I think the strongest word there is must be hate. As kids we toss the term around with I hate you to anybody that dares anger us. I don't think we actually even understand what hate is at younger ages and some seldom do. I remember on more than one occasion hearing the words, "Now you really don't mean that", and all the while the anger raging inside said yes you do. Hate eventually though grows inside as we do eventually feel it if we say it often enough.
I have met hateful people over the years, consumed with discontent, but here lately even more these days. Just look at driving down the road. If you don't see at least one hateful person then guess what, it might be you... or, you are not paying attention. Spending most of my life a professional driver I think there isn't much that would surprise me. usually the most hateful drivers were the calmest, sweetest acting people when they got away from the vehicle. Nothing says love like pushing the car in front, finger taping, pointing, or giving the finger, while the car says God is my Co Pilot on the front and a fish symbol on the back as they nudge the car in front at a red light, damning anyone who dare needs out.
I don't think it is always wrong to hate and I think we all hate something. I personally hate lies and certain foods. It is when hate consumes you that it is bad, and when hate for anything, especially people, rules you. After a while you begin to think of things and people to hate, and that burns away happiness. Hate is like a raging fire which can be constructive or destructive, but at all costs must be feared, respected, and well managed.
Hate is often bred out of fear, misunderstanding, or a lack of self worth. It can be bred out of being around or wronged without forgiveness of another's actions. It breeds no acceptance of a difference, a fault, a weakness of one's self or another. The only thing I can think of worse than hate is loathing, which first starts with hate. It enslaves a person as it consumes and drives out all that is good.
Often times we hear, "You can't make me happy", or say "I can make you happy". Nobody can make another happy. One has to desire to be happy. One has to want to be content. If we spent even a fraction on the time working on being content and thankful for what we have, hate would be a lot less. Picking out the celery if you will. This world does indeed feed hate to us, everyday, we just have to spit it back out. Let me give you an example.
My mom has a recipe for dressing. It has Celery in it, not exactly something I like, neither did my wife and come to find out neither did mom. I told my wife just what I was told by my mom when I said it was delicious all but the celery. Well, just spit it out and enjoy it anyway. That is kind of like life. You spit out the bad things and enjoy the good things. Just leave them be for once they are out an on your plate they are gone. It it wasn't for the bad things we would never know what a good thing is.
Some people make it easy to hate them, but life isn't about being easy, it's about being right. Who knows, through your actions, or where hate is concerned, lack thereof, they may just change. It is almost a given that they will piss you off again, but then again, you are bigger than that... bigger than this world. Or, as my mom use to say, you are better than that.
Practice being not hateful. You have that guy in front of you who seems to have left out 2 days before he needed to be there, be nice. You eat that food that has an element that you don't like, eat around it. You run into a hateful person, smile and be nice. I'm not saying roll over and play dead, just do not lower yourself to their depth. I guarantee you that you will be happier, and eventually hate will become dislike after a while. Hate and all that goes with it will slowly fade away.
Hate is also a factor in Heaven. There ain't no hate there, and that is a strong hint of what not to do here. Get rid of hate that is not properly placed and then the world will hate you, and that is just fine too. Now here is a funny thing I see. I know a few who go to church regularly and as soon as church lets out, they seem more in touch with hate than love. What is that? They leave like they are escaping a fire, fussing at each other and everybody else that comes in their path. They have even learned which groups to place their hate in, while basking in a false glory and pride of themselves for making what seems a sacrifice by going.
I had a lady one time driving up the road stop where we were working on a fence one Sunday. We had livestock in the field and it was in need of repair at a section. She made the point to stop and inform us that it was Sunday and seemed to be rather perturbed that we were working on it. I ask her where she was headed in which she replied that SHE, and she stress the words, had just been to church and that they were going out to eat lunch. Indeed her SUV was packed, all ages, and it looked as if most were in agreement, all save the younger children who had fear in their eyes. I explained that we had to get the fence fixed because we had animals in the field. She then informed me that it was a sin to work on Sunday. So I asked her if she knew that Sunday was the first days of the week, not that I had a problem with that. Then I asked her which was worse, to work on Sunday or to force someone else to work and serve you. Wasn't it Jesus that said God made the sabbath for man not man for the sabbath, I asked. Since it was only family working with me we weren't forced nor were we getting paid. She however was forcing someone to work indirectly and so that she could be served none the less. She cursed and sped off. It made my glad that I didn't go to that church, nor would I ever go there. She seemed to be gleaming with hate and false pride, judging all to Hell that did not see it her way.
Hate is such a force used by Satan that is used in one term or another 179 times in the Bible. If you are to be a Christian then that word, when referring to other people, is not ok. When you hate you cannot forgive, truly forgive, and in doing so can be damned to Hell. God's not going to damn you to Hell, your doing it to yourself. I'm not sure about you but I grant no man the power over me to place me in jeopardy or Hell. Nobody has the power to put me there but me. Someone might piss me off, make me mad, but not make me hate them, not anymore. Life is too short for that. I wasted part of my life doing the hate thing which works well with the non-forgiveness and none acceptance.
Some of the most hateful forums I have joined or been to have been the ones with what is suppose to be a Christian theme or basis. I have found more compassionate people at ones that either do not make that claim or that are comprised mostly of Atheists. What is wrong with that picture? They list what they hate and whom they hate, mostly whom they hate. That is one reason when I join one I am usually silent. There is always some information and some good people there who separate themselves without knowing they do, being full of what God demands.
You would not believe the joy that one can have once you do away with that word. The Freedom. I'm not as versed on the Bible as many but then again I read a preacher once say, "It's not where you are in the Word, it is where the Word is in you. So here is a few that sticks out:
Matthew 24:9 (King James Version)
9Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.
John 15:18 (King James Version)
18If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.
1 John 2:9 (King James Version)
9He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.
Matthew 5:44 (King James Version)
44But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Just things I think about sometimes with life. Lessons I've learned and still am learning.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Why did God make Atheists
I have had people ask me why did God make Atheists if He is real. That seems to be a big question these days. This is just what my studies over the years has lead me to believe. Please research for yourself though and don't just take my word on it.
God didn't make Atheists, Buddhist, Christians, Satanists, Pagans, Jewish or any other religion... He just made people. The world we live in makes the religions. He makes people and then installs Free Will. The world that you chose to live in, which is sometimes different than your parents. Notice the word Chose. I'm not saying that people aren't steered, we are, from birth. I don't know about other countries so I'll just address here in the USA.
For many years Christian beginnings were taught and then came Evolution. This is not a science regardless of what you have been taught, it is a faith. So far to date (2011) there has been absolutely no hard scientific evidence to prove evolution. Those scientist who disagree and reprimanded and silenced. Millions of dollars were spent to change the textbooks in the schools and what was once placed as fact to prove evolution has since been retracted, just not in the books. One of the best explanations I've ever heard was from a man who called himself Dr Dino. Here is a link with some great videos that are free to watch. LINK He ended up in prison for Tax Evasion, which is a common silencing protocol.
Many books are printed by a company located in the UN called Lucis Trust. Ready for the good part? They changed their name from Lucifer Trust. Founded in 1922 by Alice Bailey, disciple of the Russian theosophist Madame Helena Blavatsky. Google who these people are, even on Lucis Trust's own site. They are the UN's own religion of world peace and their publishing company.
So from school the young are pretty much indoctrinated into a world of believing there is no God and subverted to believing in the god of this world. Evolution teaches that we are a mistake of nature, an accident, with no purpose. That we came from Primordial Soup which evolved into various stages eventually into a monkey and then what we are today. Why are there still monkeys? Point being though that they teach the youth they started as a mistake then became an animal. Why then do we wonder when they act like animals?
I've always loved music, but have you ever read the words of what your singing? I thought as a kid that with my hair down to my belt, a beard, and shooting peace signs while drinking and getting high that I was rebelling when I was a teenager. Was I? Or was I fulfilling their wishes. We're taught that we should buy brand name products under the illusion of it is better, then taught we are bad people because we bought them. Earth friendly is seldom really earth friendly... but it sounds good don't it. Let me give you an example. Anton LeVey (started the first church of Satan) said that "Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the law". Sound like any slogans you know of? That actually makes sense if you are a mistake on this ball and you intend on dying when it's over.
With most of the music these days it is so horrible that on movies we hear older music playing. Then comes the videos. Most of them show R rated looking stuff but what is worse, show every vulgar imaginable thought imagined. Children are dressed and dance like adults. We are being steered and guess who is at the helm. I'll posts few links at the end of this, and while the grab a bit far at times, I think you will be amazed if you take the time to explore them.
I could keep writing on this, on and on, and show you data to prove it, but that is not what I aim to do with this blog. I have a site for stuff like this. The purpose behind this blog is to say that there is a God, one that made you. One that loves you. One that rather than trick you into your worship, wants to come come on your own. I'll probably make a few other posts with data, but I want this blog to make you thin, most of all though, to inform you that there is a God that cares. To show you that you can be still and be happy. You don't have to chase an illusion.
So in closing. God made people. The world makes Atheists on purpose.
http://vigilantcitizen.com
http://www.goodfight.org
http://www.morphcity.com
God didn't make Atheists, Buddhist, Christians, Satanists, Pagans, Jewish or any other religion... He just made people. The world we live in makes the religions. He makes people and then installs Free Will. The world that you chose to live in, which is sometimes different than your parents. Notice the word Chose. I'm not saying that people aren't steered, we are, from birth. I don't know about other countries so I'll just address here in the USA.
For many years Christian beginnings were taught and then came Evolution. This is not a science regardless of what you have been taught, it is a faith. So far to date (2011) there has been absolutely no hard scientific evidence to prove evolution. Those scientist who disagree and reprimanded and silenced. Millions of dollars were spent to change the textbooks in the schools and what was once placed as fact to prove evolution has since been retracted, just not in the books. One of the best explanations I've ever heard was from a man who called himself Dr Dino. Here is a link with some great videos that are free to watch. LINK He ended up in prison for Tax Evasion, which is a common silencing protocol.
Many books are printed by a company located in the UN called Lucis Trust. Ready for the good part? They changed their name from Lucifer Trust. Founded in 1922 by Alice Bailey, disciple of the Russian theosophist Madame Helena Blavatsky. Google who these people are, even on Lucis Trust's own site. They are the UN's own religion of world peace and their publishing company.
So from school the young are pretty much indoctrinated into a world of believing there is no God and subverted to believing in the god of this world. Evolution teaches that we are a mistake of nature, an accident, with no purpose. That we came from Primordial Soup which evolved into various stages eventually into a monkey and then what we are today. Why are there still monkeys? Point being though that they teach the youth they started as a mistake then became an animal. Why then do we wonder when they act like animals?
I've always loved music, but have you ever read the words of what your singing? I thought as a kid that with my hair down to my belt, a beard, and shooting peace signs while drinking and getting high that I was rebelling when I was a teenager. Was I? Or was I fulfilling their wishes. We're taught that we should buy brand name products under the illusion of it is better, then taught we are bad people because we bought them. Earth friendly is seldom really earth friendly... but it sounds good don't it. Let me give you an example. Anton LeVey (started the first church of Satan) said that "Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the law". Sound like any slogans you know of? That actually makes sense if you are a mistake on this ball and you intend on dying when it's over.
With most of the music these days it is so horrible that on movies we hear older music playing. Then comes the videos. Most of them show R rated looking stuff but what is worse, show every vulgar imaginable thought imagined. Children are dressed and dance like adults. We are being steered and guess who is at the helm. I'll posts few links at the end of this, and while the grab a bit far at times, I think you will be amazed if you take the time to explore them.
I could keep writing on this, on and on, and show you data to prove it, but that is not what I aim to do with this blog. I have a site for stuff like this. The purpose behind this blog is to say that there is a God, one that made you. One that loves you. One that rather than trick you into your worship, wants to come come on your own. I'll probably make a few other posts with data, but I want this blog to make you thin, most of all though, to inform you that there is a God that cares. To show you that you can be still and be happy. You don't have to chase an illusion.
So in closing. God made people. The world makes Atheists on purpose.
http://vigilantcitizen.com
http://www.goodfight.org
http://www.morphcity.com
Antichrist
There have been many who ask me about what some call Conspiracy Theories and End Times. Most want to know what I think or have researched, which would cover several books, so I'll just stick to the facts that pertain to what is above. I'll take them by topic. I encourage you to read the whole scripture in it's context though. Never take my word for it and should you find I'm wrong on something (with Biblical proof), please inform me.
Antichrist is mentioned only four times by that title in the Bible. There are many antichrists the Bible mentions. Those who do not accept that Jesus was the Son of God the Father are antichrists. Yea, that is a bit harsh, but it is what it is.
1 John 2:18 (King James Version)
18Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.
1 John 2:22 (King James Version)
22Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.
1 John 4:3 (King James Version)
3And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.
2 John 1:7 (New International Version, ©2010)
7 I say this because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist.
So now looking at this, these days we see plenty of antichrists. Funny how that word has been edited from the built in dictionaries in the computers these days.
Now in the first one we see many religions who fit into that, yet in the last one we see a religion that also fits that many will not want to admit.
Revelation 3:9 (King James Version)
9Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.
Revelation 2:9 (King James Version)
9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.
It wasn't so much the Gentiles who sought to kill the Jews in Germany but rather the ones who claim to be Jews, the very ones that now hide behind the title of Jew.
Please note how many antichrists are mentioned, IE: plural. One will be the beast but as far as antichrist in terminology goes, we have a lot to fit in there these days.
Antichrist is mentioned only four times by that title in the Bible. There are many antichrists the Bible mentions. Those who do not accept that Jesus was the Son of God the Father are antichrists. Yea, that is a bit harsh, but it is what it is.
1 John 2:18 (King James Version)
18Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.
1 John 2:22 (King James Version)
22Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.
1 John 4:3 (King James Version)
3And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.
2 John 1:7 (New International Version, ©2010)
7 I say this because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist.
So now looking at this, these days we see plenty of antichrists. Funny how that word has been edited from the built in dictionaries in the computers these days.
Now in the first one we see many religions who fit into that, yet in the last one we see a religion that also fits that many will not want to admit.
Revelation 3:9 (King James Version)
9Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.
Revelation 2:9 (King James Version)
9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.
It wasn't so much the Gentiles who sought to kill the Jews in Germany but rather the ones who claim to be Jews, the very ones that now hide behind the title of Jew.
Please note how many antichrists are mentioned, IE: plural. One will be the beast but as far as antichrist in terminology goes, we have a lot to fit in there these days.
Details
I read on a thread in a forum one time that he went to church, read his Bible, but he just didn't sweat the details. As I was raised to believe, and later it was confirmed, the Devil is in the details. Not sweating the details is not believing and not being interested in knowing the truth. It's just plain lazy to just ride along. One has to remember that you are doing the driving in this life through Free Will.
Imagine for a moment if you will not sweating the details in heading across country, where would you end up? The word lost comes to mind. By not sweating the details you would miss turns, red lights, and you would probably get involved in accidents that could lead to death. So you should sweat the details. You should care enough to want to know the details. You should check the details.
I hear people say that the Bible is 100% accurate and to that I have to ask which Bible they are reading? I believe that the Bible is God's road map to navigate through this life to get to the destination, but then again, it's been written by men, all of them have. There are places where one can go scripture by scripture to compare and find what errors are there, and there are errors in translation.
Now add that to the people who think they know what God meant to say, and you have trouble. Read that one again and then remember, God didn't write footnotes, He knew well and fully what He meant to say. Now again we add yet another detail, the ones who use scripture out of context. Some of these people do this by accident, some intentionally for fame. It really doesn't matter which they do it for, thing is, all are inspired knowingly or unknowingly by Satan himself.
I think we could all agree that Satanist and Luciferians both will head to the antichrist when he comes, but who else? What will be the majority of people that will fall? Those who "don't sweat the detail". That would be the "Christian Right" and the "Christian Left", Jesus was neither in my honest opinion. He opposed the sides as He created a middle path. So, if you are from either side then you must take out the word Christian from either one.
Let me give you an example of the changes in the Bible, let's use the word Satan. The King James Version has 49 mentions of him. New American Standard Bible 50, NIV has 47, and the New KJV has 54. This name is an important name and taken out of context it is blasphemy. I have not looked up to see which is correct but for the most part the KJV in the past seems more likely closer. One cannot battle what one does not know. This is definitely on my list of research and when I'm done it will be posted, but probably not on this blog.
Just like anything in life you do, sweat the details. Perhaps that is why this is in the Bible it warns of being deceived. I heard a preacher on the radio say that preachers should not correct another preacher. That they should have respect and share a professional courtesy. Stop for one moment and think about how much of a gate that leaves open. If you truly love God then you will love Him enough to learn the truth and the details and double check what is right. This goes against what we are taught these days as Satan would have us just become complacent and accept what we are spoon fed. The world will not accept or admire you for that. I'm sure there is a drug to help you digest the junk they are feeding you. Ultimately though, God gives us all Free Will and at the same time tells us that He was not well accepted either.
Salvation is in the details. God is in the details. Jesus is in the details. I think since I'm just sitting here, I'll write another quickie that will tie in with this one.
Imagine for a moment if you will not sweating the details in heading across country, where would you end up? The word lost comes to mind. By not sweating the details you would miss turns, red lights, and you would probably get involved in accidents that could lead to death. So you should sweat the details. You should care enough to want to know the details. You should check the details.
I hear people say that the Bible is 100% accurate and to that I have to ask which Bible they are reading? I believe that the Bible is God's road map to navigate through this life to get to the destination, but then again, it's been written by men, all of them have. There are places where one can go scripture by scripture to compare and find what errors are there, and there are errors in translation.
Now add that to the people who think they know what God meant to say, and you have trouble. Read that one again and then remember, God didn't write footnotes, He knew well and fully what He meant to say. Now again we add yet another detail, the ones who use scripture out of context. Some of these people do this by accident, some intentionally for fame. It really doesn't matter which they do it for, thing is, all are inspired knowingly or unknowingly by Satan himself.
I think we could all agree that Satanist and Luciferians both will head to the antichrist when he comes, but who else? What will be the majority of people that will fall? Those who "don't sweat the detail". That would be the "Christian Right" and the "Christian Left", Jesus was neither in my honest opinion. He opposed the sides as He created a middle path. So, if you are from either side then you must take out the word Christian from either one.
Let me give you an example of the changes in the Bible, let's use the word Satan. The King James Version has 49 mentions of him. New American Standard Bible 50, NIV has 47, and the New KJV has 54. This name is an important name and taken out of context it is blasphemy. I have not looked up to see which is correct but for the most part the KJV in the past seems more likely closer. One cannot battle what one does not know. This is definitely on my list of research and when I'm done it will be posted, but probably not on this blog.
Just like anything in life you do, sweat the details. Perhaps that is why this is in the Bible it warns of being deceived. I heard a preacher on the radio say that preachers should not correct another preacher. That they should have respect and share a professional courtesy. Stop for one moment and think about how much of a gate that leaves open. If you truly love God then you will love Him enough to learn the truth and the details and double check what is right. This goes against what we are taught these days as Satan would have us just become complacent and accept what we are spoon fed. The world will not accept or admire you for that. I'm sure there is a drug to help you digest the junk they are feeding you. Ultimately though, God gives us all Free Will and at the same time tells us that He was not well accepted either.
Salvation is in the details. God is in the details. Jesus is in the details. I think since I'm just sitting here, I'll write another quickie that will tie in with this one.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Free Will
I and a friend one time debated Free Will verses Predestination, which expanded into may other areas rapidly. I'm not sure who started the thread but it ended up as it went along that mainly the two of us debated. That is important to keep in mind, we debated. It was what I considered one of the most learning experiences I have had yet to date, and one of the most enjoyable one too. I think he felt the same way. Along this path though on the thread many other questions arose and it forced me to think, an accomplishment all of it's own. :) Bear in mind, this is just my understanding and I always welcome others views. I'll list some of the questions we addressed.
How can there be Free Will and yet God know everything?
God gave Free Will not only to mankind but to the Angels as well. Many would readily agree with the mankind one yet the Angels? The proof of that is the fall of Lucifer and it was once again proven in Genesis 6 with the Watchers. One has to then though ask why would God do that. Which spouse would you want? Which friend would you want? Which pet would you want? Unless you are Jeffery Dahmer, you would want and enjoy the company of the one that wanted to be there because they chose you too.
If you have friends for no other reason than they want to be with you, you have a true friend. If you have friends because of your power, money, fame, or any other reason under the heavens... they are never true. Usually they will stay with you as long as it benefits just them and times are good. People under oppression are usually miserable. As employees they are unproductive. As servants they are unpredictable. Scared they are undependable. As friends they are fair weather. As in love, they are incapable of true love. In secret they contrive.
People who are there because they want to be and have real love for you, now there are people that will stick with you through thick and thick. They are happy and a joy to be around. They are there because they chose to be. They have the ability to love without boundaries. They are always willing to serve the others needs and wants with no other purpose than to please. They are at peace inside and with others. Selfless people who take delight in others delight.
So, I'm not saying I'm 100% right, could this be the reason why God created free will? He doesn't want slaves or gold diggers. He doesn't want people to come running for what He can give materially or have them come scared. He wants them to come because they want to be there and they love Him, no matter what the cost. Of course this mast to be a mutual thing, and it is. He sent His on Son to be ridiculed, beaten, and eventually killed. Not to mention other blessings.
There are of course rules, ones that are pretty much universally accepted but all and no faiths. Then there are some rules that are not so accepted. Compared to man's rules and laws there are very, very few, but they all pertain to everybody and not just the ones that want to do them. His laws and rules are spread across the board and no lawyer or court, or judge can rule on them, nor can they they swayed or perverted. You either do or don't. Guilty or innocent. There is a level playing field for saint and sinner.
Just as the first man and woman were created for a purpose and reason, so are all of us. We have Free Will though to refuse what we were created for. We're all given gifts that are special but He leaves it up to us to decide if we use them. So how then my friend asked, does God know everything given that He gave free will for a person to accept or reject. If you change your mind how does he know? I look at it like this.
Life is a series of crossroads with one joining the other. You have only four possible outcomes at each on. Remain, straight, right, or left. Those that remain are often pushed one way or the other, so remaining simply leaves you at the disposal of others who also use the same highway. It is impossible to remain at that stop for long. He knows where each crossroads lead and where the next crossroads lead too. He allows you to chose each time with really only three possible outcomes. Some of the ones that remain there may be pushed by others headed the right way, some will not. Or, as my great grandmother Annie use to say, "There are many roads that lead out, but few that lead in and once you take the wrong path, it's hard to find your way back."
Unfortunately there are many obstacles in the way. While I used the term road, path is probably more the accurate term as path is mentioned quiet frequently in the Bible. I used road since most can easily relate to that as opposed to paths. If we take a nature walk through the forest we can easily become distracted by many things. Much the same as a drive down the road, but all are a series of decisions. God knows where the paths or roads lead and the outcome of each.
He lets you and me do the driving but provides signs along the way, if we just notice them, for they are often subtle signs easily missed in this hurried world. Missing a sign only makes on human. But all roads lead somewhere and have to end sometime, so He wants you to know the outcome to where the final destination is and what to expect. He wants you to end up at His house, but He wants you to end up there because you want to be. What is really great is if you can have someone make it that stalled or taken the wrong turn at the last crossroads. Not pushing but rather leading by example. Being bathed in one's own righteousness isn't leading.
So everybody has a purpose along the way. Some bigger, some smaller, but purposeful all the same. Nobody is a mistake, even when the wrong path is taken. That just means they made a mistake. Perhaps they didn't see their purpose. Perhaps they didn't accept that they count. That they are loved. That they were created different for a reason. Some will see their purpose, whatever that may be, and some will not. Some will do what God intended, and some will not. He leaves that decision to each person, but He still loves them all the same. For what father doesn't love his love his child, if the father is a good father? How much more than is God that our ability, knowing the He is love.
But that is what I think. You have to think for yourself just as I do myself.
How can there be Free Will and yet God know everything?
God gave Free Will not only to mankind but to the Angels as well. Many would readily agree with the mankind one yet the Angels? The proof of that is the fall of Lucifer and it was once again proven in Genesis 6 with the Watchers. One has to then though ask why would God do that. Which spouse would you want? Which friend would you want? Which pet would you want? Unless you are Jeffery Dahmer, you would want and enjoy the company of the one that wanted to be there because they chose you too.
If you have friends for no other reason than they want to be with you, you have a true friend. If you have friends because of your power, money, fame, or any other reason under the heavens... they are never true. Usually they will stay with you as long as it benefits just them and times are good. People under oppression are usually miserable. As employees they are unproductive. As servants they are unpredictable. Scared they are undependable. As friends they are fair weather. As in love, they are incapable of true love. In secret they contrive.
People who are there because they want to be and have real love for you, now there are people that will stick with you through thick and thick. They are happy and a joy to be around. They are there because they chose to be. They have the ability to love without boundaries. They are always willing to serve the others needs and wants with no other purpose than to please. They are at peace inside and with others. Selfless people who take delight in others delight.
So, I'm not saying I'm 100% right, could this be the reason why God created free will? He doesn't want slaves or gold diggers. He doesn't want people to come running for what He can give materially or have them come scared. He wants them to come because they want to be there and they love Him, no matter what the cost. Of course this mast to be a mutual thing, and it is. He sent His on Son to be ridiculed, beaten, and eventually killed. Not to mention other blessings.
There are of course rules, ones that are pretty much universally accepted but all and no faiths. Then there are some rules that are not so accepted. Compared to man's rules and laws there are very, very few, but they all pertain to everybody and not just the ones that want to do them. His laws and rules are spread across the board and no lawyer or court, or judge can rule on them, nor can they they swayed or perverted. You either do or don't. Guilty or innocent. There is a level playing field for saint and sinner.
Just as the first man and woman were created for a purpose and reason, so are all of us. We have Free Will though to refuse what we were created for. We're all given gifts that are special but He leaves it up to us to decide if we use them. So how then my friend asked, does God know everything given that He gave free will for a person to accept or reject. If you change your mind how does he know? I look at it like this.
Life is a series of crossroads with one joining the other. You have only four possible outcomes at each on. Remain, straight, right, or left. Those that remain are often pushed one way or the other, so remaining simply leaves you at the disposal of others who also use the same highway. It is impossible to remain at that stop for long. He knows where each crossroads lead and where the next crossroads lead too. He allows you to chose each time with really only three possible outcomes. Some of the ones that remain there may be pushed by others headed the right way, some will not. Or, as my great grandmother Annie use to say, "There are many roads that lead out, but few that lead in and once you take the wrong path, it's hard to find your way back."
Unfortunately there are many obstacles in the way. While I used the term road, path is probably more the accurate term as path is mentioned quiet frequently in the Bible. I used road since most can easily relate to that as opposed to paths. If we take a nature walk through the forest we can easily become distracted by many things. Much the same as a drive down the road, but all are a series of decisions. God knows where the paths or roads lead and the outcome of each.
He lets you and me do the driving but provides signs along the way, if we just notice them, for they are often subtle signs easily missed in this hurried world. Missing a sign only makes on human. But all roads lead somewhere and have to end sometime, so He wants you to know the outcome to where the final destination is and what to expect. He wants you to end up at His house, but He wants you to end up there because you want to be. What is really great is if you can have someone make it that stalled or taken the wrong turn at the last crossroads. Not pushing but rather leading by example. Being bathed in one's own righteousness isn't leading.
So everybody has a purpose along the way. Some bigger, some smaller, but purposeful all the same. Nobody is a mistake, even when the wrong path is taken. That just means they made a mistake. Perhaps they didn't see their purpose. Perhaps they didn't accept that they count. That they are loved. That they were created different for a reason. Some will see their purpose, whatever that may be, and some will not. Some will do what God intended, and some will not. He leaves that decision to each person, but He still loves them all the same. For what father doesn't love his love his child, if the father is a good father? How much more than is God that our ability, knowing the He is love.
But that is what I think. You have to think for yourself just as I do myself.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Heaven, Death, Dying
I have read so many things in the past five years on death, dying, Heaven and Hell. I usually read Christian doctrine and since I consider myself a Christian that stands to reason. Every now and then though I go off the beaten path to see what a few others think, but only briefly and not enough for a comment. I guess that is part of being secure in one's faith. Still, with all the different versions of what is said one gets quickly confused. I can see why people run and even hate people sometimes when the word Christian is brought up. Oh, all sides are passionate of their beliefs, and I do mean all sides. I'm not sure what is going on but I do know that God didn't write Footnotes.
There are those that quite convincing show you quotes from the Bible, funny how the NIV is being pushed and pushed hard, to show you you die completely when you die. Then on the other hand there are those who do just the same except they tell you that you will be in Heaven. Then one I heard the first time is that you have two judgments? What is that? That should be pretty important I would think, far more important than to warrant just one passage of a few that are cited like Corinthians 3:11-15.What does it actually say? There are no need for door prizes in for being with God if one makes it there. Maybe God will reward us accordingly to our deeds. I have no idea other than reward can come by making it there. I do believe that there are different rewards or positions such as was given on the Sermon on the Mount, but no second judgment. God isn't using the grading curve or adding stars in someone's crown for only He wears the crown.
So I've often wondered what would the next step have been if had my NDE not have ended this way. In truth, I do not know, but I'm reading now. Would I have went back to sleep, IE: the grave? Would I have went on to Heaven? Could I have looked back down here at my loved ones? I am only certain of a few things. 1- I could not express or rather make contact with Denise or anybody else that night. 2- That even while I had the good emotions like love, I could not relate to anybody on any level other than Love. So while I knew she was sad and afraid, I could not relate to why or any of the negative feelings. Does that hold true for everybody? I have no idea. That is one reason I don't, or at least try not to, judge another NDE. Though I have called out a fake one or two occasionally, which finally did admit to or was proven was a faker.
I know however what I experienced that night. So, I look once again for something that backs my experience up as many preachers say that you Rest there until the Final Judgment. Since I didn't see Heaven, I never even got out of the room. So, I research and here is one of what I have found. Rather than just the one verse, I have the whole perspective added.
John 5:
23That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.
24Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
25Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.
Apparently Jesus was misunderstood back then too:
John 8:
50And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth. 51Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death.
52Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death.
1 Peter
17For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
18For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:
19By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;
1 John
13Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. 14We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
15Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.
And always remember Enoch, which many had not even heard of him. Why?
Hebrews 11:
13Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. 14We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
15Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.
Genesis 6:
23And all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty and five years: 24And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.
25And Methuselah lived an hundred eighty and seven years, and begat Lamech.
As a matter of fact, Enoch is mentioned 11 times in the standard Bible.
I'll write more on this later, but I do believe that you go on.
There are those that quite convincing show you quotes from the Bible, funny how the NIV is being pushed and pushed hard, to show you you die completely when you die. Then on the other hand there are those who do just the same except they tell you that you will be in Heaven. Then one I heard the first time is that you have two judgments? What is that? That should be pretty important I would think, far more important than to warrant just one passage of a few that are cited like Corinthians 3:11-15.What does it actually say? There are no need for door prizes in for being with God if one makes it there. Maybe God will reward us accordingly to our deeds. I have no idea other than reward can come by making it there. I do believe that there are different rewards or positions such as was given on the Sermon on the Mount, but no second judgment. God isn't using the grading curve or adding stars in someone's crown for only He wears the crown.
