My Other Blog/Facebook Page: The ABCs of a Joyful Marriage

I have restarted my "ABCs of a Joyful Marriage" Facebook page and blog. Please feel free to check them out:

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-ABCs-of-a-Joyful-Marriage/61554421138800/

Blog: https://abcsofajoyfulmarriage.blogspot.com/

Learning to Stay Within God's Will

  

I originally wrote this in 2018, but the lesson of consequences of going outside God's will always stay with me!

One of the biggest lessons God has been teaching me may be the hardest for me to swallow because it includes a huge slice of humble pie.  In order for me to share this lesson with you, I have to admit that I have been a stubborn, willful, untrusting child of God. 

In order for me to make this story a complete picture, I must go back to May 2017.  I had applied to a job at fast food place and had been called for an interview.  Because I had previously worked at the local school and was food safety certified, the boss was very interested in hiring me but wanted a face-to-face interview to be certain.  The night before the interview, I prayed that if the job was not within God’s will that either I or someone else would be sick and the interview would be cancelled.  I was sick all night with extreme nausea and stomach pain.  But was this just psychological because of what I had prayed?  Maybe, but what was not a coincidence was that the boss called me half an hour before the interview to say his wife was ill and he would have to cancel and reschedule the interview.  I saw this is a definite sign and chose not to reschedule.  I was not certain why God had chosen to block me from the seemingly harmless job, but I could not pray a prayer asking for a specific sign and then ignore it when God answered.

Now, fast forward to January this year (2018).  Feeling weary of being broke and struggling to pay bills, I began believing God was not interested in our lives.  Yes, I love God and He loves me, but does He really care about every detail?  One day, when driving back from an errand, I noticed a sign on the door of the same fast-food place I had applied to the previous year.   I asked Mel to pull into the parking lot to see if it was another “Help Wanted” sign.  Yes, it was.  In spite of God blocking me from the same job eight months prior, I filled out another application.  I remembered how enthusiastic the boss had seemed at my prior kitchen experience and knew I would be called for another interview.  Sure enough, he quickly called me again, and even remembered that he had called me in 2017.  This time, I did not pray for God’s will to be done.  I decided that if God really cared about me, He would understand the need for more money.  I was hired on the spot.

I trained on days for my first four shifts but was moved to nights my second week (I only worked three days a week).  Night shift is responsible for the majority of the cleaning, which includes all the dishes.  Well, my first time being exposed to the sanitizer, I began coughing and I could feel my chest tighten.  Next thing I knew, my asthma attacks began increasing.  Up until then, the asthma had been controlled with a daily inhaler and I only needed my rescue inhaler 7-10 times a month.  I had been using my rescue inhaler 3-6 times a day!  Last time my asthma was this bad the doctor said it could cause me to go into respiratory failure and/or end my life, which is why I now take the daily inhaler (Note: again, this was written in 2018, I no longer need a daily inhaler. Praise God!!)  Less than two weeks into the increased asthma attacks, I had developed bronchitis, a as bloody nose, double ear infections, and a throat infection.  It is obvious I was allergic to the sanitizer as I had also been itching and had a mild rash.  I tried my best to stay at the job, hoping the antibiotics would make me better, but they did not.  I spent every day for at least a month with increased asthma attacks as well as feeling generally very sick (I won’t go into it all).  In spite of the need for money, I finally decided I had enough of feeling so horrible every day.  Also, remembering the doctor’s previous warning about increased risk of lung failure, my sweet hubby was very worried about my health, so I resigned.

So, why am I telling you all this?  To remind not only myself, but my readers as well, that when we go outside of God’s will, we cannot expect to be protected.  Remember that God had answered my prayer in 2017 and showed me the job was outside of His will.  In His foreknowledge, He knew my weak lungs would not be able to handle the chemicals used, and that it would literally place my life at risk.  Yet in my stubborn pride and refusal to believe that God cared about my needs, I rebelliously took the job God clearly had blocked me from in the past. 

We cannot jump off a cliff and then demand that God must save us.  When we do something we know is against His will or against the laws of Jesus Christ, we cannot expect divine protection.  It is not God’s fault I was sick and suffering, it was my own because I disobeyed His will.  I spent time in serious repentance for arrogantly believing God really did not care about my life and that He really did not care if I took that job or not.

