John 8:12-59: Do you hear and believe the words of Jesus?

John 8:12-59: Do you hear and believe the words of Jesus?

In John 8:12-59, Jesus again is being questioned by the Pharisees and other Jews.  They accuse Him of having a devil and want to kill Him.

I imagine it must have been so frustrating for Jesus to have to continually try to convince others that He was the Son of God.  They were always arguing with Him and calling Him a liar.  Yet He always took the time to explain Himself and tried to convince them of His identity.

You will see in verse 30 that some did allow their hearts to soften and believed Him.  I love where it says in verse 47, "He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God."  Sums it up quite nicely.

More amazingly, with all their animosity and disbelief, Jesus was still willing to die for their sins! He was also willing to do the same for us! May we always show Him respect by believing He is the divine Son of God!

(John 8:12-16, 23-36, 42-50, & 59) Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, "I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."

The Pharisees therefore said unto him, "Thou bearest record of thyself; thy record is not true."

Jesus answered and said unto them, "Though I bear record of myself, yet my record is true: for I know whence I came, and whither I go; but ye cannot tell whence I come, and whither I go... my judgment is true: for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent me."

And He said unto them, "Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world. I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins."

Then said they unto Him, "Who art thou?"

And Jesus saith unto them, "Even the same that I said unto you from the beginning. I have many things to say and to judge of you: but He that sent me is true; and I speak to the world those things which I have heard of Him."

They understood not that he spake to them of the Father.

Then said Jesus unto them, "When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am He, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things. And He that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him."

As He spake these words, many believed on Him.

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on Him," If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

"They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?"

Jesus answered them, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."

Jesus said unto them, "If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me. Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word. Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me? He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God."

Then answered the Jews, and said unto Him, "Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?"

Jesus answered, "I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me. And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth."

Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.

John 5:5-23: You Cannot Put God in a Box

 

John 5:5-23: You Cannot Put God in a Box

In John 5, Jesus heals a crippled man on the Sabbath and then tells the healed man to take up his "bed and walk."  The man is not aware it is Jesus that has healed him but later identifies Jesus as his healer to the Pharisees.  They become angry with Jesus for healing on a Sabbath and instructing the man to carry his mat.  Where is the awe at the miracle Jesus performed?

Sometimes I think Jesus enjoyed showing the hypocritical "religious" leaders that they could not place God in a box.  You cannot confine God to man's laws.  Jesus wants us to keep the Sabbath holy as a way to honor Him (Exodus 20:8), but He also realizes that there are some things that are not considered a sin, such as carrying a mat.  Also, if a good deed can be done that requires work on the Sabbath, why would one refuse to help simply because it is a Saturday or Sunday.  I do not believe Jesus cares which day you choose for some form of Sabbath as long as you set aside a special day for God.  We should honor God 7 days a week, of course, but choosing one day a week for extra Bible study, praise, and prayer is a great way to honor the King of Kings.

I like Jesus' answer in verse 17, "My Father worketh hitherto, and I work " In other words, the Holy Trinity always has work to do and no man nor any of man's laws can prevent God from doing whatever He wants whenever He wants!  

Be careful not to put Jesus into a box - He cannot and should not be confined. 

In my opinion, man-made religions are the biggest offenders of placing God in a box.  How can one define a religion as man-made?  I do not mean the laws of Jesus Christ, but religion created by man-made traditions. What I have is a relationship with my Creator.  It is personal and different for everyone.  When we confine God to ritual and obligation, we limit the spontaneous experiences.  By this I mean if we read liturgy or follow the exact same routine in church every week, we quench the leading of God's spirit.  When we pray, we should pray from our heart and use our own words, no matter if we think we sound awkward or don't quite know how to word ourselves. 
 
Religion is a thousand different denominations.  Relationship with God is a one-on-one experience.  If you go to church and only say and do what your leaders tell you to do without considering what Jesus tells you to do or not to do, you are into religion.  If you only believe what you hear and never seek Biblical Truths apart from what others tell you, you are into religion.  

