Hosea 14:1-9: Hope for The Backslider

 

Hosea 14:1-9: Hope for The Backslider

You and I know that God's salvation is a free gift that we do not have to earn, but too often, God's beautiful gift of grace is abused, and people do not think they need to be responsible for their actions. However, God's Word is very clear that grace is not an excuse to sin.

(Romans 6:1, 2, & 6) 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? Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

When one uses grace as a reason not to live a Holy life, they are in danger of backsliding away from their salvation. Not every mistake we make automatically causes us to lose our salvation, of course, but living in habitual sins we refuse to get rid of and repent from, will risk losing our place in paradise with God. It is open rebellion that keeps us separated from a Holy God.

(Revelation 20:12 & 21:8) 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. 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. 

There are many verses in the Bible that speak of the backsliding Christian, and also many verses that offer hope for those who have fallen away from the Truths of Jesus Christ. I am going to let the Holy Word of God tell you the story with just a few of these scriptures.

The verses in Hosea were written for the rebellious people of Israel, but we can all apply it to our lives. The hope here is that God will heal all who have backslidden away from Him and wants them to return to His ways of holiness.

(Hosea 14:1-9) Return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity... and turn to the Lord: say unto him, "Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves [confession] of our lips." 

[And God will answer,] "I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him... His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree... They that dwell under His shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine..."

[And they will say], "What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard Him, and observed Him: I am like a green fir tree. From me is thy fruit found."

Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.

Both 2 Peter 2 and Hebrews 6 give great picturesque examples of what it means to backslide. It is a very devastating thing when one has known the Truth of the Bible and even lived according to the ways of Jesus Christ, but for whatever reason, be it peer pressure or blaming God for the bad things that happen, they have chosen to give up on God and backslide back to the world, to do those things they know go against Biblical principles. Peter described it so boldly by saying when we choose to turn away from God and go back to the world, we are like a dog eating his own vomit!

(2 Peter 2:20-22) For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.

Hebrews 6:6 should be a huge eye opener for a reason not to go backwards in our walk with the Lord. I know that verse shakes me to the core!

(Hebrews 6:6) If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.

Our hope is in 1 John 1, notice the first 5 words. God is so very gracious to always respond to our sincere prayers of contrition.

(1 John 1:9) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

You can find more hope for the backslider in Jeremiah 3. Again, notice that one must first acknowledge their 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."

Finally, let's look at God's words to the church in Ephesus,

(Revelation 2:4-5) "Nevertheless, I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent."

Without a change of heart and allowing yourself to become and stay a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.) we absolutely risk losing our salvation, having our "candlestick" removed from "out of his place" if we refuse to do what we know is right in the eyes of God.

I will leave you with more hope and good news:

(Revelation 2:7) He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh [destroys sin] will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

In other words, true repentance of sins will lead to eternal life with the Holy Trinity in Heaven!

You can read more on this subject in a blog written by my husband, "Backsliding Unto Perdition," https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2024/07/backsliding-unto-perdition-written-by.html

And also, what I posted a few days ago, "Ezekiel 18:23-33: When the Righteous Turn Away From Righteousness": https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/07/ezekiel-1823-33-when-righteous-turn.html

And there are also these links to writings I have posted before, but here they are again on further writings on backsliding: 

"What bribes have we taken to crucify Jesus all over again?" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/09/what-bribes-have-we-taken-to-crucify.html  

"The Slow Backslide" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/10/the-slow-backslide.html

Daniel 5:1-31: We Will All be Weighed on the Scales

 

 

Daniel 5:1-31: We Will All be Weighed on the Scales

Originally written in June 2023.

After two surgeries, I was finally declared cancer-free!  It has been a very painful ordeal physically, but also has been a test for me emotionally and spiritually.  I was asking God why I had to go through all this pain and fear.  Whether from my own mind or from the Holy mind of God, I felt very clearly that I was told I was being weighed.  I knew it had nothing to do with the literal weight of my body, but that God was telling me I was being tested. I knew, as with Belshazzar in Daniel 5, that I was being weighed to see how I would fare the trials coming my way. My circumstances were obviously different than Belshazzar, but the concept of being tested by God is the same. My physical trials have been tests of my faith.  I was weighed and tested to see if I would "honor the God who holds [me in] His hand." For this test and all the others that will surely come, I never want to be found wanting/lacking in faith or integrity.     