I have learned my lesson.  I will always pray over every application or résumé I drop off (as I have done since 2018).  If God shows me any job is the wrong fit, I will immediately back off and move on.  In fact, I am going to do my best to better adopt this attitude for everyday life experiences much better than I have ever done before.  Whether it is looking for a new job, writing a blog or book, looking for a new place to live, or even what book to read, I am going to do a better job of listening to God’s Voice and following His signs.

From now on, whenever I am so arrogant to believe my will is better than the Almighty’s will, I going to focus more on Isaiah 55:7-9, especially the last two verses: 

Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways," says the Lord. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. 

I will no longer fight God’s plans for my life, nor disbelieve His love for me.  I am also going to strive to better believe in Romans 8:24-28:

For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.  

There is so much beauty in those verses how can I not see how much God cares about my life?  The Holy Spirit intercedes for us to try to keep us within the will of God.  When we love God and are called for His purpose (not our own), God will work things out for our good.  I have heard verse 28 my entire life, so how could I still be so thick-headed that I still have the nerve to purposefully stray outside God’s will?

Another favorite Truth to remember is found in Jeremiah 29:11-14:

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord.

God only wants His best for His children.  When we seek Him, we will find Him.  If I had prayed again before my second interview, I am certain God would have again blocked the job because He does not want “evil” for my life.  Excessive asthma attacks are not part of God’s will! 

Although bad things typically happen to us when we refuse to stay within God’s will, I want to make it clear that not all bad things are our fault as we live in a fallen world where man’s rebellion causes the innocent to suffer.  So do NOT believe that every time you are sick (or something else bad occurs) that God is punishing you.  It was clear the added asthma attacks had been because I had rebelled but having asthma in general is not a punishment.  However, with that said, I am still going to do better to let this lesson permeate my life and control my actions from now on!

Do not be Discouraged When Those Closest to you Mock Your Teachings

Dear friends, do not be discouraged when those closest to you mock your teachings. Jesus warned us that a prophet (as well as anyone sharing the True teachings of the Bible) would be rejected by those in his/her own town.

And he said, "Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country." Luke 4:224

Pray for those who lash out at you, and let hard feelings go. God knows their hearts better than you do and understands the spiritual battles they face. God also knows your heart and intentions and will honor you for your boldness and faithfulness to Him alone.

For true prophets, that God gives dreams and visions to, remember that most of the prophets of the Bible were also laughed at. Be encouraged and keep sharing your faith!

"Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets." Luke 6:22-23

The Power of the Word of God

 

 

The Bible is not just any book, it is literally the inspired Word of God.  It is a history and science book.  It is prophecy fulfilled and prophetic of things to come.  It is a morality guide - it is your compass.  We can plug into it and gain accesses to the very Power of God.  Isn't that amazing!

 As we know God's Words alone created the omniverse.  He spoke all the worlds into existence.

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. So the evening and the morning were the first day.  Genesis 1:1-5  (You know the rest...)

So we know by the very ground we stand on, and the air we breathe, that God's Words hold more power than we can ever fathom.  When Christ walked this earth, His Words alone healed the sick, cast out demons, and even raised the dead!  Incredible!   

I am a firm believer in reading the bible every day.  Yes, I may skip a day here and there, but overall, I love to dive into God's Words on a daily basis.  For one thing, studying God's Words will not only benefit me spiritually and emotionally, but it proves to God how much I love Him and want to get to know Him better.  It also greatly helps me in my daily walk.  God's Word helps me make the best choices in every day situations.  If I'm thinking about lying, for example, I can stop and reflect on God's Word and know how displeasing this would be to the Holy of Holies.

 Be diligent [study Gods Word] to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  II Timothy 2:15 

But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” Luke 11:28

God's Word is our daily bread.  It is all we need to sustain us. After reading particularly powerful bible verses, do you ever feel like you have partaken of a wonderful feast?  God's Words make you feel alive and will satisfy you to the very core of your being. 

But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’”  Matthew 4:4 

There are so many wonderful things that God's Word brings, that I cannot possibly name them all.  I'll just focus on a few more areas.

God's Word is our salvation.  It tells us that Jesus shed his blood on the cross and died for our sins.  It tells us that, if we repent of our sins, and choose Christ as our Savior, that we will be saved.  We are loved by an amazing God!

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.  Romans 1:16

But remember, God's Word does not excuse us from living in a life of sin.  We are not to use God's grace as an excuse to do what we know is wrong.  God's Word is also great at convicting us of our sins. 