Read your Bible and study on your own.  Closely examine every book of the Bible.  Not everything the church teaches is accurate.  I promise if you start reading your Bible outside of a group, you will often find yourself sitting in church saying, "That's not what the Bible teaches."  

My point is, not seeking God's face and discovering who He can be to you is keeping God in a box.  When you meet someone for the first time, do you take all the rumors you've heard about him at face value?  Or do you get to know this person based on forming your own opinions?  

Would you get married and then never talk to your spouse?  Would you tell yourself you knew your mate well enough before you got married so you don't bother trying to learn all his layers and all he has to offer?  Would your love for each other stop growing after the wedding?  I sure hope not!  No, you would continue to get to know every nuance about each other and fall more and more in love. The same attitude should be applied to Jesus.  Get to know Him better and better.  Walking with the Lord means you never stop learning and growing in Christ.  

The more you grow in Christ, the more He outgrows that tiny box, and you will see just how truly limitless God truly is!

(John 5:5-23) And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years.

When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, "Wilt thou be made whole?..." Jesus saith unto him, "Rise, take up thy bed, and walk." And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath.

The Jews therefore said unto him that was cured, "It is the sabbath day: it is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed."

He answered them, "He that made me whole, the same said unto me, 'Take up thy bed, and walk.'"

Then asked they him, "What man is that which said unto thee, "'Take up thy bed, and walk?'"

And he that was healed wist not who it was: for Jesus had conveyed himself away, a multitude being in that place. 

Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, "Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee."

The man departed, and told the Jews that it was Jesus, which had made him whole. And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.

But Jesus answered them, "My Father worketh hitherto, and I work."

Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.

Then answered Jesus and said unto them, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will. For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him."

Luke 22:31-32: Jesus prays for us!

 

Luke 22:31-32: Jesus prays for us!

This portion in Luke 22 is very rich. Verse 31 says, "And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat."

This shows that our lives/souls are being fought over by both sides of heaven and hell.  Be not deceived that Satan desires to steal every single human soul away from God's eternal Kingdom.

Ephesians 6:12 tells us, "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." 

There is an ever-going-on war for our souls.  We must arm ourselves against this battle by reading scripture and keeping in contact with God daily in prayer.

The good news is that in verse 32, Jesus tells Peter, "But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren."

Romans 8:26 also beautifully states, "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered."

It is so amazing to know He intercedes for us.  Jesus fights for us because He does not want anyone to go to hell.

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

He also desires our souls so we can be strong in our faith and minister to others.  With God on our side, we will win the war and devote our lives and souls to God for all eternity.

Luke 17 & 22: Where the Eagles Gather

 

Luke 17 & 22: Where the Eagles Gather

Rather than writing commentary on these passages, I will do what is always best, let the Words of God speak for themselves and pray they give you wisdom.  

**Fellow believers, please let's not divide on this issue. Prayerfully study God's Word and love one another whether you agree or disagree.**

If you would like more commentary on the subject, feel free to see the links at the end of this writing.

(Luke 17:26-30 & 34-37 ) [Jesus said,] "And as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed."

"I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left. Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left."

And they answered and said unto Him, "Where, Lord?"

And He said unto them, "Wheresoever the body is, thither will the eagles be gathered together." [NOTE: Jesus does NOT say they are taken in a pre-tribulation rapture.)

(See also Job 39:27 & 30 - Doth the eagle mount up at thy command, and make her nest on high? Her young ones also suck up blood: and where the slain are, there is she.)

(Luke 21:7-11, 20-22, 25-28) And they asked Him, saying, "Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass?"

And He said, "Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by."

Then said He unto them, "Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven. And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto."

"For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. AND THEN shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh."

