Revelation 3:1-22: The Seven Churches: Part Two, Written by my Husband

 

Revelation 3:1-22: The Seven Churches: Part Two

Written by my Husband (Mel)

(Revelation 3:1-6) And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, "These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: "I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God. Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you. You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." 

Like many churches today, the church at Sardis had a name that it was alive, but it was dead. The Lord told them that He found their works not to be perfect before God. The Lord instructed them to repent, and to strengthen the things, which remain that are ready to die. The Lord told me once that most churches in America are dead, dying, or buried. The revelation that the Lord has given me concerning the apostasy within Christianity shook me to the core. A number of years ago I had an experience that felt like my spirit left my body. I found myself caught up to a place of white milky light. The Lord spoke to me concerning the apostasy, as well as the counterfeit ministers who are wolves in sheep’s clothing. The Lord instructed me to teach sound doctrine, as well as to expose the heretics. Through many visions, dreams, and audible words, the Lord has shown me that pastors are failing to teach their flocks to get sin out of their lives. This grace for everything doctrine is the apostasy (great falling away). Grace is a free gift, but it requires repentance.

However, our good works are not enough to get us to Heaven. We must be redeemed (purchased) by the blood of the Lamb. Our Lord Jesus Christ made atonement for our sins upon the cross. Since our works can never be good enough for salvation, Christ supplies our lack. If we truly make Christ our Lord, His blood will atone for past and present sins, but this requires true repentance. If Jesus Christ is truly your Lord, you will have a spiritual transformation known as being born again. You will be buried with Christ in baptism and raised with Christ as a new creation. You will die to your old sinful nature and reflect God’s divine attributes. We are not perfect by any means, but if we continue in sinful bondages and do not repent, we will be cast away. If you are truly saved, then you must produce good works, as well as fruit. Christ told the church at Sardis that their works were not perfect before God; this emphasizes how crucial our works are.

Christ said to the church at Sardis, “Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.” The messages to the seven churches emphasizes the point that the overcomers will inherit the kingdom, and those who refuse to repent will be thrust into the great tribulation. We must remain awake and watch, as well as prepare for Christ’s return. Christ will return immediately after the great tribulation. Many of the overcomers will be hidden and protected by the Lord in the wilderness during the tribulation (see Revelation 12).

Christ said that there were a few names in Sardis who had not defiled their garments. The faithful ones would be clothed in white. Verse 5 states, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.” This verse shows that our names can be blotted out of the Book of Life if we do not remain faithful to the Lord. The overcomers are those who remain firm in their faith, as well as live a sanctified life unto the end.

(Revelation 3:7-13) And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, "These things says He who is holy, He who is true, "He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens": I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name. Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie--indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you. Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. And I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." 

The Lord praised the church at Philadelphia, because they kept His word and did not deny his name. Therefore, the Lord opened a door for them that no one could shut. They persevered in their faith in spite of persecution from the Jews. Therefore, the Lord said that He would make the Jews worship at their feet, as well as would keep them out of the tribulation. It is obvious that the tribulation did not occur during their time. The message to the seven churches is a dual prophecy. The exhortation to each church is also for us today. If a person is surrendered to the Lord, a door will be opened to them for eternal life, as well as an intimate relationship with Christ. The Lord will protect those during the tribulation who persevere in their faith in spite of adversity. God did not rapture Noah out of the earth or build the ark for him. Rather, God instructed Noah to build the ark, and because of Noah’s obedience, we are here today. Although it took Noah 120 years to build the ark, he persevered and believed God. There is a reward for simple childlike faith. Abraham believed God and his faith was considered righteousness. God told Abraham to leave his home country of Ur and go to a new land. Abraham believed God and set out for this new land because God told him to. In Genesis 15, because of Abraham’s faithfulness God made a covenant with Abraham to give this land to his descendants. If we are faithful to God’s word, as Noah and Abraham were, we will pray and seek the Lord as to where to relocate to ride out the coming storm. If you are in the wrong location, God will not protect you where you are. I believe that God is raising up people who will be guides into the wilderness for His children. Like the early Christians in the book of Acts, Christians will need to band together and share their resources, as well as skills to survive.