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound?  Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?  Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.  Romans 6:1-4

 If we abide in the Word and do our best to live by God's instructions, God's Word will keep us honest.  If we allow it, God's Word will show us where we need to improve, as well as showing us where we are on the right path.  Here is one of my favorite verses:

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.  Hebrews 4:12

When you read God's Word daily, it will really sink in to where you memorize scripture (even if you don't know the exact reference).  It is a good moral guide that you keep with you wherever you go. 

Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.  Psalm 119:11

God's Word is a reality check.  When you read the gospels and Jesus' own Words, you will realize that Christ never sugar-coated things.  He was very honest and told His listeners that life would be hard, some will be persecuted for their beliefs, and some will never find true happiness in this life. 

We live in a fallen world full of people not living a Godly life, and those people do not care how their actions affect others.  Because of such people, most of us will experience a lot of unpleasant things in life.  Living in a fallen world also means that diseases are allowed to exist and cause pain to the sufferer as well as to family members that endure loss.

Yet, if we endure, God's Word promises those who have repented of their sins, accept Christ as their Savior, and are striving to live holy lives, will gain eternal glory. (You can also read the beatitudes in Matthew 5 & Luke 20)

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.  In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.  I Peter 1:3-9

Ephesians 6:10-18 is an amazing section of scripture that should be carefully studied many times over.  God's Word alone in that section offers up excellent advice on how to survive in this world. 

 

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.  Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.  Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness,  and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.  And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;  praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. Ephesians 6:10-18

Since I am focusing on the Word of God today (and not the whole armor), I will end with these few thoughts.  In the above verses, the Word of God is described as "The Sword of the Spirit" which we are to take up daily and use as a weapon.  We are to be proactive by reading God's Word and using it to arm our minds, hearts, and souls so that we may live lives Holy and acceptable, as pleasing unto the Lord.

God's Words will bring you peace, joy, love, awe, conviction, and an overall honest look at life and make you take an honest look at yourself.  But never take my word, your pastor, or any one else's for it, read it for yourself!

Are you sensitive?

 

I am always in prayer asking what God wants me to write about next. Sometimes the topics come to me in unusual ways, such as this one.  I was preparing to brush my teeth and had the medicine cabinet open when the box of toothpaste with the huge "Sensitive" on the front captured my attention.  I then noticed in smaller letters the word "Extreme."  Although this is a new box of toothpaste, it is not the first time I have seen that box, but it is the first time it inspired a blog topic!  It was as if the Lord was telling me how important it was to be extremely sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit.  Maybe this whole idea is solely from my mind alone and not inspired by God, but I will still do my best to address the subject that is on my heart today.

When I think of the word "sensitive" the first thing that comes to my mind is being too sensitive to the opinions of other people. This is something I struggle with, but God has been training me to let go of my ego and only care about what He thinks.

For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10

The next thing I think of is being sensitive to the needs of others.  It is very important to care about what other people go through.  If you do not care and can only see flaws, you need to pray that God will help you be more sensitive to the cries of his children.

While I was preparing to write this blog I had the video I just posted to the Facebook page playing titled, "Question Answer Panel On The Life Of Leonard Ravenhill,"  ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUx9v0CRZ_Y ), and this phrase said by Paul Washer jumped out at me:

 "You don't have the right to preach like a [Leonard] Ravenhill unless you are weeping with a broken heart over the souls you are preaching to." 

That one sentence says so much about the hearts we should have toward all people and it is permanently sealed in my memory banks.

Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Romans 12:15 

As important as it not to be overly sensitive about our own ego and to be sensitive to the needs of others, as I stated above, the issue I felt I wanted to write about today was more about being sensitive to the Holy Spirit. In fact, if we are to thrive and grow in our walk with the Lord, our sensitivity needs to be extreme.

I could not specifically find any scripture verses in the King James Version using the word "sensitive," but this verse in 2 Kings fits this topic quite well:

Because thine heart was tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the Lord, when thou heardest what I spake... and wept before me; I also have heard thee, saith the Lord. 2 Kings 22:19 

Being sensitive can easily mean softening our hard-hearted will by being tender toward the Holy Spirit's correction and obeying the principles of the Bible. Only then will we be able to clearly hear the voice of the Holy Spirit. Do not harden your hearts because you refuse to give up what you know goes against the Bible, but be sensitive to what He is calling you to do or not do.  

But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation... Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do always err in their heart; and they have not known my ways. Hebrews 3:6-10

Do not resist the gentle corrections of the Holy Spirit, but be sensitive to what He is saying to you and be willing to change.  

"Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye." Acts 7:51

When you read in Acts where the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit, notice this verse:

Then Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." Acts 2:38

And then in in chapter 5:

"...the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him." Acts 5:32

In other words, in order to receive and later be directed by the Holy Spirit, we must first repent of our sins and continually walk in obedience to Jesus Christ. 

The Holy Spirit is not just here for our correction and spiritual growth, but in order to be comforted and led by Him, we must first surrender our will so we can feel His peace and understand His directions. Then, when we are spiritually ready, the Holy Spirit will fill us with joy unspeakable (1 Peter 1:8) and a peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).  He will help you get through the tough times in your life.

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. Romans 15:13

When you allow your heart to be thoroughly cleaned and become sensitive to the Holy Spirit, He will be your teacher and guide:

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 1 Corinthians 2:12-14

Notice in verse 14 that when you see spiritual things as "foolishness" you will not have the guidance and direction in your life that can lead you down paths of safety and joy.

There is so much more I could say on this subject and in the future I will write more about the Holy Spirit, but for now I will wrap this up.  

The Holy Spirit comforts, guides, and corrects in order to give us a more fulfilling life. When we allow ourselves to be taught, He will break our chains of sin and lead us to a life of joy and freedom found only in the complete trinity of God the Father, Jesus Christ the son, and the Holy Spirit. I will leave you with these beautiful words said by Jesus. Let His words be your strength as you pray about being more sensitive to what the Holy Spirit is trying to teach you this week. (Notice how Jesus reminds us that if we say we love Him, we will obey Him.)

"And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. 

"He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. 

"But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:16-18, 21, 23-24, 26-27

Trade Covetousness For Compassion

 

When Jesus, the True Teacher in the School of Holiness, gives me a lesson, I know it is not meant for my heart alone.  God expects me to share what He teaches me.  

As soon as you learn the 10 Commandments, you learn that coveting is wrong:

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his [donkey], nor any thing that is thy neighbour's. Exodus 20:17 

The dictionary.com definition of covetousness is, "eager or excessive desire, especially for wealth or possessions: Social media so often encourages us to compare ourselves to others, inspiring covetousness and insecurity." (That last sentence really makes the definition sink in.)

But is it all that serious to covet what someone else has? Really think about it for a few minutes. What does wanting what someone else has lead to? Jealousy, discontent, hatred, resentment, anger, and greed. Just like any sin, if not dealt with and allowed to fester, it can cause serious spiritual and physical harm to yourself and to others. What can these feelings evolve to: anger at God, division between you and friends/family (sometimes permanently), thefts, affairs, and in extreme cases murder. 

When you focus too much on what you think you lack and what the other person has, you start to lose your love for people and your compassion for them.  All you can see is their fancy house, large bank account, good health, etc. What you fail to see are their heart and soul. Is that person living in a house three times the size of yours, driving new vehicles, and never wanting for things truly happy? Do they buy and buy to cover their loneliness? Do they take drugs, get drunk, have sex outside of marriage, etc. because they are trying to fill an empty void? Are they in danger of hell because they refuse to surrender to God and let His peace take over their mind and actions?  

Even when we struggle with poverty, what we consider imperfect looks, or any type of infirmity, we need to not care about what is in another person's bank account, what they look like, or if they are in perfect health.  We need to let compassion for their emotional and especially their spiritual state overtake our feelings of envy for what they outwardly have. When all we see when we look at other people are the things we want, rather than what people are going through, we displease the Lord.

Notice in the below verse that Jesus Himself says covetousness is as wicked as murder and blasphemy!  I believe it is because we often fail to love the person we are jealous of, and Jesus continually commands us to love. You may say you don't actually hate the person you envy, but can you truly love someone you are resenting?  

And he saith unto them, "Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him; Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats?  And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man."  Mark 7:18-23

Now let's look at the definition of compassion, also from dictionary.com, "a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering."

Wow! That definition beautifully sums up what Jesus wants us to feel for everyone. When you are feeling jealous of someone do you really "desire to alleviate the suffering" of that same person?  Rather than coveting what the other person has, we need to have compassion for what he or she is going through. Do not let your eyes be so green with envy that it blurs your vision to the point where you can no longer see when another person might be suffering. 

Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: 1 Peter 3:8

It is so easy to say see success from Hollywood's ungodly point of view that says money buys happiness, sex, and lots of material possessions. Instead, we need to see people from Jesus' point of view. Are these people happy? How many wealthy people commit suicide because possessions cannot bring peace ? How many beautiful people hate themselves because they cannot see themselves through the loving eyes of Jesus Christ? How many award-winning athletes are getting drunk or taking drugs to numb the pains of their past? How many people, no matter their economic status, or what they look like are suffering day to day because they do not understand that God washes them clean of sin and guilt and can bring them True joy when they live for Him and Him alone? These people do not need our cold-hearted covetousness! They need our love, compassion, and prayers! They need us to get over our own egos long enough to remember that the gospel of Jesus Christ matters more than any material possession, more than good looks, even more than perfect health!  When you realize their rejection of Jesus is sending them to hell, your compassion should increase ten-fold.  You need to remember to share the True gospel with all people, no matter how put together he or she may seem!   

We need strive to be like Jesus in every way we can, but especially in the area of love and compassion. The opposite of the topic of this blog is true as well, and we need to see ALL people as being in need of God's love and forgiveness and never refuse to share Jesus with those you arrogantly may think are not worthy of you time!  Regardless of status "all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).  We need to minister to the successful as well as those who are more obviously hurting such as the homeless, drunk, mentally ill, etc. After all, the inner turmoil of the rich and the poor are not so different and we all need Jesus Christ as our personal Savior!

Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons. Acts 10:34

Jesus' own words repeatedly tell us to love one another, but I will end with this blog with a verse in Ephesians written by Paul. It is a good reminder of my previous statement above that I believe we often fail to love the person we are jealous of, and Jesus continually commands us to love. You may say you don't actually hate the person you envy, but can you truly love someone you are resenting?   

With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing [merciful & understanding] one another in love. Ephesians 4:2

How is sin like a s spider bite?

 

Originally posted on January 1, 2022.

The day before Thanksgiving, my husband and I were in our garage gathering our Christmas and winter decorations.  Our garage has a lot of spiders, but it was cold, and I did not see any at that time, so I did not worry. After accumulating the items, I was determined to find my plush snowman that seemed to be missing.  I went through possibly a dozen boxes looking for him.  Just when I was about to give up, there he was, white with grey sparkling thread, cute carrot nose, and blue striped hat, gloves, and scarf. (Bear with me, I actually have a point to this story!)

About a day or so later, I noticed a white raised spot on my stomach.  It looked like a small pimple, but it felt like a burn.  I put some aloe vera gel on it to heal, then I mostly ignored it. Fast forward to 3 days later and this tiny "zit" had tripled in size, was blackish purple around the wound, had a hard lump underneath, and the whole area around the "pimple" was swollen in at least a 6-inch circumference.  On top of that, the pain was as if someone had lit my entire belly on fire, inside and out. 

Remembering my dear husband, Mel, had a similar experience around 3 years ago, I said, "Do you think this is a spider bite?"  He was sure it was, so I attempted to make a doctor's appointment.  While I was on hold with the clinic where it often takes more than a month to get seen, the receptionist came back on the line and said, "Wow! I can't believe an appointment just opened up while you were on hold. It's a miracle!" Yes, she truly said that!  I was able to see the doctor and get started on some heavy-duty antibiotics right away. God is good! 

The antibiotics caused me a lot of problems and side effects (partly because it exacerbates my neurological disorder), but I knew I had to keep taking them to kill the potentially deadly MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) virus the brown recluse spider had caused. Also, it took another 7 days for the wound to pop and drain, and only then did the pain go away. After that, it healed quickly.

Once a person has MRSA, it can flare up again from time to time, even without the aid of another spider bite. My husband experienced this as a second outbreak right after the first, and a third around a year later.  The doctor he saw for the last outbreak recommend he place an antibiotic ointment up both nostrils once a month to keep all future MRSA infections away.  

Just 3 days ago, I started a second round of the hard-to-take antibiotics, because now I have at least five MRSA boils under my arm! This time I have to take the pills for 14 days instead of 10.  As difficult as the side effects are, the pills are vital to my recovery, so I must take them.   

Now, based on the title of this blog, you may already see where I have been heading with this true story. 

 How is sin like a s spider bite?  

A spider is so small you almost never see it coming.  Statistics say we are almost always a minimum of six feet away from at least one spider.  Just one little puncture from this tiny creature can cause a whole world of pain and illness, and in some extreme cases, even death.

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:23

How easy is it to get caught up in the web of sin?  It may seem so small and insignificant. You may know you are in a dangerous area (such a garage known for spider activity), but instead of being cautious, you keep pressing forward in sin.  You may justify a flirtation with someone not your spouse as harmless.  Next thing you know, you have had an affair and are getting a divorce.  You may think a little marijuana, or a little alcohol is just a harmless way to relax. Next thing you know, you are doing things you never would have done sober, including immoral and illegal acts, and now need a stronger drug to "relax" and cope with the consequences of your actions. Now you have lost your job and are in rehab for meth addiction.  There are hundreds of other illustrations I could give, but I think you get the point I am making here. These examples are not as extreme as they seem, but realistic ways sin can quickly get out of control.  It is better not to play with fire.

Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God 2 Corinthians 6:17-18-7:1

How do we combat the tiny "spiders" in our lives? Just as I did not first recognize the wound in my stomach as a spider bite until it became unbearably painful, we must know our Bible to recognize what sin is. You need to ask the Holy Spirit to help you stay away from all these things. You cannot do it on your own! Here are some examples of things God hates: 

Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-20

The virus made me terribly sick, and I had to take medication to keep this sickness from being potentially fatal.  The pills also made me sick, but the difficult cure was worth a week or two of suffering because it saved my life. Repenting and obtaining victory are much less painful than hanging onto sin that causes spiritual death. Emotional pains you may face when you let go of people, objects, and activities in order to save your very soul, will all be worth it in the light of eternity. 

Just as my husband and I must take a monthly preventative to keep us from getting sick again, we must also be proactive in conquering sin. Philippians 2:12 says we must "work out [our] own salvation with fear and trembling."  It does not say we can lazily sit back and expect sin to take care of itself. Although in some cases deliverance can be instantaneous, realistically we must continually work at keeping habitual sins at bay.  We cannot just ignore the sinful issues in our life and expect them to go away on their own. Just as we cannot ignore any spider seen in our homes. Sorry, spiders, but we must kill all spiders for the sake of good health for us and our loved ones.  

How do we keep sins from accumulating and reemerging like the MRSA virus?  Again, I will say what is most important to remember, you cannot do it on your own!  John 15:4-5, Jesus reminds us, "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing."   Apart from help from Jesus and the Holy Spirit, we are unlikely to have permanent success on our own.  That is why so many addicts return to their vices after claiming victory, because they do not allow Jesus to take control of their life and use His Holy Spirit to fill in the void that addiction has left.  They still feel empty and hopeless even after they have done their best to take control of their sin, but since they are still denying the love of Jesus, the hole in their heart remains and therefore, they return to their sins.

2 Peter 2:21-22 puts it this way, "For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire."  

Those who have "known the way of righteousness" and then backslidden, is the same concept for those who claim to have gotten rid of sin but still live in rebellion to the Lord.  You are allowing poison to repeatedly permeate your heart and soul until you surrender yourself to Jesus and allow Him to make you clean every single day!

Even when you allow Jesus to take control of your sinful nature, you still must be proactive in battling your temptations.  If your addiction is pornography, get rid of your source of porn (magazines/books, phone, movies, Internet, etc.), just as you would remove the alcohol from your home if you were trying to quit drinking.  If you find yourself perpetually angry and fighting with others, stay off of social media if you feel it will tempt you to lose your temper and displease the Lord.

Remember what 1 Corinthians 10:13 promises, "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it."  Therefore, you never have an excuse to say you were not able to simply say no and walk away from your sin. Pray for Jesus to give you the strength you lack when you struggle to say no to things that go against His holy Word. 

Just as I had to take two rounds of antibiotics, you also need to take your spiritual medicine to heal.  Read your Bible as often as possible and get to know God as well as through prayer and worship. Do not take anyone else's word for it, read the Bible on your own! The more grounded you are in what the Bible teaches, the more you understand how much God loves you, and you grow to love Him more too, the less likely you want to sin.

The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance. Romans 2:4 

If you make a mistake and repeat your sins, 1 John 1:9 states, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Note the first 5 words, we have to confess our sins first, but God will always forgive us when we are sincere.

It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23

Revelation 2:5 says, we must "Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent."  Again, notice repentance is the key.

Now is the Time to Speak out for Jesus

 

As you can tell by all the unusual events that have been happening for several years now, we are approaching the end of the end of the world as we know it today.   Matthew 24:6-8 lets us know we are currently in a time referred to by Jesus as "The Beginning of Sorrows." 