(Daniel 5:22-30 ) “But you, Belshazzar, his son, have not humbled yourself, though you knew all this. Instead, you have set yourself up against the Lord of heaven... But you did not honor the God who holds in his hand your life and all your ways. Therefore he sent the hand that wrote the inscription. “Here is what these words mean. Tekel: You have been weighed on the scales and found wanting...  That very night Belshazzar, king of the Babylonians, was slain. 

I believe the Bible when it states we will all stand before God and be judged for our actions (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.).  That time will host the biggest scales of them all (see also Matthew 16:23) However, for the theme of this particular blog, I am just going to focus on the scales associated with physical, emotional, and spiritual trials.

Did God give me cancer? Probably not, but how I dealt with the diagnosis of the disease these past three months was a test of my spiritual character. Did I pass with flying colors? No!  I felt anger, confusion, and self-pity with all I had to go through.  Yet after much prayer and self-examination, I ultimately decided that if all the pain and suffering I was experiencing could bring glory to God, it was worth it. I would trust God. And like Job, I would not curse God and die, but bless God and live! Even if I had been diagnosed with stage 3 cancer, instead of stage 1, I was and am determined I will always declare:  

(Job 13:15) Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him. 

In 2006 I had a dream that an angel of the Lord was handing me a beautifully intricate gold candlestick.  He said to me, "Through the fire, you will be refined pure as gold."  At the time, I was facing persecution at my job and was eventually forced to resign. I have faced more hardships since then. Facing cancer and two very painful surgeries has been probably my second biggest test (the biggest was in 2014).  I suspect the evaluations of my faith will continue throughout the rest of my life.  I want to be refined and made better, not melted down and deemed unusable.

(Zechariah 13:9) And I will... refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The Lord is my God. 

So how do we keep the scales from tipping us right off of them?  We focus on the Holy Words of God! Jesus never promised us an easy life, but He did promise to hold our hand through it all.  If we can remember God will never leave us, it gets easier. 

(John 16:22) [Jesus said,] “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”  

The hard times will come to us all, no one is exempt.

(Matthew 5:45) For he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 

However, if we refuse to become bitter and trust God in the processes, these difficulties will only make us stronger. 

(Acts 14:21-22) They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples... strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. 

The words from 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 have become my new theme: And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

For I am learning more and more that the name of Jesus will be best glorified when I am weak. 

Bottom line is that we will all be weighed on the scales more than once.  As for me, I am willing to be weighed and sent through the fire if it means the name of Jesus will be glorified. 

Although I am in the process of healing from cancer surgery, I still have an on-going neurological disorder that was once thought to be Multiple Sclerosis, but now none of the 3 neurologists I have seen can seem to come up with any kind of diagnosis, and therefore no treatment plans.  Even as I face the weakness with which this condition continues to plague me, I want to always have the same attitude as the apostle Paul:

(Philippians 4:11-13 ) Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. 

And because Jesus Christ gives me strength, may His name be exalted and praised!

From this day forward may my prayer always and sincerely be:

(Psalm 139:23-24) Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. 

Ezekiel 18:23-33: When the Righteous Turn Away From Righteousness

 

Ezekiel 18:23-33: When the Righteous Turn Away From Righteousness

Just as with all my writings, this is not my theology, it is from the inspired Word of God. So please carefully and prayerfully read through all scriptures posted.  There are a lot of verses to read, but I want to make it clear what the Bible says, and I wanted to back it up with as many verses as I could think of. 

It is never my goal to be intentionally antagonistic, but to show all my readers what the Bible really says.  The book of Ezekiel is a good start for this topic.

Also, to be clear, I do not want anyone to think I am suggesting we are saved by our works. If you read my blogs, 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.

I will begin with 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 loose 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. 

The good news is 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.  

