasingly they feel like strangers in this world and long for the moment when this mortality puts on immortality. Whenever such a one is encountered, be it through the electronic realm or in the physical, there’s a special bond of fellowship. This is not to suggest that I’m excessively spiritual because I’m not. All of us have to die daily. Nonethtless, whenever we meet one whose love for Jesus is pure; that being unfettered by the shackles of tradition, worldly allegiances, or what have you, there’s a sweetness that’s unexplainable.

One of the reasons that I’ve been blogging for so long (primarily on my other blog Grace County) that most of those that I know who subscribe to such aspirations are found in the blogosphere. There is a thing, both wonderful and yet heart-breaking, which is taking place. I see saints who are drawing closer to Jesus and letting go of every hinderance that could become a snare in the hour of trying. This is the wonderful part. As for the heart-breaking side, I also see a number of professing saints who are content to just “go halfway” as it were. They profess Jesus as Savior, attend church whenever the doors are opened, and incorporate christianesque language into their vocabulary. But then the message becomes obscured as gnat-strainings over issues of temporal standing and affections for the things of this world take center stage in the course of their general conversation.

The separating between the sheep and the goats is not only underway; it’s accelerating. This has been on my heart for well over a year.

This secondary blog was initially designed to focus on end times events but because of the constraints of time, has never been very active. (I barely have time for one blog) From henceforth, I want to narrow the focus and utilize it as a place to encourage those with ears to hear and eyes to see. The season for lengthy, extraneous, time consuming debatings has passed. Each of us must determine to camp out before the Lord and hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. This is done through prayer; both active petitioning and passive meditation, fastings, and continual searching of the scriptures. Then we should share with the other saints what the Lord has laid on our heart; even if the majority of professing saints in our neck of the woods won’t take it seriously. This issue has been on my heart in a very pronounced fashion; and yet I cannot seem to find the words that will effectively convey the urgency.

Jesus is soon to return. May this truth be firmly planted in our hearts and may we all be about our Fathers business in the remaining moments of our pilgrimage. My standing prayer for every saint is that the Lord would draw them so close and grant such revelation that they will be continually changed from glory to glory.

Blessings always in Jesus name.

Deuteronomy 30″19-20 “I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:
That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thoumayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thoumayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.”

Witch for a Season

The past couple of days have been eye opening. It all started on Thursday morning when I was preparing to leave for work. Since I got around a little early, I decided to check out the other blog where a post had just been placed that would be troubling to some. (They’re Coming to Take Me Away?) As I was going over things, I was impressed to “do a google search on Former witches who are now christians.” This was unexpected, however, I did it and found some testimonies that are, to say the least, fascinating. Over the past couple of days, I’ve looked further into some of these and noticed some interesting commonalities.

( 1 ) These former witches are serious for the things of God; seemingly more so than many christians who never dabbled in the occult world. They are fervent in bible study, consistant in prayer, and are pursuing an ever deepening relationship with Jesus Christ, who paid for our sins with his own blood.

( 2 ) They are not impressed by showmanship. Most of these people became involved with the occult because of a sincere seeking for spiritual truth. Many were brought up in dead church structures and this image of a form of godliness was previously their only introduction to christianity. They tend to recognize a show when they see one.

( 3 ) They are discerning. Having been, at one time, involved with the realm of the occult, they know its attributes and methodologies. When such practices make their way into the slumbering church, these saints recognize it right away. This is why David Meyers newsletter is so informative. He notices the application of practices and timings that are occult based; things that would pass by many of us undetected.

I’m not sure where this is all going, but the discovery of these testionies has brought about some serious examining of myself. The biggest question that I have been asking myself is “What kind of Jesus am I presenting to those around me? A distant impersonal, historical Jesus or A risen Savior who hears our faintest cry and sees our thoughts afar off?” We must be atuned to this and alert to the folks around us who are searching for fulfilment that only Jesus can give.

One thing I am certain of. The Lord Jesus is calling everyone who loves him into a deeper relationship with him. A sincere desire to “know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings. That we would look completely to him and have no confidence in this temporal world. After reading these testimonies, I have a greater desire to “get as close to Jesus as I can be and let go of anything that would hinder this. (I think I’ll read through Philippians tonight.)

Have a blessed evening in Jesus.

 

“The Summer is Ended”

I’ve decided to reopen this blog as a place to post things that the Lord places on my heart or to relay information that seems needful. Time is being accelerated and we could, at any moment, witness the unravelling of those institutions in the physical realm that offer a feeling of safety to so many. A security that seems steadfast but can be gone in the blink of an eye. My primary blog will continue to be Grace County and the items found here will be of a more spontaneous nature.

I follow end times events probably more than the average person, however, precise timings remain hidden from us. Nonetheless, one event that caught my attention recently was the Russian invasion of Georgia over the disputed South Ossteia region. In my spirit, I knew that this was not just another skirmish in an obscure part of the world. It was the beginning of what will eventually culminate with the masive invasion told of in Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39. We are now on the fast track to prophetic fulfillment as the Russian bear is rising, the kings of the east are preparing, and the son of perdition will soon make his appearance on the world stage with a promise to restore peace and safety. Scripture tells us that the world will wonder after him and receive a mark that, once accepted, will separate a person from God forever.

