Warn Every One Night And Day With Tears, Part 1: Witchcraft in the Church

Warn Every One Night And Day With Tears, Part 1: Witchcraft  in the Church

At a very young age, we are all taught to go along with the crowd. We believe we should not speak out and be unpopular. It is drummed into us that is more important to be liked than to stand up for holiness. It is very difficult to find the courage to stand up for the Truths of the Bible when you know family, friends, and co-workers may reject you for not agreeing with them. Let me encourage you that the Bible tells us it is not our goal in life to please the worldly ways of our fellow humans, but to please God.

(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.

On my own, I am very shy and find it difficult to speak around more than a few people, even when they agree with me; it is ten times worse when they disagree. It is only by the power of the Holy Spirit that I can be bold and speak up for Jesus. It is never my intent to target anyone specifically, nor to insult or anger anyone, but just to get you all to understand what the Bible says about the dangers that have the potential to send anyone to Hell. It is out of love for you that I warn you. If I didn't care, I would remain silent.

(Acts 4:31) And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.





God has been gently reminding me that as Christians, it is our job to warn those we see going to the wrong way. We are not to be judgmental, of course, but to simply point out the Truths of the Bible. This blog series is meant to be a warning against unholy practices that are flooding churches. These standards do not come from me, but from a Holy God, and I will back them all up with scripture.

(Acts 20:29-31) For I know this, that after my departing shall 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.

Before I get into the topic of witchcraft, let me give you some verses that remind us that we are to hate evil, NOT to turn it embrace it as an acceptable form of entertainment:

(Psalm 97:7-10) Ye that love the Lord, hate evil.

(Job 28:28) Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.

(1 Corinthians 10:20-21) And I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils. Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.

(1 Peter 3:11-12) Let him eschew [turn away from] evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.

Witchcraft is very accepted in the church. Don't believe me? Sit in almost any church for even one service and take note as the congregation speaks about their favorite movies. Although I believe the entertainment industry in general is Satan's playground full of sexual perversions, the over-sexualization of children/pedophilia, violence, and the occult. I know not all shows are demonic, however, for the theme of this blog I am specifically referring to the many programs that glorify witches, spells, Buddhism, yoga, zombies, demons, false gods/god-hybrids, vampires, werewolves, and other characters that are full of magic (this includes curses that made them what they are) as well as fairies, elves, and mermaids. Look at the church goers' children and observe how many are wearing clothing depicting characters from these movies. To make it even worse, the pastor(s), deacons, or other spiritual leaders who should be leading the church and listing all the many scriptures that speak out against witchcraft will tell you behind the pulpit how much he or she loves specific programs that are blatantly full of spells, witches, wizards, and the above-named creatures. Their own children have characters that represent witchcraft plastered all over their clothes as well.  They are wolves telling you it is okay to mix Christianity with Satanism. 

(Matthew 7:15) Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

Do not be deceived, God hates witchcraft (I will include scriptures at the end to show this). Wicca is not some innocent hobby that is merely appreciating nature. Ouija boards, tarot cards, as well as palm, face, tea, or other psychic readings are an abomination to God.

I watched an interview where an ex-witch said how shocked she was by Christians wearing crystals, burning sage, engaging in yoga, and practicing other rituals that she and her coven would practice (she also included Halloween) because the acts of such things summoned demons. She also warned that these so-called innocent cartoons are filled with real spells (including hand movements, not just the words) and are corrupting not just children, but also the adults that invite these shows into their homes. How many children are sleeping each night with a toy that represents a witch/wizard? Does this child have unexplained nightmares? Try cleansing their room by pleading the blood of Jesus over your entire house, get rid of all the objects that are associated with the occult and see if peace comes back to them (and you).

I can give you quite a few scripture verses telling you that witchcraft is wrong. Can you give me just one where God says it is okay?