Makes sense to me: righteousness cancels out sin, but rebellious sins cancel out righteousness. Do you choose eternal death or eternal life? 

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... 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. 

The key word here is "abide", it shows one has already made a decision to choose Jesus. 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."  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, 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 everyone 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 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 work for Him; 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.

Peter paints another clear picture of what backsliding looks like:

(2 Peter 2:20-23) For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.

That's saying that if after you have knowledge of Jesus and knew what was right, but walked away from holiness, it is worse than not ever making a decision to follow God in the first place.  You would be like an animal retuning to filth because you chose to go back in sin and wallow in a filthy lifestyle, refuse to give up what you know God hates, and/or chase after a false religion you know goes against what Jesus taught.

These verses in Hebrews shake me to my core:

(Hebrews 6:1-6 KJV) Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment... or it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.

Wow!  Once you have repented (chosen salvation) and then turn your back on God's holy ways, by your sinful actions, you are nailing Jesus to the cross again!  If that doesn't disturb you, nothing will.  That is so important, I am going to repeat part of that again using the Amplified version:

(Hebrews 6:4-6 AMP) For [it is impossible to restore to repentance] those who have once been enlightened [spiritually] and who have tasted and consciously experienced the heavenly gift and have shared in the Holy Spirit, and have tasted and consciously experienced the good word of God and the powers of the age (world) to come, and then have fallen away—it is impossible to bring them back again to repentance, since they again nail the Son of God on the cross [for as far as they are concerned, they are treating the death of Christ as if they were not saved by it], and are holding Him up again to public disgrace.

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. 

How do we know we are in Jesus?  See the word "abide" again?

(1 John 2:4-6) He that saith, "I know Him", and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth His word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in Him. He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.

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

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

 And He said unto them, "Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able."

When you read through all of Revelation chapters 2-3, it is clear there are consequences for falling away. One example is below; your light can be removed from Heaven if you willfully backslide, leave your first love, Jesus Christ.  However, the really good news is that if you repent, God will always take you back!

(Revelation 2:4-5) Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

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)!   

(In a few days, I will be posting my writing, "Hosea 14:1-9: Hope for The Backslider," but here is a preview of it if you want to read it now: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/07/hosea-141-9-hope-for-backslider.html )

(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. 

Jeremiah 7:27-28 & 20:8-10: Even When They Will Not Listen, Keep Your Fire

 

Jeremiah 7:27-28 & 20:8-10: Even When They Will Not Listen, Keep Your Fire

As a Christian, sometimes the hardest thing to do is not to give up on spreading the True gospel message and praying for other people. We can feel very alone and isolated when so few of our family, friends, co-workers, and even fellow Christians believe the way we do. When others find every opportunity to make a jab at our expense, and even sometimes go out of their way to turn a conversation into an insult about our holiness beliefs and other Biblical viewpoints, it is very difficult not to give up wanting to speak the Truth. You will wonder, "Am I making a difference?" And you will ponder, "What's the point of standing up for my beliefs if no one listens?" We can cling to our own ego of wanting to be accepted and liked by the world more than wanting to cling to pleasing God.

Did you know that the Bible tells us if we refuse to share the True message of the Bible (not some watered-down version), and the people we know go to Hell, we are responsible? Yet, on the other hand, if we warn them and they refuse to listen, we can wash our hands clean of their wrong choices. Pretty serious responsibility when you look at sharing the message of holiness from that angle.

(Ezekiel 33:8-9) When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.

Whether speaking casually to people you know, sharing a message over the Internet, or preaching behind a pulpit or on a street corner, you will ask yourself, "How often do any of my words help others think about God and holiness differently? Does anyone read their Bible more because of my encouragement? Has anyone considered giving up even one sinful habit or unbiblical viewpoint because they listened to what I reminded them what is in God's Word?" When you see little to no fruits of your labor, you will want to give up. Out of a desire to and be liked rather than be ignored, you will want to be silent about what the Bible says concerning issues that are shutting believers and nonbelievers alike out of the Kingdom of Heaven.