In the next few months, we can expect to see upheaval in every facet of life and we will need to be close to the Lord Jesus and filled to overflowing with the Holy Spirit if we’re to not be overcome. We can expect economic collapse, food shortages, and the unravelling of a social structure that disposed of its moral standards years ago. At some point, martial law will be imposed and “the last vestiges of the republic will be swept away.”  Many will live in denial of those things which are already transpiring until it’s no longer possible to do so. We cannot expect the media or those in places of authority to portray an accurate picture of these events. We will have to “hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches” and be in obediance to his leading. We must arrive at a place where we “love not our own lives in this world” because it will tether us and cause us to make really bad decisions. Our affections MUST be on the Lord Jesus Christ and on the everlasting world to come.

The admonation that seems needful at this time is to encourage everyone who professes Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord to seek him diligently through prayer and through his word. To examine ourselves continuously and refrain from gnat straining over issues of no eternal significance. To let go of everything that distracts from that which is spiritual and holy. The return of Jesus Christ is at hand, but prior to his return will be the most traumatic period in the history of the world. A time so astonishing that, “except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elects sake those days shall be shortened.” It’s not a time to be fearful, but to draw close to Jesus and  trust him completely.

Have a blessed day in Jesus.

Nahum 1:7 “The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.”

I Peter 4:7-8 “But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover a multitude of sins.”

 

“Before Abraham Was”

Acts 20:28  “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.”

Acts 20:29  “For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.”

These two verses appear right next to each other, but I listed them separately as two needful truths are contained in them.  They were spoken by the apostle Paul as he was addressing the Ephesian elders for the final time in person.  In the first, the deity of the Lord Jesus Christ is established.  The very next passage talks about grievous wolves entering into the midst of the saints who would seek to contradict this.  These would bring about heretical teachings and end up preaching another Jesus instead of the one who is God manifest in the flesh.  Every false doctrine; whether it has a christain sounding facade or not, goes about denying that Jesus is who the bible declares that he is.  (John 14:9) They go about trying to present a “less than from everlasting” Jesus; a deception that’s been, in effect, going on ever since the rebellion. 

It all started with a thought.  A thought which led to an attitude of pride and became so hateful that it led to the rebellion in heaven.  All of the turmoil, heartache, suffering and travail of this realm is the result of a single thought.  Lucifer, who was, at the time, one of the most beautiful “created” beings, became full of himself and desired to be above his own Creator.  He set in motion, a plan to establish his throne above God, who has no beginning and is perfect in every way.  He convinced a third of the angels, who were also created by God, to abandon their first estate and partake of this rebellion.  He was, in effect, preaching another Jesus; suggesting that God was less than all-powerful and could be overthrown.  Lucifer was cast out of heaven, along with those who alligned themselves with him, and he’s has been speaking lies ever since. 

Today, in 2008, the devil is still fathering lies; many of which resemble truth just enough to lure away those who aren’t grounded.  (His deceptions will always pander, in some fashion, to the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life)  I would sincerely ask any to not simply follow a doctrine and what others say, but to seriously check things out.  Each of us must prayerfully search the scriptures in sincerety as each of us must stand before the judgment seat of Christ.  A daily prayer for me is that if I’m proclaiming error in any form, that the Lord will reveal it to me.  (Jeremiah 33:3, John 5:39, John 14:26, Acts 17:11, Philippians 3:15, I Timothy 3:16, Hebrews 1:1-8, James 1:5-7, Revelation 22:13)  One cannot adequately express how serious it is that we not simply follow men, but to sincerely seek truth and understanding which can only come from the Lord.  

Luke 24:45  “Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures.”

I apolagize for the flurry of scriptural references, but this is imperative.  We are one hundred percent dependant upon the Lord Jesus for understanding.  Just as he explained to Peter that his understanding didn’t come about by his own ability, revelation comes from God and will line up with the scriptural record that he has maintained throughout the ages. 

John 1:1-4  “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  The same was in the beginning with God.  All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.  In him was life; and the life was the light of men.”

John 1:14  “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”

The testimony of Jesus Christ; not as just a good teacher or a prophet, but as the Son of God.  Perfect and Holy, an equal part of the Godhead.  When he walked the earth, he turned the religious establishment upside down by proclaiming “Before Abraham was, I am.”  He is perfect in every way and well acquainted with our grief.  He was tempted in all points as we are and yet without sin.  When he went to the cross and shed his innocent bloood, he tasted death for every man; that whosoever would believe on him should have everlasting life.  Three days later, he arose from the dead and is alive forever more.  His return is drawing ever closer and every eye shall behold him. 

Revelation 12:11  “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.”

Revelation 19:10  “And I fell at his feet to worship him.  And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”

As christians, born of the Spirit, we have the testiony of Jesus Christ who washed away our sins with his own precious blood and has gone to prepare a place for us; that we may abide with him forever.  This testimony will be challenged by a world that’s growing increasingly darker and we must hold fast the profession of our faith unto the end.  When all of the physical evidence would suggest that we’re nutty, we must know that greater is he that is in us than he that is in the world.  We should be aware of the fact that the days ahead will be filled with such convincing falsehoods that if it were possible, the very elect would be deceived.  Jesus warned us of false Christs and false prophets which will show great signs and wonders as to draw people away from the truth that can make them free. 