And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. Matthew 24:6-8

What this means to us as believers is that we know the tribulation is soon to follow in ten years or probably less, but I will not assume I know for certain when the tribulation will "officially" begin.  It could even be later, but I honestly doubt it. 

First, let me remind you that there will NOT be a rapture of the saints before the tribulation.  I scripturally back up this truth in a video I made, you can watch it at this link if you so choose: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MAb4dk0pv2M.  However, that does not mean we should panic or give up.  Now is the time to step up our walk with the Lord. We need to seek the Lord as never before. 

Jesus bluntly tells his disciples in Luke 21:26 that in the last days "Men's hearts" will fail "them for fear."  Which is another reason why it is so important to daily be fully clothed in the full armor of God (see Ephesians 6:10-18) so that we may guard our hearts and minds against the fear the end of this world is sure to bring.    

Now is the perfect opportunity to reach out to frightened people.  We can show them what peace in the midst of a storm looks like and why we have such hope.  Our calm assurance can lead them to the ultimate peace giver, Jesus Christ.

If you are shy as I am, being bold in the Lord will not be easy.  However, Jesus' last command to his believers in Mark 16:15 was,  "...Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature."  You can teach as I do through the written word or through videos.  However, you choose to spread the gospel, do it with boldness and authority.  Not in your own power, but through the power of the Holy Spirit.  God has given me a boldness speaking out against ungodly forms of entertainment, and the occult as I never thought I could have.  When you humbly and sincerely pray for courage to preach within His will, He will graciously grant you a boldness for the sake of His kingdom.

Now is also not a time to slack in reading your Bible and spending time in prayer.  In fact, now is the time to increase your time with the Lord.  The more you know Him and what His Word says, the better equipped you will be in what to say and should be less likely to  lead others astray with a false message.  While you do not need to be a so-called expert on the Bible, I am absolutely saying you must know what it says on the issues of the free gift of salvation, true grace that comes with repentance, and holy living in order to keep from falling away from your walk with the Lord.  Do not rely on what your pastor tells you since most are only preaching a false gospel to make sure the offering plates are full.  Study on your own and read the words of Jesus Christ and His followers.  Might I suggest the books of James, I Peter, I John, & Jude to start?  And of course read Revelation chapters 2 and 3!

My point today is to encourage all of you to take these end of days seriously.  Now is not the time to be afraid to be bold for the Lord. Being wishy washy or conforming to the world is not doing anyone any favors.  When you fear that your friends and family will call you judgmental and so you stay silent for their sakes, you will lead them away from Heaven, not toward it. Let go of your ego and do not worry if your loved ones reject you.  True love does not keep silent, it warns of the dangers of sin and hell!  Point people to Romans 12:1-2, II Corinthians 6:14-7:1, Ephesians 16:23, and Revelation 20:11-12.  Do not be afraid to remind them what these verses mean. Break it down verse by verse and we can all learn what Jesus expects from us!

Time is shorter than most are ready to admit. So this message to believers today is to speak out for Jesus!  Do not wait until it is too late and we have all gone our separate ways when we are forced into hiding when the Antichrist begins his persecution of the True saints.  We need to speak up now while we still have the freedom to do so.  Now, more than ever is the time to be a light  and a life preserver that leads strangers and loved ones alike to Heaven.  Do not hesitate or procrastinate, because if you wait until tomorrow, it may be too late!

Warn Every one Night and Day with Tears, Part 3

For I know this... grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember... I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. Acts 20:29-31

Just a quick note before I go any farther that I want to make clear: I do not want anyone to think I am suggesting we are saved by our works. If you read my blogs or watch my videos, you know I believe Jesus' death on the cross, our salvation, and grace are free gifts we do not have to earn. My point here is to encourage you to treat these precious gifts with the utmost care and not neglect them, because they and your soul can be lost. Once again, this is not my theology, it is from God's Holy Word.

One of the most prominent issues I see being taught by many wolves is that we never need to repent of our sins more than one time when we say the "sinner's prayer." They are afraid to convict you of sin less you cease to put money in their offering plate.  However, by teaching you to think you are eternally secure is very dangerous.  These are the exact wolves Jude was speaking of that are turning God's grace into a lie:

For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. Jude 1:4

I know I have a lot of scriptures below for you to read, but I need to add just one more before I delve further into this blog. Paul is saying we should never use God's precious gift if grace as an excuse to sin (I encourage you to read the full chapter):

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?Romans 6:1-2 

The two scriptures that come to my mind are first, from Jesus' own mouth in Matthew, then from John, who was given visions of heaven. These two passages alone show our thoughts, words, and deeds do matter.

For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. Matthew 16:27

And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. Revelation 20:12-13

Next, I will go to the old testament. Ezekiel was a mighty prophet who saw things as far into the future as the end of days of this planet as well as had many visions of God and heaven.  

But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die. When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die. Ezekiel 18:24 & 26

Pretty clear cut, don't you think? A man who heard directly from God tells us when the righteous, or the Christian, turns his back on God and intentionally chooses to sin, he will lose his salvation - die in his sins! This is not speaking of minor offenses, of course, but as Ezekiel says, "abominations," or rebelliously refusing to do what you know is right in the eyes of God.  Just as when we sincerely repent from our sins, they are blotted out by the blood of Jesus (Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive. Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die. Ezekiel 18:27-28), the exact opposite is true. Righteousness is canceled out by sin until we sincerely repent again.   (These same words are repeated in Ezekiel 33 as well.) 

Now let's look at the words of Jesus:

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. John 15:1-6

According to dictionary.com, The definition of the word abide is "to remain; continue; stay."  Therefore, Jesus is telling us that if we leave our fellowship with Him (cease abiding with Him) we will be "cast forth... into the fire and burned."  Obviously, He is speaking of the fire in Hell. In other words, if you give your life to Christ and become a Christian, but then refuse to follow the ways of Jesus by leaving your morals behind, you are no longer bearing good fruit, and you will be cast away.  Jesus does not say that you can stay grafted into the vine no matter what, and that you will be eternally secure. No! If you make the choice to leave Jesus, you will be cast off!

The more you abide in Jesus: read the Bible, pray more than just when you are asking for a favor, and worship Him with a contrite heart, the more it will be clear what He expects of you.  The more you will understand His character and His will, and you will want to do what is right (...the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance. Romans 2:4).  The Holy Spirit will convict you of your sins and testify to your spirit what must be done to see the face of God for all eternity (I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. Romans 12:1).

Let's go again to the words spoken by Jesus:

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Matthew 7:21-23

This is obviously about someone who is calling himself a Christian, otherwise why would he be calling out to the Lord and prophesying, casting out demons, etc. But Jesus says that even if you call on Him and work for Him, you can still be in danger of losing your salvation if you are doing all these things while living in sin.  No, eternal life with Christ is not automatic just because you use the name of Jesus or do good deeds in His name, you must keep the sin out of your life, or He will tell you to "depart from" Him.  In other words, He will send you to Hell.

The next scriptures are speaking of the end times. 

Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; II Thessalonians 2:3 

My argument here is a simple one: the term "falling away" would not even be used if falling away from your salvation was not possible.  In other words, before the beginning of the tribulation, a large number of people claiming to be Christians will fall away from their walk with the Lord and lose their salvation. 

I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.  II Timothy 4:4; 7-8

There are many more verses I can list where it says in the Bible that all people will be judged according to their works. That Truth alone shows we are not automatically eternally secure.  If so, there would be no reason for God to judge our works.  Finishing the course and keeping the faith means the same as abiding in the vine.  In order to obtain the crown from Jesus, you must not let go of your righteous ways or give in to sin.

Here are a few more verses on obtaining crowns from God, our judge. Note when you read all these verses that they state you must endure to the end in order to receive the crown.  No where does it say the crown of righteousness will be given to every single person that says some version of the sinner's prayer.  There are conditions that must be met! In the below verse, Paul makes it very clear that even he could be cast away from heaven if he falls into sin.

Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. I Corinthians 9:24-27

Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. Phillipans 4:1

And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. II Timothy 2:5

Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. James 1:12

The message of these verses is clear: stand fast in the Lord, strive lawfully, endure temptation, and you will receive a crown of righteousness.  Stray away from the Lord and holiness, and you will be cast away.

The last verses can be the easiest way to sum up that our salvation is not eternally secure.  Note the list of sinful actions does NOT say, "If you call yourself a Christian you can do all these things and still go to heaven," NO!  It says, if you commit the sins listed, you will not inherit the Kingdom of God.  There are no exceptions to that rule. You must daily repent of your sins, and strive to be holy as the Lord is holy, or you will not have eternity with the Father - not my words, this is scriptural (see below verses)!   

As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: I Peter 1:14-17

Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Hebrews 12:14

Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21

He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. Revelation 21:7-8