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

When I am feeling discouraged about the lack of change I see in people I pray and weep over, and when I do not feel as if any of my efforts I put into sharing the love and True grace of God that must be accompanied by daily repentance (see Luke 9:23) has helped anyone, I get discouraged. I sometimes want to quit writing. However, when I feel as if I have not helped even one person, I first remind myself that only God knows if a person is being challenged and it is NEVER my place to determine if someone is being affected or not.  Also, it is not my job to change people as ONLY the Holy Spirit can do that, but I am called to challenge others and plant the seeds that point them to Jesus Christ. I must also remember that spiritual warfare is very real, and many choose the ways of darkness rather than yield to the Holy Spirit prompting them to change; many stubbornly push away God's tugging upon their heart and soul. Quite I often think of the prophet Jeremiah.

Jeremiah was called to preach repentance to a very obstinate people. In Jeremiah chapter 7, God is very honest with the prophet and tells him that the people will not listen to his message, in verses 27-28 God says, "Therefore thou shalt speak all these words unto them; but they will not hearken to thee: thou shalt also call unto them; but they will not answer thee. But thou shalt say unto them, 'This is a nation that obeyeth not the voice of the Lord their God, nor receiveth correction: truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth.'" God tells Jeremiah to keep preaching the Truth even though He knows Jeremiah will be ignored, ridiculed, and persecuted. Jeremiah did not give up because He loved the Lord and he was willing to please the Lord, even if no one listened and he suffered greatly for it.

In Jeremiah 20, Jeremiah is feeling very discouraged and frustrated with God and with people. In verses 8-9 he says, "For since I spake, I cried out, I cried violence and spoil; because the word of the Lord was made a reproach unto me, and a derision, daily. Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name." He was determined to give up, but, and I love this verse, He says also in verse 9, "But His word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones." And in verse 10 adds, "For I heard the defaming of many, fear on every side. Report, say they, and we will report it." Therefore, in spite of being overwhelmed by constant abuse and rejection, the fire to serve God is stronger and he knows he cannot give up and will continue to report God's messages.

Ezekiel was also told very bluntly by God that the people to whom he was called to preach would not listen to him in Ezekiel 3:7, "But the house of Israel will not hearken unto thee; for they will not hearken unto me: for all the house of Israel are impudent and hardhearted." Yet, God grants the man of God a gift I know we all wish we had. In verse 9 of the same chapter, God tells Ezekiel that He will make Ezekiel's forehead stronger than flint so he can bear the abuse without fear or bitterness. I literally also pray for a head so strong that I do not care if I am ignored or ridiculed, but that I can preach on in spite of my ego being bruised. So, you see, this writing is meant to encourage me as well!

Again, with the prophet Isaiah, he is warned no one will listen to him. In chapter 6, right after the beautiful scripture where the angel cleanses his lips with coal (verses 5-7), and Isaiah says in verse 8, "Here am I; send me," God lets him know what he has signed up for. In verse 9 God tells Isaiah the people will "...understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not." Then Isaiah asks in verse 11, "Lord, how long?" And God tells Him in verses 11-12, "Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate, And the Lord have removed men far away, and there be a great forsaking in the midst of the land." It sounds to me as if God is saying people will refuse to listen to all prophets' warnings until the end of time. But Isaiah continued forward in his ministry writing the most powerful and beautiful books in the Old Testament.

In 2 Timothy 4:3-4, Paul also warns, "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables." This verse, along with all the others I have listed can seem very discouraging and make you want to give up. However, I do not want to discourage you from preaching through your actions and your words. I am not saying that we should assume all are lost to the Truths of the gospel message. I am not saying we should cease praying for individual revival for our friends and family. The word revival essentially means 'an awakening,' and I strongly believe we need never cease praying for those we love to have their eyes opened and ears unplugged.