In verse 11, Christ said to hold fast to what you have, that no one may take your crown. It is very important that Christians remain in the faith, as well as avoid false doctrines. There are many heretics, false prophets, as well as unsound teachers, which will lead you astray if you are not grounded in God’s Word. That is why it is vital that we study God’s Word for ourselves, and not take a minister’s interpretation as fact. We must remain faithful to the Lord unto the end to receive the crown of eternal life. If it were not possible to be led astray, or lose your salvation, Christ would not have said, “let no one take your crown.”

(Revelation 3:14-22) And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, "These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, 'I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing'--and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked-- I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.  He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."

The church of Laodicea was very similar to the churches today, because they compromised their faith. The Lord said, “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.”  True Christianity does not merely believe in Jesus, it is a lifestyle. If we live, dress, talk, as well as act like the sinful world, we deny our faith, and bring shame upon the name of Christ. I watched a video on YouTube that showed girls in short shorts trying to evangelize the Amish. They did not believe that the Amish were saved because they did not understand their culture. The truth is that the Amish could teach these girls about modesty, as well as holiness. If a person from one hundred years ago, walked the streets of America, as well as attended modern churches today, they would be shocked at what they witnessed. The lewdness of our culture is well displayed within the lives of those who profess to know Christ.

 Many Christians watch television shows and movies filled with profanity, sex, violence, and the occult. If Christians would get rid of their televisions, as well as certain books, they would rid their homes of demons. Many movies and books are a portal for demonic activity to enter your homes and lives. God, as well as His house, are disrespected when women wear mini-skirts to church. Christians represent Christ, and we are to be role models for the world. If there is compromise in our lifestyle, then God will vomit us out like the lukewarm church of Laodicea. Christ told the Laodiceans, that he wished that they were either cold or hot, but because they were lukewarm, he would vomit them out. When some people first come to Christ, they may be cold at first, but they are expected to grow up spiritually. God gives us grace to grow from milk to strong meat. In time, a Christian is expected to become spiritually hot (mature) in the Lord. If you are only lukewarm, then you are compromising your faith, by reflecting the culture and not Christ. Some churches teach that God is progressive. They believe that as our culture becomes more wicked, God gives more grace for sins committed by His children. This is opposite to what the Bible teaches. God, as well as His standards, does not change with time. God is still the Ancient of Days and he will not be mocked.

The Laodiceans were corrupted by their wealth, and were probably lovers of pleasure more than God. The Lord told them that they were wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked. Verse 18, “I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.” The Lord instructed the Laodiceans to be zealous and repent. He said, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten.” Many people today are blinded by the god of materialism. They seek after nice houses, expensive vehicles, fun vacations, or power positions in their community or on their jobs. Most people are comfortable and do not give God or His ways a second thought. God’s Word tells us that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. Christ said, that you cannot serve God and money because only one will be your master. However, it is not a sin to be rich, if you are generous with your money by helping the poor, as well as supporting God’s ministry work. There are people in the Bible that God blessed with wealth, Job, Hezekiah, David, Solomon, Abraham are but a few. These men put God and His kingdom first, and God blessed them for it. However, most people love their money and possessions more than anyone, including God. Greed mingled with selfishness will lead a person down the path of destruction. That is why we all need to do an introspection of our heart, to see where our treasure is. Do we lay up our treasure in Heaven, or on the earth? Do we love and serve God, or money?     

Revelation 2:1-29: The Seven Churches: Part One, Written by my Husband

 

Revelation 2:1-29: The Seven Churches: Part One

Written by my Husband (Mel)

Christ’s message to the seven churches in Asia Minor emphasizes the necessity of Godly works. Most churches today avoid sound doctrine in order to please their tithers, the result is that they are shutting people out of the Kingdom of Heaven. The books of 1 and 2 Peter, James, Epistles of John, as well as Revelation 2 and 3, are ignored by most because they conflict with the false grace message that tickles the ears of many. The Apostle Paul was making his case that we are saved by Faith, and not by keeping the Law of Moses, because we are under a new covenant. Many churches twist some of his teachings in order to bring about a comfortable doctrine that gives grace for un-repented sins. However, Paul made it very clear that if we continue in sinful bondages and do not cross the finish line, we will be lost. To have a complete understanding of God’s Word, you must study the entire Bible and not scripture pick.

