Exploring the Angels of the Bible, Part 3: Moses & Balaam

 Exploring the Angels of the Bible, Part 3: Moses & Balaam

If you are familiar with the story of Exodus (the Biblical version, not any of the incorrect Hollywood versions), you know at least one angel was always with the group of Israelites after they escaped slavery in Egypt. As I have mentioned in both parts 1 and 2 of this series, I am not going into great detail on specific stories, nor list every instance where angels are mentioned, just focusing on reminding us of the times angels were used in the Bible and also trying to relate to how angels are still vital to us today.  Therefore, to say that my mention of the powerful story of Moses will be very brief is an understatement.

Often in the book of Exodus, it is revealed to Moses that at "an angel" had been sent "before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared." (Exodus 23:30).  An angel is continually either before them to prepare the way, or behind them to keep them safe, or both.   

To those who acknowledge God and serve Him, we can know that God may send His angels before and after us for protection.  That does not mean bad things will never happen as we have a free will and often go outside the plans of God and what He has "prepared" for us, and therefore are out of His protection, just as with the Israelites during the time of Moses. They often rebelled and refused to obey His instructions, and God allowed death, disease, and captivity to happen.  I always say you cannot jump off a cliff and expect God's angels to keep you safe.  God is very gracious to look after us, but we must use good morals combined with wisdom and also be proactive in keeping ourselves and others out of danger.

Throughout the rest of the Old Testament, we read about angels bringing God's messages of warnings of what will happen if those listening refuse to obey God.  One such instance is when an angel is not sent to a group of people, but to one individual, Balaam.

In Numbers 22, Balaam is commissioned by King Balak to curse the Israelites because Balak is afraid of the large number of Israelites.  Balaam is involved in the evil sin of enchantments. Make no mistake, the entire Bible repeatedly says God HATES witchcraft and those who practice it will not inherit the Kingdom of God (see Galatians 5:20-21 & Revelation 21:8).  There is NOTHING innocent about Harry Potter, Frozen, The Wizard Oz, etc.  Christians, please quit watching these movies and confusing your children that God is okay with it (1 Corinthians 10:21 - Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.)!  

But I digress, now back to the story. The king of the Moabites says to Balaam, "he whom thou blessest is blessed, and he whom thou cursest is cursed." (Numbers 22:6). King Balak promises Balaam he "will promote [Balaam] unto very great honour, and will do whatsoever thou sayest." (verse 17). 

Balaam agrees to curse the Israelites.  However, God is very angry with Balaam and sends an angel to fight against him.  The interesting twist in this true story is that Balaam cannot see the angel when it appears in verse 23, but his donkey can.  Three different times, the donkey sees the angel armed with a drawn sword standing in the pathway.  The donkey is so afraid she first turns off the path into a field, then crushes Balaam's foot into the wall, and the third time, falls down.  Each time, Balaam strikes the poor animal.  After the third instance, God opens the mouth of the donkey.  In verse 28, she asks "What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?"  Strange enough, the Bible never says that Balaam was shocked that his donkey spoke to him.  He simply tells the donkey he would kill her if he had a sword. After the donkey reminds Balaam that she has always been a faithful animal, God then allows Balaam to see the angel. Balaam is wise enough to show awe and humility at the sight and falls on his face.

The angel also asks Balaam why he beat the donkey and tells him that if not for her, Balaam would have been killed by the angel, and the donkey spared.  The angel then tells Balaam he must not curse the Israelites but can only say what the Lord has instructed Balaam to say. 

Of course, King Balak is furious and tries very hard to convince Balaam to still say his curses, but in Numbers 23:8 Balaam says, "How shall I curse, whom God hath not cursed? or how shall I defy, whom the Lord hath not defied?"  We see signs of a changed man.

The king continues on in trying to coerce Balaam, but he continues to refuse. I love what he says in Numbers 23:19-20, "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? Behold, I have received commandment to bless: and he hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it." 

Those few words in verse 19 should be remembered by us every day. When we are discouraged, remember God will never lie. When we are confused or angry with God, remember God never has need to repent, we are the ones who should be repenting of our callus and rebellious actions.

When we get to chapter 24, we see that indeed Balaam has changed and even given up his evil witchcraft. "And when Balaam saw that it pleased the Lord to bless Israel, he went NOT... to seek for enchantments..." (Numbers 24:1). Only then did "the spirit of God [come] upon him." (verse 2). Repentance and giving up our habitual sins are the keys for all of us.

Balaam then issues a blessing for the people of Israel, and King Balak reminds him that had he cursed the people, he would have been rich and powerful.  But Balaam replies with, "If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the commandment of the Lord, to do either good or bad of mine own mind; but what the Lord saith, that will I speak." (verse 13).  May we always be so bold in our convictions to do the Lord's will and not be tempted by worldly treasures. 

The angel was used by God to protect the Israelites from a Satanic curse. He could have killed Balaam, but due to the donkey seeing the angel, Balaam was allowed to live.  I truly believe that on occasion some (not all) animals see angels and demons. God most likely will not use an animal to speak to us, but animals can still be used in either supernatural ways or simply from the natural instincts God gave them to protect us.  We need to pay attention to all warning signs around us, and as said above, stay within the will of God and obey the Bible if we are to stay within His protection.  

Exploring the Angels of the Bible, Part 2: Jacob

 

Exploring the Angels of the Bible, Part 2: Jacob

As I mentioned in part 1, there are 283 times that the word "angel" is used in the Bible (KJV). I will not list every reference here but briefly share some verses that are most relevant to this series. Today, I will begin with Gensis chapter 28.

Jacob was the son of Isaac and the grandson of Abraham.  He had a twin brother, Esau.  He and Esau were perpetually at odds, dealing with the dangerous sin of sibling rivalry.  Jacob's name means "supplanter" because even before he was born, God knew Jacob would steal his brother's birthright.  He also tricked his blind father into giving him the blessing meant for the first-born twin.  He was a deceiver.  His cunning and evil ways caused his brother to want to kill him, so Jacob left home.  

If you are interested, you can read more writings on Jacob from my previous blogs: Jacob the Supplanter https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/05/genesis-2524-34-271-46-jacob-supplanter.html, The Beginning of Jacob's Revival (same topic as this blog) https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/05/genesis-2811-22-beginning-of-jacobs.html , & Why did the Lord approach Jacob to wrestle with him? https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/05/genesis-3224-30-why-did-lord-approach.html

In spite of Jacob's trickery God knew the potential of Jacob's heart and that it could become tender.  In His mercy, He still wanted to bless Jacob. In Genesis chapter 28, He gives Jacob a dream:

(Genesis 28:11-21) And he lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night... and lay down in that place to sleep. And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it. And, behold, the Lord stood above it, and said, "I am the Lord God... and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed. And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of." And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, "Surely the Lord is in this place; and I knew it not." And he was afraid, and said, "How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven." And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and... vowed a vow, saying, "If God will be with me... then shall the Lord be my God." 

It is after Jacob sees God and His angels that He experiences a revival.  He is in awe that God visited him, and vows to follow the Lord and pursue a life of peace.  God wants all of us to acknowledge Him and pursue peace as well.  We may not have such a dramatic experience as Jacob, but that does not mean God is ignoring us, or that He is not trying to get our attention.  He wants us to let go of our sinful nature and make Him Lord of our lives. He will be with us guiding us, if only we will surrender our will to Him and obey.  May we make the same vow as Jacob, "shall the Lord be my God."

Jacob then meets Rachel and wishes to marry her in exchange for seven years as her father, Laban's worker. However, Laban, tricks Jacob into marring Leah first. Jacob must add an additional seven years in commitment to Laban in order to marry Rachel.  The trickster has now become the one deceived!  Laban also changed Jacob's wages ten times, and not for the better.  God has compassion on Jacob and in chapter 31, He sends an angel to give Jacob a message:

(Genesis 31:11-13) And the angel of God spake unto me in a dream, saying, "Jacob" And I said, "Here am I." And he said, "Lift up now thine eyes... for I have seen all that Laban doeth unto thee I am the God where thou anointedst the pillar, and where thou vowedst a vow unto me: now arise, get thee out from this land, and return unto the land of thy kindred."  

Knowing he has God's favor, Jacob flees Laban. Laban pursues Jacob, but God warns him in a dream not to harm Jacob.  Eventually the two meet again and agree to part in peace. (Again, these blogs are shortened versions, so please read the Biblical stories on your own.) When Jacob leaves Laban again, God gives him another sign that He is with Jacob.

(Genesis 32:1-2) And Jacob went on his way, and the angels of God met him. And when Jacob saw them, he said, "This is God's host..." 

This is all that is mentioned of Jacob's experience with angels.  However, he may have had encounters throughout the rest of his life that were not recorded.

We may never see an angel undisguised in the flesh, but as Jacob, God may allow them to appear in dreams to us.  My husband and I have both have had many dreams with angels in them.  They are always there to instruct and encourage.  They do not always look as we may assume an angel should look, but the same people with identical descriptions have repeatedly appeared in both my husband's dreams and mine. It is the confirmation of similar appearances that let us know they are not created out of our imaginations, but messengers from God appearing in our dreams.  

As with Jacob, even if we have sinned and done what we knew was wrong, God knows the potential of our hearts and is merciful in giving us a chance to change. If we, as Jacob, listen to the messages from the angels, and allow His words to transform us through repentant hearts, God may choose to bless us. Because he softened his heart, Jacob eventually made peace with his brother Esau.

It is evident is Genesis 35:2 that Jacob has truly allowed God to change him when he advises his household to "Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments."  It is another message God wishes us to learn.  To give up all idols that come before God and get rid of all beliefs that do not agree with the Word of God and the principles taught by Jesus Christ.  

Ephesians 5:27 lines up perfectly with the above verse in Genesis as we are instructed to be without, "spot, or wrinkle... but... should be holy and without blemish."  If we are filthy in our sins, we need to take the advice in Genesis 35 and "change our garments" which can only be accomplished through the blood of Christ making us clean. Then we must stay pure for Him as Christ is retuning only for a clean bride. 

(2 Peter 3:14) Be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 

As we continue with our study through the Bible on angels, we will see how the Old Testament and New Testament teachings on holiness will always line up and will continue on to the end of time.

For further study on God's plans for holiness, I will leave you with a few more verses in Ephesians 5.  I will continue the study in angels next time beginning in the book of Exodus!

(Ephesians 5:1-27) 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 sweetsmelling 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. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ... That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. 

Exploring the Angels of the Bible, Part 1: Introduction, Hagar, & Lot

Exploring the Angels of the Bible, Part 1: Introduction, Hagar, & Lot

While so many people are focusing on the dark things of Halloween, I thought I would repost my series on angels from the Bible.

(Note: I will be using a variety of angel artwork in this 9-part series, and I realize that angels do not necessarily loom like the images shared.  Therefore, the images posted are serve an artistic purpose, not a theological one.) 

As I begin this writing, I want to make it clear that I am not trying to be sarcastic or demeaning of other people's beliefs, but simply to clear up the image of angels Hollywood is trying to confuse people with. Perhaps some of my readers are new believers and do not know fact from fiction.  I pray this writing will help clarify any questions you may have.  

Angels have never been human, nor will they ever become human.  God created angels many years before humans, and they were never meant to be the same.  The Bible consistently says, "men and angels" indicating we are separate creatures (for example: 1 Corinthians 4:9 & 1 Corinthians 13:1). Both Psalm 8:5 and Hebrews 2:7 state humas were made "a little lower than the angels," not the same as them. TV shows such as "Highway to Heaven" and many of the ads for movies I have seen on YouTube depict angels as having once been human but have been sent back to earth on assignment.  Such as in the classic movie, "It's a Wonderful Life," where a human-turned-angel must try to earn his wings. I remember reading a book in high school I think may have been titled "Angel Walk" where an angel wanted to know what it felt like to be human, so God allowed him to be human for a time.  While entertaining and even emotional at times, this is far from the Truths of the Bible.  

Even more disturbing is that angels are often depicted as magical.  They are often shown as having special powers to perform ridiculous tasks I will not even go into.  Be not deceived, God hates witchcraft (Galatians 5:19-21 - Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these... witchcraft... 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.) as it comes from Satan, and not from God. Any "powers" angels display do not come from them but are gifted from God. Just as when holy saints perform miracles, it is ONLY by God's power that allows them to do so. No angel or human can produce a miracle on their own.  If God is not involved, the power comes from Satan, not man.

God created angels as His helpers, his companions, and to worship Him.  A group of angels lead by Lucifer decided he wanted to be God.  He and a third of the angels rebelled against their Creator until God threw them out of heaven.  There are many circumstances surrounding that ancient war in heaven that we cannot ever know the details of until we ourselves leave this world, but we do know it is a very complex issue.  It is why the blood of Jesus had to be shed in order to save humans from hell.  There was no other way to redeem us than that precious blood.  We know the result of that long-ago war is why Lucifer/Satan has been allowed to be called "the prince of the air" (Ephesians 2:2) and been allowed to torment humans for so long.  We also know that God will eventually throw Satan and his demons into the eternal pit of hell, never to escape (see Revelation 20:10), and those of us who have defeated the devil with our Godly walk will live a life of peace forever with our Creator.  Satan and his demons are the only instance in the Bible that mentions angels becoming anything other than what they were created to be.  And even so, they were never human. Yes, they lived with humans for a time when the race of the Nephilim came into existence, but that is a whole new subject for another writing.

(Isaiah 14:12-15) How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.

The actual definition of the word angel is "a messenger, especially of God."  However, they are much more than that! Angels are also teachers, warriors, guardians, leaders, protectors, comforters, and above all, worshippers of God.

Before we go any further in our study, let's first note that we are never to worship angels.  It is acceptable to be amazed by beings that literally spend time in the presence of God and are trusted with doing the will of the Father, but just as we should never place any human on a pedestal, we also should remember that the only Ones we should give honor and praise to are God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.  As we examine the scriptures, we will be reminded of this several times as the angels will always tell the person attempting to worship the angel, that he must worship God instead.

When searching Bible Gateway, the word "angel" appears 283 times (KJV)! I am not going to copy every scripture here but will go over quite in bit in order that they appear in the Bible.  I will not list every instance, but just the most relevant to this series. The best place to start is simply at the beginning. These tellings with be very brief, and as always, I suggest you study on your own and read the entire chapters mentioned in context.

The first mention of an angel is in Genesis 16 when an angel appears to Hagar after she runs away because Sarai (later named Sarah) has abused her.  The angel comforts Hagar tells her she is pregnant with Abram's (later named Abraham) first born son Ishmael and convinces her to return home.  He is very honest and tells her Ishmael will be "a wild man; his hand will be against every man, and every man's hand against him (verse 12)." Angels will never deceive you, but offer up Truth, even when painful.  

The next time angels are mentioned in the Bible it is for a very different reason than as a comforter to a distressed servant.  This time they are sent as both rescuers and destroyers.  In chapter 18, God reveals to Abraham that He will destroy the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah because their "sin is very grievous (verse 20)." Abraham pleads with God to spare the life of his nephew Lot.  Therefore, in Chapter 19, God mercifully sends two angels to rescue Lot out of the doomed city. The residents of this city were so wicked, they tried to convince Lot to send the angels out of his home so they could abuse them (to put it mildly).  The men were so determined to cause harm to the angels that the angels were given the power from God to render the men blind so they could not find the door to Lot's house.  The angels rescued Lot and his family out of Sodom. God then gave the angels authority to destroy the wicked cities. Again, note that it is not the power of the angels but under the power of God.  

For now, I will end here.  Next time I will jump ahead to Genesis 28 as we explore the story of Jacob.

Are you Kicking Against the Wall? (Are you Resisting God's rod of Correction?)

Are you Kicking Against the Wall? (Are you Resisting God's rod of Correction?) 

I have to immediately begin this blog with admitting, yes, I know I have the wrong definition of the word goad (or prick). Apparently, in the Bible, a prick / goad was a long, pointed stick used to prod and guide livestock, not a wall. For some reason, and I am not even sure where I got this definition from, I thought the word "goad" meant wall. Today, at 54 years old, I just learned I was wrong! Gasp! Yet it is still the direction I am taking with this blog, and it was not actually Acts 9 that inspired this theme, but the song, "He is our Peace" (written by Kandela Groves) that got me to thinking about it. It is just the way my strange brain works (it's why I compare to my brain to a convention song). And I will actually get around to the real definition of Jesus' words as well!

First let me give a quick explanation of Acts 9:1-22.  Saul was a very evil man who had been arresting and murdering Christians. (You will see Saul is mentioned in Acts 7 when Stephen was martyred, specifically in Act 7:58).  Saul was a zealous religious Jew, and because he had been seeped in the rigid old covenant laws, he thought He was doing the right thing.  But in Acts 9, Jesus in His resurrected form, appears to Saul and dramatically calls Saul to true salvation.  Saul temporarily goes blind, but later scales fall from his eyes, his vision is restored, and with his new name of Paul, he becomes one of the greatest apostles that ever lived, now zealous for all the right reasons, to promote the truth of Jesus Christ!  

 I will start with my incorrect definition of kicking against a wall. When Paul, who was still Saul, was called by Jesus, he heard Jesus ask Him in Acts 9:4-5, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?... I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks [goads]."  Every time I read or heard this story, I pictured someone kicking against a wall.  To me, it was as if Jesus was asking Saul why He was fighting so hard to have his own way like an unruly child having a kicking and screaming temper tantrum.  

Not only have we all once been such a child (and probably witnessed other children in this state of dramatic defiance as well), but I would also dare to venture that we have also been this way as an adult.  When the Holy Spirit pierces our conscience and asks us to give up something we love but God hates, we kick the wall and scream, "No! I won't do it!"  There is a long list of things I could go into, but I think once we read our Bibles, we can all begin to understand what these things are (see Matthew 19:16-21, Ephesians 5:3-18 and Revelation 20:11-12 & 21:7-8 to start). The more we quit fighting and the more we allow ourselves to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, the less we can deny when we feel guilty when we choose an activity God is saying we should stay away from. And the more we love God the less we want to participate in the things He hates.       

(Proverbs 3:7) Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.

My misinterpretation of the word goad does actually tie into the literal meaning, so now I will explore the real meaning.  As I said in the first paragraph, a prick or goad was a long, pointed stick used to prod and guide livestock.  In Acts 9, it is a metaphor for guidance, correction, and divine prompting. Although we do not know for sure, we can guess that The Holy Spirit had been working on Saul's conscience for a while to try to get him to see how evil his actions had become.  But like a strong-willed child, or stubborn ox, he was refusing to listen to his conscience.  He was possibly addicted to the power he possessed and knew if he listened to the true Jesus, he would lose his position of authority and become hunted like his own victims.  He would lose his life of comfort and so he resisted the Holy Spirit calling him to repentance.  What have we refused to give up because we didn't want to lose popularity?

David, a former shepherd who eventually became king, understood the necessity of the rod (or goad) when he said in Psalm 23:4, " Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."  A shepherd's rod was used to (preferably) gently correct the sheep when they wandered too close to danger.  It was meant to protect the sheep, and the staff was used to hook them back to the shepherd's side. David recognized the rod of the Lord as a comfort because he knew it was used to keep his soul safe. Knowing this also helps one to better understand Proverbs 13:24 that says, "He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him."  This does not mean a parent is to beat their child into submission, but to use the rod for (again, preferably) gentle correction when the child strays too far.  Hebrews 12:6 says, "For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth." Which brings us full circle to the rod being used out of love, not to humiliate or pulverize. (Note: I highly recommend the book “A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23" written by Phillip Keller.  He beautifully explains the meaning of Psalm 23 through the eyes of a shepherd.)    

Now we come back to Jesus calling Saul.  Saul had been kicking against the goad of correction, but Jesus did not violently call Saul to repentance.  Yes, it was very dramatic and sometimes God will use a dramatic situation to get our attention, but Jesus did not use the rod in a violent way.  He used it to guide Saul to the right paths of the new covenant.  The only way Saul was going to listen to the correction of the Holy Spirit was to be humbled by blindness.  He was forced to sit in the dark for 3 days (makes me think of Jonah: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/07/the-book-of-jonah-when-we-stray-from.html ) until Jesus felt like Saul had finally quit kicking and screaming against the Holy Spirit and was now ready to become Paul. Then Jesus sent Ananias to help Saul as he spiritually transitioned into Paul.

We know that after Saul became Paul, he suffered greatly for his faith, so by obeying Jesus we are not promised a perfect life.  But we can be assured that there is hope and peace for the next life when we choose to honor and follow the ways of righteousness.  Yes, Paul gave up his power and position for the sake of the gospel, but we can be assured he is in perfect peace and glory now and is extremely grateful Jesus finally got his attention to walk in true salvation.  His eternal rewards working for the glory of God far outweigh his temporal sufferings while he was here. 

Now that I have hopefully explained when we kick against a wall or a rod of correction and spiritual protection, but respond to the Holy Spirit, it is responding to the kindness of God, let me go back to my first paragraph.  I said that it was actually the song "He is our peace" that inspired this blog.  The song is based off of Ephesians 2:14, "For he is our peace...who hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us."  Please read the entire chapter of Ephesians 2 as it beautifully describes how Jesus became a new covenant for us through His blood.  The wall here is in reference to the wall of the law and sin.  But for the sake of this blog, and for linking it to my incorrect definition of the word goad, I also see this as symbolic that just as Jesus did for Paul (who, yes, wrote the book of Ephesians), when we quit kicking against the wall, Jesus will bring down the walls of resistance in our lives, and therefore, become our peace.  When we obey, we too will be grateful when we get to Heaven and thank our Savior for sparing our souls through his holy correction.

I often worry that all I am trying to convey in my heart does not translate well in my writings.  I hope and pray this all makes sense.  The bottom lines here are that when we quit resisting the prompting of the Holy Spirit to change our ways, his correction will bring us to peace with the Holy Trinity.  

"We do not want to be eternally separated from those we love."

 

 

"We do not want to be eternally separated from those we love."

(Originally posted on July 19, 2021)

This is another blog inspired by a dream I had last night. I am not certain if this dream was from God or from my own imagination.  Either way, the dream has a message I feel I should share.   

I dreamt my husband and I ran into a man (I will call him Friend, even though he did not have a name in the dream) that had been a close friend to my late brother.  Now, let me stop right there; I have never had a brother. Therefore, if this dream was from the Lord, the "brother" in the dream may have been symbolic of my spiritual brothers and sisters.  While Friend was speaking to me, I noticed another man (I will call him Watcher) standing somewhat behind Friend and listening very closely to the conversation.  My husband often has angels in his dreams silently watching all that transpires.  I am not certain this second man represented an angel or not, but I believe he did.  Friend took a wild trip down memory lane and was telling me all about my brother's crazy ways and how funny it had been when my brother had wrecked his vehicle when he was drunk.  In fact, all Friend's memories of brother were of rules broken and all-around rebellious ways.

Watcher studied me very closely and looked at me with an expectant expression as if he wanted me to stand up for the things of God instead of silently listening to all the bad acts that had been committed by my late brother. Friend then began to complain that he and Brother had grown sick and tired of all of their family members always preaching at them.  He said it was what had ended his friendship with Brother because Brother eventually caved in, became a Christian, and gave up his ungodly habits.  Friend said he was angry with those that had taken his best friend away from him.

Again, Watcher gave me a look that let me know I was expected to speak up for the Truth.  It was then that it seemed the Holy Spirit took control of my words.  I began to boldly explain to Friend that the reason those with holiness beliefs preach so often about what the Bible says about sin is because those sins can keep them from the Kingdom of God.  I pointed to my husband and said that I love him so very much and I cannot stand to be away from him for even an hour. I then said, "Imagine being separated from someone you love for all eternity. The reason we talk about the things of God is because we do not want to be eternally separated from those we love.  We cannot stand the thought of anyone going to hell. The idea of being separated from our loved ones for all eternity is what drives us to speak out and risk rejection and humiliation.  It is out of love for you and others that drives our actions to warn against the sins that can lead you to hell. Not judgmentalism, not legalism, not self-righteousness, but love. Pure love.  Now imagine that kind of love magnified greater than you can fathom.  It is how much God loves you, and He does not want to be eternally separated from you either."

By the time I had finished my speech my husband, Watcher, and Friend's eyes were all filled with tears.  I had said enough to make Friend willing to listen to more things about God and holy living. 

Are you willing to risk being separated for all eternity from those you love?  Time is very, very short.  If you are a believer, now is the time to speak out for holiness.  If you are not a Christian, now is the time to study the Bible and learn what it says about holiness. Be humble enough to allow the Holy Spirit to gently convict you of your sins, repent, and return to God.  

(2 Peter 3:9) The Lord... is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 

(John 3:16) 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. 

(Galatians 5:19-21) 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. 

(Revelation 21:7-8) 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. 

Striving to Obtain Salvation Versus Striving in the Flesh Versus Striving for Holiness

Striving to Obtain Salvation Versus Striving in the Flesh Versus Striving for Holiness

Is that a confusing enough title for you?  I apologize for that but let me show you how my hyperactive brain came up with this blog topic (I wish my body had as much energy as my brain). For some reason, when I was making my bed yesterday, I kept thinking of the phrase, "striving in the flesh."  Maybe because every time I have to make my bed I have to literally pull the mattress back to the left as it shifts in the night.  It is heavy and doesn't move easy, so maybe that was why my mind went to fighting against something that was difficult. Then my mind went to realizing that it is probably confusing to try to differentiate between striving to obtain our salvation versus striving in the flesh versus striving for holiness. I will do my best to try to explain all. 

The definition of the word strive is "make great efforts to achieve or obtain something."  Keep that in the back of your thoughts as your read this.

Striving for our salvation is a works-based theology.  Many false religions tell you that you need to earn your way to Heaven by being a good person.  Some say you have to keep a bunch of old laws that are no longer relevant to today (I just recently posted a writing on the new covenant, so I won't elaborate on that now, but here is that link if you are interested: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/09/the-parallel-between-new-covenant-and.html). Or you must go on a certain number of missions, give a set amount of money to the church, get married, have babies, women cannot cut their hair, etc., in order to earn your way to Heaven. Being a good person or meeting certain quotas has nothing to do with salvation. The only way to Heaven is through the blood of Jesus Christ.

Therefore, no matter how hard one tries to strive to obtain a key to Heaven, it will always be impossible.  You cannot buy your way to the throne of God through good works.  

(Ephesians 2:8-10) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

(Ephesians 1:7) In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

(Colossians 1:12-14) Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

The above verse is a great example of showing we cannot save our own souls, yet we still are expected to walk in good works.  And in this case, our works do matter (Matthew 16:27 - 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.). Which is where the subject of striving can get complicated.  For one thing now it becomes striving in the flesh versus striving for holiness.  

When we strive in the flesh we are striving against the things of God.  We are fighting an inner turmoil in trying to win the war against sinful habits.  This war within us is often in rebellion against God.  Going back to the definition of strive, we are working for our own agenda to obtain what we want.  We do not care if our goals go against Biblical principles.  Our motives are entirely self-centered rather than God-centered.  This displeases the Lord.

Although the word striving is not used, you can see how this next set of verses relates to striving in the flesh:

(Romans 8:5-8) For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God... So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.

(Romans 13:9 & 11-14) For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

(Galatians 5:16-17,19-21 & 24-25) This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 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. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

(Colossians 3:5-10) Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

(1 Peter 2:11) Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;

When we strive for holiness, we are striving for the things of God.  When you read the next set of verses, you will see that God is very pleased when we strive to walk down paths of righteousness.  I will start with the words of Jesus:

(Luke 13:23-24) Then said one unto him, "Lord, are there few that be saved?" And He 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."

Striving to enter through the gates of Heaven is trying to obtain the perfect prize of eternal life with Jesus.  This is not the same as striving to earn our salvation.

Goodness, I hope this all makes sense! Let me give you a few more verses: 

(Colossians 1:9-10, 12-14, & 27-29) that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery... which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I also labour, striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily.

(1 Corinthians 9:24-25) 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.

You can see that striving in the context of the above passages is a good thing as we strive for holiness in the Lord!  We are not trying to earn His love, but want to do the right things to please the Lord who loves us and we so love as well! There is no hidden agenda behind choosing God's ways over the world's.

In case you are interested, this may also help this topic make more sense, here is a link to another recent writing I did titled "The Message of Salvation:" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/09/the-message-of-salvation.html 

I will end here with both 1 Peter & 1 John as they both beautifully sum up this blog.

(1 Peter 1:2-3 & 13-19) God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 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:

Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

(1 John 1:5-9) This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

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.

Praise God for His Mighty Acts

Praise God for His Mighty Acts

While praying this morning on what subject to write about next, the phrase, "Praise Him for His mighty acts," kept repeating in my mind. I praised God for His acts of goodness and kindness, but I got to thinking about His act of creation. That is where I am going to take the direction of this blog.

I am a person who loves facts. I love to gather statistics. So, bear with me, but I hope you will find my fact gathering today interesting. 

Estimates on the number of the Earth's current species range from 2 million to 1 trillion. There are approximately 6,700 types of mammals and 11,000 species of birds alone.

We really have no way of knowing the total number of all the species out there because it is impossible to see or study every living creature. For example, and I find this totally fascinating, less than 0.001% of the deep ocean seafloor has been physically explored, with the vast majority of the ocean remaining unseen by humans. While satellite data and sonar mapping have provided a broad overview, only 27.3% of the global seafloor has been mapped with modern high-resolution technology. Yet, even with so small of an amount seen, there are still over 33,000 recognized species of fish worldwide (this is just the number of fish, not all the sea life that are technically not categorized as fish).

Want more? There are between 14 million to 20 million insect species, although only about 1–1.2 million have been formally described. This is just insects, not arachnids or other creepy crawlies that are not technically considered insects. 

Although the Earth has been explored to remarkable depths relative to our technological capabilities, the vast majority of both the Earth’s interior and the deep ocean remains uncharted. Every source I read said we would all be shocked to realize just how little of our planet has been explored. Although mapping and satellite images are pretty advanced, the depths of the oceans, the depths underground, as well as other areas that are unreachable by human means, such as jungles or extreme heights, are still to be physically travelled. The scientists all agree than less than 20% of our planet has actually been explored!

I am not even going to waste my time on discussing the big bang nonsense or the evolution scam! God created it all!

(Genesis 1:21-25) And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good. And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth. And the evening and the morning were the fifth day. And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so. And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.

Doesn't the Bible also tell us that God created not just this planet but others as well? While Genesis 1 mentions only the earth (Genesis 1:1 - In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. - Note: Some versions say "Heavens"), the book of Hebrews makes it clear God created multiple worlds:

(Hebrews 1:1-2) God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds.

(Hebrews 11:3) Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

So let me keep on the thread of exploration. There is absolutely no way we could know how much of the galaxy is actually out there, but as far as the scientists have estimated, we have physically visited only a tiny fraction of the Milky Way (our Solar System). They say they have mapped 2 billion stars, but they believe there are at least 400 billion stars and 1,000s of exoplanets. In percentage terms, our physical reach is less than one‑thousandth of 1 % of the way to the nearest star. Although I love astronomy, a lot of what I read was over my head (Yes, pun intended, sorry!), but what it boils down to is that the vast majority of stars, planets, and interstellar regions remain unvisited and unmeasured.

I don't know how many of you may love science and are still reading this, but if you are, I am listing all these facts for a reason. We can never fully know how much our brilliant God has designed and created in our omniverse. It truly staggers the mind to even think about it. Makes me feel like a teeny tiny blip. But what's even more amazing? God loves each and every one of us as individuals! We are not teeny tiny blips to Him! Matthew 10:30 says, "the very hairs of your head are all numbered." 

I realize there is so much more I can write about the intricacies of God's creation.  The way the human body works so perfectly is no accident.  Even the way the sun, moon, and our planet are aligned are perfection.  But for today, I will just leave you a few facts just to help you begin to see the wonderment and majesty of God's creation!

When we truly stop and consider all the worlds His hands have made, and that He cares so much for each of us He sent His son to die for us so we could be with Him in all eternity (see John 3:16)? Wow! As Greater Vision sings, I could never praise Him enough!

(Psalm 150:1-6) Praise ye the Lord. Praise God in His sanctuary: praise Him in the firmament of His power. Praise Him for His mighty acts: praise Him according to His excellent greatness. Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet: praise Him with the psaltery and harp. Praise Him with the timbrel and dance: praise Him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise Him upon the loud cymbals: praise Him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord.

Song below: "How Big is God" Medley (Gene McDonald also sings a beautiful version of "How Big is God?" but I wanted to share this medley sung by The Guardians) :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCHIIMN0xU0&list=RDvCHIIMN0xU0&start_radio=1

Modesty

 

Modesty

God has been laying it on my heart for several months to write on the topic of modesty, but I know it may not be well-received.  And while this may seem like a woman-only topic, it is not, I am just starting there.

(1 Timothy 2:9-10) In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

When I was younger I often and sang (or played my trumpet) for the church. When attending a new church, the pastor's wife approached me the first time I was scheduled to sing a solo there and gave me a dress code. Although I was only 21 or 22 at the time, I appreciated and respected the church's rules of modesty. However, watching a Christian singer on YouTube a few years ago reminded me the modesty codes of churches 30 years ago have drastically changed, and I cannot keep silent on this issue. 

The female singer I am referring to was singing at a very well-known church founded by a man with strong holiness views (he has since passed away). The singer usually dresses modestly because she also claims to have holiness views. However, her backup singers were wearing very short skirts and high heels. Let's not pretend these women were ignorant that their outfits would get male attention. There is no other reason for a woman to wear skirts/dresses/pants above her calves other than to show off her legs, nor any other reason to wear high heels with a short skirt other than to make her legs look good (with a long dress or pants where you are not showing off skin, heels can simply be more about making one look taller). First, I do not know if the background singers were the main singer's personal choir or were chosen by the church. Either way, that leads me to ask why neither the church nor the "holiness" singer are encouraging its women to dress modestly. It is obviously not just the above-mentioned artist's backup singers, but many women singers wear their skirts/dresses awfully short or their blouses too low cut.  My husband and I have had to turn off Christian  concerts (watching on YouTube) because the women sitting in the front row were wearing skirts above or barely to their knees. Who are they trying to glorify? Not God!

And as mentioned above, lest you think this is a subject for women only, men very much are also guilty of showing off their bodies for attention. I have seen many men wearing skintight shirts and pants as well as unbuttoning their shirts way too low.  It's great to be in healthy physical shape, but when one has the need to show off muscles through shirts that are size too small (you know exactly what I mean), it is about vanity, not about being healthy.  Again, who are they trying to glorify? Not God!

And of course, this goes for all of us whenever we leave our homes.  Not just those in the entertainment industry. Whether it is to an audience of 1 or 10,000, if you are presenting yourself as a Christian, it is absolutely your responsibility to dress modestly, not to titillate! It is not anyone's goal to entice others to lust after you except your spouse.

(Psalm 4:2) How long will ye love vanity?

Neither 1 Timothy 2 (above) or 1 Peter 3 (below) say we should not have nice hairstyles, wear jewelry, or dress in nice clothes, they are simply reminding us that our looks should not be our primary focus. Instead, our focus should be on godliness.  We should desire to honor God even in every way, and this includes the way we dress.

(1 Peter 3:3-5) Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves.

The way women dress themselves and their children becomes obscener every year. In today's society, the way women dress begs for attention. The short shorts, low cut and/or tight tops, see-through clothing, miniskirts, skintight pants/leggings, crop tops, and all bathing suits are designed to show off as much as possible for no other reason than to stir up lust in the opposite sex. Men are turned on by sight alone, and women are not naïve enough to let this fact pass over her head. Although not all, but most women like to tease and titillate. Why do you think pornography is a billion-dollar industry?

If you claim to be a Christian and are dressing provocatively, why? You are trying to titillate and show off your figure. Lust and vanity are both against what the Lord teaches.

(1 John 2:16) For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is NOT of the Father, but IS of the world.

It is bad enough when a single person is trying to purposefully stimulate the opposite gender, but when it is a married person, it is even worse. This revolves around vanity, or more specifically, being so vain you place your ego above your mate to the point you have become disloyal to your marriage.

When I see a woman with a man (whether he is the husband or not) dressed in a way that leaves little to the imagination, it really makes me sad (especially when they have kids with them). My husband, Mel, has put it perfectly; he says that women like that are never going to be loyal. If she wants all men's eyes on her, then she is not honoring the man she is with, be it boyfriend, fiancé, or husband. Logic says if she is willing to show off so much skin and does not care who she titillates, she is willing to cheat on her spouse. If you do not want the attention, then why dress that way? You can be perfectly comfortable in a modest sundress, capris, and not a hint of cleavage needs to be showing even in 100-degree temperatures. I have seen many women dressed modestly and still look beautiful and fashionable. Therefore, using the excuse that it is hot will not work; the truth is that it is all about vanity. God hates vanity and pride.

(Proverbs 6:16-17) These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look...

Matthew 5:28 makes it very clear lusting after someone is a sin, so why would you encourage someone to sin just to boost your own ego?

(Matthew 5:28) But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

When you get married, it is, as Genesis 2:23-24 states, becoming one flesh. You belong to each other. We may not be property in the literal sense, but in a way, we are each other’s property. We belong to God first, then our mate.

Do not dress provocatively. The only man I want looking at me with lust is my husband, Mel. I cannot control who looks at me, but I can control the way I dress outside our home. I am not talking turtlenecks and only ankle-length skirts (although I feel decent length for skirts should be at least mid-calf length and shorts should be at least to your knees), but I use common sense on what would be considered inappropriate. If in doubt, I ask Mel, "Is this too short?" "Is this too low cut?" "Can you see through this?" “Is this too tight?” And I fully trust his opinions. I want to honor both God and my husband with my body

(1 Corinthians 6:19-20) What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

I am especially saddened by parents encouraging their innocent children to dress provocatively. It is a parent’s job to protect their children from all kinds of harm including pedophiles. Do you think these creeps full of perversion are failing to leer at your immodestly dressed child because they (or you) want your child to look "cute"? I will say it again, parents need to protect their children, which includes making better choices on how they dress and act around adults! It is not as if all pedophiles have a large "P" on their forehead. You do not know who is happily titillated that you dressed your child in skimpy clothing and are parading him/her all over town (or over social media)! Or have him/her dancing to secular music and post the very adult movements on social media. You know I am not talking about innocent kids' dances such as "I'm a Little Tea Pot." Kids as young as 2 years old are being offered up as entertainment all over social media dancing to proactive song lyrics and imitating the sexual movements while the adults laugh. God is not laughing! In fact, He weeps for this loss of innocence.

(Matthew 18:6) But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.

I know that certain styles are in fashion, and most will think I am just being old-fashioned, but a lot of these styles represent secular lifestyles, which includes a sexually provocative culture full of loose morals. Being a stand-out Christian in a secular world has more to with how we present ourselves on the outside (which I will explore in part 2) but think twice about why you want to look a certain way. Is it because you are more concerned with being a man-pleaser than a God-pleaser? Who are you trying to imitate, the world or God?