We preach by action and deed (not just in sermons) because we love the Lord and want to be obedient to Mark 16:15, "And He said unto them, 'Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.'" As I often say and write, I teach, not out of a self-righteous heart, but because I also wish that none should perish in a lake of fire. Although it is often tempting to give up, I press forward, choosing to believe that even when it seems as if none if my messages on holiness are getting through, that a seed has been planted. If even one person softens his or her heart enough to let that seed grow, then I have done my job. I want to please God above all and glorify His holy name. To help people understand the great love and mercy of God and then to teach them what the Bible says about walking down the narrow path that leads to Heaven. I pray to stay on fire for God and for you to feel the same urgency that time is short, and we need to keep trying to point people to Heaven.

Bottom line here is not to give into discouragement and doubt but keep on preaching and praying for those you love and for those you don't even know. Luke 19:13 tells us "To Occupy till" Jesus comes. In other words, being a Christian is proactive, and we should continue to work for His kingdom until we die or until the end of the Tribulation. Even when it is emotionally, physically, and even financially difficult. God will provide all you need when your desire is to glorify His name.

Encourage your fellow believers as well in their faith and share with one another when you feel like giving up. Even when others will not listen, remind each other of all those in both the Old and New Testaments that were not well received, including our dear precious Jesus, and know we are not better than they and we are sure to be rejected as well. In John 15:18 Jesus says, "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you." And yet, in spite of being rejected Jesus was "obedient unto death, even the death of the cross" (Philippians 2:8). So be encouraged and do not give up! Be like Jesus and be obedient to the will of God in your life and continue to share the Truths about holiness what it takes to walk down the straight and narrow path. Pray that the Holy Spirit gives you the strength to not give in to compromise or fear but press forward and be a light in the darkness!

Jeremiah 1:4-9: God Reminds Jeremiah that He alone Made Us

 

Jeremiah 1:4-9: God Reminds Jeremiah that He alone Made Us

NOTE: I know I recently shared a link to this full post, "Profile of a Doubter, Part 6: Moses & Jeremiah," but since I am in the book of Exodus, I wanted to share the first part of this writing in case you did not see it.  The link to the full writing is: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2024/03/profile-of-doubter-part-6-moses-jeremiah.html

Now here is where I want to parallel Moses to one my favorite Old Testament prophets, Jeremiah.  When he is called by God, He has the same insecurities Moses had.

(Jeremah 1:4-9) Then the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." Then said I, "Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child." But the Lord said unto me, "Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord." Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth." 

You can see here that Jeremiah also had a moment of doubt in his own calling.  He felt he was too young and probably also did not feel the older men would respect what he had to say.  But just as with Moses, God reminds Jeremiah that He alone made us, and if He chooses us for a specific task, He will make it possible for us to serve Him.

Whether we think we are too shy, poor speakers, too old, too young, not healthy enough, not smart enough, or whatever excuses we may use, God does not want our doubts but our faith.  He wants us to trust His will and His plans to serve Him.  God is gracious and understands our doubts, and if needed He will send us a helper as he sent Aaron.  More importantly, He will send His Holy Spirit to enable us and help us serve according to His perfect will.  To glorify His name, and not our own.  

May we quit making excuses why we cannot serve and instead start saying, as my other favorite Old Testament prophet says in Isaiah 6:8, "Here am I; send me." 

It is important to be humble and not puffed up with pride as God prefers to use a "broken and contrite heart" (Psalm 51:17) to serve Him.  In fact, it is those of us who say, "Why me, Lord?" in humility and understand the nature of serving others other than self-service, that God is more likely to call.  He wants ones willing to change, not ones who think he or she is already perfect.

Isaiah 64:4-8: Clay for the Potter's Hand, Written by my Husband and Me

 

Isaiah 64:4-8: Clay for the Potter's Hand, Written by my Husband (Mel) and Me

(Isaiah 64:8) But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.