Links to other writings on the subject of the timing of Jesus' return:

Please Do Not Let Fear Influence What You Believe https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/10/please-do-not-let-fear-influence-what.html

Discerning the Signs of the Times https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/09/discerning-signs-of-times.html

 Zephaniah 2:3The Great Day of the Lord, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/zephaniah-23-great-day-of-lord-written.html

Mark 13:3-8, 13-14, 21-27, & 32-37: "When shall these things be?" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/01/mark-133-8-13-14-21-27-32-37-when-shall.html

Questions and Answers About the Rapture https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/questions-and-answers-about-rapture.html

There's Hope for All Who Follow the Instructions https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/10/theres-hope-for-all-who-follow.html

The Truth About the Second Coming of Christ, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/11/the-truth-about-second-coming-of-christ.html

Dream of the Return of Christ and Preparation for his Coming, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2017/04/dream-of-return-of-christ-by-mel.html

Revelation 3:1-22: The Seven Churches: Part Two, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/05/revelation-31-22-seven-churches-part.html

Luke 14:26-30 & 33: Consider the Cost

 

 Luke 14:26-30 & 33: Consider the Cost

Luke 14:28 says, "For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost..."

This portion of scripture made sense to me for the first time 9 years ago.  Jesus is saying that we must be prepared to lose it all if we want to follow Him.  You must consider what following Jesus (building a spiritual tower) may cost you.  It is a very real possibility that friends and relatives will desert you when you choose Jesus and a moral lifestyle.  Especially if your new beliefs go against their own or if you are now giving up hanging out with them at the bars, watching movies with them, etc.  The world is more than happy to make fun of you and call you judgmental when you choose to follow the ways of the Bible rather than the ungodly ways of the world.  

Verse 30 says the one who does not finish his tower will be "mocked" by others.  So yes, my dear readers, when you call yourself a Christian, you will be watched very closely.  If you backslide and decide you would rather be accepted by the world and therefore go back to your ungodly ways, you will indeed be mocked as being spiritually weak.    

When you go backwards to Verse 26, it does not literally mean we have to hate our family in order to follow Jesus, especially since the message of Jesus was to love one another.  We are to hate the sin and be willing to lose them if Jesus asks it of us.  To choose our relationship with Jesus over a relationship with those who oppose Him.  

We should be willing to follow the rules and not be "unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness?"  We are to "come out from among them, and be ye separate" so that we can be called God's "sons and daughters" (see 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1). 

Should an issue arise where I had to choose between any person or Jesus, I must know before it happens who I would choose and count the cost before I claim to be a disciple, or I cannot give Jesus 100% of my heart.  I must love Jesus above all and be willing to lose friends and family for the sake of the gospel.  I must take a stand for the King of Kings.

Please do not get me wrong, I am not suggesting we shun people who are different.  We still need to love and pray for those who are against our beliefs and witness as we can.  However, the Bible gives us permission to walk away from relationships with people who are overly cruel or antagonistic of our beliefs.  It also says in Luke 9:5 "And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet."  In other words, when others openly mock your Biblical stand, it is acceptable to walk away from a close relationship with them.  But again, pray for them and if they need help, be there for them and if they are every ready to receive the gospel, be quickly ready to share it again. 

A few more examples that show we need to be careful with whom we associate: 1 Corinthians 5:9-1 says we are not to keep company with people who actively choose an immoral lifestyle, and Romans 16:17-19 says to avoid those whose doctrines are not from Jesus. 2 Thessalonians 3:6 & 14 commands us to walk away from those who walk in ungodly ways and 1 Timothy 6:3-5 also says to withdraw from those whose beliefs promote are ungodly behaviors and doctrines. Are you willing to follow this very Godly council from the Word of God? 

No, I do not "hate" anyone, but I love Jesus, and I am willing to choose Christ above all others. If the world forsakes me, I will cling to Jesus, as He is all I need.

(Luke 14:26-33) [Jesus said,] "If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple."

"For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, 'This man began to build, and was not able to finish.'"

"So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple."