(Revelation 2:1-7) Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; "These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.  Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. 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. But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God."

Like many Christians today, the Ephesians were beginning to compromise with the world and were considered unfaithful to Christ. Christ said, that if you love him you will keep his commandments. When Christians take on the attributes of the sinful culture, they are committing spiritual adultery; unless they repent, they will be lost. Christ said that unless the Ephesians repented, he would remove their lampstand from its place before the throne of God. This passage alone makes it clear that Christians can fall from grace, because of un-repented of sinful compromise. That is why it is important that we examine ourselves daily and repent of willful sins. There is grace for sins committed in ignorance, as well as for sins that are repented of, but grace is not automatic. Christ told the Ephesians, not only to repent, but also to do the first works. The first works is a reference to being born again. When we first come to Christ, we die to our old nature and become a new creation through heartfelt repentance. Unless a believer has a transformed life, they are not truly born again. This passage indicates that when we backslide, we are in need of another born again experience. In verse 7, Christ said, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God." This verse is clear that the overcomers will inherit the Kingdom of God. An overcomer is one who endures unto the end and crosses the finish line. You must keep the faith, as well as live a sanctified life until the day you die, to enter God’s paradise.

(Revelation 2:8-11)And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, “These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life: I know your  , tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death." 

The message to the church of Smyrna was one of hope. The Lord was pleased with them because they remained true to Him in spite of persecution. Although they were poor monetarily, they were rich in Spirit. The Lord told them to remain faithful to Him unto death and He would give them the crown of life. The message to the church of Smyrna is also for the many persecuted Christians around the world. There are many home churches in communist China that meet in secret. If they are caught, many will be imprisoned in hard labor camps, where many will die from sickness or malnutrition. The same was true of the former Soviet Union, as well as eastern Europe. In India, as well as the Islamic nations, Christians risk their lives daily for their faith. Many believers have their homes and churches burned to the ground. In spite of the persecution, Christianity is growing and true revival is occurring among the oppressed. When a person must risk their life or imprisonment for their faith, then God’s Spirit makes them strong. The persecuted church is an example of selfless, true Christianity.

(Revelation 2:12-17) And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write, "these things says He who has the sharp two-edged sword: I know your works, and where you dwell, where Satan's throne is. And you hold fast to My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days in which Antipas was My faithful martyr, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality.  Thus you also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it." 

The saints in Pergamos lived in a very evil place. The Lord said that Satan’s throne was in that place. Although wickedness was all around them, many within Pergamos kept their faith and God commended them for this. However, the Lord said that some of them held to the doctrine of Balaam. They ate things sacrificed to idols and some were given over to sexual immorality. The Lord told them to repent, or else he would come to them quickly and fight against them with the sword of His mouth. We live in a perverted culture that is bound by sexual lust of all kinds. Many within the churches, including pastors, are addicted to pornography.

 A home Bible study group leader, made a comment that shocked me. He quoted the statistics of how many pastors admitted to being addicted to pornography within a prominent denomination. He asked the group, “Do you know why so many pastors are addicted to pornography?” He then said,” Because they are only human that is why.” I was shocked that this leader, within a thousand member church, would sanction the use of pornography. This was the same attitude of some of the members of the church at Pergamos. The Lord obviously did not wink at their sin, and say it is okay because you are only human. The Lord told them that unless they repent, He would fight against them with the sword of His mouth. This statement means that they would suffer the judgments of His wrath during the Great Tribulation. There are many other scriptures concerning sexual immorality within God’s Word. Each passage makes it clear, that the sexually immoral will not enter the Kingdom of God. Greasy grace Christianity will give you a fatal heart attack.