We cannot save ourselves through the strivings of the flesh, nor be transformed by our own merit. We must get out of the way and yield our lives to Christ, and His transforming Holy Spirit. We are saved by faith in the atonement that Christ provided upon the cross following true repentance. Then the Holy Spirit molds the clay into vessels of honor. We are sanctified by the blood of Christ unto salvation, and transformed (sanctified, set apart) by the Holy Spirit. To walk in the Spirit is to walk away from sin. You must be born again to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

If you belong to Christ, you are an ambassador for the Kingdom of Heaven, and your life should be a living testimony to those around you. We are not all called to be pastors or evangelists, but there are many members to the body of Christ, and we are called to be faithful to the ministry that God has placed us in. God is the potter, and we are the clay, if we will allow His Spirit to have His perfect work in us, then we will be vessels of honor that He may work through. A potter is an artist that molds, and shapes vessels into many forms, for many different uses.  If we live a sinful lifestyle, then we will be vessels of dishonor to be destroyed by the potter. For the wages of sin is death, but there is forgiveness through Christ if we repent and turn from sin (see Romans 6:23). 

If you do not know where you fit into the body of Christ, I suggest that you pray, as well as fast, for an answer. When a person goes on a fast, they are showing God that they desire heavenly food more than earthly food. When you seek after God, as well as put his Kingdom first, He will reveal his plan for your life. God’s timing is perfect, but we sometimes get impatient waiting upon the Lord to open doors to ministry. A Christian preparing for a ministry does not need a theological degree, or any training from manmade institutions. However, we are to study God’s Word to show ourselves approved, a workman who is not ashamed (see 2 Timothy 2:15). We need to get alone with God and allow his Holy Spirit to teach us the ways of the Kingdom of Heaven. I refer to this time of Spirit led training, as the wilderness experience.

(Romans 9:20-21) But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, "Why have you made me like this?" Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor?

 There are many examples in God’s Word of holy men who left their hometowns and spent time in wilderness locations, or foreign lands, being taught by God’s Spirit. After being water baptized, the Spirit led Christ into the wilderness to be tested and tried by the devil for forty days and nights. Christ fasted during this time of testing and fought off the devil by quoting scripture. After this time of preparation, Christ began his ministry. We are not above our master, if Christ was tested and tried by Satan, we will also most surely be tested. 

The wilderness experience is a time, when the potter molds and shapes his vessel into the object that he desires. Joseph is another example of a man who was hand crafted by God for a great purpose. When Joseph was seventeen years old, he was sold into slavery by his brothers. After the incident with Potiphar’s wife, he was thrown into prison for thirteen years until the day he was brought before Pharaoh. This time of preparation for leadership was necessary for Joseph to be the humble man useable for God’s purpose. When Joseph’s wilderness experience was concluded, Pharaoh made him governor over all of Egypt, and he prepared for the time of famine.

After his road to Damascus encounter with the risen Christ, the Apostle Paul also had his time of preparation for ministry. Paul did not confer with any man, nor did he go immediately to Jerusalem to see the apostles. Instead, Paul went into Arabia for three years, to be taught by God’s Spirit before going back to Jerusalem.  When he returned to Jerusalem, he stayed with Peter for fifteen days and also met with James the brother of Christ. Then Paul went into Syria and Cilicia for another fourteen years, before he presented himself to the churches in Judea.  It was by revelation from God’s Spirit that Paul knew when it was time to present himself to the Judean church. A true vessel that God can work through, is taught and led by God, not man, nor man- made institutions. Man- made theology stifles the Spirit, as well as shuts people out of the Kingdom of Heaven.

If you truly want to be used by God to bring glory to His name, you must be willing to pray the sincere prayer asking God to mold you into His image.  In many cases, this will mean giving up the things of this world that He hates so that you will only reflect His Light.  

Our goals should never be to be molded into the world's image.  If you are striving to look like the world instead of like Jesus, you need to reevaluate your priorities.  Whether you want to admit it or not, certain hairstyles, piercings, tattoos, clothing, and even choices of entertainment often reflect what the world teaches but go against the holiness views in the Bible. Do not let Hollywood or even "Christian" celebrities decide how you should walk, talk, act, dress, or live, but let only Jesus be your potter!  When in doubt of what is wrong or right, do not ask the world's point of view, look to the words of the Bible and see what God and Jesus had to say on the subjects in question.

Our goals should also never be to point people to an actor, singer, writer, or even pastor, but to God the Father, Jesus the Son, and The Holy Spirit. 