John 8:36  “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” 

When we are in Christ, we are made free.  The true Jesus; the only begotten Son of God can take the most contrary person and make them a new creation.  Victory over the weak and beggarly elements of this world and living water springing up from within.  True life that doesn’t require favorable ambient conditions or an abundance of atoms in order to be enjoyed.  The joy of the Lord is, quite honestly, “out of this world” and only the Jesus of the bible can offer it. 

Well, I’ll close this out for now as I have to get some things done around here.  I pray that all of us would draw closer to the Lord Jesus who purchased us with his blood and with whom we shall abide throughout the eons to come; world without end.  There are so many things that I wanted to touch on here, however, I’m already past 1160 words.  (According to the little counter that sits to the left of the “save and continue editing” button.)  So until the next time, I wish to all a blessed day in Jesus.

Isaiah 9:6  “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful Councellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” 

“Persuasions”

John 6:66  “From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.”

 This is one of the most chilling passages in scripture and I’m convinced that the numbers assigned to this verse at a much later time didn’t fall there by accident.  It speaks of people who once walked with the Lord, but stopped doing so.  This crowd had been following him, beholding the miracles and being fed when Jesus performed the miracle of the loaves of bread and fishes.  In fact Jesus had to depart; perceiving that they would seek to take him by force to make him a king.  (verse 15)  Later, when they locate him in Capernaum, he makes the statement below; one that should be a warning to every true saint of God today. 

John 6:26-27  Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.  Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.” 

A lot of professing christians today are labouring for the meat which perishes.  Building up earthly kingdoms, heaping treasure, and overcharging themselves with the things of this world.  (Everything that we own here will, at some point, cease to be under our jurisdiction)  The crowd above was failing to look at things from an eternal perspective and in the following verse, Jesus makes a statement that sifts out the disingenuous.

John 6:65  “And he said Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.” 

The crowd dwindled from a multitude down to twelve and even one of them wasn’t as he appeared on the surface.  The multitude had been following Jesus and even been miraculously fed in a wilderness setting, but departed when he made a statement that didn’t sit well with them.  I just remembered what Phil mentioned recently; that we need to seek the face of Jesus and not his hands.  When we begin to focus on stuff, the stuff becomes our priority and we begin to associate physical gain with godliness instead of being content with such as we have.  Our joy and peace is in the Lord Jesus Christ; not in the physical circumstances that surround us. 

Earlier tonight, I came across a blog; written by a person who claims to have once been a christian, but is now an agnostic.  Even more astonishing is that this person appears to have a lot of company as there were several comments left by folks who claim to have been christians, but are now agnostic or even athiestic in their beliefs.  (It’s quite possible that many of these folks never had a genuine encounter with the Lord Jesus)  In scripture, we’re warned that “falling away” would be a bellwether of the end times where falsehoods masquerading as truth will lure away those who are “almost persuaded.”  Last winter, I was pondering this falling away while shoveling out the driveway.  While normally, I’m not one who has visions, I saw, for a split second, a battlefield covered with fallen soldiers.  The uniforms looked like those of the early or mid 1800s and they covered the ground in every direction. 

John 6:68-69    “Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go?  thou hast the words of eternal life.  And we believe and are sure that thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”   

When Jesus asks his remaining disciples if they want to join in the exodus, Peter affirms his belief that Jesus is the Messiah.  It hits on something that’s been on my mind a lot lately, but I’ve not been able to put it into a post yet.  Our testimony is of utmost importance as “with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”  In the book of Revelation, “they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.”  Our testimony of Jesus Christ when all of the physical evidence will appear contrary.  We’re entering a time of unimaginable deception and if we’re not completely persuaded that Jesus is the way the truth and the life, we’ll fall.  Thus the exhortation to “examine ourselves” in II Corinthians 13:5 should be taken seriously.

Time doesn’t permit going into it, but the parable of the sower is incredible.  (Matthew chapter 13)  While the seed that fell by the wayside represents those who hear the word but it never has a chance to take root, the seed that falls on stony places and in the briars represents those who are converted.  Some aren’t adequately grounded and so they endure only while things are going smooth.  The others are overcharged by the cares of this world and become unfruitful.  Three more verses.

Luke 12:15  “And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he posesseth.”

Colossians 2:8-9  ”Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.  For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.”

II Peter 3:17  “Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness.”

These three verses have a notable word in common.  “Beware!”  We’re admonished to be watching and seeking the Lord continuously.  To keep our heart with all diligence and not allowing a root of unbelief to pop up.  One more verse that just came to mind. 

I Corinthians 10:12  “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.”

It’s imperative to not think that we’re in such a place spiritually that drifting isn’t a danger.  While none of us would admit thinking this; even to ourselves, it’s an attitude that I once held (although I didn’t recognize it at the time) and it resulted in a season of rebellion.  The issues of the heart are imperative and should not be taken lightly.  There seems to be a lot of lightness these days as too many fail to grasp the dangers.  Drifting can take place so subtily that by the time we recognize a problem, we’re miles off course. 

Well, it’s now 1:40am and while I’m on a three week layoff, I have a lot to get done tomorrow.  Until the next time, have a blessed day in Jesus.

The Return of Jesus (Episode III)

Daniel 11:27  “And both these kings hearts shall be to do mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table; but it shall not prosper: for yet the end shall be at the time appointed. 