(Revelation 2:18-29) And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write, 'These things says the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and His feet like fine brass: I know your works, love, service, faith, and your patience; and as for your works, the last are more than the first. Nevertheless I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols. And I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality, and she did not repent. Indeed I will cast her into a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of their deeds. I will kill her children with death, and all the churches shall know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts. And I will give to each one of you according to your works. Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira, as many as do not have this doctrine, who have not known the depths of Satan, as they say, I will put on you no other burden. But hold fast what you have till I come. And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations-- 'He shall rule them with a rod of iron; They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter's vessels'--as I also have received from My Father; and I will give him the morning star. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." 

Like Pergamos, the Church at Thyatira was given over to sexual immorality and eating foods sacrificed to idols. A woman referred to as a Jezebel, who called herself a prophetess, was teaching and seducing God’s servants to commit these grave sins. The Lord who searches the hearts and minds of everyone, had harsh words for those who refused to repent. The Lord said that He would cast this Jezebel into a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her into the great tribulation, unless they repent of their deeds. The Lord also said that He will kill her children with death, and He will give to each one of you according to your works. As you can read, works do entirely matter. James states that, as the body is dead without the spirit, so faith without works is dead. In addition, at the great white throne judgment, each person will be judged according to their works. On that day, the sheep will be separated from the goats. In verses 25, 26, Christ said, And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations. These verses, emphasize the point, that the overcomers are those who keep His works until the end. That is why it is vital, that Christians understand that they must keep the faith, as well as good works unto the end. 

Jude 1:4: Turning God's Beautiful Grace into a Perverted Lie

 

Jude 1:4: Turning God's Beautiful Grace into a Perverted Lie

(This is blog is part 3 of a series titled, "Warn Everyone Night and Day With Tears."  If you are interested in reading parts 1 and 2, here are the links: part 1: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2023/07/warn-every-one-night-and-day-with-tears.html and part 2: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2023/07/warn-every-one-night-and-day-with-tears_28.html )

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

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

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

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

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

(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?

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

(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. 

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

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

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

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

Now let's look at the words of Jesus:

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

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

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

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

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

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

The next scriptures are speaking of the end times. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(1 Peter 1:14-17) 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: 

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

(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. 

2 John 1:8: Do not Throw Away all you Have Labored For

 

2 John 1:8: Do not Throw Away all you Have Labored For

2 John 1:8 (Amplified Version) Look to yourselves (take care) that you may not lose (throw away or destroy) all that we and you have labored for, but that you may [persevere until you] win and receive back a perfect reward [in full]. "

In other words, when we strive to live a holy life and leave all sinful habits behind us, we need to take care not to fall back into sin.  We must continue to strive for the things of God and pursue a life of holiness if we are to receive the "perfect reward" of eternal life with Jesus Christ.  

(Luke 13:23-24) Then said one unto Him, "Lord, are there few that be saved?" And He [Jesus] said unto them, "Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able."

Our works do indeed matter as this verse clearly states.  If we backslide and throw our free gift of salvation in the garbage, we will lose out on God's perfect gifts of grace, mercy, love, joy, and peace.  

I know it can be easy to get discouraged by negative circumstances or when other people make fun of your beliefs.  But just keep your eyes on Jesus and His great love for you.  Don't give up working for the Lord in whatever way you are capable of and living for the Lord by doing the right things even when it is unpopular.  Even when you feel alone, God is always on your side!

God wants to bless us, but we must do our part and work to not destroy all we have labored for.  Don't throw away God's eternal rewards for the temporal sins of this world.  Choose the paths of righteousness and walk steadfastly on the path that leads to peace that only following God can bring!

1 John 5:14-15: According to His Will

 

 

1 John 5:14-15: According to His Will

The key phrase here is "according to His will."  When we pray, we cannot expect God to answer every prayer.  It is important to include in our prayers just as Jesus did in Luke 22:42, "Not my will, but Your will be done." 

When our prayers are not answered, it does not mean God is deaf to your pleas or does not care.  He answers according to what is best for His children based on His perfect will not our imperfect desires.  

It is often hard to see the big picture, but if we remember that God always has our best interests in His heart, we can always pray with confidence that God is listening and truly cares for us!    

(1 John 5:14-15) And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask any thing according to His will, He heareth us: And if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him.

1 John 2:4: Are you a liar?

  

1 John 2:4: Are you a liar?

There is a lot to be said on the entire book of 1 John as it is the perfect blend of teaching us about God's love and how we should act if we call ourselves a Christian.  Because I have included this chapter quite a few times in my writings, I am going to narrow down today's post to just one verse from 1 John and expand on it from there.

(1 John 2:4) He that saith, "I know Him," and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 

This is so simple, and yet so important.  Consider also:

(John 14:15, 21 & 23-24) [Jesus said,] "If ye love me, keep my commandments.  He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him."

Jesus answered and said unto him, "If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.  He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me."  

If you ever went to church, chances are you have heard and even memorized 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. This is God's love in a teeny tiny nutshell. God loves us, Jesus loves us, and even the Holy Spirit Loves us. If you really stop and think this over, it should overwhelm, awe, and inspire you. The love of the blessed trinity toward us cannot be measured and cannot even fully be explained enough for our finite minds to grasp.

God giving up His beloved Son was a huge sacrifice because He knew how much His Son would suffer when Jesus gave up His peaceful life in paradise.  Would any of us willingly give our child or loved one over to be brutally beaten and murdered just to save someone else?  For me the person I love most in this world is my husband, Mel, and I selfishly would not give him up.  What makes this even more of a beautiful gift is that God knew His gracious son would be mocked in His ministry not only while He walked the earth but every single day before and after.  Few would believe and receive such an amazing gift.  Yet, even in this foreknowledge, the Father and Son still gave us the death on the cross to save all who would receive it, even though few will (Matthew 22:14 & Romans 9:27).  Salvation is a free gift willingly offered at a bloody price, but we must actively choose to accept it in order to obtain it and we must strive to live holy lives in order not to lose our salvation and fall away from Christ (Luke 8:13, II Thessalonians 2:3, II Peter 3:17, Revelation chapters 2 and 3, to name just a few verses).

(Luke 13:23-24) Then said one unto [Jesus], "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." 

Philippians 2 paints us a beautiful picture of Jesus' love for us: 

(Philippians 2: 5-8) Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 

Even though Jesus allowed Himself to be tortured to death just to save our souls from hell, this un-matchless gift has rarely been fully understood.  And worse yet, has rarely been reciprocated.  Isaiah 53 explains it so perfectly:

(Isaiah 53:3 & 6) He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. 

Yes, we say we love Jesus, we sing pretty songs and call ourselves Christians, we even go to church or stream it online.  We practice good works and treat one another with kindness in the name of Jesus, but showing our love for Jesus is so much more that that. 

(Matthew 7:21) Not every one that saith unto me, "Lord, Lord", shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 

(Mark 7:6) He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, "This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me." 

We say we love the Lord, but we refuse to follow down the paths of righteousness.  No one is capable of being perfect, but few even strive for holiness anymore.  Those who preach holiness are called judgmental and legalistic, even though we preach our messages from Jesus' own words (and from the books of the Bible directly inspired by the Holy Spirit).  Let me quote 1 John 2:4 again.

(1 John 2:4) He that saith, "I know Him," and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 

How can we say we love Jesus when we refuse to do what is right?  According to Mark, 1 John, and other verses, we are all hypocrites and liars when we actively rebel against the laws of Jesus Christ.

When we can read the list of actions that will keep us out of the Kingdom of God* but pick and choose what we will and will not obey, we are rejecting the most beautiful gift we have ever been given (*these lists will be at the end of this post).  

Let's face it, we have all been there and nobody likes to love and not be loved in return.  Yet whether that person is the object of infatuation or a family member, the feeling of rejection cannot even come close to comparing how God must feel when we willingly slap Him in the face by saying we will not humble ourselves and bow our will to His own.  If you say you love your spouse you would never, ever cheat on him/her.  Yet when we say we love Jesus but we let our souls rot in front of ungodly television shows, go to bars, watch pornography, lie, cheat, steal, etc., then our love is every bit as tainted as the person who actively cheats on their spouse.

Today is the day to choose to accept the love of the Lord by honoring Him with your lifestyle.  It is never too late to give your life to Christ and ask for forgiveness of your sins either for the first time or to rededicate your life to the Lord and repeat your first works of salvation (see Revelation 2:5).  

(2 Corinthians 6:2) For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 

 (Joshua 24:15)  And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

Jesus is waiting with arms open wide, please won't you accept His precious gift of salvation and eternal 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 21:8) 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. 

(Matthew 19:16-19) And, behold, one came and said unto [Jesus], "Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?"

And He said unto him, "Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."

He saith unto Him, "Which?"

Jesus said, "Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." 

1 Peter 3:12: You are not invisible to God!

 

1 Peter 3:12: You are not invisible to God!

Most of my life I have felt insignificant and invisible.  I was always the short shy kid who tried to hide in the back row of the class, hoping the teacher would never call on me.  When my parents would attend parent/teacher conferences the teachers would look at me and say, to my folks, "I'm only meeting with the parents whose children are in my class." I would quietly respond with, "I have you for third period." The teacher would stare at me a moment, still trying to place me and then suddenly realize, "You're Amy's friend, right? What's your name again?"

Okay, so maybe that only happened two or three times, but to an insecure teenager, once was enough. I always felt like I was nothing more than the friend, sister, or daughter of someone more vibrant and outgoing. The nameless one people could not place if I was apart from my friend or family member.  And, oh how quickly my friends deserted me when someone more interesting came along. It has happened so frequently even into my adult years that I have learned to now think of all friendships as shallow and temporary. It truly is not a mystery why I have a rejection complex.

It is people just like me that have difficulty wrapping their brain around the fact that we are not invisible to the most powerful Being alive. God the Father, the Creator of all the worlds knows each of us by name! 

John 10:3 says Jesus knows and "calls all His sheep by name." In fact, Matthew 10:30 tells us that even "the very hairs on your head are all numbered." Can we even fathom that statement? I cannot!  

It may seem because all sorts of horrific things happen all around the world that God would not bother to take the time to listen to my seemingly insignificant prayers. My life does not seem so very important.  Yet 1 Peter 3:12 tells me again that I am not invisible to God when it states, "the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers." God is indeed aware of me and you, and listening, especially to those who are striving for right living.  

In Revelation 8:3, John had a vision of the angels pouring out the prayers of the saints on a golden altar before the throne of God.  Can you imagine? That is so beautiful!  God is listening to us; we are not invisible to Him.  Is that sinking in?

I realize that in a world full of chaos, it can be hard to think of God as caring about your prayers when He sometimes seems silent.  Even before the time of Adam and Eve, God gave His creations a free will.  It is man's rebellious spirit that has caused the tragedies and curses on this earth. It is man's blatant defiance at a holy God screaming they do not want Him in their lives that will ultimately bring about this world's end. Righteous and unrighteous alike suffer because we are all caught in the crossfire of sin. 

That does not mean, however, that God is ignoring you. Unlike the world around you, God is not picking and choosing who He finds the most entertaining.  He is not going to overlook you because the man or woman next door has a more dramatic need.  He cares about your needs too! Whether I am praying for healing for my husband, praying for my own healing, or praying for a loved one, God cares about each need, and He is listening.  He will answer according to His perfect will, not according to mine. Isiah 55:9 reminds us, "as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." In other words, we must rely on faith to believe God knows what is best for us, even when we think He is silent.  Just because His plan does not match our own it does not mean our needs are invisible to Him. He sees the big picture when we cannot.

Keep in mind, that being visible to God also means that He is always very aware of all we do, good and bad.  You will be judged according to your works (Matthew 16:27 & Revelation 20:12). He sees you looking at pornography, He sees every movie and television show you see, He sees you dancing to worldly music, He sees you getting drunk and using drugs, He sees you cheat, steal, lie, gossip, and call someone a bad name. Not being invisible also means we are not able to hide from God, which also means we will always be accountable for all our actions.  

(2 Chronicles 16:9) For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. 

The truth is, I am still very much insignificant and invisible to most around me except my husband. Unless I am forcing someone to pay attention, I am ignored.  I am not saying this in a self-deprecating way but just stating this as a matter of fact to prove a point.  I do not have to shout to get God's attention, give Him a gift, or make some flattering statement about Him on Facebook to get Him to acknowledge me.  God cares about me right where I sit and where I stand, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  Isaiah 37:28 is a rebuke against a rebellious people, but the words ring true even when our hearts are right with God, so I will just quote part of the verse (you can look it up in its entirety on your own). It says, "I know thy abode, and thy going out, and thy coming in..." In other words, God is always aware of us and our circumstances.

I pray I am conveying all that God had laid on my heart today. I often feel what is burning inside my heart and soul cannot be accurately conveyed by my weak words. My main point today is that God loves you! You are not invisible to Him. He has known you since before you were born and He cares about you even when life seems contrary to that statement.  Things rarely make sense in this world, but when we get to Heaven and see Jesus face to face, we will know and understand beyond any shadow of any doubt that we have never been insignificant or invisible to the almighty God (see 1 Corinthians 13:12).  

I will leave you with words from Psalm 139. Let these scriptures be your comfort.

(Psalm 139:1-18;23-24)

O Lord, You have searched me and known me.

You know my sitting down and my rising up;
You understand my thought afar off.
 You comprehend my path and my lying down,
And are acquainted with all my ways.
 For there is not a word on my tongue,
But behold, O Lord, You know it altogether.
 You have hedged me behind and before,
And laid Your hand upon me.
 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
It is high, I cannot attain it.

 Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Or where can I flee from Your presence?
 If I ascend into heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.
 If I take the wings of the morning,
And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
 Even there Your hand shall lead me,
And Your right hand shall hold me.
 If I say, “Surely the darkness shall fall on me,”
Even the night shall be light about me;
 Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You,
But the night shines as the day;
The darkness and the light are both alike to You.

 For You formed my inward parts;
You covered me in my mother’s womb.
 I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Marvelous are Your works,
And that my soul knows very well.
 My frame was not hidden from You,
When I was made in secret,
And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
 Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed.
And in Your book they all were written,
The days fashioned for me,
When as yet there were none of them.

 How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How great is the sum of them!
 If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand;
When I awake, I am still with You.

 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me, and know my anxieties;
 And see if there is any wicked way in me,
And lead me in the way everlasting. 

Your Leader Has Not Left You

 

Your Leader Has Not Left You 

NOTE: This blog is sort of a part 2 to the one I posted yesterday, so I decided to repost it today.  Originally written in 2025.  You can read yesterday's post "Are you Following the Right Leader?" here: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/04/1-peter-221-22-are-you-following-right.html 

Here is the continuing story of Dresden & the puppies and how we can relate it to our lives:

Very sadly Dresden died on September 1, 2025.  My husband and I miss him dearly, but so do his "puppies," especially Jubilee.  She had been so used to making decisions based on what Dresden did.  Without Dresden's examples, she has to be reminded to eat and drink, which bed to sleep on, and hesitates to go out of the house because her leader is not showing her it is safe to go outdoors.  When it is time to come back in, she looks all over for him, waiting for him to show up.  When prompted to come inside, she eventually comes back but with a heavy sigh, still looking behind for her father figure.  Her grief makes me teary eyed just writing this.

As with the previous blog I wrote about the dogs, I see so much symbolism in Jubilee's hesitation to make any simple decisions.  We have even noticed she seems more timid since Dresden died.  My husband put it this way: She so she trusted Dresden as a safe leader that without him she feels insecure and afraid; her security blanket is gone.