Let's look at some really good news as we read more from Isaiah 64.  That first sentence is verse 4.  What a beautiful promise!  When we allow God to mold and change us, we will someday enjoy a Heaven so amazing we cannot even begin to perceive how wonderful it will be!  The next verse after that says God meets and rejoices with those that work righteousness.  We are sinful and filthy, but when we allow God to clean us up, we can be used to be molded into His image, so we can enjoy the amazing Heaven He is preparing for those who faithfully serve Him!     

(Isaiah 64:4-8) For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him. Thou meetest him that rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, those that remember thee in thy ways... But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away... But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.

Links to Various Writings From my Husband & I on the Timing of the Rapture

 

Links to Various Writings From my Husband & I on the Timing of the Rapture 

Saw this picture on Facebook today and wanted to share it with links to various writings from my husband & I on this subject. Time is very, very short, please do not be deceived and put yourselves in danger by believing in a pre-tribulation rapture. Our writings will Biblically give you something to think about. But please, let's not divide over such issues and still love and support each other as fellow lovers of Jesus Christ!

Here are those links:

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

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

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

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

Where the Eagles Gather https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/01/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

The Truth About the Second Coming of Christ, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2022/08/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

The Seven Churches: Part Two, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/04/revelation-31-22-seven-churches-part.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 Oppression of the Poor, Written by my Husband

The Oppression of the Poor, Written by my Husband (Mel)

Note from me: We need to have more compassion and less criticism for people who require government or other assistance. It is cruel and unfair to assume that the majority of the people needing help are lazy and unwilling to work. I have heard or read too many times people misuse 2 Thessalonians 3:10 (this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat).  We need to look at people one at a time and see their individual plights, not prejudge all people who struggle financially as lazy, drug-addicted, or scam artists (and pray for those who are).  Some people truly are not physically capable of working and are in genuine need of assistance. Please consider praying for those less fortunate than you and donating time and/or resources when you can, for you never know when you may need help and suddenly you are standing in line with people at a food bank you looked down upon. If you choose, you can also read my writing here, "What does the Bible say about taking care of the poor?": https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/11/what-does-bible-say-about-taking-care.html

Here is Mel's post:

This year over 3 million people lost their food stamp benefits. In January 2027 millions will lose their Medicaid health insurance and Medicare advantage plans will significantly cut back their benefits. Federal assistance to food banks, housing projects, and daycare services, have also been cut. Due to tariffs and war inflation is skyrocketing and housing, gas, and groceries, are no longer affordable. The White House doesn't need a ballroom, and Trump doesn't need his Triumphant Arch, or a military parade. Americans need to eat, as well as pay their rent or mortgages.

Most disabled people are unable to get Social Security disability. The SS administration workers are taught how to work against them in order to deny their claims. Over 80% of disability claims are denied. Most people have to hire an advocate service or an attorney to acquire benefits, and that may take up to two years. Many poor and disabled people need their food and health benefits. The work requirements for the sick, disabled, as well as for people up to age 64 who cannot get hired is a travesty.

The US government is diverting money from social programs and putting it toward building missiles and supporting Trump's Gestapo ICE. Trump has asked for over one trillion dollars to build up the military. We have a Hitler in the White House as the Lord showed me in several audible visions. The Beast worships and glorifies himself!

In my town, the Salvation Army food bank used to distribute food every week, now they only allow people to come once a month because of federal cuts. Food banks are limiting families to ten items because donations are down, as well as due to federal cuts. The food banks are unable to feed the poor and the churches aren't doing enough.

Millions have died in third world countries since donations to world hunger and medical programs were cut. Trump coldly said, "Let the poor die"! When asked about those who would die from losing their health insurance, Trump said once again, "Let them die"!

Christians should have compassion for the poor, sick, and disabled, as well as be willing to help them, not oppress them. Sadly, I have witnessed a cold, heartless, church that looks down upon the needy with scorn. However, not all Christians are cold. World Vision, the Salvation Army, as well as many other charity organizations and food banks are an example of true Christian love.

(James 2:13-19) For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?

(James 5:1-8) Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days. Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you. Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

(Matthew 25:32-42) And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:  And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.  Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:  For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:  Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.  Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?  When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?  And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: