Are you being a good Christian Example?

 

Are you being a good Christian Example?

I was going through some old papers a few days ago and found this that I wrote in January 2006. 

 (Isaiah 53:6) We all, like sheep have gone astray... 

What exactly does it mean to be "like sheep"?  Well, sheep, though adorable, are very gullible and will follow pretty much anyone anywhere.  As someone who calls him or herself a Christian, we should never be like sheep in this way.

 

(Zechariah 8:16-17) "Speak the truth to each other...  do not plot evil against your neighbor, and do not swear falsely.  I hate this," declares the Lord. 

To listen to someone else's gossip and fall into their trap of lies (especially when the gossip is tearing down a fellow believer) is careless.  It is better to stop and consider all the facts than to blindly believe all you hear.  

Whether you are telling or listening to gossip does not matter.  If you publicly call yourself a Christian, you should not be involved with such.  Gossip is usually full of lies, almost always stems from jealousy, and is hurtful to the victim of gossip.  It creates hard feelings against the target even when the person is innocent.  If you truly have an issue with someone, then have the decency to go to him (or her) her and tell him (preferably in private) rather than talk behind his back!  The Bible prefers us to speak the truth in love, not gossip in lies and spite. 

Key to remember: if you're talking about someone who is not in the room, more than likely, it is gossip!  The dictionary definition of gossip is, "a report (often malicious) about the behavior of other people," & "a person given to gossiping and divulging personal information about others [syn: gossiper, rumormonger]."  Let me repeat that: "often malicious."

(Proverbs 8:13) "I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior, and perverse speech."  

Besides being caught up in the trap of gossip, Christians quite often become involved in raunchy conversation.  Whether it is a dirty joke, insinuation of sexual content, or outright saying what you mean, it is unacceptable.  Especially talking of such things with someone who is not your spouse.  I am not trying to be crude but commenting on someone else's body parts is not only inappropriate but displeasing to God.  Even if you're not involved in the telling of the joke or comment, but you laugh at what is being said, you are condoning the bad behavior. 

(Romans 13:13) Let us behave decently...  not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality, and debauchery, not in dissention and jealously. 

I know there are countless more ways Christians allow themselves to be dragged along, as sheep with the crowd, but I will only bring up one more issue.  Alcohol.  True, the bible does not say you cannot drink, but it does say not to drink to the point of drunkenness.  Talking about enjoying any alcoholic drink implies that you do not have an issue with drunkenness and therefore, it makes you appear as if the rules of conduct in the Bible are meaningless to you.  It's the reflection of your words others will assume are your beliefs.

(Haggai 1:5) Now this is what the Lord Almighty says: "Give careful thought to your ways."  

Be careful of how you allow yourself to be portrayed.  Non-believers are waiting to tear apart every Christian they see and quickly sneer, "She calls herself a Christian?" as soon as you display one of these behaviors.  They don't care about your so-called good intentions. All they see is that you care more about following the herd than being accepted by them than you do in following the Shepherd himself.

So, please remember, if you use the word "Christian" when referring to yourself, be sure to walk the walk and talk the talk.  Otherwise, you are blowing your testimony, and you will be dubbed a hypocrite.  It only takes a second to turn someone off to the Christian lifestyle, but could take weeks, months, or longer to repair the damage to try and convince others you are a man/woman of God.

(Galatians 2:12) By their hypocrisy... [he] was led astray. 

If you truly cannot remove yourself from gossip, filthy talk, and boasting about the alcohol you drink, then please do not label yourself a Christian, and turn others astray.

(Psalm 34:13) Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking lies. 

I know no one is perfect, but perfection is not the goal.  Trying to be a good Christian example and trying to emulate and glorify Jesus Christ, in spite of your humanness, is the goal.  Controlling your tongue is just one way to achieve this.

And don't be a sheep and follow along just to be accepted.  Trust me, it is far better to be rejected because you removed yourself from an ungodly environment than it is to be likes by people quick to stab you in the back as soon as it is turned.  Sheep are not loyal to one another, but the Shepherd gave His life for all His sheep.  Which would you rather follow?

(Ephesians 5:1-10) Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savour. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. 

Who do you say that He is? Written by my Husband

 

 Who do you say that He is? Written by my Husband, Mel

Who was this babe born over two thousand years ago in Bethlehem of Judea? Many claim that he was a prophet, a great teacher, or just a good man. However, who do you say that He is?

There is one God, who is revealed in three distinct persons, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Father sent the son, to bring redemption to fallen mankind. Through the death of Christ upon the cross the free gift of salvation has been provided to all who will put their faith in him.

Christ said, that before Abraham was, I AM. Christ declared himself to be the Great I AM, by making this statement.

(John 8:57-58) Then the Jews said to Him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?” Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.”     

The prophet Isaiah wrote that the future Messiah would be called, the Mighty God and Everlasting Father!

(Isaiah 9:6-7) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. 

(Matthew 1:23) “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.”  

John chapter one, as well as Colossians one, reveal that Christ is indeed God, the creator of all things visible and invisible. He is the image of the invisible God. All things were created through him and for him.

(John 1:1-5 & 10-14) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.  

(Colossians 1:15-18) He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.  

Let us remember that Christmas is not about the mythical Santa Claus or reindeer. Jesus is the only reason for the season! 

The Dangers of Pornography, Written by my Husband & Me

The Dangers of Pornography

Written by my Husband (Mel) & Me (Julie)

*This is a sensitive subject, but we did our best to be tasteful.  As all ages and both genders fall prey to pornography, this topic can be applied to a large audience, but reader discretion is advised. *

 This article is about the dangers of all pornography. For more information about the sins against children, feel free to read Julie's blog "Will you stand against pedophilia in Hollywood? here: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/will-you-stand-against-pedophilia-in.html

First, we want to make several things clear:  we do not believe adult men are the only offenders, but as stated above, people of all ages and both genders have been proven to be addicted to porn.  That brings us to the other thing we want to make clear: we do not see pornography as just naked pictures online or in a magazine, but sex scenes in movies and books can be pornographic as well.  People can be just as addicted to smutty novels as to visual nudity.

Society will tell you it is the spouse’s fault if his/her mate looks at pornography.  Julie once read a statement that said something like, “your husband looks at pornography because you are not properly arousing him and you must work harder to do so.”  The was from an article about sex myths in marriage. The writer of the article just wrote a BIG LIE!  Just like it is not your fault if your spouse cheats, it is not your fault of he/she looks at porn! It is the offender who needs deliverance from sin. 

You may think you would never actively be sexually impure outside of marriage, have an affair, or harm a child, but even looking at such images in a sin in the eyes of Jesus. 

(Matthew 5:28) [Jesus said,] “But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."

Also remember that we will all be judged on what we think about, not just what we act upon. Even viewing porn one time will create a vicious cycle of thoughts turned into spiritually dangerous actions.  Your mind will linger more and more on impure thoughts as the images will stay in your mind. These thoughts will lead to more action as you seek out more filth.  For more on this subject, you can read Julie's blog "Is the abundance of your heart dark and crooked?" here:  https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/11/is-abundance-of-your-heart-dark-and.html

Pornography is not a victimless sin.  Your family will always suffer if you allow viewing such filth to corrupt you. If you make it clear that you do not see anything wrong with looking at naked women to whom you are not married, you are teaching your children it is okay to demean women and that their mother is not enough for you. The same works for both genders as a woman drooling over other men not her husband teaches her children that marriage is not sacred.  You are raising your children to be disrespectful of women and see women as only sexual objects.  Either spouse not lusting after another person outside their marriage sends a very negative and ungodly message their children about marriage. 

What about men of all ages viewing underage girls. I know this writing is specifically about porn, but how many men and women are lusting in their hearts over some cute young thing that is young enough to be their child?  If you have/had a daughter, how would you feel if men were ogling her the way you lust over someone else’s child, especially when you delve into the deep dark sin of child porn?   

(Jeremiah 23:24) Can anyone hide himself in secret places, So I shall not see him?” says the Lord; “Do I not fill heaven and earth?” says the Lord.

Do you really believe that all the people in the magazines and web sites are there by their own choice? That young-faced adult could very easily be a child forced into the sex trade very much against his/her will. When you support smut, you are often supporting sex trafficking and robbing children of their innocence.  Do you think those viewers ever think of that?  They would if suddenly their missing child showed up on a pornography site.  This does not just happen in foreign countries; sex trade for underage children is a very real problem in this country too.  In fact, even adults are kidnapped and forced into such abominations as well.     

(Mark 4:22) For there is nothing hidden which will not be revealed, nor has anything been kept secret but that it should come to light.

It is a proven fact that pornography creates serial killers and rapists.  Ted Bundy is probably one of the most notorious serial murder/rapist that admitted his addiction to porn is what piqued his interest in killing.  We are not saying all who are addicted to porn become killers and/or rapists, but it is a very, very real trend.  Just as an alcoholic starts to need stronger and more alcohol to get him drunk, so the smut addict needs more and more provocative images to turn him on.  He searches out other types of porn, often leading to live performances, and when he cannot get satisfaction, it is a very real possibility he will take it by force.

Pornography has become so acceptable that men and women of all ages are walking around continually seeking visual stimulation.  The way women dress becomes more and more obscene every year. Women and even children dress in shorts so short their rearends hang out, their tops are see-through, and they have no problem bending over in a skirt so short you know what color underwear they have on.  There is very little modesty left in our society.  It makes it very difficult for those who choose to dress modestly because men have been trained to believe that all women want is to be drooled over and gawked at.  This makes Julie’s skin crawl as she does not know what these strange men are thinking as they very openly stare in a way that is not innocent.  It has gotten to where she hates going out in public at all and very rarely goes alone.  Julie dresses very modestly, but it is because men are so full of lust, they see every woman as a sexual object and have no problem making her feel uncomfortable.  And it doesn’t matter if the offender has a wife with him or if we are together as a very obvious couple!

Pornography is also a huge problem with Christians because the church has the culture well ingrained within it. Mel was shocked by a comment made by a leader of a home Bible study group.  He asked the people, “Do you know why over 50% of Pastors view some form of pornography?”  Then he remarked, “Because they are human that’s why.”  This man is the product of the modern-day lukewarm church that tolerates everything. God’s Word teaches us that we must repent of our sins and be born again in order to be saved. To be born again means to put off our old sinful nature and to become a new creation in Christ.  God’s Word is clear that we must not touch what is unclean!

(2 Corinthians 6:17-18 & 7:1) "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.

 (Note, these are older stats as this article was written in 2014, so the numbers are likely more staggering today.) Here are some startling statistics:  The photograph was invented in 1839, and in just 11 quick years the word “pornographer” was seeded into our dictionary. Pictures of prostitutes were sold at an alarming rate. When surveyed, 53% of men who attended Promise Keepers said they viewed pornography that week. More than 45% of Christians admit that pornography is a major problem in their home. An anonymous survey conducted recently by Pastors.com reported that 54% of pastors admitted viewing porn within the last year. In an online newsletter, 34% of female readers of Today’s Christian Woman admitted to intentionally accessing Internet porn. One out of every six women who read Today’s Christian Woman say they struggle with addiction to pornography. 

The problem is that the churches are failing to preach on repentance, as well as holiness and have replaced the truth with their form of perverted grace doctrine. There is not grace for un-repented sins. Christ’s atonement on the cross is only for sins that we repent of, as well as sins committed in ignorance.