 
(Acts 13:6-12) And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain SORCERER... whose name was Barjesus... But Elymas the SORCERER (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith. Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him. And said, "O full of all subtilty and all mischief, THOU CHILD OF THE DEVIL, THOU ENEMY OF ALL RIGHTEOUSNESS, wilt thou not cease to PERVERT THE RIGHT WAYS OF THE LORD? And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season." And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.

(Acts 16:16 & 18) And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel [DEMONICALLY] POSSESSED with a SPIRIT OF DIVINATION met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying: And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.

(Acts 19:18-19, AMP) Many of those who had become believers were coming, confessing and disclosing their [former sinful] practices. And many of those who had practiced MAGICAL ARTS collected their books and [throwing book after book on the pile] began BURNING THEM in front of everyone.

(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.

(2 Chronicles 33:6) And he caused his children to pass through the fire in the valley of the son of Hinnom: also he observed times, and used enchantments, and used WITCHCRAFT, and dealt with a familiar spirit, and with wizards: he wrought much evil in the sight of the Lord, to provoke him to anger.

(Deuteronomy 18:10) There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices WITCHCRAFT, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a SORCERER.

(2 Kings 17:17) And they caused their sons and their daughters to pass through the fire, and used DIVINATION AND ENCHANTMENTS, and sold themselves to do EVIL IN THE SIGHT OF THE LORD, to provoke him to anger.

(Micah 5:12) "And I will cut off WITCHCRAFTS out of thine hand; and thou shalt have no more SOOTHSAYERS [PALM READERS, FORTUNE TELLERS, TARO CARD READERS]."

(Malachi 3:5) "And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the SORCERERS, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers... and fear not me, saith the Lord of hosts."

Jesus Will Never Tell You That You Are Beyond His Help

 

 

Jesus Will Never Tell You That You Are Beyond His Help 

Since moving to Washington state in 2019, I have dealt with several medical issues that have required multiple visits to a variety of doctors.  I have been seen by some wonderful providers that have been kind and genuinely cared about what I was going through.  The best of the best were from the oncology staff working for Providence Cancer Systems.  I have also had some great primary care doctors that have been in the perfect profession that suited their compassionate natures.  However, I have also faced the exact opposite side of the coin in dealing with some of the rudest and coldest medical personnel that have tested the Fruits of the Spirit in me, and, sorry to say, I did not always pass those tests.  Three neurologists, two primary care doctors, a whole team of radiology receptionists, receptionists and doctors in the ER, and even one dentist have been so outrageously cruel that it has only been by the power of the Holy Spirit that I have been able to forgive them.  I have been told by both the kind and not so kind doctors that they do not know what is wrong with me and/or there is nothing they can do to help me as no treatments will make a real difference.  

(You can read a recent poem I wrote after another doctor told me there was no cure my condition here - it is the one titled "No Cure?" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/08/no-cure-why-write-poem-things-i-will.html 

I am not telling you all of this to try to gain sympathy or to gossip about these unprofessional people, but to give you all hope that Jesus will never tell you that you are beyond His help.  

(Matthew 11:28-30) "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light."      

There is nothing wrong with seeking professional help through doctors and Christian psychologists.  God gave some people very intelligent brains and compassionate hearts so they can help others in need.  It is not a lack of faith to seek medical or psychological help.  So please do not ever let anyone make you feel bad for seeking help or accuse you of lacking faith.  It also doesn't mean that you refuse to give God the glory when medical treatment helps.  Just because God did not supernaturally cure my cancer, He led me to getting the right diagnosis and treatments at just the right time, and that is a miracle to me.  Also, don't blame God if you never recover, healing may still on the way, or God may be using the "thorn in your flesh" to bring Him glory.  2 Corinthians 12:9-10 has become one of my favorite passages.   

(See also 2 Corinthians 12:1-8) (2 Corinthians 12:9-10) 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.

We live in a fallen world which is why physical and mental illnesses occur, our own rebellion can also block our healings and prayers.  If in doubt, ask God to show you if there is anything in your life blocking healings (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.).  I know from experience that He will tell you, and it is best to heed His gentle correction.  However, even if no supernatural healings come, it does not always mean you are in the wrong (John 9:1-3 And as Jesus passed by, He saw a man which was blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, saying, "Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?" Jesus answered, "Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in Him"). Yes, it can be confusing, but you know your own heart and the condition of your walk with Christ. Therefore, you know if you rebelliously choosing not to follow Biblical principles, however.  After examining your heart, and you are still truly unsure, remember on this side of Heaven we can never fully know why healings do or do not occur.  This also means we should not be so quick to judge someone suffering.

Just as Jesus will never turn you away when you ask for physical or emotional help, He will never turn you away when you come to Him for spiritual healing.  Others may look at you and say Jesus will not forgive such and such, but Jesus wants to forgive you and wants you to come to Him, whether it is the first, second, or tenth time.

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

He wants to heal your sin sick soul and will not turn away a broken and contrite heart ( see Psalm 51:17). He is waiting to welcome you into His arms (see Isaiah 57:15)! Jesus does not want you to stay lost because He thinks you are too wicked; He still searches for His lost sheep today!

(Luke 15:3-7) And [Jesus] spake this parable unto them, saying, "What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance."

Let me get back on topic.  Jesus wants us to come to Him first with all of our burdens: physical, mental, and emotional, and especially spiritual.  Yes, God knows all things that have happened to you, but He still wants you to tell Him about your day.  Tell Him when someone hurt you and you need His help to forgive  (Ephesians 4:32 - And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.).  Tell Him when you are in pain and are struggling to deal with a weak body and ask for His help to give you strength (Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.).  Tell Him when you feel lonely and ask Him to help let His friendship be enough, although it is also okay to ask for a Godly friend and/or spouse (John 15:13-14 - Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.).  Tell Him when you are suffering from depression and ask Him to help heal your mind and/or help you purge the items in your life causing dark feelings (Philippians 4:6-7 - But in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.).  Tell Him when you are afraid and He will help bring you peace (Isaiah 41:10 - Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.) Tell Him when you are grieving the loss of a loved one and ask Him to be your comfort (Matthew 5:4 - Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.).  Tell Him you are sorry for your sins, no matter how big or small they may seem to you, and ask Him to forgive you, and He will (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.). 

There are hundreds of verses that you can find to comfort you for any situation, and the scenarios to which you can talk to Jesus about your burdens, and He will carry your load are endless. Have hope. peace, and joy knowing when you seek out help for a problem, Jesus will never tell you that you are beyond His help!  

It is Better to Not Attend Church at All Than to Sit Under a False Teacher

 

It is Better to Not Attend Church at All Than to Sit Under a False Teacher

Originally posted in 2021.

I keep feeling like I need to address the subject of church, but I have been dragging my feet in writing this blog.  Whenever I try to ignore a tough subject God has been tugging on my heart to share, the topic just gets louder and louder in my head as if to say, "Quit worrying about your ego (being rejected for what I say) and trying to please man (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.). Write the issues God calls you to write!"  When I said, "Here am I Lord, use me" that means addressing the issues I know will make people uncomfortable and possibly even angry. So I am just going to delve in and say you do not need church.  What you need is a relationship with God.  

Before I get too far into this blog, let me just be clear I am not 100% placing all pastors/churches under the same corrupt banner.  I realize there are a few decent, gospel preaching churches that care about your soul, but they are in the minority.  This blog is referencing the modern day seeker-friendly churches that are there to entertain you, not help you walk down the paths of righteousness.  If you can find a church where the pastor does NOT talk about the movies he is watching, where the women ARE discouraged from dressing provocative, where the music is NOT summoning demons with its satanic beat, where every third sermon is NOT about money, where hell IS mentioned as a very real place and not just a swear word, where you ARE told that the free gift of salvation and True grace includes repentance and a daily choice to live righteously, where you are NOT told you are only human so every sin is acceptable because you can never lose your salvation, where you ARE encouraged to study the Bible on your own, then please stay with this rare church!  Otherwise, my opinion is to attend home groups with like-minded believers and bypass the hypocrisy and apostacy of modern-day churches that are social clubs and not houses of God.  In reality, we will eventually be forced into secret home churches in the not-too-distant future. In another five to ten years (maybe less) true Christians will be so severely persecuted, churches will not even be an option on-line. 

Yes, I still believe in listening to a great sermon from a well-balanced holiness preacher who is not legalistic of full of greasy grace. They are very rare however, and when I want to be challenged, I usually turn to a sermon from one of the late spirit-filled preachers such as David Wilkerson, Leonard Ravenhill, A.W. Tozer, or even go back further in time to John Bunyan or William Booth.  There are others that preach a good message that sounds right, but compromise in other areas.  Use your discernment and make sure they line up with the entire Word of God!

A lot of pastors will quote to you Hebrews 10:24-25. Do you want to know why they repeat this verse so often? More people in their pews means money in the offering and in their pocket. If they are using the money to help others in need, that is great, or even paying their bills is perfectly acceptable as this is their job after all, but too many keep the majority of your money for their own excessive wants rather than helping the poor, homeless, widows, orphans, or missionaries.

Here is what Hebrews 10:24-25 says, "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."  However, when I read those words, no where do I see that it says we must go to a building to "assemble together." The main point I see in this passage is the phrase "exhorting [strongly encourage] one another." We can do that wherever we are: home, work, the grocery store, and, as I suggested above, at home Bible studies. Not forsaking assembling is also another way to say we should not get so busy and self-involved that we ignore the needs of others and to minister to and pray for one another.  Again, this can be done at any time and in any place.  

Notice the above verses say we should, "provoke unto... good works"?  Yet how many church goers encourage each other to abstain from evil, but instead invite each other to movies, dances, and bars?  I once attended a Bible study where the women asked for my friend's phone number so they could invite her to go salsa dancing - they didn't invite me because they knew I wouldn't go (my fiend didn't go either).  And my husband was also invited by a church group to go dancing, as well as a Halloween party, which he also turned down.  And he was once at a church BBQ where the men were drinking alcohol until a lady scolded them.  I have also known many church groups to have movie nights that included very immoral movies.  And I knew some people who attended wine bars with their church friends. Does anyone read their Bible any more or actually hate lewd and spiritually dangerous activities?  

Those that do choose to obey the rules of the Ten Commandments or Galatians chapter 5, are called judgmental and ostracized by their fellow "brothers and sisters" in Christ.  God wants us to encourage each other in our walks with the Lord and be accountable to each other to keep each other honest and upright (Proverbs 27:17 - Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.), not make fun of those who love the Lord more than the world. 

However, the lukewarm church does the opposite as it encourages you to look, act, and talk like the world.  They will make fun of you if you speak out against witchcraft/the occult/yoga, going to bars/clubs, swearing/dirty jokes, secular music, movies/television, Halloween, miniskirts/low cut tops/skintight pants, married people being too friendly with the opposite sex, etc.  

So what do you think is better: a church where you will never grow in the Lord but die even more in your sin (Romans 6:23 - For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. )? Or a small home group (even if it is just your own family), where you will please the Lord as you seek His face and strive to grow in your faith?  I say it is better to not attend church at all than to sit under a false teacher who will lead you straight to Hell.

And by the way, 2 Corinthians 6:14-18-7:1 also refers to unbelievers within the church: Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.    

If you have ever read one of my blogs, you know I believe we need to study our Bibles. And frankly, this belief adds fuel to my fire against modern day churches.  A lot of the messages behind the pulpit quote zero to just a few scriptures and usually the same ones over and over that twist the grace message (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.).  The pastors do not encourage you to bring a Bible to church as you can just read their watered-down versions of the Bible on an overhead projector.  They leave out words and you will never know it if you do not follow along in your Bible. For example, I am certain you pastor quotes Romans 8:1 as, "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus." But did you know that verse has 10 more words that prove we are not condemned only when we seek after holiness?  Let me finish that verse for you, "who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." And that is just one of many examples of lukewarm preaching.

The late great preacher David Wilkerson said that he was shocked when he attended other churches because in so many of them, the pastors never even opened their Bibles.

Modern day preachers also do not encourage you to study on your own ( 2 Timothy 2:15 - Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.). Know why?  Because once you truly study the Word of God you will start to see all the errors spoken behind the pulpit.  They do not want that.  In fact, I have known several people that questioned their pastors on what the Word of God says versus what the pastor preached, and those people were almost always asked to leave the church or told not to think too hard about such things and just let the pastor tell them how to think.   Apparently, they do not believe in allowing their congregation to put 1 John 4:1-6 into practice.

I wrote about some of the false messages putting the church to sleep in my blog titled, "Awake, you sleeping giants!" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/08/awake-you-sleeping-giants.html this blog goes into more detail why I worry about today's churches. However, this post is not about judging the false preachers (Matthew 7:15 - Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.), but about you, my readers!  

I know I can come across as too harsh sometimes, but I promise you, I judge no one, I write out of a passion for you! I care so deeply for your souls, and I want to warn you to stay clear of these money-hungry preachers who will never encourage you to compare what they say with what the Bible says.  Who will never encourage you to give up sin and repent and come clean (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.) and be on fire for God and desire holiness  (Revelation 3:15-16- I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.  So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.).

My writings are always based on Biblical principles.  In Revelation 18:4-6, we are warned to leave the dead and dying churches: And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her [Babylon, the false church], my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double.

If your eyes are not opened yet, let me leave you with this excerpt from a powerful writing by my husband (Mel) titled, "Visions of the Great Falling Away" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2019/05/visions-of-great-falling-away-written.html  I encourage you to read his entire writing.

"The Lord is very displeased with the unfaithfulness of many within the church today. Our immoral culture is well ingrained within the church and most who profess to know Christ, deny him by their lifestyle. It is hard to see the difference between the world and the church today. Around [February 2012] the Lord gave me two dreams of the moral condition of the church today...

"Then I noticed that I was standing within an Assembly Of God church, very similar to ones that I have attended in the past. The angel walked me down the aisles and pointed to the people sitting in the pews. I noticed that everyone was dressed in wedding garments, the men in tuxes and the women in white wedding dresses with veils. But many were dead rotting corpses still wearing wedding garments, seated next to living people throughout the congregation. I noticed that around sixty percent were dead corpses and around forty percent of the congregation were alive. Since the dead corpses were still wearing wedding garments, this is an indication that they were once born again, but now they were dead in their sins. Those who believe the once saved, always saved doctrine have been deceived by a lie from Satan."

Let the Saving Grace of Jesus Set you Free

Let the Saving Grace of Jesus Set you Free

I recently wrote on letting go and letting God take our burdens (https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/07/let-go-and-let-god-i-surrender-all.html), but two sad incidents close to home have inspired me to readdress this topic. Less than a month apart, two men between the ages of 20-35 (I don't remember their exact ages) were reported missing.  Both were said to be seen or headed to popular hiking trails.  Both of these trails are ones my husband and I have hiked and taken photos at.  They are both less than 30 miles from where we live, and one is even about 10 miles away.  Their stories are devastating regardless of location in proximity to where we live, and sadly, their tales are not all that rare.  They were both found after the suspicion that they ended their own lives.  At least one of these men was married with young children. My husband and I pray for their families. 

I have written about depression before (https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/07/when-you-surrender-your-all-to-jesus-he.html ), so I am not going to specifically dwell on that subject, but I just wanted to write about the tragic state of people not learning to accept Jesus as One who can help them through whatever circumstances they are facing.  Rather than pushing Him away so hard they consider and even follow through with ending their own lives.  

You may think I am ignorant and I do not know what horrors you have gone through and there is no way Jesus could ever help you heal from the pains of your past.  You may think I am too naive to believe that Jesus will save your soul and forgive you because you have committed sins beyond His mercy.  You would be half right. I am ignorant and naive in many areas, but not when it comes to the saving grace of Jesus Christ. 

Some scars run so very deep that you may think Jesus' Light will never reach the dark and twisted places in the cracks of your heart and soul.  But have you really given Him the chance to help? Have you really truly said, "I give up, Lord, I cannot heal on my own.  I know my past cannot be erased, but I know You can send a healing flood of peace, joy, and forgiveness throughout my entire body that can help me begin to heal."  Healing takes time, it can even come and go, but when you trust Jesus enough to help bring you peace in place of your dark thoughts, you can begin the process.  You must also give up demonic influences that hold you down such as drugs/alcohol to numb the pain, ungodly entertainments, false religions, new age/occult activities, sex outside of marriage, and even some people.  If you keep holding onto the worldly practices that go against the Bible, it makes it much harder to capture and maintain healing from Jesus.  Let Him transform you inside and out and you CAN find joy, peace, hope, and forgiveness. 

If you think you have done too many evil deeds for Jesus to save your soul, this is unbiblical.  Nowhere have I read in the Bible that Jesus will only save the souls of those who have committed sins from a certain list.  Yes, there are sins listed that say they will send us to hell (see at least Galatians 5:16-21 & Revelation 20:11-12 & 21:7-8), but those are the sins people refuse to repent from.  1 John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."  Confess to Jesus and ask Him to help you not to go back to those same sins.  Say a sincere prayer and ask Jesus into your heart, read your Bible and stay grounded in His Word so you truly learn what is right in wrong in the eyes of God. And as I said in the above paragraph, give up all ungodly practices in order to let Jesus help you stay saved.      

Without Jesus one cannot heal from a painful past or be forgiven from sins.  Worldly healings are temporary when one uses drugs or other sinful means to mask the pain. Please let Jesus help you find permeant healing. (I have included 2 songs at the end of this writing that also helped inspire this blog.)

I don't know if this writing is helping anyone, but my words are not what matter.  I will leave with some verses that I pray will help anyone who is feeling hopeless and helpless.  May the Bible always be your lifeline if you ever consider ending your life.  Here are a few verses to get you started to remember what Jesus can be to you (These are just a few examples; you can look up each word on a Bible search engine for many more):

(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.

(Matthew 9:6)But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins.

(Acts 5:30-32 & 8:22) The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance... and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.

(Acts 26:18) To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

(Colossians 1:13-14) Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.

(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.

(Exodus 15:26) And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments... I am the Lord that healeth thee.

(Psalm 147:3) He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.

(Matthew 11:29-30) Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

(2 Corinthians 4:8-9) We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.

(Psalm 103:1-5) Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

(Nehemiah 8:10) The joy of the Lord is your strength.

(Isaiah 61:3) To console those who mourn… To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.

(Romans 15:13) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

(James 4:7-10) Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.

(Psalm 30:5) Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.

(Philippians 4:6-7) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

(John 10:10) I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BskE6ufYiTU&list=RDBskE6ufYiTU&start_radio=1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mt4RfOy9HMg&list=OLAK5uy_kos9KN3YBH2B2ErX4TiwLy4tANhFaFzHo&index=7

Backsliding Unto Perdition, Written by my Husband

 

Backsliding Unto Perdition, Written by my Husband (Mel)

(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.

Salvation begins with repentance of sins. Repentance is a change of mind and heart in regard to the old sinful lifestyle, as well as a desire to become a new creation in Christ Jesus. To be truly saved, you must hunger and thirst for righteousness and turn away from the old rebellious life you once knew.  When you repent and put your faith in the finished work of Christ upon the cross you are saved from perdition and have been given eternal life. We are justified by faith and saved by grace (unmerited favor). Christ will wash you clean and remove all of your sins and grant you a clean slate. Because of Christ's atonement made upon the cross you walk perfectly before him as long as you remain in the light. God gives us grace to grow in him. We come to him as babes on milk and learn to walk by taking baby steps. Through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit, we are transformed from the inside out. 

Grace is for those who walk by faith in the light and not for those who love darkness and are apathetic toward righteousness. Cheap grace or greasy grace is a term to describe the junk food gospel being taught in many churches today. The unconditional eternal security doctrine teaches that a saved believer cannot lose their salvation. This doctrine is contrary to scripture and leads many people to Hell. Hebrews 10:38-39 states that a believer can drawback unto perdition (Hell) if they do not remain in the faith. There are Christians who have lost their faith and died as atheists, Buddhists, agnostics etc. these will not enter the Kingdom of God.

2Peter 2:20-22 states that those who have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, to return to the old lifestyle and to be overcome by it, the end result is worse with them than the beginning. It would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness or the holy commandment. These backsliders are compared to a dog returning to its vomit or a sow who was washed clean returning to the mire (mud, filth). Revelation tells us that a believer's name can be blotted out of the Book of Life and a lukewarm church (Revelation 3) will be vomited out!

(Revelation 3:5) He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.

We must deny ourselves daily, take up our cross and follow after Christ. If we love him, we will obey him. Christ taught us how we should conduct ourselves in this world. The sermon on the mount, also known as the beatitudes, are instructions that we should all live by.

Christ taught us the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15. The son was tired of his rebellious life for he squandered his inheritance with riotous living. He returned home and his father ran to him, held him, and kissed him, put a robe on him, and a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. They killed the fatted calf for his son and the father said, "For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. " God Bless!

(Hebrews 6:4-6) For 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.

(Hebrews 10:38-39) Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. 

(Luke 24:47) And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

(2 Corinthians 7:10) For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.

(Luke 15:17 -24) And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.

For more writings on backsliding, please also see Julie's writings:

Hope for the Backslider: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/07/hosea-141-9-hope-for-backslider.html

When the Righteous Turn Away From Righteousness: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/07/ezekiel-1823-33-when-righteous-turn.html

What Bribes have we taken? 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

The King of all Kings is Coming Soon

 

The King of all Kings is Coming Soon

Did you know that the popular song, "The King is Coming" was written as a post-tribulation song?  (I have posted it at the end of this writing.)  I am a big southern gospel fan and grew up with that song.  I had speculated for a while, based on the lyrics, that it had a post-tribulation message.  Afterall, how could the marketplaces be empty, and no traffic be in the streets (etc.) unless the end of all times had come?  Yet, I only recently learned the truth after hearing Mark Lowry (in an older video) on his YouTube channel, confirm this was written as a post-tribulation song.  It was written by Gloria Gaither (lyrics), Bill Gaither (music), and Chuck Millhuff (collaboration).  But honestly, it doesn't matter what any singer, pastor, or blog writer tells you, what matters is what the Bible says on the timing of the rapture.

Here is just one example:

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

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

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

Here are all the links to the various writings from my husband (Mel) & I on the timing of the rapture that are filled with scripture verses.

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9voTIFkIbg&list=RDC9voTIFkIbg&start_radio=1

I also had to post this wonderful song, written by Gordon Jensen.  I have no idea what the writer's beliefs were, but we can still agree that our redemption does draw closer every day! 

(Luke 21:20-22 & 25-28) And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto. For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98kEJK0GfuM&list=RD98kEJK0GfuM&start_radio=1

Now is the time to choose fire over ice!

 

Now is the time to choose fire over ice!

This is one of those, "There's a sermon in everything," themes!  

The other day I needed to thaw out some semi-frozen ground turkey.  I filled the kitchen sink about a quarter full of steaming hot water, then I submerged the tube of meat.  I checked on it about five minutes later and was surprised to feel the water growing colder and the frozen center had barely thawed out.  Apparently, I do not usually thaw my meat this way as I typically let it defrost in the refrigerator, or I would have expected this to happen.  However, I had assumed the scalding hot water would quickly melt the ice, but instead the coldness of the meat tempered the heat of the water. Can you see yet where I saw the sermon in this scenario?