There are three aspects of the geo-political realm.  One is the public display where photo-ops are set up, sound bytes are launched and network reporters claim to have an exclusive handle on breaking news.  (Incidentally, whenever I see such meetings, the above verse almost always comes to mind.)  Second is the behind-the-scenes dealings and secret alliances that none of us are privy to but many who watch such events suspect are taking place.  The third, is the spiritual forces behind such dealings as the whole world is being primed to follow a world leader and receive a mark of allegiance to that leader.  While we don’t know exactly what twists and turns lurk around the corner, we can be certain that these are times like none other in history as the basic apparatus for a world government and a cashless society is in place. 

Matthew 24:6  “And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.”

A small verse that tells a lot.  Wars and rumors have been around for generations, but never has such a climate existed as todays where a nuclear exchange could remove entire nations from the face of the earth.  The turmoil in the middle east, the massive buildup of military power in China, (kings of the east) terrorism, (which poses a very real threat, but also serves to obscure a much bigger picture) and the worlds appetite for oil creates a perfect geo-political storm; the course of which is unpredictable at best.  Such things should not trouble those who are in Christ.  On the contrary, times of uncertainty are great times for evengelism; when folks come to grips with the instability of flesh.  It’s a time to shine the light of the gospel of Jesus Christ into every nook and cranny before time runs out.

The words “but the end is not yet” should be a warning to not become overly confident in our charts and the going “fill-in-the-blanks” prophetic teachings of the day.  While I wasn’t around during the second world war, I can imagine that some thought Adolph Hitler to be the antichrist.  (He was “an” antichrist, but not “the” man of sin that will cause the whole world to wonder after him.)  Such a teaching would have seemed to fit the flow of events, but would be erroneous.  The times will grow increasingly intense as the day of the Lord approaches, but none of us have a perfect picture of how it’s all going to come to pass.  Certain things may indeed line up as we perceive and some things may catch us completely off guard.  Our primary focus should be on the Lord Jesus Christ; knowing that he is our strength and refuge while the storms rage on every side.

I Thessalonians 5:2-3  “For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.  For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.”

One may wonder why such a topic should even be discussed when we don’t know how it’s all going to come to pass.  For me, it’s two-fold.  First, Jesus intentionally opened up the topic in Matthew chapter 24 when he stated “There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.”  This along with the many other biblical references to these times reveal that it’s important for us to be watching.  Just as a watchman would be atop the wall of a city. He may not know exactly what will appear on the horizon, but he will notice when something does and will have to determine whether or not it poses a threat.  Second, it causes me to be mindful of the shortness of time, to draw closer to the Lord Jesus, and be about the business of the kingdom.  If we draw close to him during the peace and safety, we’ll be prepared when the sudden destruction comes. 

Matthew 24:7-8  “For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes in divers places.  All these are the beginning of sorrows.” 

This is one nation taking action against another.  While it says “rise up against” there’s not mention that it must entail military intervention; although such will most likely be a part of a rising up.  For example; suppose that the Chinese government determined that the time was ripe, for whatever reason, to bring down the United States.  All that they would have to do is dump all of their U.S. dollars.  It would take seconds and those of us in this country would awaken to a very different reality than the one in place when we went to bed the night before.   That’s how percarious our present standing is and how unpredictable the flow of events can be from day to day. 

When one observes the fulfilment of verse seven; nations in dispute, famines, and a noticable uptick in seismic activity, one would be convinced that this simply cannot go on.  yet according to verse 8, these are the beginning of sorrows.  Currently, things appear at a rate where many will say “well we’ve always had wars and famines.”  This is true and I wonder how long before it becomes blatantly obvious that the situation in the world today is far different than the situation of twenty, or even ten years ago.  For those who refuse to see, the upswing in the distress of nations, pestilence, earthquakes, and bizarre weather may not provide enough contrast from past occurrances; even when their own livelihood is threatened.  The following passage is chilling as it portrays the level of hardness that ones heart can reach when they reject the truth that can make them free. 

Revelation 9:20-21  “And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk:  Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, not of their fornication, not of their thefts.”

While explaining these things on the Mount of Olives, Jesus doesn’t give us a distinct time scale.  He does, however, tell us what to watch for and how to get through these events.  “Endure unto the end.”  To hold fast the profession of our faith regardless of the circumstances of the day or the deceptions which make so much sense that any who are not grounded in the Lord Jesus Christ will be swayed.  To have our affections on things above where we have an inheritance uncorruptible and that fades not away.  In the next installment, the topic of “enduring unto the end” becomes center stage as persecution and false teachings abound. 

Until the next time, I wish to all, a blessed day in Jesus. 

Thinking Outside the Box

Luke 24:45  “Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures.” 

In a recent conversation, Susan mentioned something that I’ve been pondering ever since.  It has to do with the events leading up to the return of Jesus Christ; an event which is drawing closer with each passing day.  She mentioned that some have such a concrete doctrinal stand on how everything will play out that they place themselves at risk of completely missing the obvious things.  (Or words to that effect.  It was really late and I was in a parking lot, cleaning out the van, while we were talking)  In other words, we’ll chart out how we think it’s all going to look and place so much confidence in our “having it all figured out” that we’ll miss key elements of scriptural fulfilment.  (Because, “according to the chart, that’s not supposed to happen yet, so that can’t be what it is.”)  We’ll cling to our positions to the point of being unable to hear what the Spirit is saying unto the churches. 