So I've often wondered what would the next step have been if had my NDE not have ended this way. In truth, I do not know, but I'm reading now. Would I have went back to sleep, IE: the grave? Would I have went on to Heaven? Could I have looked back down here at my loved ones? I am only certain of a few things. 1- I could not express or rather make contact with Denise or anybody else that night. 2- That even while I had the good emotions like love, I could not relate to anybody on any level other than Love. So while I knew she was sad and afraid, I could not relate to why or any of the negative feelings. Does that hold true for everybody? I have no idea. That is one reason I don't, or at least try not to, judge another NDE. Though I have called out a fake one or two occasionally, which finally did admit to or was proven was a faker.
I know however what I experienced that night. So, I look once again for something that backs my experience up as many preachers say that you Rest there until the Final Judgment. Since I didn't see Heaven, I never even got out of the room. So, I research and here is one of what I have found. Rather than just the one verse, I have the whole perspective added.
John 5:
23That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.
24Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
25Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.
Apparently Jesus was misunderstood back then too:
John 8:
50And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth. 51Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death.
52Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death.
1 Peter
17For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
18For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:
19By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;
1 John
13Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. 14We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
15Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.
And always remember Enoch, which many had not even heard of him. Why?
Hebrews 11:
13Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. 14We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
15Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.
Genesis 6:
23And all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty and five years: 24And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.
25And Methuselah lived an hundred eighty and seven years, and begat Lamech.
As a matter of fact, Enoch is mentioned 11 times in the standard Bible.
I'll write more on this later, but I do believe that you go on.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Pain and Suffering
I'm doing this one now, I feel the need to for some reason. I don't have all the answers and I still honestly have questions myself, but I try and learn.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see that pain and suffering are everywhere. Some people handle pain and suffering well while others not so well, and that is normal. We all have weaknesses and we are all different. Having said that, so is pain. There is the pain that is limited, we know it will not last forever. Like when we smash a finger, have dental work done, break bones even. Even those pains we know will pass, though they seem forever at times. Deep down though, we know we will bet better. I think most people have experienced this kind of pain.Then there is pain that will last our lifetime. Pain that is called chronic. Pain that seems to never end. Pain that requires medications and help from those that are trained to administer something to easy the pain. Pain that seems like endless suffering, but it's not. I have seen and still see both.
Here is what I think in my heart. Some can relate to this and some will have to work to relate to this, but it is the only way I know how. I noticed while I was working in my garden the weeds. The garden is God and me time, no I don't hear voices in my head, lol. But if we listen I think we hear through our soul and in our hearts. Perhaps the Be Still and know that God is God applies here.
So I looked at the weeds which I go nuts over. Perhaps that is what we are when we experience constant pain, weeds. Though weeds seem of little to no use, they all have uses. Be it ground cover for the soil to stop erosion, enriching the soil, and most weeds have medicinal uses while some can be eaten. Weeds are the strongest plant in the garden, yet the less cherished. Some weeds bloom in fields to feed the bees and display beauty. Funny, the weeds are a big part of nature and their uses are for everything but themselves while being frowned upon by those that did not know them.
The plants I chose to grow I fed them. I watered them. I nurtured them. I babied them. The weeds I pulled them out. Walked on them. Tilled them up. I didn't feed or water them, yet they grew. Through all the abuse they continued to grown and if allowed some can take over the plants who have been so nurtured. A big rain or high wind and the plants I have taken so much care of can be killed. No water and they will die. But the weeds, they thrive. They thrive no matter how much abuse they get.
I think people are like that. Have you ever noticed that the people who have seldom if ever been sick are so prideful? Most cannot relate to pain or the pain people feel. I'm sure you know of a few. Maybe you work with them or related to one, maybe you are one. Most I know have little tolerance or compassion for someone that is hurting. Some will have learned some, but most don't. I few learn sympathy, but they can never have empathy, not true empathy. Like the plants that I plant and work with, the first sign of adversity and they fall. Some get up while others just lay there. They usually have less mercy and scream justice more often. There are a few, just as in the garden though, through the association of a loved one that learns some sympathy and understanding. They see the pain and suffering of another and have the ability to exercise compassion. This is a gift and one they have maintained.
But the ones that suffer are usually tough, like the weed. They endure when all others fail, even though the going is tough. They are dependent in many ways of mercy from others. What some would call a bad day they call a good day, for the have endured so much worse, and so they are grateful. The are grateful just to be. They have compassion and empathy, if their hearts have not become hardened. They know grace and mercy, though it isn't shown a lot through the others and the drops from Heaven seem few and far apart sometimes. Some weeds do get hard though and the journey is wrong, just as wrong as the nurtured plants that have no hearts other than for themselves. But in all the garden, weeds have a special ability to drawn closer to God. For while all the plants in the garden know they depend on God, the weeds have lost their independence and feel the dependence on God more deeply.
I can only assume what and why that bad things fall on certain people. While I really have no idea other than if this physical life was meant to be great, why then would we need Heaven. I can only say what I have learned and my perspectives on why. Through sickness I have become more sympathetic to others. I have earned empathy for another. I have learned Mercy and have saw Grace. I have learned humility and dependency. I have lost my pride in many ways. My heart has become soft once again. I have learned to be thankful for the little things, the things I often over looked before, the people I overlooked before as well. Most of all though I have leaned to Be Still. To Be Still and know that God is God. I have leaned that I have a purpose, maybe not the same purpose but a purpose all the same. I have learned that I never stand alone and when the bad comes to get back up, for I never stand alone. I have learned that it is not my strength alone. Would I have chosen this path? No. Am I glad God chose this path? Yes, but someways no. Then again, if this is what it takes to prove my worth to God and increase my chances of going to Heaven, then I will go this path for as long as I am allowed.
I look back at who I was and who I am becoming, and I see nothing I want to look at for long. I thought I was strong back then, but it was a deception. I can say now that even until my last breath that I am stronger now spiritually than I have ever been. I can also say that I have a long ways to go yet. One thing I heard someone say that got me. A preacher on the radio was talking and he said be careful what you say to God, He is listening. Some say God use me for your Glory or use me how you see fit. Well, what if pain and suffering is how He sees fit? I sure you, this is no glorious ride.
Pain and suffering brings us to a crossroads, actually all of life does just that, pain and suffering are just quicker. We can choose to grow from it and know that God is God and completely in charge. That don't make it hurt less though. Through this however we get back up each day and give thanks for what we have left physically and what we now have grow spiritually. Or, we can turn away from God and be bitter for what we have physically lost and miss what could be growing and what is left of us physically. Perhaps through our pain and suffering someone will be able to draw closer to God, closer to all that is good.
Now here is a little that says a lot. It's not all but some of the scriptures,
2 Peter 2:
19For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.
20For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
Matthew 19:
13Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.
14But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
15And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.
Romans 8:
16The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
17And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
18For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
1 Corinthians
14If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
15If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
16Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
1 Corinthians 12
25That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
26And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
27Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
2 Corinthians 6:
6By pureness, by knowledge, by long suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,
7By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see that pain and suffering are everywhere. Some people handle pain and suffering well while others not so well, and that is normal. We all have weaknesses and we are all different. Having said that, so is pain. There is the pain that is limited, we know it will not last forever. Like when we smash a finger, have dental work done, break bones even. Even those pains we know will pass, though they seem forever at times. Deep down though, we know we will bet better. I think most people have experienced this kind of pain.Then there is pain that will last our lifetime. Pain that is called chronic. Pain that seems to never end. Pain that requires medications and help from those that are trained to administer something to easy the pain. Pain that seems like endless suffering, but it's not. I have seen and still see both.
Here is what I think in my heart. Some can relate to this and some will have to work to relate to this, but it is the only way I know how. I noticed while I was working in my garden the weeds. The garden is God and me time, no I don't hear voices in my head, lol. But if we listen I think we hear through our soul and in our hearts. Perhaps the Be Still and know that God is God applies here.
So I looked at the weeds which I go nuts over. Perhaps that is what we are when we experience constant pain, weeds. Though weeds seem of little to no use, they all have uses. Be it ground cover for the soil to stop erosion, enriching the soil, and most weeds have medicinal uses while some can be eaten. Weeds are the strongest plant in the garden, yet the less cherished. Some weeds bloom in fields to feed the bees and display beauty. Funny, the weeds are a big part of nature and their uses are for everything but themselves while being frowned upon by those that did not know them.
The plants I chose to grow I fed them. I watered them. I nurtured them. I babied them. The weeds I pulled them out. Walked on them. Tilled them up. I didn't feed or water them, yet they grew. Through all the abuse they continued to grown and if allowed some can take over the plants who have been so nurtured. A big rain or high wind and the plants I have taken so much care of can be killed. No water and they will die. But the weeds, they thrive. They thrive no matter how much abuse they get.
I think people are like that. Have you ever noticed that the people who have seldom if ever been sick are so prideful? Most cannot relate to pain or the pain people feel. I'm sure you know of a few. Maybe you work with them or related to one, maybe you are one. Most I know have little tolerance or compassion for someone that is hurting. Some will have learned some, but most don't. I few learn sympathy, but they can never have empathy, not true empathy. Like the plants that I plant and work with, the first sign of adversity and they fall. Some get up while others just lay there. They usually have less mercy and scream justice more often. There are a few, just as in the garden though, through the association of a loved one that learns some sympathy and understanding. They see the pain and suffering of another and have the ability to exercise compassion. This is a gift and one they have maintained.
But the ones that suffer are usually tough, like the weed. They endure when all others fail, even though the going is tough. They are dependent in many ways of mercy from others. What some would call a bad day they call a good day, for the have endured so much worse, and so they are grateful. The are grateful just to be. They have compassion and empathy, if their hearts have not become hardened. They know grace and mercy, though it isn't shown a lot through the others and the drops from Heaven seem few and far apart sometimes. Some weeds do get hard though and the journey is wrong, just as wrong as the nurtured plants that have no hearts other than for themselves. But in all the garden, weeds have a special ability to drawn closer to God. For while all the plants in the garden know they depend on God, the weeds have lost their independence and feel the dependence on God more deeply.
I can only assume what and why that bad things fall on certain people. While I really have no idea other than if this physical life was meant to be great, why then would we need Heaven. I can only say what I have learned and my perspectives on why. Through sickness I have become more sympathetic to others. I have earned empathy for another. I have learned Mercy and have saw Grace. I have learned humility and dependency. I have lost my pride in many ways. My heart has become soft once again. I have learned to be thankful for the little things, the things I often over looked before, the people I overlooked before as well. Most of all though I have leaned to Be Still. To Be Still and know that God is God. I have leaned that I have a purpose, maybe not the same purpose but a purpose all the same. I have learned that I never stand alone and when the bad comes to get back up, for I never stand alone. I have learned that it is not my strength alone. Would I have chosen this path? No. Am I glad God chose this path? Yes, but someways no. Then again, if this is what it takes to prove my worth to God and increase my chances of going to Heaven, then I will go this path for as long as I am allowed.
I look back at who I was and who I am becoming, and I see nothing I want to look at for long. I thought I was strong back then, but it was a deception. I can say now that even until my last breath that I am stronger now spiritually than I have ever been. I can also say that I have a long ways to go yet. One thing I heard someone say that got me. A preacher on the radio was talking and he said be careful what you say to God, He is listening. Some say God use me for your Glory or use me how you see fit. Well, what if pain and suffering is how He sees fit? I sure you, this is no glorious ride.
Pain and suffering brings us to a crossroads, actually all of life does just that, pain and suffering are just quicker. We can choose to grow from it and know that God is God and completely in charge. That don't make it hurt less though. Through this however we get back up each day and give thanks for what we have left physically and what we now have grow spiritually. Or, we can turn away from God and be bitter for what we have physically lost and miss what could be growing and what is left of us physically. Perhaps through our pain and suffering someone will be able to draw closer to God, closer to all that is good.
Now here is a little that says a lot. It's not all but some of the scriptures,
2 Peter 2:
19For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.
20For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
Matthew 19:
13Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.
14But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
15And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.
Romans 8:
16The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
17And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
18For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
1 Corinthians
14If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
15If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
16Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
1 Corinthians 12
25That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
26And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
27Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
2 Corinthians 6:
6By pureness, by knowledge, by long suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,
7By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Friday, February 4, 2011
Faith
Faith is a very strong word and an important word, for if we had no faith in something or someone, we would wither and eventually die. Think about that for a moment. We live our lives by faith, but do we instill faith in the proper means and to the most important aspects of our life? As a matter of fact, if you are alive and reading this I guarantee you have some faith.
I had a guy one time ask me how I can have faith in an invisible God. He followed up by saying he had faith in nothing he could not touch, feel, taste, or see. He followed up with something about not giving hi the wind or gravity as an example. So I thought about it and there are so many examples of how we have faith. The one I came up with was brakes on a vehicle. Some people have plenty of faith, so much so it becomes scary at times. Most have no clue how the brakes work, but they have faith that when they depress that pedal they will work. For those of us that do know how the brakes work we have never seen friction, yet we have faith it is there and it works. Even if we know all the aspects of the mechanical part we still have faith that when we drive and want to slow down or stop, we blindly press the brake pedal having faith all thing will work properly. There are those who have abundant faith in this action, so much so it gives some the faith in God because they worry about the car approaching stopping in time.
I seriously doubt that many people have seen the electricity in a power line or their home yet we leave our food in a device that requires us to have faith that the electricity will feed the machine, then we have faith the machine will work. Those reading this have faith that their components will work properly and that the electricity, be it battery or plugged into an outlet, will be present. True, if it's a battery it will run down but then we have faith that the battery will recharge.
Now that is just two of thousands upon thousands of examples. There is nothing wrong with faith in things like that for faith is needed. Blind faith is not that hard to come by and used daily by everyone. But there are misuses of faith, false faith, and ignorant faith. Satan uses faith as his weapon for as long as he has been corrupted. Even he has faith that God the Father is God and that Jesus is the Savior of mankind, Messiah. So placing or having faith in something isn't special for we all do just that.
Misguided faith can bring about Pride. Pride in oneself, pride in one's accomplishments, pride in a deed. Pride is indeed like faith, used properly it can be a good thing, but used wrong it can turn the soul sour. Pride is mentioned 46 times in the Bible and when attributed to a man or woman having pride in themselves is never good. It's ok to be proud of somebody but never one's self. Pride in one's self or one's deeds is never a good thing. Pride is one of the biggest tools the Devil has, and he is very experienced with it. Pride will lead to hate, boastfulness, arrogance, ignorance, lust, envy, and greed. Pride is faith misplaced. Pride has fallen many a person, but that is another article later on.
Faith is so important that it is mentioned 231 times in the Bible while mentioned, while Faithfulness is 19 and Faithful 78 times.(KJV). In James 2 a description of how misplaced faith can cause harm not only to those you love but to your soul and endangering it of Hell. In Revelations 2 we see that faith cannot and will not always heal you or keep you physically alive, oh but after that last breathe you will live. More than this life, for this life is not what we were created for. This life is not our reward, least the true reward of life after is lost.
So when we plant a garden, work on a car, go to work, do not have faith in you or anybody else or anything else. Rather have faith in God that all things will work through you from Him. For He is just and powerful, never changing and always the same. Science changes it's mind everyday, businesses fail sometimes, people fail sometimes, you fail sometimes, I fail sometimes... but God never fails. And when you fall He says if you ask, He will lift you back up. As long as you have faith. And one day when that last breath comes, in the final struggle for life, have faith that He will be there, waiting for a reward that never tarnishes, never rots, never rusts, and never wears out, for all eternity. That is faith, properly placed, can and will do. Now that we know how we all have faith in something and use it everyday, why not use it for everything... God.
I had a guy one time ask me how I can have faith in an invisible God. He followed up by saying he had faith in nothing he could not touch, feel, taste, or see. He followed up with something about not giving hi the wind or gravity as an example. So I thought about it and there are so many examples of how we have faith. The one I came up with was brakes on a vehicle. Some people have plenty of faith, so much so it becomes scary at times. Most have no clue how the brakes work, but they have faith that when they depress that pedal they will work. For those of us that do know how the brakes work we have never seen friction, yet we have faith it is there and it works. Even if we know all the aspects of the mechanical part we still have faith that when we drive and want to slow down or stop, we blindly press the brake pedal having faith all thing will work properly. There are those who have abundant faith in this action, so much so it gives some the faith in God because they worry about the car approaching stopping in time.
I seriously doubt that many people have seen the electricity in a power line or their home yet we leave our food in a device that requires us to have faith that the electricity will feed the machine, then we have faith the machine will work. Those reading this have faith that their components will work properly and that the electricity, be it battery or plugged into an outlet, will be present. True, if it's a battery it will run down but then we have faith that the battery will recharge.
Now that is just two of thousands upon thousands of examples. There is nothing wrong with faith in things like that for faith is needed. Blind faith is not that hard to come by and used daily by everyone. But there are misuses of faith, false faith, and ignorant faith. Satan uses faith as his weapon for as long as he has been corrupted. Even he has faith that God the Father is God and that Jesus is the Savior of mankind, Messiah. So placing or having faith in something isn't special for we all do just that.
Misguided faith can bring about Pride. Pride in oneself, pride in one's accomplishments, pride in a deed. Pride is indeed like faith, used properly it can be a good thing, but used wrong it can turn the soul sour. Pride is mentioned 46 times in the Bible and when attributed to a man or woman having pride in themselves is never good. It's ok to be proud of somebody but never one's self. Pride in one's self or one's deeds is never a good thing. Pride is one of the biggest tools the Devil has, and he is very experienced with it. Pride will lead to hate, boastfulness, arrogance, ignorance, lust, envy, and greed. Pride is faith misplaced. Pride has fallen many a person, but that is another article later on.
Faith is so important that it is mentioned 231 times in the Bible while mentioned, while Faithfulness is 19 and Faithful 78 times.(KJV). In James 2 a description of how misplaced faith can cause harm not only to those you love but to your soul and endangering it of Hell. In Revelations 2 we see that faith cannot and will not always heal you or keep you physically alive, oh but after that last breathe you will live. More than this life, for this life is not what we were created for. This life is not our reward, least the true reward of life after is lost.
So when we plant a garden, work on a car, go to work, do not have faith in you or anybody else or anything else. Rather have faith in God that all things will work through you from Him. For He is just and powerful, never changing and always the same. Science changes it's mind everyday, businesses fail sometimes, people fail sometimes, you fail sometimes, I fail sometimes... but God never fails. And when you fall He says if you ask, He will lift you back up. As long as you have faith. And one day when that last breath comes, in the final struggle for life, have faith that He will be there, waiting for a reward that never tarnishes, never rots, never rusts, and never wears out, for all eternity. That is faith, properly placed, can and will do. Now that we know how we all have faith in something and use it everyday, why not use it for everything... God.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Prayer
This one I'm writing on Prayer and praying. This is what I feel is correct and have read about. Please study though and see what the scripture says to you.
I hear a lot of people say some petty wild prayers, even see them typed out. Some are beautiful and some, well they just never seem to end. I am very watchful on prayers and if I will take a part in them. Prayers are important, so important that the word Prayers is mentioned 24 times in the Bible, Prayering is mentioned 20 times, whle Pray is 306 times and praying 20 times. But are all prayers correct and if not then what is correct, and can one pray yo a false god? This is an important thing. It is a direct phone line to God and Jesus.
I once had a doctor that after a mad burst of cussing everybody in the waiting room come into the chamber where we were to be treated and decided to pray. At the end of his prayer he said Amen and so did everybody but me. Anger and shock hit his face and he asked if I believed in God. He knew that each of us were dependent on the medicine he was in charge to administer and he also knew there were none around like what he had to offer. We were trapped and maybe that was some of his shock as our very physical lives wee dependent upon him and this treatment. He was even more shocked when I replied. "Yes, I do believe in God, but I think we have different gods." His prayer was not started and ended according to what Jesus taught and his actions were not the actions of a Christian. I'm sure he saw that I was totally sincerely and not just making a foul remark. While I will not call his name I will say that if he reads this he will know as will his staff. I've heard that he is in very bad shape and I would say to him that I am praying for you. You see, physical life means nothing without spiritual life. While I could have saved my life I would have jeopardized my soul, and that was a no brained in my opinion. Now, back to the task at hand.
So what does Jesus say about these long wonderful prayers we hear?
Matthew 6:
5And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. 6But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
7But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
8Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
Again in Luke 11 prayer is mentioned, but we will get back to that later when the prayer is placed up. Time and times again we see Jesus heading off away from the people to pray to God the Father. Due to that I do my prayers by myself and in the fashion and words that Jesus said to pray. I do admit that I question just who someone is praying for with the lengthy prayers or praying a prayer online by typing it out. But, that isn't for me to judge but at the same time it is for me to stay alert for my own soul, least I get caught in the same trap.
I pray to God the Father in Jesus' name, and here is one reason why, 1 Timothy 5For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
Given that along with the way in which Jesus prayed and said to pray. I truly believe this to be the truth. I also am quite aware that the name God is a title and there are many gods. While they are not the real God it compromises your soul but worship to another god with prayer. Remember the golden calf, it wasn't a real god either but it sure did make God mad. Prayer to anybody other than God the Father is no different than those who pray to other gods. So rather than taking any chances that my prayers not be heard, I stick by the book. So, without further delay, here is the way to open communications with God:
Matthew 6:
9After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11Give us this day our daily bread.
12And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
14For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
15But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Luke 11
1And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. 2And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.
3Give us day by day our daily bread.
4And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.
I hear a lot of people say some petty wild prayers, even see them typed out. Some are beautiful and some, well they just never seem to end. I am very watchful on prayers and if I will take a part in them. Prayers are important, so important that the word Prayers is mentioned 24 times in the Bible, Prayering is mentioned 20 times, whle Pray is 306 times and praying 20 times. But are all prayers correct and if not then what is correct, and can one pray yo a false god? This is an important thing. It is a direct phone line to God and Jesus.
I once had a doctor that after a mad burst of cussing everybody in the waiting room come into the chamber where we were to be treated and decided to pray. At the end of his prayer he said Amen and so did everybody but me. Anger and shock hit his face and he asked if I believed in God. He knew that each of us were dependent on the medicine he was in charge to administer and he also knew there were none around like what he had to offer. We were trapped and maybe that was some of his shock as our very physical lives wee dependent upon him and this treatment. He was even more shocked when I replied. "Yes, I do believe in God, but I think we have different gods." His prayer was not started and ended according to what Jesus taught and his actions were not the actions of a Christian. I'm sure he saw that I was totally sincerely and not just making a foul remark. While I will not call his name I will say that if he reads this he will know as will his staff. I've heard that he is in very bad shape and I would say to him that I am praying for you. You see, physical life means nothing without spiritual life. While I could have saved my life I would have jeopardized my soul, and that was a no brained in my opinion. Now, back to the task at hand.
So what does Jesus say about these long wonderful prayers we hear?
Matthew 6:
5And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. 6But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
7But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
8Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
Again in Luke 11 prayer is mentioned, but we will get back to that later when the prayer is placed up. Time and times again we see Jesus heading off away from the people to pray to God the Father. Due to that I do my prayers by myself and in the fashion and words that Jesus said to pray. I do admit that I question just who someone is praying for with the lengthy prayers or praying a prayer online by typing it out. But, that isn't for me to judge but at the same time it is for me to stay alert for my own soul, least I get caught in the same trap.
I pray to God the Father in Jesus' name, and here is one reason why, 1 Timothy 5For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
Given that along with the way in which Jesus prayed and said to pray. I truly believe this to be the truth. I also am quite aware that the name God is a title and there are many gods. While they are not the real God it compromises your soul but worship to another god with prayer. Remember the golden calf, it wasn't a real god either but it sure did make God mad. Prayer to anybody other than God the Father is no different than those who pray to other gods. So rather than taking any chances that my prayers not be heard, I stick by the book. So, without further delay, here is the way to open communications with God:
Matthew 6:
9After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11Give us this day our daily bread.
12And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
14For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
15But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Luke 11
1And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. 2And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.
3Give us day by day our daily bread.
4And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.
Forgiveness
Funny how a word like that can make or break a person. Words themselves have meanings which convey a thought, deed or action, yet can also release or bind a person to many things. This one word Forgive has a lot of power, especially when it is made to become an action. This is one of those words that does not have a middle of the road meaning for one either forgives or doesn't forgive. Often the word forget is associated with it but the two are entirely separate. One can forgive and yet remember, but one can forget and unless forgiveness is in their heart harbor negative feelings toward the person who committed the offense. Though they may not know why.
Lack of Forgiveness or willingness to Forgive is a negative energy and brings more negative energy. It brings about hate, a strong word in it's own right. Hate starts fights and wars. Hate isolates a person. Hate begets Ignorance, yet another powerful word with the ability to cause fights and wars. These can also cause Isolation of a person. These bring with them bitterness. Slowly the heart hardens and slowly the person becomes more isolated into the negative side. Often it happens so slow that one doesn't notice and over time it accumulates adding more and more of itself. It begins to consume the heart and then the mind. The most dangerous though it it consumes the spirit.
It replaces the joy, love, kindness, and understanding. The person can feel these things but not as much and while they think the small amount of joy is normal, it isn't. The good things that need to be in the heart and felt in the heart can be felt but not truly experienced as they could be. Brief moments of stops along the way down simply mask the downward spiral. Despair sets in and later pride in a false knowledge of thinking they are tough and realistic. Some head to depression, some to anger, and some to a false pride in themselves.
The soul knows this isn't right and thirsts, even when it becomes dark as pitch. So it goes in search of quenching itself for it knows that it is infected and dying. In this attempt it seeks to find others like itself with a broken heart and mind. The mind looks at all that is presented and picks and chooses what seems to appeal and protect the heart that is deceived. It is a slow fade to black. Perhaps if the fall had been quicker and more in step with what we believed then one would grasp to anything they could all the way down, but seldom does the decent follow that rule. We deceive ourselves by comparing ourselves to others and mistakes made by other people. We deceive ourselves by thinking that buying the next new (insert whatever here) will fill the hole. We deceive ourselves by taking pride in our job, our money, our possessions, science, education... and the list goes on and on. We become boastful and prideful, thinking we are at the top. But the emptiness is still there, burrowed deep inside. A hole that cannot be filled and eventually barely if at all felt as the soul cries out.
How important is forgiveness? If this hasn't made sense the take a few quiet moments and reflect. No Tv, web, music, cars, books... just be still. Do this each day for as long as you need to do it. In your musings though remember how you once were and if your childhood was bad, look at the children. Interact with a small child. See the wonder, the innocence, the love, and the joy. Especially in the children that are poor in earthly things, ie: anything you can buy. Walk into a church, even if you don't believe in God. Not a big fancy church but a small church where most of the congregation is poor and the building is plain. Observe. What do they know that you don't? What do they have that you don't? Look into their eyes for the eyes are the mirror to the soul, which nobody can hide. Now take those walks or sit in that quiet room for a few minutes each day and think. Despite what the education system teaches. Despite what paid main stream scientists say. Despite what Satan says in the quiets of the world he owns. The soul longs for it's Creator.
I think these days many Christians are missing that point too. Many say I hate this or I hate that. We worry more about what the other person is doing than how we are doing inside. What are we missing? I know, so ans so does this or that. This person is gai while this person is a drunk, or this person curses, and this person... well the list goes on and on. During that distraction though, what are you doing? What are your faults? Have you forgiven those who have actually done something to you either intentionally or accidentally? Why are you so distracted from improving yourself? The Devil has a plan and a good plan at that. Did you just flip off or say or make a gesture to that person who just cut you off in traffic? But I stray now.
Forgiveness is so important that in the KJV forgiveness is mentioned 8 times and Forgive is mentioned 95 times. For me though a few stand out on just how important Forgiving is in this life, for it effects the other life and making it to there.
Matthew 6: 14For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
15But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
LUKE 6: 36Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
37Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:
38Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
These are just a few and I noticed that forgetting isn't mentioned but between you, me, and the fence post. I sure do pray that God forgets too.
Lack of Forgiveness or willingness to Forgive is a negative energy and brings more negative energy. It brings about hate, a strong word in it's own right. Hate starts fights and wars. Hate isolates a person. Hate begets Ignorance, yet another powerful word with the ability to cause fights and wars. These can also cause Isolation of a person. These bring with them bitterness. Slowly the heart hardens and slowly the person becomes more isolated into the negative side. Often it happens so slow that one doesn't notice and over time it accumulates adding more and more of itself. It begins to consume the heart and then the mind. The most dangerous though it it consumes the spirit.
It replaces the joy, love, kindness, and understanding. The person can feel these things but not as much and while they think the small amount of joy is normal, it isn't. The good things that need to be in the heart and felt in the heart can be felt but not truly experienced as they could be. Brief moments of stops along the way down simply mask the downward spiral. Despair sets in and later pride in a false knowledge of thinking they are tough and realistic. Some head to depression, some to anger, and some to a false pride in themselves.
The soul knows this isn't right and thirsts, even when it becomes dark as pitch. So it goes in search of quenching itself for it knows that it is infected and dying. In this attempt it seeks to find others like itself with a broken heart and mind. The mind looks at all that is presented and picks and chooses what seems to appeal and protect the heart that is deceived. It is a slow fade to black. Perhaps if the fall had been quicker and more in step with what we believed then one would grasp to anything they could all the way down, but seldom does the decent follow that rule. We deceive ourselves by comparing ourselves to others and mistakes made by other people. We deceive ourselves by thinking that buying the next new (insert whatever here) will fill the hole. We deceive ourselves by taking pride in our job, our money, our possessions, science, education... and the list goes on and on. We become boastful and prideful, thinking we are at the top. But the emptiness is still there, burrowed deep inside. A hole that cannot be filled and eventually barely if at all felt as the soul cries out.
How important is forgiveness? If this hasn't made sense the take a few quiet moments and reflect. No Tv, web, music, cars, books... just be still. Do this each day for as long as you need to do it. In your musings though remember how you once were and if your childhood was bad, look at the children. Interact with a small child. See the wonder, the innocence, the love, and the joy. Especially in the children that are poor in earthly things, ie: anything you can buy. Walk into a church, even if you don't believe in God. Not a big fancy church but a small church where most of the congregation is poor and the building is plain. Observe. What do they know that you don't? What do they have that you don't? Look into their eyes for the eyes are the mirror to the soul, which nobody can hide. Now take those walks or sit in that quiet room for a few minutes each day and think. Despite what the education system teaches. Despite what paid main stream scientists say. Despite what Satan says in the quiets of the world he owns. The soul longs for it's Creator.
I think these days many Christians are missing that point too. Many say I hate this or I hate that. We worry more about what the other person is doing than how we are doing inside. What are we missing? I know, so ans so does this or that. This person is gai while this person is a drunk, or this person curses, and this person... well the list goes on and on. During that distraction though, what are you doing? What are your faults? Have you forgiven those who have actually done something to you either intentionally or accidentally? Why are you so distracted from improving yourself? The Devil has a plan and a good plan at that. Did you just flip off or say or make a gesture to that person who just cut you off in traffic? But I stray now.
Forgiveness is so important that in the KJV forgiveness is mentioned 8 times and Forgive is mentioned 95 times. For me though a few stand out on just how important Forgiving is in this life, for it effects the other life and making it to there.
Mark 11: 25And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
26But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.Matthew 6: 14For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
15But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
LUKE 6: 36Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
37Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:
38Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
These are just a few and I noticed that forgetting isn't mentioned but between you, me, and the fence post. I sure do pray that God forgets too.
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