Too often Christians who are on fire for the Lord allow the cold influences of the world to cause them to temper their desire for the holy things of God.  Whether it is out of wanting to fit in with your buddies who make fun of you because you refuse to go to the bars with them, or your coworkers who laugh at you because you will not wear low cut tops or miniskirts to work, or others who make sarcastic jabs at you because you take a stand against anything associated with witchcraft and have also given up movies, television, and secular music.  Whatever the reason, you have given in to peer pressure and compromised your holiness beliefs just to be liked by the world. 

(Romans 12:1-2) 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. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. 

As Christians, our goal should not be to please the world, but the please the Lord.  Notice in Romans 12 it says that not conforming to the world is "good and acceptable and perfect."  Not that anyone can be perfect, but God honors our efforts.  Considering the amazing gift of salvation Jesus graciously died to give us, striving for holiness truly is our "reasonable service" (Luke 13:24 - Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.) 

Galatians 1:10 puts it this way, "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."

I know it is not easy sticking to your values when you feel rejected by those who you care about the most.  However, and I do not say this to be cruel, but to be bluntly honest, your TRUE friends will NOT make fun of you for your morals, and if they do, they are the wrong friends.

Don't forget, Jesus was despised and rejected by his family and friends and ridiculed by the very people He came to die for.  And He is still mocked today.  We can endure the criticisms and remain steadfast in our beliefs when we remember our Lord and Savior went through the same rejections, only on a much, much larger scale.

Consider these two sayings from Jesus:

(Matthew 5:10-12) [Jesus said,] "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you."

(John 15:18-20)[Jesus said,] "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also."

The goal of every blog and video I make is always to encourage you in your walk with the Lord.  The biggest frustration some of you face is trying to be Godly in an ungodly world. You get tired of being the odd one out in groups and not getting invited to join others because they think you are too judgmental.  But if you are truly desiring to please your Creator, the best way to feel strengthened is to consider what the Bible says. Think of it this way: would you rather be uninvited to parties, family gatherings, etc. because of your moral believes, or uninvited into heaven because you compromised and gave into ungodly behavior just to be liked? (See Galatians 5:16-21, Ephesians 5:1-21, and Revelation 20:11-12, 21:7-8)

I have seen too often people who claim to be Christians praise the Lord on Sunday, curse with their friends on Monday, go the bar on Friday night, and to a movie on Saturday.  Then when back in church on Sunday, guilt sets in and they repent and feel on fire again.  However, as soon as they try to speak about the Lord to family members or friends, they are made fun of, and their fire gets doused with the coldness of the people they care about the most. Make no mistake, God will spit you out of His mouth if you cannot make up your mind whether you want to please Him or the world! 

(Revelation 3:13, 15-16) He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth.

Your buddies did not die for you so you can have eternal life (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.)!  Your family members will not be the ones judging you after you die (Revelation 20:12 - 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.)!

Now is the time to choose fire over ice and repent for all the times you have allowed the world to douse the fire you had for the Lord and quench the flames you had for pursing righteousness. 

(Joshua 24:15) And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve... but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.  

Now is also the time to be bold for the Lord and be the influencer for His name, not the other way around! (See also my blogs: "Now is the Time to Speak out for Jesus" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/08/now-is-time-to-speak-out-for-jesus.html AND "Who are we trying to influence others to love? Jesus, the world, or us?  https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/08/who-are-we-trying-to-influence-others.html )

I will end with this writing with the scriptures I quote probably more than any other because it sums up so beautifully how those who choose the title of Christians should choose to act. It is not wrong to be friends with unbelievers, but you should not be overly involved in their lives lest they drag you down.  (1 Corinthians 15:33-34 - Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. Awake to righteousness and sin not.) You cannot blame anyone if you backslide, you are responsible for your own actions, but why tempt yourself to give in to doing things you know are wrong and that go against the will of God?  It is better to keep relationships shallow with those who practice things that we know go against the principles of Jesus Christ, in other words, not be so closely knit with the world you become "unequally yoked."  This is your "reasonable service." 

(2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1) Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.