Susan also gave the example of the wise men that came from afar to worship Jesus.  They followed a star in the sky.  A star which was big enough that one could distinguish it from the others.  They came from great distance while the children of Israel were asleep.  Despite having the scriptures before them; the children of Israel didn’t anticipate  what their fulfilment would look like.  Later on, in the time of Jesus earthly ministry, many were thrown off because Jesus grew up in Nazareth, along with a host of other things which didn’t fit in with their thinking.  All of the scriptural fulfilment that took place when Jesus came was missed by those who knew the scriptures the best.  Even though they claimed to be watching for Messiah.   

While we know that certain things must transpire before Jesus returns, these events may look considerably different than the images that we each have in our minds.  There may be twists and turns that none of us anticipate.  A good example of this would be the seven thunders.  None of us  know what the seven thunders uttered, however, John was intending to record what he heard before a voice from heaven told him to “seal up those things which the seven thunders uttered and write them not.”  One can only imagine how much adjusting our tribulation charts would require if suddenly, we knew what the seven thunders uttered.  It’s so imperative to stay close to Jesus and walk in the Spirit continuously. 

I’m taking a rabbit trail here for a moment, but I wonder what it was like for John to have heard the seven thunders, but not be able to tell anyone what they said.  In fact, this afternoon I was wondering what the reason was for the Lord allowing him to hear the seven thunders and then tell him not to record it.  This is “just a guess,” but I wonder if it was to keep us from getting to confident in our own understanding.  We absolutely must be atuned to the Spirit and not rely upon the teachings of men.  This next verse is well known, but it highlights the need for each of us to be close to the Lord Jesus.  The closer the better.

Matthew 24:24  “For their shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”

It’s a perfect storm so to speak.  The enemy parades before us false Christs, false prophets and incorporates a display of supernatural signs in an effort to draw us from the straight and narrow path.  If we’re placing excessive confidence in the teachings of men or our own understanding, we’re placing ourselves in a most dangerous situation.  We must be in close to the Lord Jesus all the time; fellowshipping with him, ensuring that he is our first love.  Spending quality time with him and in his word.  If we do this; make him truly first in our lives and live in complete obediance, he’ll ensure that we’re ready for whatever we must face.  Time for another familiar verse.

Nahum 1:7  “The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.”

It’s natural for us to desire as much understanding of the events leading up to the return of Jesus as possible.  I ponder these things much, however, as we search the scriptures, and ponder, it’s imperative to do so prayerfully; acknowledging that we don’t see the entire picture.  We have scripture before us, but the Holy Spirit will teach us and bring things to our rememberance.  He’ll also let us know if we begin heading down a line of thinking that’s erroneous.  We must be listening at all times, and when those spiritual red flags go up, step back and find out why. 

Well, it’s 1:20 am and tomorrow it’s back to work.  (No problem; I’m on second shift)  Nonetheless, I have a few things to take care of before crashing.  This has been on my mind a lot because we are in very deceptive times.  So until the next time, I wish to all a blessed day, and a blessed 2008 in Jesus.

Jan 2, 2008. 12:25 pm  Hello again.  Just found these links and thought to pass them on.  The first is found on Steve Quayles site and discusses the the big brother aspects of the internet.  The second is David Meyers January newsletter which always does an overview of the major stories to take place during the previous month.  The third is from World Net Daily and discusses the explosive growth of witchcraft in the United States.  All such material requires discernment on the part of the reader, however, both of thses links offer one much to ponder. 

http://itmanagement.earthweb.com/netsys/article.php/3718926   

http://www.lasttrumpetministries.org/2008/January2008.html  

http://www.worldnetdaily.com/News/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=59488 

To reside close to Jesus and be faithful ambassadors in these strangest of times is paramount.  To ensure that our all is on the altar and that our lamps are filled with oil.  Without a doubt, the return of Jesus Christ is at hand. 

A Spiritual Examination (Part II)

Greetings.  This is a continuation of the previous post in which an addressing of some serious questions transpired.  They come from a link found on Steve Quayles site which is mentioned at the top of the previous post.  The dangers of drifting have been on my heart much lately.  Two reasons come to mind as to why.  First, I was backslidden for a number of years; a process that began in such seemingly insignificant fashion that I never noticed it until it was undeniable.  Second, the year ahead may be one of incredible change and it’s impaertive that we be in close to the Lord Jesus and not wandering.  My desire is to see everyone who should come across this post in the new Jerusalem.  As in the previous post, I’m writing them as they appeared in the link.  For the sake of convenience, here’s the link again. 

www.stevequayle.com/News.alert/07_Prophetic/071015.a.word.1.html 

Just a heads up; these questions will cause serious pondering and the next one, mentioned below, is huge. 

( 6 )  Do you spend all your time on the cares of this life…your work…your sports….your hobbies…anything you spend most of your time devoted to….This is idolatry. 

The way that I look at it is “what do we fit around what?”  For example, do we set aside time for prayer and schedule other things around it as much as is possible or do we squeeze in prayer time when everything else is done.  Indeed some things, such as going to work have a schedule that will not bend to our desires.  Yet we will make time for the things which are important for us.  In my case, I have a crazy schedule, and yet I find time to blog; sometimes too much.  This next verse should warn us all to be mindful of what it is that we’re pursuing. 