Now I will put this in human terms.  More specifically, Jesus' disciples.  Imagine how lost and confused they must have felt when Jesus died and left.  Even though He had repeatedly told them He would raise from the dead, they still seemed not to have any hope. Here is just one example:

(Matthew 17:22-23) And while they abode in Galilee, Jesus said unto them, The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men: And they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again. And they were exceeding sorry.

Yes, it must have been a dark several days after Jesus died because they could not understand that He was going to be raised from the dead.  

Luke 23:48 says that "all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned."  Which means they were in great grief and distress.  Not encouraging one another to find hope that Jesus would be back from the dead in a few days.  

But what joy when Jesus did finally emerge from the tomb alive!

(Matthew 28:5-6) And the angel answered and said unto the women, "Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for He is risen, as He said."

Yet somehow many were still skeptical. When Mary Magdalene tells them she has seen the risen Christ in Mark 16:9, Mark 16:11 says "when they had heard that He was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not." 

Yet, Jesus does eventually appear to at least 500 people (see 1 Corinthians 15:6), therefore having many witnesses to prove Jesus was indeed alive again!

As joyful as Jesus rising from the dead must have been for His faithful followers, they soon had to say goodbye again as it was time for Jesus to ascend back to Heaven.  Did they weep at this second parting? Maybe, but they were not in deep sorrow as before.  

(Luke 24:51-53) And it came to pass, while [Jesus] blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshipped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.   

This says they had great joy and continually praised and worshipped God.  So why did they despair when he died but felt joy when He left again.  What made the difference?  They should have been expecting Jesus to raise from the dead as He had told them He would, but their human minds had trouble grasping that fact.  After seeing Lazarus and others raised from the dead, I am sure there must have been some who had hope and believed in the Power to also raise Jesus from the dead.  Yet, most failed to understand.  Just like most of us, we must see to believe.  His resurrection greatly encouraged them and left them with a renewed hope of seeing Him again either as He returned to earth one last time, or in Heaven when they died.  

Let me go back to where I started.  Are you wondering what my dog Jubilee has to do with all this?  Perhaps it is because I was a preacher's kid and like my late dad used to say, "you can find a sermon in anything," that I see a sermon here.  I am not trying to be disrespectful by comparing Jesus and His disciples to dogs, it is simply the way my mind works to see spiritual messages in many different circumstances in my life. 

Just like Jubilee, when we are separated from our leader, we despair and feel fear.  We feel lost and confused about what direction to take.  In the case of the disciples of old, they were not spiritually separated from Jesus, they had not backslidden, they felt grief and missed their beloved Teacher.  Their misunderstanding and lack of faith caused unnecessary turmoil.  

I am taking a long time getting to it, but this message is for modern day disciples who once found hope in Jesus and figuratively sat His feet in Bible study, praise, and prayer.  Then, for whatever reason, chose to backslide away from Him.  Now without Him they are feeling lost and confused.  Not sure what to do.  Not even sure how to get back to Jesus.  Just as with those who walked when Jesus walked, people today allow their misunderstanding and lack of faith to cause unnecessary turmoil.  Blaming God for every bad circumstance in their lives and refusing to see hope and find joy in the midst of pain, to the point where they backslide.    

Here is the great news!  Jesus never left you!  He is always calling you back to Him!  

There are many beautiful passages on Jesus calling backsliders back to Him (see Matthew 18:11-13, Hosea 14:1-9, Revelation 2:4-5, etc.).

You can find hope for the backslider in Jeremiah 3. First acknowledge your sins. It is a beautiful passage of scripture that lets us know that God wants so deeply for us to return to Him (2 Peter 3:9 - The Lord... is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.).

(Jeremiah 3:13-15) "Only acknowledge thine iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against the Lord thy God... and ye have not obeyed my voice," saith the Lord. "Turn, O backsliding children," saith the Lord; "for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family... And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding."         

Unlike Jubilee, your Leader is not dead and is very much alive and wants you to once again allow Him to lead your life.  When you go back to following the ways of Jesus Christ, you will again feel peace and joy! 

You can read more on this topic in my blog "Hope for the Backslider" here: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/hosea-141-9-hope-for-backslider.html