(Romans 6:1) 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?

Let us leave you with hope that there is ALWAYS victory over sins, no matter how long you have been addicted.  Please remember what Corinthians 10:13 says, " No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it."  

The Holy Spirit will always give you the strength to walk away if you obey His voice.  There is always a way out and the opportunity and to say no and walk away.  There are no excuses. If you really cannot stop, there is no shame in seeking Godly professional help as well.  Also, get rid of your sources that cause you to sin.  Your salvation and where you spend eternity is more important than your Internet and TV. God will give you the strength to walk away, but as long as you allow ungodly perverted images before your eye gates, you will never defeat Satan.   Utilize the power of the Holy Spirit and in His strength, get rid of your TV and Internet!  

One last thought: Remember, Jesus is ALWAYS watching, so would you still view what you are viewing if He was physically sitting next to you?

(Philippians 4:8) Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

The Beginning, Middle, and End

 

 The Beginning, Middle, and End

Every good story has a beginning, a middle, and an ending, right? Well, this same concept applies to our walk with the Lord. I am not speaking Genesis to Revelation, but our individual relationships with Jesus Christ.  

Your story as a Christian began before you were born.  John 3:16 tells us, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." "The world" means every person who has or will ever live on this Earth.  Therefore, Jesus died for your sins before you were born.  Salvation is a free gift you do not have to earn.  This is the beginning for all of us.  However, from there it is up to you to decide what will happen next.

As with any gift given to you, you have the free will to accept it or throw it in the garbage.  And even if you accept it, you again have the free will to fully use it as intended, only use it when it is convenient for you, or put it on a shelf and ignore it entirely.  In other words, we must actively choose the precious gift of salvation by making the decision to repent of our sins and ask Jesus to come into our hearts. It is also an active decision to keep walking the walk and daily repenting of your sins lest you lose your salvation. 

To be clear, I do not believe we are saved by our works, again, God's salvation is a free gift we could never earn. However, we must show the utmost respect for this gift and as it states in Romans 6:1-2, "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?" In other words, we are not to abuse the grace of God and use it as an excuse to sin.

If you do not continue striving for holiness and following the principles of Jesus Christ, you put yourself at great risk of losing the precious gift of salvation. I am not talking about every little mistake you make, but willful rebellion, the active choice to go against what the Bible says and refusing to repent. 

We need to continue to grow in our walk with the Lord and make a daily decision to give up our sinful habits. Jesus said in Luke 9:23 "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross DAILY, and follow me."   Daily literally means daily, not just denying your sinful nature when you feel like it or are asking God for a favor.  This also means choosing to follow Jesus and His ways of righteousness. It requires daily self-examination and repentance.  For Jesus also said in John 14:15, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." And 1 John 2:4 makes it abundantly clear, "He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him."  

In doubt of what is right or wrong, read the Bible. If God (not man) says something is wrong, it is as simple as not doing it. Here are some examples (see also Revelation 21:8 at the end of this writing):

(Matthew 19:16-21) And, behold, one came and said unto Him, "Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?" And [Jesus] said unto him, ".. if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments... Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself... give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me."

(Galatians 5:19-21) Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance [quarreling], emulations [jealousy], wrath, strife, seditions [rebellion], heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings [drunken parties], 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. 

I think that list is pretty clear for what we should do our very best to avoid as long as we live on this Earth that God so loves.  No one is or ever will be perfect, but the key is to strive for holiness, this is what pleases the Lord.

(Luke 13:23-27) Then said one unto Him, "Lord, are there few that be saved?" And [Jesus] said unto them, "Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, 'Lord, Lord, open unto us;'... But He shall say, 'I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.'"

As with every story, the plot must develop and grow lest the storyline become stagnant. In fact, the middle of our stories is really the key to how it will end. Wasn't that point above? Well, yes and no. Aiming for a pure life is vital, but God wants us to do more than just try to avoid sin. We need to grow in Him by reading the Bible and praying, as well as treating others with love and kindness. 

(Hebrews 5:13-14) For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. 

This is essentially telling us that we need to do more than just understand the basics of salvation (milk) but to grow in the Lord by studying His Word as much as we can and seeking to know the will of God (meat). The more we study and ask the Holy Spirit to help us understand what we read, the more discernment we will have and the more we will desire to please the One who willingly endured torture on a cross for us.

Now we come to the end of our story. But do we? For Christians who have not merely read the Words of the Lord, but obeyed them as well (James 1:22 - But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.), there is no end. There will be an end to this Earth and our mortal bodies as they now exist, but there will not be an end to your existence.  This is why the beginning and middle are so very, very important. If you want to spend eternity with Jesus, you must press forward in attempting to always do the right thing, or your end will be in the lake of fire, not in paradise forever.

(Revelation 21:1-8) And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away."

 And He that sat upon the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And he said unto me, "Write: for these words are true and faithful."

And He said unto me, "It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.  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." 

Merry Christmas: Now is the Time to Seek the Lord (Video)

 

If you are interested, you can view my video titled "Merry Christmas: Now is the Time to Seek the Lord" on my Facebook page (the link will take you directly to the video): https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=881048843350680

Christmas is a beautiful time of the year!

                             

Christmas is a beautiful time of the year!

Note: All numbers in parenthesis represent scripture references that are listed at the end.

Christmas is a beautiful time of the year as we remember that Jesus left a place more perfect than we can ever imagine to live in a sinful, primitive, violent world.  While you sing worshipful songs and hear the story of Jesus’ miraculous birth to a virgin (1), please remember the story does not stop there.

Jesus was born for the sole purpose of sacrificing His life thirty-three years later.  Jesus gave up His throne surrounded by angels (2) for a life where His authority was rarely recognized.  He came to this cruel and heartless world in the form of pure innocence and humility (3).  He knew He would never fully be accepted by His peers (4), and that even those who claimed to love Him would desert Him in the end (5).  He knew not just the emotional sorrows He would face, but the physical as well.  He would willingly endure excruciating torture (6).  (The word excruciating exists because of the severe pain suffered during crucifixion.)  Yes, He also knew He would be raised from the dead three days after His death (7), but He did not endure long hours of agony just to glorify Himself.  He allowed Himself to be beaten raw and pierced through to die a slow death just for you and me! (8)  His blood on the cross is the only reason you and I have the option of spending eternity with Him in paradise.  (9) He paid for our sins by hanging in humiliation on a cross with wood splinters buried into an already raw and bloodied back, a crown of literal thorns causing blood to burn his eyes as it dripped down His face (10).

It is His glorious face we must seek today (11)! Do not throw away His precious gift bought with a terror we could never endure.  Repent of your sins and seek to live a life of holiness so that you can someday see the beautiful face of Jesus and His Father who allowed His son to be ripped from His side for more than three decades (12).

This Christmas, when you see the nativity sets of the shepherds and wise men kneeling at the manager of the baby Jesus, think of how much more magnificent it will be to bow at the throne of the living God (13)! When you sing, “O, come let us adore Him,” take a moment and thank Jesus with all your heart for choosing the path of pain and sorrow just so we can have an eternal life of peace and joy (14)!

Scriptures:

1)      "Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel," which is translated, "God with us." Matthew 1:23

2)     I saw the Lord sitting on His throne, and all the host of heaven standing on His right hand and His left. II Chronicles 18:18

3)     And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.  Luke 2:16

4)     But first He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation. Luke 17:25

5)     But this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples deserted him and fled. Matthew 26:56

6)     He is despised and rejected by men, A Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him. Surely He has borne our griefs And carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted. Scoured, beaten, bruised.  Isiah 53:3-4

7)     "Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, saying, 'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.' " Luke 24:5-7

8)     After this, Jesus, knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, "I thirst!" He said, "It is finished!" And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit. John 19:28, 30

9)      For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. Matthew 26:28

10) So then Pilate took Jesus and scourged Him. And the soldiers twisted a crown of thorns and put it on His head, and they put on Him a purple robe. Then they said, "Hail, King of the Jews!" And they struck Him with their hands. John 19:1-3

11)  For He says: "In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you." Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. II Corinthians 6:2

12)  But those things which God foretold by the mouth of all His prophets, that the Christ would suffer, He has thus fulfilled. REPENT therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that He may send Jesus Christ, who was preached to you before, whom heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things, which God has spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began. Acts 3:18-21

13) For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height-- to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Ephesians 3:14-21

14) And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." Then He who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." Revelation 21:4-5

Board of Peace to Include Ten Leaders. Are You Awake Yet? Written by my Husband

 

Board of Peace to Include Ten Leaders. Are You Awake yet? 

Written by my Husband (Mel)

Gaza Government Board of Peace to include Ten Leaders from Western and Arab Countries. The Beast and his Ten Kings!

(Revelation 17:12-13 & 17) And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast. These have one mind and shall give their power and strength unto the beast. For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled.

Link to article: Trump plans to announce Gaza government, Board of Peace by Christmas, officials say

Excerpts from article: President Trump plans to announce before Christmas that the Gaza peace process is moving into its second phase and to unveil the new governance structure for the enclave, according to two U.S. officials and a Western source directly involved in the process.

Sitting atop the governing structure will be the Trump-led Board of Peace, which will include approximately 10 leaders from Arab and Western countries, the U.S. officials say.

A White House official told Axios that announcements relating to the Board of Peace and further implementation of the Gaza peace plan will be made in the coming weeks. 

"The Trump administration and our partners are working diligently to implement President Trump's historic 20-point plan that will deliver security and prosperity to Gazans and the broader region," the White House official said. End of article

November 17, 2025: Mike Waltz addressed the UN Security Council for a vote… (this is just part of his address when he addressed the UN Security Council) Quote: "Let us vote for this resolution not as a compromise, but as a COVENANT for the children of Gaza; and for peace that endures; and for a Middle East reborn."

 Donald Trump's Gaza Peace plan was approved by the UN Security council. The covenant with the many was initiated on that day. The Trump-led Board of Peace, which will include approximately 10 leaders from Arab and Western countries is most likely the ten kings mentioned in both Daniel and Revelation. Donald Trump is the little horn who boasts and exalts himself above all. Sound like Lucifer?? The Abraham Accords is also an alliance being formed between Israel, western, and Arab nations. This will also reshape the Middle East into the image of the Beast until the covenant is broken mid-way through the tribulation. 

(Daniel 9:27) And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

(Daniel 7:24-26) And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise: and another shall rise after them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings. And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time. But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end.

King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream of an idol that represented all of the future empires of the world. The idol had ten toes made of iron and clay that are the ten kings that will rule with the Beast for a period of time. The partly strong (made of iron) and partly broken (made of clay) may represent both European and Islamic nations that will not entirely cleave to one another. They will be brittle and will be destroyed by Christ and replaced by the eternal Kingdom of God.  

(Daniel 2: 42-44)  And as the toes of the feet were part of iron, and part of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong, and partly broken.  And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay. And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.

(1 Thessalonians 5:3) For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.

(2 Thessalonians 2: 11-12) And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

For more of my husband's writings, you can view his blog here: https://swordofthespirit77.blogspot.com/ and his Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/duncanchristianministries

Whiter Than Snow

 

 

Whiter Than Snow

(I originally wrote this in 2018 when we were still living in Idaho.  I took the above photo north of McCall in 2015.)

The words of Psalm 51 reflect my own heart.  I feel like to add my own words are not necessary if one reads this Psalm (listed at the end), but I doubt God put this theme in my head this morning just to copy and paste David's psalm!  

When you read the first few verses, you will note that we must first acknowledge our sin.  True repentance does not come if we insist we have done nothing wrong or are just going through the motions of asking God to cleanse us.  Admitting you need to be clean is an obvious first step.  As I have stated many times, grace may be a free gift, but we must still confess our sins and ask for forgiveness and actively choose to accept it. Nor do we abuse God's grace by refusing to change our sinful habits. 

(Romans 6:1-2 ) 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?

(1 John 1:8-9) If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. IF WE CONFESS OUR SINS, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 

Jesus, yes, is “just to forgive,” but we must first "confess our sins" and He expects us to do our very best to stay clean!  In John 8:1-11, a woman caught committing adultery is brought before the Lord.  I am sure you are familiar with this story.  Jesus sends her accusers away (some believe it was the accusers' sins He was writing in the sand).  But my focus is not on her confronters, but on the woman.  What does Jesus say to her?  Does He say, “I forgave you once, so go your merry way and do as you please from this day forward?”  Of course not!  Jesus tells her what He tells all of us after we have been forgiven, “Go and sin no more.” (John 8:11) Although I prefer to use the KJV Bible, the NIV translation of this verse is a good one, for it is worded as, "Go now and leave your life of sin."

In the below verses, the people are told to get rid of their evil ways so they can be cleansed as snow.  What I have always liked is the Lord saying, "Come now, and let us reason together.”  I picture a loving, heavenly Father, no, not allowing us to justify our sins and attempt to explain why we sinned but rather listening as we plea for forgiveness.  He then embraces us, wipes our tears of contrite repentance, encourages us to continue striving to enter in at the narrow gate, and reassures us that we are loved. 

(Luke 13:24) Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.)  

His love, combined with our actions, makes us feel clean, white, and new.      

(Isaiah 1:16-18) "Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes. Cease to do evil, Learn to do good; Seek justice, Rebuke the oppressor; Defend the fatherless, Plead for the widow. Come now, and let us reason together," Says the Lord, "Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.” 

What happens to snow on a day-to-day basis?  It gets dirty.  It looked so pristine that morning, but as the cars drove by, or the dog (excuse me for saying so) uses it, it turns brown and yellow.  Yet, behold, at the next snow fall, the beauty has been restored, all sparkly and white.  Pretty obvious symbolism here, isn’t it?  When we pray as David did, to be purged and to have a new, clean heart, let us make that a daily prayer.  

(Luke 9:23) Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross DAILY, and follow Me.  

Again, 1 John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." But note the first 5 words. We need to be proactive on our part and ask for forgiveness. Lamentations 3:22-23 says, "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." Therefore, you know He is gracious enough to forgive us every single time we ask.

Short message today but living a clean life does not have to be overly complicated.  Admit to your sin, confess your sins, ask for forgiveness, cast away the old nature, and make a daily decision not to repeat old sins or commit new ones (no one is perfect, but this is a good goal to do our best to live righteously).  You cannot conquer sin on your own, but when you ask the Holy Spirit to help you, He will always answer.

We should evaluate our lives daily and strive to be the best person we can be every day.  If you want a new routine to help you be a better Christian, I suggest reading Psalm 51 and making this your theme.

(Psalm 51:1-4; 6-13; 16-17) Have mercy upon me, O God, According to Your lovingkindness; According to the multitude of Your tender mercies, Blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, And cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions, And my sin is always before me. 

Against You, You only, have I sinned, And done this evil in Your sight-- That You may be found just when You speak, And blameless when You judge. Behold, You desire truth in the inward parts, And in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom. 

Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Make me hear joy and gladness, That the bones You have broken may rejoice. Hide Your face from my sins, And blot out all my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, And sinners shall be converted to You.   For You do not desire sacrifice, or else I would give it; You do not delight in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken and a contrite heart-- These, O God, You will not despise.