II Timothy 4:10  “For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Cresans to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.”

Demas loved the temporal world and it was reflected in the choices that he made.  This is a daily wrestling for all of us.  When I get home from work, I can turn on the tv, or spend time with the Lord in prayer.  We must constantly make decisions which reflect what we consider to be important.  Where we go, what we talk about, and what we spend money on.  As the old saying goes, “You can’t hide what’s inside.”

( 7 )  Do you worry about money…things…possessions and chase after such things?  This is rebellion, unbelief, and idolatry.

I have a somewhat backwards situation regarding worry but it shows the grace of God and how he keeps us in perfect peace when we simply trust him and love not the present.  When I lived in Virginia, I worried about everything; bills, income what have you.  I was single and living with a family from church.  I was “free as a bird” from a physical perspective and yet I became all bent out of shape at the slightest complication. 

Fast forward to December 2007.  I’m married, have four kids, one of which has autism, I work in a factory which will someday be in Mexico, we could lose everything that we own with the slightest bump in the road, and yet I have perfect peace; the likes of which defies explanation.  If we truly 100% believe that the Lord knows what we have need of and will meet those needs, we’ll be at perfect peace.  Even when the bottom falls out of everything that we’ve ever known.  It’s so imperative to get the word of God in our hearts, and trust him with childlike faith. 

( 8 )  Do you worship on Saturday or Sunday and then on Monday sin and carry on with life as usual?  This is rebellion and hypocrisy.

If we are in Christ, it should be evident at all times.  If we’re reflecting the world during the week and then on Saturday or Sunday we “put out saved face on” we are deceiving ourselves.  This would be a form of honoring God with our mouth while our heart is far from him.  When we are in Christ; when we know and love him, we’ll desire to live for him.  Many look at a life of holiness as burdensome, but when the joy of the Lord is in our heart, the baser elements of this world simply lose their attractiveness.  His commandments are the ways of life and peace.  They are most certainly not grievous or oppressive in any way.  This next passage is so telling.

John 10:10  “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

( 9 )  Do you commit little “sins” thinking that I will overlook them just because you say “sorry?”… and then continue to do them?  This is iniquety and rebellion.

This would refer to one who says sorry; not out of a sincere repentance, but rather to satisfy their conscience so that they don’t feel so bad.  They don’t want to change, but they don’t want to feel bad about not striving to either.  All of us have things that we wrestle with, but some will allow sin to go on without even a desire to be delivered.  I remember a person, over twenty years ago, who, when contiplating something that was wrong, stated, “I’ll just repent later.”  This is a very dangerous attitude.  I hope that the person was goofing around, although I wouldn’t even joke about something as serious as this. 

( 10 )  Do you spend hours debating doctrines and trying to win points over others just for the right to be right?  This is pride which is rebellion…which is also witchcraft.

Endless gnat-straining and contentions over trivial matters.  This is not to say that we should embrace erroneous teachings, but I’ve seen schisms develop over the most insignificant things that one can imagine.  There are some people who just like to argue.  Perhaps I shouldn’t go here, but this post is already on the “blog dangerously” list, so here it goes.  We had an awesome fellowship on my ship when I was in the navy.  It was as close to a community as I’ve ever been part of.  One person came in with a particular pet doctrine and scattered it for a short time.  Focusing on doctrines of his church and refusing to see the bigger picture of what was taking place there.  We hit the streets in Torremolinos Spain for the purposes of soulwinning and the problem seemed to intensify as he was preaching a doctrine and not Christ.  In all fairness to this brother, he was young as we all were; both naturally and in the Lord. 

When we love Jesus, and we meet others who love Jesus, such instances should not come between us and if a disagreement is in the air, a prayerful searching of the scriptures is always profitable.  This is another area where pride is like a spiritual atom bomb as folks will set out to defend their doctrine instead of searching the scriptures.  So important it is for us to allow the Holy Spirit to teach us and mold us into the image of Christ.  One more question, and the remaining five will have to wait until January.  (Although they can be found on the above link) 

( 11 )   Do you fill your bellies on food that is bad for you…full of chemicals and sugars and other stuff that you know to be bad for your body?  This is idolatry and gluttony.  

Maintaining a common sense diet is….well….common sense.  There’s a post early on in this blog called “Divine Sustinence” that deals with the bad diet that most of us have simply because that’s primarily what’s on the market.  In other words, we should do what we can to eat responsibly, but with all of the genetically modified foods and tamperings of man who thinks that he can improve on what God has created, we’ll just have to walk in faith and be mindful of Mark 16:18  (While it mentions “drinking” any deadly thing, I think that eating may apply as well.  Unless one is doing so as to tempt the Lord)  As for sweets and whatnot, I’m convinced that moderation is the best route.  (My diet needs some work, however, I “just dont like celery!”)

Well, I have to go.  This has taken longer than I thought and I now have three unfinished series of posts.  In reading these questions, discernment is also a must as this is something “found on the internet” where one can find almost anything that they desire.  Nonetheless, it’s good to examine ourselves and this is causing me to do just that.  I have a lot of growing to do.  So until next year (I always like saying that) I wish to all a most blessed time in Jesus. 

A Spiritual Examination (Part I)

Hebrews 3:12-13  “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.  But exhort one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” 

As I was typing this verse, the words “living God” seemingly jumped off the screen.  We indeed serve a living God who created all that is and is eternal.   Whenever we allow something to become more important to us than our relationship with him, we have, in effect, exchanged the living God for a non-living god.  Our priorities will reveal to us what we esteem to be important and what we place on the back burner.  It is imperative that we continuously examine ourselves as to not allow drifting to transpire.  The following is a link to a report that appeared on Steve Quayles site back in October which has in it some very revealing questions concerning where our heart is at.

www.stevequayle.com/News.alert/07_Prophetic/071015.a.word.1.html 

The posting is written as prophetic and begins with a warning that a cleansing is coming that will sweep through the church.  It goes on to ask a number of very thought provoking questions; some of which are hard to ponder.  I’m writing these questions word-for-word as they appear on the link.  (except for one typographical error in the first question where the word “than was spelled as “that”) 

( 1 )  Do you spend more time on TV and entertainment than with me your Lord?  This is rebellion.

I know firsthand how dangerous a television can be as do most of us.  It’s so easy to get tied up in a program and vegetate while the hours pass by unutilized.  Even programs which are “informative” can be a snare.  (I should get rid of the History channel because it’s a real distraction at times)   With an ever complex display of eye candy, television keeps the masses glued to their comfort zone and causes the brain to go numb.  Serious; I’ve found myself, in front of a television until a numbing sensation transpires.  It’s a weird feeling and is one of the reasons that I dont spend much time there.  (Among others) 

Entertainment could be described as ”something that captures ones attention in order to keep them amused while they’re busy doing nothing.”  I heard an interesting report recently (I think it was on the history channel lol) concerning music.  For thousands of years, music was a part of life and almost everyone in a society engaged in it.  About 500 years ago, the arrival of concert halls and orchestras created an environment where some performed while most sat by passively and listened.  Fast forward to December of 2007 and we find a culture that obsesses over celebrities and seeks to be continuously entertained. 

( 2 )  Do you spend so much time in your ministry that you don’t spend time with me alone?  This too is rebellion and idolatry.

Oh…where to start.  Perhaps with myself.  I will confess that I blog too much and it sometimes creates the very problem addressed in this question.  It’s something that I need to address.  One problem is the old thought “well, I can pray anytime but this needs to be done now.”  It’s imperative to spend time with the Lord whenever we can and just giving him the last moments of the day when we’re nodding off doesn’t cut it.  He needs to be truly first in our lives.  (I may not be blogging much longer.  Seriously.)  As I was writing out the above question, this passage came to mind:

Acts 6:4  “But we will give ourselves continually to prayer and the ministry of the word.”

It’s interesting that prayer is mentioned before ministry of the word.  We need to keep our fellowship with the Lord Jesus strong and intimate as we can do nothing in and of ourselves.  Back when I used to post daily, it was as though I was running on empty upon many occasions as this forum had taken on a life of its own.  One more verse just came to mind and then I’ll move on.

John 12:26  “If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honor.”

To lift up and serve the Lord Jesus Christ.  Not a denomination or a ministry, but the Lord Jesus Christ who is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending.  Pastor Greg made a good analogy recently.  He stated that “suppose we had several people up here and we we’re going to pray for individuals to be healed.  One guy is a well known preacher and the rest are my college buddies.  We would see a huge line behind the famous preacher.”  The truth is that the prayer of faith shall save the sick, not the praying of a famous preacher.  It was a good illustration of “I’m of Paul and they’re of Appolos.” 

( 3 )  Do you spend all  your time chasing signs and wonders that you fail to let me make your heart clean?  This is rebellion.

Last week at work, I was pondering the things which the Lord has placed on my heart recently.  It was after lunch and I was somewhat dazed by the monotonosity of the job that I was on when the words “you have to go forth in power” came forth concerning the activities soon to transpire.  The gospel of Jesus Christ should come forth not in word only, but in power.  Miraculous deliverance and revelation should be commonplace in the life of every saint as we are called to do the works that Jesus did. 

Matthew 10:7-8  “And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.  Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.”

It is, however, possible for a person to simply follow after miracles without desiring to become increasingly like Jesus.  I think this is the problem being addressed in the third question.  In fact, I’ve been guilty in the past of allowing spiritual pride to enter in because of certain churches that I fellowshipped with.  Pride is one of the most stubborn and destructive ailments that there is. 

( 4 )  Do you gossip about others and about other churches and ministries?  This is rebellion and slander. 

Again…where to start.  I think of how Paul stated that he rejoiced that Christ was preached; even if one was preaching with a contrary motive.  If we’re truly concerned with someones situation, the best thing to do is to lift them up in prayer; not share with everyone about how messed up we think they are.  If someone is preaching another gospel, we must bring the error to light and then pray for that person; that their eyes would be opened to this error.  If we have time to talk about someone, we have time to bring their name before the Lord who can open the blinded eyes and heal the broken hearted.  This falls in line with loving our neighbor as ourselves. 

( 5 )  Do you willingly harbor resentment and unforgiveness to any who have hurt you be they in the church or in the world?  This is rebellion and bitterness.

This one is huge.  Our forgiveness is tied directly with our forgiveness of others.  This isn’t always easy if someone has seriously wronged us or harmed someone whose close to us.  I still remember the amish community in Pennsylvania; how they completely forgave the gunman who assaulted their school.  I cannot imagine what it must be like to go through such an ordeal.  (I tend to become agitated when Morgans drama-queen acquaintances do something hurtful to her.)  Nonetheless, we must not harbor any unforgiveness in our hearts as we have been forgiven all of our trespasses.  When we ponder just what the second great commandment entails, we realize all the more that we need Jesus every minute of every hour.

Well, there are several more questions to go and so this will have to conclude for now.  I’ll finish up when possible, however, the final installment will probably be done after we return from Florida.  There are 16 questions total, and they can all be found on the link at beginning of this post.  Until the next time, I wish to all a blessed day in Jesus. 

Run Around in Circles

II Peter 3:3-4  “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,  And saying, Where is the promise of his coming?  for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.”

     

The perception of stability in the physical realm has to rank as one of the greatest.  Folks tend to observe history and notice the passing of one age into another, however, will live their lives as though the present reality on the ground will go on and on.  We tend to reach adulthood, plan out our career path, marry, raise families, retire, move to Florida, and play shuffleboard.  (Sorry; I couldn’t resist the cliche)   While we may acknowledge, verbally, that change is an ongoing part of life, we tend to live as though the present status quo will be in place for the duration of our days under the sun.  Thus we fall into a predictable pattern of life without pondering the possibility that tomorrow could find everything under the sun, that we have placed our confidence in, vanished.  (The last day, prior to the flood, was almost identical to every other day prior to the flood)

Job 3:25-26  “For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me.  I was not in safety, neither had I rest, neither was I quiet; yet trouble came.”

Job was a man who sought the Lord with all of his heart.  He was aware that things could turn on a dime, even before the trial of his faith.  When that which he feared was made manifest, he was distraught, however, he knew the difference between that which is eternal and that which was only for a season.  Despite the loss of all physical property, offspring, and health, coupled with the discouraging advise of a wife who didn’t know what to make of the sudden turn of events, he remained faithful to God.  When his physical world was turned upside down in seemingly every way possible, he never questioned God.  This next passage, I have mentioned more times than I can count, but it shows where Jobs heart was at.  (This passage also “transformed” the way that I look to the future)

Job 13:15-16  “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.  He also shall be my salvation: for an hypocrite shall not come before him.” 

Job had determined in his heart, long ago, that he would hope in the God of all that is, regardless of what came his way.  While he had great abundance, his hope wasn’t in the stuff that one carries around with them while they abide in the realm of atoms.  When all of the stuff vanished, his faith remained intact.  I wonder to myself, if I have the the same resolve as Job.  I’ve never been faced with anything even remotely comparable to what Job went through, and yet, we may awaken tormorrow and find that all of the wood, hay and stubble that people place their hopes in has vanished.  It’s imperative to have our hearts set on that which is eternal and not the things which have an expiration date. 

Revelation 1:8  “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.”

“Running around in circles” is something that we’re really good at.  When things are running smooth, we tend to fall into a holding pattern of doing the same things day after day, and year after year.  The holiday season is a prime example of this.  Each year, many folks will display the same configuration of decor as every other year because “that’s just the way we’ve always done it.”  A guy at work whose house I drive past daily, has been using lights to write “Merry Christmas” on his fence for years and years.  (If it were me, I would occasionally misspell it, just to break up the monotony.)  We fall into predicatble patterns and become stuck in a rut as familiarity becomes an attempt to keep uncertainty at bay.

When calamity hits, people do what they’ve been practicing for years.  “Run around in circles.”  Only now it’s a “what am I going to do?” circle of confusion.  Any catastophic event, such as massive flooding, hurricanes, or what have you will be followed by reporters interviewing survivors.  Most of them will ponder “I don’t know what I’m going to do!  Everything that I’ve worked my whole life for is gone.”  It’s a natural response when person doesn’t have a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and their only goal is to reach retirement so that they can enjoy their “golden years.”  For those who are born of the Spirit, it’s imperative to not place undue confidence in this world; not only for our own selves, but for those around us who will undoubtedly want to know why circumstances don’t affect us.  When the unexpected transpires, it’s a great opportunity for others to see firsthand that our God is real and their god is not. 

Most will remember the recent outbreak of wildfires in southern California.  In the midst of the usual news coverage, one reporter was talking with a lady who had lost everything and was probably expecting the usual “what am I going to do” kind of interview.  Instead, this lady replied, “Well, we lost everything that we’ve been working for.  To be honest, it’s almost like a cleansing; most of the stuff wasn’t that important anyway.”  I can’t remember the exact phrase, but this is the basis and to be honest, she seemed to better grasp the temporal nature of things here than many christians. 

Psalm 18:30  “As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.” 

We have a sure foundation in Jesus and should be apprehensive about nothing in the natural realm.  This runs contrary to the old nature, and as such it requires hiding the word of God in our hearts and abiding close to him in prayer.  These are things that most of us are well aware of, but always good to be reminded of.  Almost every post is on a topic that I need to hear about as well.  That we would keep our eyes on Jesus and not become sidetracked by the plethura of distractions in this world.  He is our life and peace.  Christ in us; the hope of glory.  Until the next time, I wish to all, a most blessed day in Jesus.