Luke 12:42-48: Responsibility

 

Luke 12:42-48: Responsibility

Luke 12:48 says that "whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required."

The parable where this verse is located can be located in Luke 12:41-48.  It has to do with being prepared for the Lord's return and working for Him until He comes.  You can also interpret it as using God's gifts in a responsible way and learning to be a "faithful and wise steward" (verse 42).  The better you handle the responsibility, the more God may bless you.  Yet, if you waste the talents or misuse them, you may be punished.

Those that are given a lot of responsibility such as with a leadership position, much will be expected of them.  You will be held to a higher standard if you want to be the one in charge.  If you want to be the one giving the orders and, in some cases, even responsible for physical or spiritual lives, you cannot be a hypocrite and you need to practice what you preach.   In other words, you must lead with a moral example.  You will be accountable to God if you are dictatorial, abusive, stingy, unfair, unloving, or cruel in the workplace, home, and in a spiritual or political position. 

If you are given much money, you are expected to be generous as well as frugal and responsible.  God does not fault us having nice things, and enjoying life, in fact He wants us to be blessed.  But make no mistake, He is very displeased with those who spend their money on items of vanity and excessive unnecessary items rather than help the poor and needy.  How many hurting people could you support through a charity with the expensive jewelry, excessive clothing, luxury items, electronics, etc., you waste money on each month?  Rather than spending money on ungodly entertainment or buying a $7 cup of coffee, use that money to help a charity. (Wholesome activities that encourage marital/family bonding are pleasing to God, so know I am not discouraging family vacations/retreats, gifts to support your spouse/kids/pets, and collectibles within a reasonable budget.)  

Another way to look at this verse is in the area of talent. The parable states that the Lord wants to "find" us using our talents for His glory when He comes.  If God has granted you with talent, no matter how big or small, you should use it for His glory and not to promote the world or yourself.  Be responsible by not using your gifts to glorify immoral behaviors you know go against the Bible.  In other words, if you have a talent for artwork, paint pictures glorifying the Lord and His creation, not sexualized, violent, or occult images.  If you can write, write stories or poems that show God at the center, not smut, murder mysteries that glorify death and violence, or stories about witchcraft.  If you have musical ability, use it to praise the Lord.  It is a huge pet peeve of mine when "Christian" artists sing cross-over music that promotes sex (even within marriage as certain things should be private), drinking, have swear words in them, or have no message at all.  If God is gracious enough to bless you with an ability, why give that gift to the world and not back to the One who gave it to you? No matter how small you may think your talent is, don't refuse to share it with others and be willing to lift the name of Jesus high!

If God trusts you enough to bless you as a leader, with finances, and/or with talent, honor Him by treating your responsibility with wisdom, morality, and integrity.

(Luke 12:42-48) And the Lord said, "Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath."

"But and if that servant say in his heart,' My lord delayeth his coming'; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken; The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes."

"But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more."

Luke 9:23: A Daily Decision

 

Luke 9:23: A Daily Decision

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.

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.

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 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."  

For the full article on this subject, feel free to read my writing titled: "

The Beginning, Middle, and End" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-beginning-middle-and-end.html

Luke 8:16-17: Light or Dark?

 

Luke 8:16-17: Light or Dark?

Luke 8:16-17 paints a good picture of light and darkness in our lives.  Verse 16 reminds us not to cover our lights, but to "setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light." We must do our best to let our Christianity shine brightly in order to encourage, comfort, and even sometimes gently correct others. 

Verse 17 reminds that "nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest."  Christ knows and sees all.  Even if no other person ever discovers your sins, God will ALWAYS know.  He may even find a way for others to discover your secrets as well.  

It is our choice - live in the Light or hide in the dark.  I choose the Light!

(Luke 8:16-17) No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light.

For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither anything hid, that shall not be known and come abroad. 

Luke 1:26-38: No One Compares to Jesus

 

Luke 1:26-38: No One Compares to Jesus

Even by His very conception, Jesus proved that nothing is impossible within the will of God. His is the only virgin birth as a sign that He is pure and sovereign.  No one has ever come close to being as loving, tender, bold, brave, wise, fair, and sacrificial as Jesus Christ!

Jesus left a place more perfect than we can ever imagine to live in a sinful, primitive, violent world.  While we marvel at Jesus’ miraculous birth to a virgin, remember the story does not stop there. Jesus was born for the sole purpose of giving up His life thirty-three years later.  Jesus gave up His throne surrounded by angels 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.  He would willingly endure excruciating torture.  (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, 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! His blood on the cross is the only reason you and I have the option of spending eternity with Him in paradise.  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.

It is His glorious face we must seek today! 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.

As you read through the book of Luke and of the shepherds marveling at the baby Jesus, think of how much more magnificent it will be to bow at the throne of the living God! 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!

(Luke 1:26-38)  And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.

And the angel came in unto her, and said, "Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women."

And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.

And the angel said unto her, "Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end."

Then said Mary unto the angel, "How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?"

And the angel answered and said unto her, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God... For with God nothing shall be impossible."

And Mary said, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. "

And the angel departed from her.

Luke 1:5-14, 39-41, 57, 67, & 76-80: Prepare the Way for the Lord

 

Luke 1:5-14, 39-41, 57, 67, & 76-80: Prepare the Way for the Lord

God answered the prayers of Zacharias and Elisabeth because of their faithful obedience to Him.  Not only did God gift them with a son, but He sent an angel to foretell of this special child's birth!  This son was so important to the Kingdom of God, he was filled with the Holy Spirit even in the womb, and his future ministry was prophesied in Isaiah 40:3, (The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.")

This child was John the Baptist and would prepare the way for Jesus Christ.  What an honor!  May we all prepare the hearts of others for the love of Jesus Christ.

(Luke 1:5-14, 39-41, 57, 67, & 76-80) There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.

And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course, According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

But the angel said unto him, "Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.

And Mary [the mother of Jesus] arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda; And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth. And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost.

Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son. 

And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, "And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel."

If you are interested, you can read my writings on Zacharias and John the Baptist here:

Profile of a Doubter, Part 3: Zacharias: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2024/02/profile-of-doubter-part-3-zacharias.html

The Ministry of John the Baptist: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2024/02/the-ministry-of-john-baptist.html

Mark 13:3-8, 13-14, 21-27, & 32-37: "When shall these things be?"

 

Mark 13:3-8, 13-14, 21-27, & 32-37: "When shall these things be?"

(I will be posting more on this subject later, but in the meantime, see the end of this post for links on more writings about the timing of the rapture.)

Mark 13 speaks of Christ's return.  This chapter, as well as Matthew 24 and Luke 21 all make it very clear that it will be "after the tribulation." 

**Fellow believers, please let's not divide on this issue. Prayerfully study God's Word and love one another whether you agree or disagree.**

The Bible gives instructions on what the Christians should do during the tribulation to stay safe.  Verse 14 says, "flee to the mountains." When you read Revelation 12:6, it also says we must flee to the wilderness to be safe.  If we follow God's instructions, we will be kept safe.  If we realize there is not a pre-tribulation rapture and prepare now, we can be safe during times even more perilous than we are seeing now (this will include storing food before the great famine comes mentioned in Revelation 6:5-6).

(Mark 13:3-8, 13-14, 21-27, & 32-37) And as he sat upon the mount of Olives over against the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately, "Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled?"

And Jesus answering them began to say, "Take heed lest any man deceive you: For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains. And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here is Christ; or, lo, he is there; believe him not: For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect. But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things."

"But in those days, AFTER that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken. AND THEN shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. AND THEN shall he send his angels, and shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from the uttermost part of the earth to the uttermost part of heaven. But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is. For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch."

Links to other writings on the subject of the timing of Jesus' return:

Please Do Not Let Fear Influence What You Believe https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/10/please-do-not-let-fear-influence-what.html

Discerning the Signs of the Times https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/09/discerning-signs-of-times.html

 Zephaniah 2:3The Great Day of the Lord, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/zephaniah-23-great-day-of-lord-written.html

Luke 17 & 22: Where the Eagles Gather https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/02/luke-17-22-where-eagles-gather.html

Questions and Answers About the Rapture https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/questions-and-answers-about-rapture.html

There's Hope for All Who Follow the Instructions https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/10/theres-hope-for-all-who-follow.html

The Truth About the Second Coming of Christ, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/11/the-truth-about-second-coming-of-christ.html

Dream of the Return of Christ and Preparation for his Coming, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2017/04/dream-of-return-of-christ-by-mel.html

Revelation 3:1-22: The Seven Churches: Part Two, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/05/revelation-31-22-seven-churches-part.html

Mark 6, 7, & 8: Faith and Understanding

 

Mark 6, 7, & 8: Faith and Understanding

In Mark chapter 6-8, you see the lack of faith and understanding in Jesus' disciples. 

Mark 6:52 says, "For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened."  This, of course, is speaking of the miracle Jesus performed a few verses earlier in verses 33-44, where He fed 5,000 people with just five loaves and two fish.  Now, when they see Jesus walking on the water in verses 47-52, the disciples have already forgotten about His miraculous power.

Next, in chapter 7, Jesus is trying to teach the disciples that the dietary laws are not necessary because it is not what enters a man that defiles him.  He begins with a frustrated question that shows Him wondering why His own disciples who are with Him every day still cannot understand His teachings.

Again, in chapter 8, verses 17-21, Jesus is rebuking the disciples for their lack of faith and understanding.  He reminds them of both the previous miracle in Mark 7, and then a similar incident where He fed 4,000 (verses 1-9). When He tries to teach them that they must "beware of the leaven of the Pharisees," they mistakenly think He is talking about literal bread and not about sin.  Jesus asks them how they have "eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not?"  Don't they remember all the miracles they have seen thus far?  He must have been so frustrated with those that sat at His feet and still were not grasping His teachings. Mark 8:21 He asks, "How is it that ye do not understand?"

I truly believe Jesus says the same words to me.  How can I witness His mighty works, feel His love, and still not get it?  How do I still doubt?  How can I read the words of Christ and still sin?  It is so important that I pray for understanding for my every-day walk.  I want the gift of discernment so that I do not miss the point Jesus is trying to teach me.

I pray for wisdom and faith to grasp all I read in the Bible and when I feel the presence of God through prayers and praise.  I pray for remembrance lest I forget what He has already done! I do not want to be a forgetful thick-headed or hard-hearted disciple.  

Change my heart, o God, that I may always both hear and understand all you are trying to teach me!

(Mark 6:37-38, 41-44 & 48-52) He answered and said unto them, "Give ye them to eat."

And they say unto Him, "Shall we go and buy two hundred pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat?"

He saith unto them, "How many loaves have ye? go and see."

And when they knew, they say, "Five, and two fishes."

And when He had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, He looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all. And they did all eat, and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes. And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men.

And He saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. But when they saw Him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: For they all saw him, and were troubled. 

And immediately He talked with them, and saith unto them, "Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid."

And He went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened.

(Mark 7: 18-23) And He saith unto them, "Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him; Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats?" 

And he said, "That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man."

(Mark 8:2-9 & 14-21) "I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now been with me three days, and have nothing to eat: And if I send them away fasting to their own houses, they will faint by the way: for divers of them came from far."

 And His disciples answered Him, "From whence can a man satisfy these men with bread here in the wilderness. "

And He asked them, "How many loaves have ye?"

And they said, "Seven."

And He commanded the people to sit down on the ground: and he took the seven loaves, and gave thanks, and brake, and gave to His disciples to set before them; and they did set them before the people. And they had a few small fishes: and he blessed, and commanded to set them also before them. So they did eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets. And they that had eaten were about four thousand: and He sent them away.

Now the disciples had forgotten to take bread, neither had they in the ship with them more than one loaf. And He charged them, saying, "Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod."

And they reasoned among themselves, saying, "It is because we have no bread."

And when Jesus knew it, He saith unto them, "Why reason ye, because ye have no bread? perceive ye not yet, neither understand? have ye your heart yet hardened? Having eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember? When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?"

They say unto him, "Twelve." 

"And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?"

 And they said, "Seven."

 And He said unto them, "How is it that ye do not understand?"

Mark 4:1-20: The Parable of the Sower

 

Mark 4:1-20: The Parable of the Sower

This is my humble commentary of the “Parable of the Sower (see also Matthew 13:1-23).

This parable begins with, “Behold, a sower went out to sow," and Jesus interprets this as, "The sower sows the word.”  The sower may be a preacher that teaches people the Word of the Lord, or it could even be the Lord who gives us the wisdom.  Remember, in Jesus’ time, He was the people’s teacher, the Living Word of God, as the New Testament had yet to be written!  Either way you view it, the only way to have the Word sown in your heart is to read (or listen to) the Bible.  Having a preacher teach it is a great start but studying on your own and discovering what the Bible really says is always best as many ministers preach messages simply to tickle the ears of their congregation in order to get a bigger offering.  I always insist that none of my readers take my words for granted.  Do your own research.  Read the Bible daily and study all you read and pray for God’s clarity to reveal the Truth of His holy words.

 

Some seed falls by the wayside; and the birds devour it.  Another term for wayside is edge, so you may consider this the seed that plants itself only around the edges of your heart and does not work its way into the heart or mind.  Jesus tells the multitude that birds devour the seed but tells his disciples that the birds represent Satan.  Satan uses television, movies, social media, video games, sports, vanity, hobbies, and other people to keep us from studying the Word so that one never takes the time to cultivate the seed planted.  In a sense, all one is taught of the ways of holiness are devoured as they are forgotten and pushed aside for the pleasures of the world. 

 

The seed that falls on stony ground springs up quickly as if one has accepted what they heard, and it begins to affect their way of thinking.  However, because the soil in their heart is stony, you may easily interpret this as hard-hearted.  The heart does not have much earth because the person is shallow and does not choose to dig deeper into the Word of God and takes everything someone else claims to be the truth as truth.  This person really is a surface-only believer and is not on fire for the things of the Lord.  This is most likely why, when the sun scorches the seed, it withers as it has no roots.  Jesus says these people immediately stumble when faced by trials.

Fear may be the opposite of faith, but do not let anyone tell you it is a sin.  Afterall, Jesus was so afraid of his upcoming crucifixion that he sweat blood (See Luke 22:44), and we all know Jesus was sinless.  So being afraid of life’s trials is acceptable, but we need to remember to do as Jesus did when he was terrified, pray to our Heavenly father for strength.

The thorns that choke the seed are not just the cares of the world that we choose to put above our Lord, but also the pleasures of the world we place as idols above the Lord.  Those that let the Word of the Lord be choked out, put everyone and everything else above time with Jesus.  The Bible, praying, and praise get placed on the back burner so one can watch television, play/socialize on the computer, go shopping, eat, exercise, work, spend time with friends, etc.  When we are not daily grounded in God’s promises, all the noise of the world chokes out God’s Truths.  I prefer the words of Jesus Christ over anything in the Bible, but when I am down, my next choice would be the Psalms.  In my devotional time this morning, I was reminded of Psalm 23 not only while I was reading the passage in my devotional, but also two songs came on my Kindle that were the words to Psalm 23 (it was on shuffle mode)!   That was no coincidence, especially since I have been dwelling on this same Psalm for several days now.  God wanted to remind me that He is my Good Shepherd, and I do not need to fear even in the scariest of valleys.  Surely, His goodness and mercy are my strength.  If I did not allow myself to dwell in scripture and feel very comforted by the words, my seeds could have been choked out by worry. 

Jesus says the ones who let their seeds be choked out stumble and become unfruitful.  Yes, Christians can stumble and backslide, and even fully turn away and lose their salvation.  However, when one repents, and ONLY when one repents, the Lord will take his prodigal child back (see Luke 15:1-31).  Revelation 2:5 reminds us, “Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place--unless you repent.”  When we repent, Jesus will take us back!  So, even if we stumble, there is hope that our loving Father is quick to forgive the humble heart that asks for forgiveness. 

As I just mentioned above, well, as Jesus mentions, when one allows his seed to be choked out, he becomes unfruitful.  What are the unfruitful works of the flesh listed in  Galatians 5:19-21 - Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness,  idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Pay close attention to that list, it is a good reminder that when we fail to let God’s Word seep into the soil of our hearts, one is bound to pursue ungodly actions.  One more note (off the subject a bit, but I feel God wants me to remind you of this), notice the word “sorcery” up there?  Please, if you must watch movies or television, let go of watching all programs (and books) that glorify witchcraft, and therefore open the doors wide for Satan's influence in your life.  Notice also that habitual sins of the above will shut you out of the Kingdom of God.  Repentance of sins and discarding unholy ways are keys to having God’s seeds firmly planted in your heart and being fruitful.

Now, let’s go to the end of this parable and see that one who allows the seeds of God’s Word to become firmly planted will produce fruit in various levels.  These seeds are sown in good ground.  This means one who is open and receptive to the things of the Lord. One who is humble enough to admit wrong-doing and work at fleeing from a sinful lifestyle. One who is willing to be taught and eagerly sits at the feet of Jesus waiting to learn something new every day.  One who is not going to let the cares of a fallen world take away their love for their Heavenly Father.  No one is perfect, of course, we all make mistakes and do wrong things.  We all have fear and doubt.  But the answer lies in clinging to the seeds planted in your heart.  And clinging even more so to the Author of the Words.  Let Jesus be your comfort, your corrector, and your hope.  When you allow God to take control of your life, it will be much easier to produce good fruit.  listed in Galatians 5:22-26 - But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. 

People tend to leave out the part that says we must live in the Spirit and crucify our flesh.  Even these verses in Galatians (as well as in the above verses) show that grace is free, but sins are not automatically forgiven unless we repent.  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. 

We must put aside the unfruitful traits and pursue the fruits of the spirit.  Only then will the seeds in our hearts flourish and grow beautiful fruits.  Fruits that can feed and nurture others.  

(Mark 4:1-20) And again He began to teach by the sea. And a great multitude was gathered to Him, so that He got into a boat and sat in it on the sea; and the whole multitude was on the land facing the sea. Then He taught them many things by parables, and said to them in His teaching: "Listen! Behold, a sower went out to sow. And it happened, as he sowed, that some seed fell by the wayside; and the birds of the air came and devoured it. Some fell on stony ground, where it did not have much earth; and immediately it sprang up because it had no depth of earth. But when the sun was up it was scorched, and because it had no root it withered away. And some seed fell among thorns; and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no crop. But other seed fell on good ground and yielded a crop that sprang up, increased and produced: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred." 

And He said to them, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear!" But when He was alone, those around Him with the twelve asked Him about the parable. 

And He said to them, "To you it has been given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God; but to those who are outside, all things come in parables, so that 'Seeing they may see and not perceive, And hearing they may hear and not understand; Lest they should turn, And their sins be forgiven them.' "And He said to them, "Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables?  The sower sows the word. And these are the ones by the wayside where the word is sown. When they hear, Satan comes immediately and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts. These likewise are the ones sown on stony ground who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness; and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word's sake, immediately they stumble.  Now these are the ones sown among thorns; they are the ones who hear the word, and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept it, and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred."