Moved my Blog

I have moved my blog for those who want to continue to follow me. I would appreciate your continued support. Thanks so much for your previous support for my writing. God bless you all. You can find my new blog at https://lindquistbooks.wordpress.com/

THINGS TO COME

Part Four of Four: What should we do?

Let’s let God's Word tell us what’s wrong and what to do.

This life is but a whisper, a puff of smoke in terms of eternity. So think more about eternity rather than here on Earth in this mortal existence.

Does the following Habakkuk Scripture sound familiar to you? It should. . .this is a prophecy written for these end times.

v2 O LORD, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! even cry out unto thee of violence, and thou wilt not save!
v3 Why dost thou shew me iniquity, and cause me to behold grievance? for spoiling and violence are before me: and there are that raise up strife and contention.
v4 Therefore the law is slacked, and judgment doth never go forth: for the wicked doth compass about the righteous; therefore wrong judgment proceedeth [Habakkuk 1:2-4].

It is impossible to please God without faith [Hebrews 11:6]. Is our faith a preference or commitment? If we take the mark, our faith was a preference. If we do not take the mark, our faith was a conviction. Only we can answer that question.

With the times that are coming, are we going to be safe and immune to the Tribulation that the Bible talks about? I can answer in the affirmative, most definitely. There is only one place of safety and that is “In Christ.” Don’t play Russian roulette with your soul. Are you a child of God? If not, there is only one way, and that is through Jesus Christ. There are some ugly times ahead and I personally am glad that I will not be one of those left behind. I will be coming back with Christ on a white stallion of my own to fight alongside of Christ against a world that has rejected my savior and husband.

1. DO NOT FEAR: Do not fear those things that are coming upon the Earth. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. [Matthew 24:6 (Also Mark 13:7 and Luke 2:19)].

2. GET YOUR EYES OFF OF THIS WORLD: The Word of God is clear, our hope and call is not in this world. God has not called us to restore or save the world.
v10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent

heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

v11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,
v12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?
 v13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. [2 Peter 3:10-13 (Also Colossians 3:2)]

3. SET YOUR EYES ON THE SKIES: Our focus will be on the lost and dying as we discern the lateness of the hour. The world sees the same crisis as we do only they will look to themselves to build a New Age of Peace and Prosperity. Whereas, we will look to the skies because our redemption is nigh at hand.

v28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. [Luke 21:28 (Also Colossians 3:1-3)]

We cannot be silent anymore. There is a dying world out there. We must discern the signs of the times, and realize the hour in which we stand. We must cry out: My bowels, my bowels! I am pained at my very heart; my heart maketh a noise in me; I cannot hold my peace, because thou hast heard, O my soul, the sound of the trumpet, the alarm of war. [Jeremiah 4:19]

For further edification
Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God [John 3:3 KJV].
The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe [Proverbs 18:10 KJV].

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!

Standing on top of a hill overlooking Washington DC, sits a 79 ton marble sarcophagus. A soldier from the 3rd Infantry Regiment marches 21 steps back and forth guarding this lone and Unknown Soldier. He pauses at each of the four turns, and waits 21 seconds at each turn before continuing. A soldier (sentinel) while “Walking the Mat” does not wear an insignia of rank. This further respects and honors the occupant so as not to outrank him.

These 21 steps and seconds are the highest honor that each sentinel can give to the Unknown Soldier because it is representative to a 21 gun salute. While writing this tribute today and reflecting on this tomb and where America is in this day and hour of history, I literally came to tears as I read the inscription carved into the large marble tombstone.

Here rests in honored glory

an American soldier known only to God.

Death is final and this soldier gave up his everything so that I could be free and pursue the remainder of my life with my kids, my friends, and my dreams. As I read the inscription and realized what this soldier gave up, I felt as though I wasn't worthy even to read what was carved on the tomb wall. He not only gave up his life for me but for the country for which he served. . .America.

America also sits on top of a hill and is the light of the world.

You are the light of the world – like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden [Matthew 5:14 NLT].

People have come here for over 200 years to be free, to live out their dreams, and to follow their aspirations. Where will the people go when America is gone? (I know where believers are going!)

America celebrates its 238th birthday today as a beacon of light to those who would be free. However, the reason that America is free is because of the thousands of men and women soldiers who protect her and sometimes give their life for her. To those brave individuals who serve(d) the greatest nation and strongest economic power in the history of mankind, I give my total 100% respect, support, and gratitude. Because of you, may the Stars and Stripes fly forever. I know they will at my house.

One has only to visit the Arlington Cemetery to see the countless rows upon row of white crosses, a daily reminder that each and every one represents a human life and precious soul that sacrificed his or her life for our great nation. There are 400,000 American soldiers buried in Arlington Cemetery, three of which are unknown [1]. Without compunction and without any regard for their own safety, they selflessly sacrificed their lives, not caring about any recognition they might receive for doing so. Sirs and ma’am’s, I thank you with a grateful heart.

The tomb of the Unknown Soldier is empty now [2] but the Army Guard still guards the tomb with the same respect and honor that it deserves, as it represents the soul who dwelt there and the three unknowns buried in the cemetery. It also represents the countless thousands of soldiers today who throw caution to the wind and charge the front line with the resolve of an expectant victory, but also with the ever present possibility and hidden apprehension that they too could end up as a permanent resident of Arlington. . .but with controlled abandon they charge anyway.

This is the American spirit, a spirit that still lives on in the hearts of not only every soldier today but of every citizen who dwells here. We [are] America. Each and every one of our soldiers are heroes in my book and I salute you. I only wish I were young and strong enough to charge with you.

When I think of what this country stands for, I can’t help but think of the expense that it has cost their comrades in arms and of the American people, especially as I look out over the sea of white crosses. It reminds me of the price of freedom and indeed, it does not come cheap.

Then when I think of what America is becoming now all because of a few power hungry individuals during these end times, it exacerbates the tears that I have literally shed for her today. I cannot stop the flow. It really saddens me and I have a heavy heart thinking of her miracle, the cost, and what we are doing to her. Lord, please forgive us for what we are doing to the gift that you gave us 238 years ago.

All of these thoughts leave me with a vision of 400,000 crosses spread out across an open field and of the lives and purpose that they represent, and as I reflect, my mind fills with a cacophony of emotions; respect, thankfulness, awe, hurt, remorse, pride, humbleness, sorrow, and yes – anger. Anger in that these great men and women gave the ultimate sacrifice for what would now appear to be for naught to a handful of elite individuals who are the powers to be, and by their actions, are spitting on the graves of our dead hero’s memories. I apologize to all of you soldiers, dead and alive, for the actions of a few men in power. God bless each and every one of our troops in Jesus name, and He will. . .bless you.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA! The majority of us still love you. Thank you Lord for America and please have mercy on us your servants.

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[1] 125,000 buried on foreign soil managed by the AMBC (American Battle Monuments Commission). 300-400 Americans who fought in French Foreign Legion in WWWI buried overseas. 200 casualties buried in Canada from war of 1812. There are approximately 3600 war dead who are not in any official overseas U.S. cemeteries. 468 buried at Brookwood just outside of London and another 563 missing in action memorialized by name. There are about 750 Soldiers buried in Mexico City. There is no database for all dead American soldiers and some are still on the battlefield. We will never know exactly how many are buried on foreign soil or who are still on the battlefield in their grave of honor and heroism.

[2] On May 8, 1984, the remains of the Vietnam Unknown Soldier entombed at Arlington was disinterred and through the miracle of DNA testing, they identified the soldier as Air Force 1st Lt. Michael J Blassie. The family re-interred him in his home town in St Louis, Missouri. Under the direction of President Ronald Wilson Reagan, the government decided that the tomb would remain empty. This author thinks that that was a great idea because now it represents ALL soldiers who will be known and unknown and yet will give their lives for us.

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THINGS TO COME

Part Three: The Judgment of God through Christ’s Return

8. The judgment of God [Revelation 14-16]: These are basically the seven vials and of the most part are analogous to the ten plagues of Egypt. His judgment applies to the unbelievers in the world at that time. No repentance is invited or shown during this time. The rapture has already happened and the saints are coming back with Christ on His second appearance to make battle with the Antichrist and his minions [12].

9. Armageddon [Revelation 16:12-16]: In the Hebrew tongue Armageddon is “Har Megiddon,” (the hill of Megiddo). This is the sixth vial that the angel pours out and results in the gathering of the armies of the whole world together as they gather in Palestine for the last battle. With the Euphrates River dried up [13], the kings will be able to come into Palestine to battle. Armageddon is Satan’s last ditch effort to stop the second coming of Christ. I have three words for Satan, “Not gonna happen!”

Christ’s second coming! [(For the greatest detail) Revelation 19:11-16]: This is really something to look forward to that Christ chose each one of us to be a part of the greatest event in the history of the world. To be “taken up” (raptured) to be Christ’s Bride and actually to stand under the Huppah with Him in holy wedlock creates an excitement in me that I can’t fathom or express. Of course the unknown (death to an incorporeal existence) is a little apprehensive but I am in the palms of God and he is my deliverer, protector, husband, and savior. To die for Christ is gain [14]. To Him I give my faith, allegiance, and obedience. If we will not live for Christ then we will not die for Him.

The final installment will be next Monday. The title is “What should we do?”

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[121 Thessalonians 3:13]
[13] Revelation 16:12
[14] Philippians 1:21

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THINGS TO COME

Part Two: Abomination of Desolation through the Mark of the Beast

 We continue on with number five of nine in Things to Come.

5. Abomination of Desolation [Daniel 9:27]: I believe that after they rebuild the Temple, Israel will again begin the oblations. This will upset the animal activists to the point that the Antichrist takes the scene. He will eventually stand on the Temple mount and declare that the oblations are to cease and desist. He will claim at that time that he is in control and in authority. I do not believe that he will claim to be God, but by his action, it will be an indirect admission of the same.

The reason for this is because in Deuteronomy 12:11 God says that He is placing His name in Jerusalem and on the Temple Mount for a dwelling place for the Jewish people. When the Antichrist declares his authority, he is usurping the authority of God and as he does so, all who see this will then know the identity of the Antichrist. This declaration begins the Tribulation.

When the war is over the world says that the only way to stop the fighting over Israel and the Temple mount is to put it under international control. This is already in the works in Washington DC. The Antichrist then comes into power. He is someone with all the answers.

6. The Tribulation [Revelation 13]: Revelation 10:5, 6 is the beginning of the Tribulation. The One World Government tries to invade Israel and this triggers the Tribulation. The Abomination of Desolation begins the 3 ½ year Tribulation, a time in history that has never been or will ever be again. Make no mistake, the Bible declares that the Tribulation will last for 3 ½ years and be the ugliest time of history ever recorded or that will ever be recorded.

Whenever the Bible speaks of the Tribulation, it is in terms of 3 ½ years. Research it yourself. Here are some Scriptures to help you out in your study. Daniel 7:25; 12:7; Revelation 11:2; 12:6, 14; 13:5. When the Bible says, “Time, times, and the dividing of time (or half a time), it is talking about a 3 ½ year period of time. 1260 days and 42 months are self-explanatory but the time, times, and half a time (dividing of time) needs clarification. Time is equal to one year, times is equal to two years, and half a time is equal to ½ of a year. . .thus, a 3 ½ year period of time.

Daniel says in Daniel 9:27 says that the Tribulation starts half way between the last seven years of human government. Even Christ says that the Tribulation starts when we see the Abomination of Desolation [10]. I think we can take His word for it even if we don’t study any other part of His Word. He is good for His word.

7. Mark of the beast [Revelation 13:16, 17]: Once the Antichrist comes into power, he institutes a mark to be placed on the forehead or right hand that no one may buy or sell or participate in the world economy without the mark. Plans for the mark already exist in the world today by way of a RFID chip, which the President of the United States Government embedded in the ACA [11], better known as Obamacare.

Have you thought about the idea that why would it be that Obama and his minions is the regime that instigates the Mark of the beast? Why is Obama the keeper of the mark? (Hm-m-m-m. . .food for thought.) Do not take my word for any of this, because the ACA IS searchable. Do your own research and you will learn more.

Next week we will cover the judgment of God through the return of Christ.
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[10] Matthew 24:15-21
[11] Affordable Care Act

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THINGS TO COME

Part One:
Sixth Trumpet War through the Rapture

Never before in the history of mankind has war ever terminated the lives of a million people. That is until WWWI (1914-1918) when there were 8.2 million casualties. Twenty years later from 1938-1945, WWWII was able to kill 52 million people. Can we even fathom 52 million dead human beings in one conflict lying on the battle fields?

However, since 1945, technology has advanced exponentially especially with advent of nuclear power and weaponry. This will allow WWWIII (the sixth trumpet war) to exterminate a little over 2.2 Billion people [1]. This is 40 times more fatalities than WWWII and the Bible says that it will be 1/3 of mankind [2]. It appears that the only thing that man has become smarter and proficient at is killing each other.

To make a long story short, before Jesus returns for His Bride [3], there are nine major events that are yet to happen [4]. Only God knows the order in which they will happen. However, this is how I understand the order in which things will transpire.

1. Sixth Trumpet War [Revelation 9:14 (9:13-18)]: The Bible does not answer the question as to when this war will happen in the order of things. Personally, I do not think that the peace treaty precedes the sixth Trumpet War. Logic dictates that the result of a world-wide peace treaty does not instigate a war that will kill six billion people. The reverse is more logical to me. Of course, it’s all up to God. To kill this many people in one conflict, it all but has to be nuclear.

Some say that WWWIII has already begun. George W. Bush, on May 6, 2006 said that flight 93 and the courageous men who saved the White House, was the first counter attack of WWWIII.

2. Peace treaty [Daniel 9:27]: People are sick and tired of war and all the killing, and with 1/3 of mankind slaughtered in the last war; the world decides to sign a peace treaty. This peace treaty signifies the beginning of the last seven years of human government.

3. Temple rebuilt [Revelation 11:1, 2]: Israel begins to rebuild the Temple, which will take them 3 ½ years. They have already started collecting the artifacts for the Temple. A perfect red heifer is on its way now from the United States of America to Israel. However, the important thing here is that the rebuilding of the temple is Israel’s final rejection of Christ the Messiah. God does not reside in a temple made with hands [5] but in fact, He resides in us because we are the temple of God [6].

4. Rapture of the church [1 Thessalonian 4:16, 17]: This is a highly debatable subject and has three different scenarios, Pre-Tribulation, Mid-Tribulation, and Post-Tribulation. Some people are very protective of their theology and this is OK. People base their rapture theology on the Tribulation and how long it lasts. Basically, it’s all unimportant because only the Father knows when it will transpire [7].

Seven year Tribulation believers, say I am mid-Tribulation. However, in keeping with the reality of things, I am a Pre-Tribulation believer. Nevertheless, in actuality, I am a Pan-Tribulation believer in that it will all PAN out in the end [8]. In all seriousness, I cannot believe that a loving God would allow us to go through the worst times in world history when we have given Him our lives and lived a devoted life for Christ as best we can, albeit unrighteously [9]. That wouldn't be much of a reward for being faithful. But your will be done Father

On the 25th, I will upload Part Two: The Abomination of Desolation through the Judgment of God.
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[1] 6.8 billion people occupy this planet
[2] Revelation 9:15 (9:13-20)
[3] Ecclesiastes 12:7; Isaiah 7:4; 9:6, 7; Zechariah 12:10; 14:4; Revelation 1:7; Matthew 24:30; Titus 2:13; Revelation 19:11-16
[4] The first five trumpets have already happened.
[5] Hebrews 9:11, 24
[6] 1 Corinthians 3:16
[7] Matthew 24:36
[8] There isn’t a Pan-Tribulation. It’s only my attempt at interjecting a little levity in such a somber theme.
[9] Romans 3:10

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LOSING SIGHT OF OUR SIGNIFICANCE

Quite a few years ago I sat in a pew watching everybody in the church serving God in some way, shape, or form. They all seemed to have a ministry and God was using them mightily for the kingdom; everyone from servers and ushers to pastors and evangelists. I had been a Christian for almost all of my life and yet, there I was, wondering who I was “in Christ,” with no ministry.

I thought things like, what was the matter with me, Lord? I love you just as much as they do. When do I get a ministry and something to do for you and the kingdom? I am willing and able. Don’t you trust me yet? Am I not good enough? For the longest time, those and other thoughts filled my head; I felt that I wasn’t significant enough for God to use me. He hadn’t chosen me to do anything for the kingdom, let alone great things.

I wasn’t concerned about doing great things; I just wanted to do “A” thing for the Lord. I didn’t want to be a Moses or Paul; I just wanted to be a Jim with a job to serve my King and His Kingdom.

On the outside, I tried to be a mature Christian and understand God’s reasoning, but on the inside, I struggled, and it gnawed at me. After all, those that I watched were good at what they did and the church was a better place because of them. Is my service of no value to you Lord? Is there someplace where I didn’t measure up? I knew that God loved me but I felt like I was dying inside and not going anywhere. I felt unwanted, unneeded, and unloved. God was using everybody but me.

This was not how Christianity was supposed to feel.

Are you going through a gap in a vision that God has given you? Has God given you a mission and it remains incomplete? On the other hand - maybe He hasn’t even given you a ministry to accomplish yet. If we do not yet know God’s will for our lives, we can continue with the last thing that He told us all to do [1].

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature [Mark 16:15].

There is timing to God’s will and plan for each of our lives [2] and until I understood that, I would continue to have a misconception of my worth to God. Therefore, I encourage each of you to have patience with God, and wait on Him [3]. It is dangerous to forge ahead especially in front of God. It is during these gap times that we really need to trust God and have patience with His timing and plan for our lives.

Could He only be adjusting someone else’s plan that will affect or coincide with the plan He has for you and it isn’t quite in place yet. Maybe the reason He hasn’t given us a ministry yet is because we haven’t finished the last thing He told us to do. Maybe He is just testing our faith. This is always a possibility but don’t get discouraged even if that is the case. If He gave you something to do, He will give you the ability to finish it [4].

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ [Philippians 1:6].

However, in the meantime, He has given everybody to be ministers of reconciliation [5]. God gave us all the ministry of preaching the Gospel to every creature [6], to reach the unsaved [7], and to present the character of Christ to the world [8].

What better ministry than to bring someone else to Christ and watch the miracle of a changed life. There is no better miracle than salvation.
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[1] Mark 16:15
[2] Jeremiah 29:11; I like the NIV version
[3] Psalms 46:10
[4] Philippians 1:6
[5] 2 Corinthians 5:17
[6] Mark 16:15
[7] Luke 15:4
[8] Romans 14:18

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A CHRISTIAN SOLILOQUY

To be, or not to be: that is the question:
Whether tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or take arms against a sea of troubles,
And by opposing end them? To die: to sleep. . .

This is Hamlet speaking to Ophelia in the opening Nunnery scene of William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet. This opening soliloquy spoke to my spirit as I looked back at the time when I rededicated myself to the Lord.

In retrospect it was like I was then asking myself, did I want to continue to be a Christian, or not to be a Christian? Did I want to suffer the arrows and wiles of the enemy [1], or take up the armor [2] and join in on the fight [3], to end Satan in my life or to die, myself [4]?

Even today the serpent, as a roaring lion, roams about looking for whom he may devour [5]. There are, no doubt, countless roadblocks and hindrances thrown up by the serpent to those wanting to come to Christ.

Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? [Galatians 5:7 KJV]

Sixty-three years ago, I asked the Lord into my heart, a decision that I have not regretted. A few years later, I started high school. My peers and the world got a hold of me and things changed, not only in the natural, but spiritually. I forgot about God and stopped going to church. I was old enough to understand a few things now and I wasn’t that innocent little kid anymore.

For 40 years, I was in the hog pen not serving God. After all that time away from God, I reassessed my life, I thought to myself, to be a Christian or not to be a Christian that is the question. Why should I go back to Jesus? Considering how much I loved the Lord when I first asked Him into my life, why was I holding back from rededicating? What happened?

Let’s rewind this story about 23 years and allow me to share my heart for a minute. This is why I did not want to rededicate my life to Jesus Christ.

We all have issues. Me…I hate to fail…at anything. Although I’ve done some good things in my life, I’d always perceived myself as having fallen short, either in deed or in measure, probably stemming from a very strict earthly father. I’d started out loving God and had ended up drifting from Him.

The Bible tells us that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God [6]. There is none righteous, no not one [7]. Death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned [8]. Why should I get back into Christianity if I was going to fail at it? It didn’t make any sense to me.

I struggled with this for a long time. Then I realized that it was all a lie straight from the pit of Hell. Yes, we all miss the mark, but He forgives us and as long as we get back up, we succeed. It is when we do not get back up…that we fail.

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[1]  Psalms 7:13; Ephesians 6:11
[2]  Ephesians 6:11-17
[3]  Matthew 11:12
[4]  Philippians 1:21
[5]  1 Peter 5:8
[6]  Romans 3:23
[7]  Romans 3:10
[8]  Romans 5:12


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LIFE AND DEATH

Part Two of Two: Gethsemane

Christ had a life and death decision to make, so He knelt in the Garden of Gethsemane and prayed to the Father.

Although it’s not necessarily the position of the body but the position of the heart, there is no better place to be than on your knees to God. If it was good enough for Christ, then it is good enough for me. It is true submission. Furthermore, to submit to something greater than oneself, is good for the soul and is good for our faith.

Gethsemane is the place of decisions and here on His knees, Christ was about to atone for the disobedience in the first Garden. Christ’s substitutionary death on the Cross primarily forgave Adam’s disobedience at the tree, but opened the door for the forgiveness of mankind’s sin nature, but only through Christ. Redemption is only available by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ our Savior, from the sin that separated us from God in the Garden of Eden.

We all have Gethsemane moments each and every day of our lives.

And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt [Matthew 26:39 KJV].

We can take a lesson from Christ. At the first sign of trouble or heaviness, He went to the Father and “. . .nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.”

The enemy is relentless and we must be alert and vigilant [1]. Remember that during a time of temptation, the enemy will always open a door when you want to say “No” to God. However, God will always open a door when you want to say “Yes” to Him. Which door will you go through?

So, what is the solution to temptation? Take Christ’s lead and invoke the name of Jesus and “Jesus, save me!” He WILL always answer that short prayer and cry for help. Will we ever walk through the wrong door? Of course, but it is the process of renewing the mind [2]. This invocation works for me for the most part, but when it doesn’t, it is totally me and due to my answer when I say “No” to God. Just ask for forgiveness with a contrite heart [3] and move on.

Prayerfully, we will walk through the right door more times than not.

God bless you’s and have a great week one and all.
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[1] 1 Peter 5:8
[2] Romans 12:2
[3] Contrite heart means to be remorseful and repentant. Certainly DO NOT be presumptuous in saying that it is OK to sin that God will forgive me anyway (Romans 6:1, 2).
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LIFE AND DEATH

Part One of Two: Temptation

Adam ate the fruit. Moses struck the rock. Jonah headed for Tarshish. Judas betrayed Jesus and Peter denied Christ, not once, but three times. These and many other characters of the Bible have at least one thing in common, they all had decisions to make, most of which were either bad or wrong.

Life is full of choices and as such we are all products of our own decisions. The Lord declares through His written Word,

. . .that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live. . . [Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV]

At the root of life and death lies temptation. Christ even suffered the temptation of Satan for forty days while fasting the entire time [1]. Now I am aware that we, as Christians, involve Christ in our daily decision making to guide our life, but the decisions that I want to address is in this and these two blogs are those that lead to disobedience and separation from God.

Temptation

Remember that Christ set before us life and death and that we are to choose between the two. In fact, if we follow Christ, we will choose daily between them [2]. Some decisions we make in a split second without thinking, while others we defiantly think about with premeditation. Therefore, it behooves us to take Philippians 4:8 and Matthew 12:34 to heart [3].

We all make wrong decisions in our lives and every day we can either eat the fruit or not eat the fruit [4]. We can either strike the rock or speak to the rock [5]. We can either go to Nineveh or we can head for Tarshish [6]. Because of free will, the decision is all ours.

It’s hard to do the right thing every day all the time and for that, you can thank Adam and the sin-nature [7]. However, you can thank Christ because He is not only our advocate before the Father [8] but He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins [9]. He also totally understands our plight and the strength of temptation [10] because He was tempted in all ways just as we are, only without sin.

Man has many ways in which he separates himself from God: fear, guilt, shame, regret, contention, bitterness, resentment, anger, hate, lust, jealousy, doubt, unbelief, filthy language, gossip, back-biting, and ad infinitum.

However, having said that, Satan basically has four ways in which he tempts man, The lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, the pride of life [11], and “. . .Hath God said [12]?”

So, when we get into that predicament of having to choose to either eat the fruit or not to eat the fruit, what do we do? In fact, what can we do when confronted with temptation and the fiery darts of the enemy? Especially when it is something that seems to be benign or pleasurable to experience and we know to be against God’s will.

What is the solution?

*     *     *

NOTE: There are many books written on the subject of decision and obedience but there are some things about their foundation that only requires a basic knowledge of some decision making processes and Scriptures that can deliver us from the enemy’s attacks. I pray that it will help you in renewing your mind [13] and help you to stave off the attack of the enemy that separates us from God.

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[1] Matthew 4:1
[2] Luke 9:23
[3] Ephesians 4:31; Colossians 3:8; Titus 3:2, 3; 1 Peter 2:1 and on and on.
[4] Genesis 2:16, 17
[5] Numbers 20:8; 20:10, 11
[6] Jonah 1:1-3
[7] Thank you indeed, Adam, because without your disobedience, there’d be no need for the redemption through Jesus Christ
[8] 1 John 2:1
[9] 1 John 1:9
[10] Matthew 26:41; Hebrews 4:15
[11] Genesis 3:6; 1 John 2:16
[12] Genesis 3:1
[13] Romans 12:1, 2

IN THE IMAGE OF GOD

Many authors have written books on the subject of the Trinity. Lay people as well as those with alphabet soup after their name have attempted to write and explain the Trinity. It is a subject that is as deep as you want to make it. Dr. Kennedy was a lot smarter than probably 20 of us combined and he gave up researching it because I have heard people say that it drove him crazy. Therefore, I guess I’ll throw my two-bits into the pot.

This will not be an all-inclusive teaching so get a cup of coffee and settle back. I only want to write enough to help us understand God a little better, to help our prayer life, and maybe to spark an excitement about digging further and deeper into God and His Word. Just remember that God does not reveal all things to His children. How can a finite man figure out and explain all aspects of an infinite God.

The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law [Deuteronomy 29:29 KJV].

Nonetheless, the first two discernible things we know about God is that one, He is an incorporeal being [1], and two, He is a creator being [2]. He created the heavens and the Earth [3], all the animals [4], and for His piece de resistance, He created man and woman [5]. Since God created man in His own image, man is a tripartite being as well. God is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit [6] while man is spirit, body, and soul [7]. Let me illustrate.

Right away in Genesis 1:26, 27, the Bible declares the trinity of God.

v26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. . .
v27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

In verse 26, the words “Let us. . .Our image. . .Our likeness” declare the three person trinity. In verse 27 the Bible also declares the oneness of God with the words “His Own. . .He him. . .and He them.” How do we know that verse 26 speaks to a three person trinity? We know because many Scriptures in the Bible state that God is three separate entities of the one God [8]. Pertaining to v27, Deuteronomy 6:4 says that God is one. What are the roles of each of the three persons?

It is the role of God the Father to create a plan. For example, God the Father designed how He would redeem man [9]. The Son (Jesus Christ), implemented the Father’s plan by doing His Father’s will and willingly went to the Cross [10]. The Holy Spirit administers the plan by teaching us ‘all things’ and seeing to it that all mankind feels the call to salvation and hears of the saving knowledge of the Son, Jesus Christ [11].

All truth is parallel and in keeping with the context; please allow me to share man’s tripartite nature with you. Since God created man in His image [12], I try to keep to the two-track teaching method [13].

Therefore, man is a triune being. Man’s spirit is his God-consciousness. His body (flesh) is his world-consciousness through the five senses. Finally, his soul is his self-consciousness, which consists of thought, cognition, emotions, intellect, reasoning, self-will, personality, and the choice processes of his being. These are all functions of the soul. Genesis 3 is about man’s decision making process, which affected the entire world and every man’s existence. . .forever, both spiritually and in the natural. (Who says that one man can’t make a difference?)

This is very simplistic and basic but unless someone wants to go to seminary or is a glutton for the knowledge of God, it is pretty much all we need to know. Myself, I don’t want ever to stop learning about God. I gladly, and with pleasure, write my blogs to pass on what I have learned to my spiritual brothers and sisters. I pray that they bless you.
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[1]. John 4:24
[2]. Genesis 1, 2
[3]. Genesis 1:1
[4]. Genesis 2:19, 20
[5]. In Genesis 1:27 God created man’s Spirit; In Genesis 2:7a He created man’s body; In Genesis 2:7b God created man’s soul, and in Genesis 2:21, 22 He created the woman from man.
[6]. Deuteronomy 6:4
[7]. 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 4:12
[8]. Matthew 28:19; John 14:16; John 14:26; John 15:26; 1 Corinthians 12:4-6; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Ephesians 2:18; 1 Peter 1:2
[9]. Galatians 4:4, 5
[10]. John 6:37, 38
[11]. John 14:26; John 16:8; Romans 1:19, 20
[12]. Genesis 1:26, 27
[13]. For every natural truth, the is an equal and corresponding spiritual truth. In other words, when I give an example in one, I like to give an example in the other. This helps in relating to the illustration and context of the narrative.

TEMPORARY HOME

What is man’s reality? Do we have to explain reality in terms of matter and energy, or is the universe all inside of our head? Does that then make reality and consciousness one in the same? If we take this as axiomatic, can we therefore say that reality is in the eye of the beholder because what is reality for one person may not be reality for another? However, let’s not get bogged down in axioms or heavy philosophy, but instead, let’s go to God’s Word.

Believe it or not, the Bible does speak to the issue of reality. Are you surprised? The Bible is not only a spiritual book, but a history book, a geography book, a teaching book, a relationship book, a science book, and much much more. Pick a topic and search God’s Word because there’s a 99.99% chance there will be an answer to your problem, if not as plain as the nose on your face, then by inference.

Now we all know that God does not reveal everything in His Word [1] but what God reveals though is ours. What He does not reveal belongs to Him, and if He does not reveal it, it is either because it is beyond our grasp, or it is something that He wants to reveal at a later date in its time. We’ll just let God be God and consider the main duty of man, which is to fear God, His revelation, and to keep His commandments [2].

So. . .what is man’s reality according to God and His Word? Right off of the bat, God sets the stage for the entire Bible and then justifies our reality and existence early on in the book of the Genesis.

So God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them [Genesis 1:27 KJV].

God first created man as a spirit in His image, placed him in the Garden, gave him dominion over everything, and then told him to replenish the Earth [3].

Since God is incorporeal [4] and created man in His own image, this makes man’s reality spirit as well. Therefore, we can say that God embedded in the spirit of man to have dominion over everything and to fill the Earth with spiritual children for God the Father. We, as believers, are God’s children [5]. God didn’t finish creating man until Genesis 2:6, 7, when He gave him a body, a soul, and the capacity to make decisions.

Earth and our physical existence is only a temporary home if you will [6], which is a parallel universe running right alongside of God in the spirit world, which is His Kingdom. This is how God can be omnipresent or everywhere at once [7]. His Spirit fills the Earth and mankind inhabits the Earth in their parallel existence just centimeters from Him. Both realities share the same space.

Part of our reality is also to become the spiritual Bride of Christ and is why He created us in the first place [8]. The Bride of Christ is the overarching storyline of the Scriptures.

To recap, God created man in His image, gave our spirit dominion, and commanded it to fill the Earth. As spirit beings, this is man's reality. When we die, our bodies will return to dust and Christ will come for our spirit [9] and if people will choose Jesus Christ’s salvation and when their time comes, they will go home to man’s Spirit reality and leave his temporary home, forever to be with the Lord [10].

However, if people do not choose Jesus Christ and His salvation and when their time comes, they will return to man’s alternate spiritual reality [11], and because the wages of sin is death [12], need I say where their spirit will reside. . .forever. So. . .choose ye this day whom ye will serve [13].

Why is the study of reality, parallel universe, and a temporary home so important? What is the takeaway? The reason is because we worry too much about our temporary home, our physical existence, and the things of the world [14]. Instead, think about going home to where we came from, our husband Jesus Christ and our hope of glory with Him. Think about the marriage supper of the Lamb [15] when we stand in the Huppah [16] and join to Christ in holy matrimony.

Hallelujah!

Therefore, go ye into all the world and replenish the Earth with like-minded Spirits, preaching the Gospel to every living creature [17]. This is the first and last commandment given to man in the Bible because Christ is not willing that any should perish [18].

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[1] Deuteronomy 29:29
[2] Ecclesiastes 12:12-14
[3] The word replenish does not mean that this is man’s second go around at propagation. The word replenish herein means to fill the Earth.
[4] John 4:24
[5] John 1:12, 11:52; Romans 8:16, 21; Ephesians 5:1; Philippians 2:15; Galatians 3:26; and many more
[6] 2 Corinthians 4:18, 5:1-8
[7] Psalms 139:7-12
[8] Ephesians 1:9-11
[9] Ecclesiastes 12:7
[10] 1 Thessalonians 4:17
[11] John 8:24 God first made man in His image. Image is a copy or duplicate. When we accept Christ as our Savior, the Holy Spirit inhabits us, which is the real thing and not a duplicate. This is why when people do not accept the Lord, they die in their sins and revert to the duplicate and corrupted spiritual reality.
[12] Romans 6:23 and spiritual death, which is separation from God
[13] Joshua 24:15
[14] Colossians 3:1, 2
[15] Revelation 19:6-10
[16]  Huppah is a Jewish marriage ceremonial tent or covering
[17] Mark 16:15
[18] 2 Peter 3:9

.

HOLY GROUND

I love the beach and go there frequently to be alone with God. More times than not, when I go there, it is because He calls me away to be with Him. I usually travel light, taking only my Bible, computer, and a couple changes. I jump at the chance each time He calls me away but by the time you figure the hotel, food, gas, and how many days I stay, it costs me around $200-$250 when I stay at the coast. However, I don’t really worry about the cost because when God calls me away, He’ll provide the finances for me to go. Some have said, “Then why do you go? Isn’t God omnipresent? Can’t you be with God anywhere thereby saving money?”

Granted, God is ubiquitous [1], but when God wants to do something in our lives, He separates us from people and places. He calls us away from all our familiarity [2] so He can have our undivided attention and so that worldly things do not distract us [3]. In the same separation vein when God calls me away to do something in my life, I find that most everybody has that special place to be alone with God, a place where we can feel anointed and feel extra close to Him.

Probably one of the most famous stories in the Bible that exemplifies this you can find in Exodus when God separated Moses from Jethro’s people at Midian and called him up to Mount Horeb [4]. It was there that God anointed Moses to deliver His people by giving him a mandate that would change the course of history. The ground where Moses stood was holy [5].

And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground [Exodus 3:5 KJV].

Just like God did for Moses when He separated Him from Jethro and took him up to Mount Horeb, I feel anointed when I go to the coast. As I walk next to the ocean, the hard wet sand feels like holy ground. I have come to believe that my Mount Horeb is the coast because it is where I feel the presence and the anointing of Almighty God very strong. When I meet God at the coast, I am very productive in my writing because I dedicate that time to Him. When the Lord calls me away, I know that He is separating me from any familiarity and worldly cares, to talk to me if for anything, to pray or worship Him. To date, He calls me to give me either a specific word or something that He wants me to write.

Like Moses, God gave me a burning bush [6]. My burning bush is the ocean for it is where God reveals Himself to me. God revealed Himself and spoke to Moses from the burning bush and God reveals Himself to me through the ocean. When I see the ocean, I see God’s width, His depth, His vastness, His power, and saltiness that does not lose its savor. God is relentless and is not consumed [7].

Like the ocean, God beckons the wayfarers [8] and supports the vessels that would travel through life’s seas [9] and yet covers what lies beneath [10]. Like the fish and mammals of the sea, God gives life to those who live deep within His bosom [11]. The water itself is a reminder of the Holy Spirit [12].

Yet, when the ocean is disturbed, it can be very wrathful [13]. It has sunk many ships and many have perished [14] although, it is not willing that any should die [15]. The ocean is beautiful and even the tide comes in to wash the shoreline of impurities. I like to walk in the water’s edge with my sandals off because it feels like Jesus is washing my feet [16].

So. . .when the Lord says to you, “Come away to a quiet place and rest,” where do you go? Where do you feel anointed? Where is your Mount Horeb? Wherever it is, treat it with respect, fear, and awe [17] and don’t take it for granted because it is holy ground. Remove your sandals and give into the Holy Spirit [18]

Furthermore, how does God get your attention? What is your burning bush? Do you hear Him when He speaks? Do you know and recognize His voice? In other words, do you attune your mind to the things of God [19]? Remember that prayer is a dialogue, not a monologue. Also remember that all meetings with God start with prayer and worship. Repent and talk [20] to God. Worship Him [21] and then listen. The bush will speak to you as well.

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[1] Psalms 139:7-12
[2] 2 Corinthians 6:17
[3] Romans 12:1, 2
[4] Exodus 3:1, 2
[5] Exodus 3:5
[6] A tool for getting our attention
[7] Psalms 41:13
[8] Matthew 11:28
[9] John 3:16
[10] Psalms 104
[11] Job 33:4
[12] John 19:34; 1 Corinthians 10:4; Numbers 20:11
[13] Ezra 8:22
[14] 1 Corinthians 15:22
[15] 2 Peter 3:9
[16] John 13:8
[17] Job 28:28
[18] Removing ones sandals was a sign of humbleness and respect and was symbolic of laying aside the pollutions contracted by walking in the dirt and grime of the wilderness. Many a host washed the feet of travelers when they removed their sandals. The habit of removing one’s shoes still remains today, as a sign of respect, when entering into another man’s house so as not track dirt onto their rugs and floors.
[19] Colossians 3:1, 2
[20] 1 Thessalonians 5:17
[21] John 4:24

.

IS AMERICA A CHRISTIAN NATION?

On July 28, 2006, Senator Barack Hussein Obama said in his “Call to renewal” keynote address in Washington DC that America was no longer a Christian nation. For those who watched even a smidgeon of news during this time, heard of this statement and yet, we still elected him in 2008.

Now I understand that the 2008 elections was more of a referendum against President Bush than it was a vote for Obama, but his statement went to the core of who we are as a nation. However, in all fairness to reporting practices, here is a direct quote of that section of his speech. This way, you can draw your own conclusions as to the context of his address.

“. . .Whatever we once were, we are no longer a Christian nation – at least, not just. We are also a Jewish nation, and a Hindu nation, and a nation of nonbelievers. . .” – Barack Obama

On the surface, this subliminal message would appear that he meant nothing more by it than to suggest that America is a melting pot of diversity. Although we are a melting pot, after closer inspection of the statement, a more sinister plot and meaning emerges.

The inference here is the death of a thousand cuts [1], of which this statement is only one cut. It is prudent therefore that we understand the goal and agenda of this present government, which is the New World Order. The Bible says that we will know them by their fruits [2].

After all the scandals, Executive Orders, and war against the American people, the question still lingers in the air, “Is America a Christian nation?” Many authors have written books about America’s foundation of Christianity. However, and contrary to the belief of many, the Bible was the foundation of the Declaration of Independence and eventually that of America’s Constitution.

If there were no other proof of this fact, the SCOTUS resolved the question for us. Here is what they said, “No purpose of action against religion can be imputed to any legislation, state or national, because this is a religious people. . .this is a Christian nation.” SCOTUS also held that “Whatever strikes at the root of Christianity tends manifestly to the dissolution of civil government.” You could not hold any office in a state or federal government unless you proclaimed your belief in Jesus Christ and the Scriptures.

Considering the fact that the pilgrims came over on the Mayflower to escape the religious persecution of Great Britain, how could the foundation of America be anything else but on God’s Word. The core of the Constitution is the Bible and Christianity. This is irrefutable and searchable.

Article I of the Constitution pertains to the Legislative branch (Congress). Article II pertains to the Executive branch and Article III pertains to the Judicial branch. By looking at your copy of the Constitution, you’ll notice which one is the smallest. This was by design. Judges were to litigate and settle, NOT to set law like they do today. On the heading of each case is the lead, “It is the opinion of the court.” The other two branches have the legal right to refuse the opinion, as Abraham Lincoln did with slavery.

Have you ever wondered why there are three branches of government and how they came about? For our answer, we’ll need to go to the Bible located in the book of Isaiah chapter 33 and verse 22, which says,

For Jehovah is our judge, Jehovah is our lawgiver, Jehovah is our king; he will save us.

The Isaiah Scripture is the origin of the three branches of government. America was on her way.

Here are just a few more Scriptural references of the Constitution.

Separation of powers [Jeremiah 17:9]
Tax exemption for churches [Ezra 7:24]

Article I Section viii: Uniform immigration laws [Leviticus 19:34].
Article II Section i: President to be a natural born citizen [Deuteronomy 17:15].
Article III Section iii: Witnesses and capital punishment [Deuteronomy 17:6].
Article III Section iii: Provision against attainder [Ezekiel 18:20]. (The unconstitutional NDAA comes to mind.)
Article IV Section iv: Republicanism. Elections at local, county, state, and federal levels [Exodus 18:21]. This Article and Section requires that each state maintain a republican form of government. Noah Webster once wrote, “Our citizens should early understand that the genuine source of correct republican principles is the Bible, particularly the New Testament, or the Christian religion.” Founding father, Benjamin Rush also wrote, “A simple democracy is the Devil’s own government.” Founding father, Fisher Ames said, “A Democracy is a volcano which conceals the fiery materials of its own destruction. These will produce an eruption and carry desolation their way.” We can conclude that the difference between a Democracy and a Republic is the source of their authority. This is why the Founders decided on a Constitutional Republic.

The Declaration of Independence was the promise and the reasons for separating from Great Britain, and the Constitution was the fulfillment to the promise and the solution to the reasons. Is there any doubt whatsoever, that America is a Christian nation?

I exhort you to study and search out the Scriptures that have afforded you the privilege of freedom. Apathy is the enemy of freedom. We have all taken this country and our freedoms for granted with the assumption and perception that they cannot take them away from us. If we think that they cannot take them, I exhort you to read the Book of Revelation.

The government and the electorate have totally screwed up this country. We have lost our focus. As a whole, we have turned away from God. Our voting habits have migrated from searching out values in our candidates to searching out our candidates economically and what we can get out of the government. Alexis De Tocquiville quoted that “The American Republic will endure until the day Congress discovers that it can bribe the public with the public’s money.” On the other side, Benjamin Franklin said that, “When the people find they can vote themselves money, that will herald the end of the Republic.”

Learning our American heritage is the civic responsibility of every citizen. We have strayed quite a ways from the original intent of our founding documents and our belief in the Lord Jesus Christ.

“Man will ultimately be governed by God or by tyrants.” – Benjamin Franklin

The choice is ours.

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[1] Fabian Socialism – Socialism by overwhelming the masses
[2] Matthew 7:16, 20

LOGOS V RHEMA

Howbeit that is not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; then that which is spiritual [1 Corinthians 15:46].

This Scripture has bothered me for a very long time. I knew that this verse was wrong and that the Bible must be inerrant because I knew for a fact that God created man in His image [Genesis 1:27], which was spirit [John 4:24]. Man was first, a spirit (little “s”).

Today, this verse resurfaced as it does from time to time, but this time, the Lord began to show me what it all meant. I love it when He does that. I am elated this morning that God would take time out of running a universe to give me rhema about His Word.

After the Lord told me of the Corinthian’s meaning, He presented me with a picture in my mind of the difference between logos and rhema. Now I already knew the meaning of both but the analogous picture given to me was perfect (and why not, it came from God), so I felt led to share. I hope this helps somebody out there.

The picture was this: Christ is standing in front of a huge crowd of people reciting Scripture to them. While He speaks, His focus is about two feet above their head, which in and of itself, is cool because it appears that He is covering them all with His Word. This is logos, God covering us all with His Word.

Today, as I stood in that crowd, the Lord gave me the meaning of a puzzling Scripture by looking me straight in the eye. That word was for me. This is rhema. When the Lord gives us a rhema word, it is Him looking us straight in the eye and sharing.

Logos is for everybody and rhema is for an individual.

Oh, and for those who do not know the meaning of the 1 Corinthians Scripture or are just interested in what God said, here is a paraphrase of what He told me.

God DID create man in His image. . .Adam. He then created Eve from Adam’s rib. Adam was perfect in every way. All other men and women after Adam and Eve came from them, which was flesh (natural). However, because of the sin nature inherited by all mankind, we are first all flesh but we are all also still spirit, and in God’s image. Image means copy. The real Spirit of God comes at salvation. We are all still triune beings.

After our salvation it is our perfecting [Romans 12:2] that we return to the perfection afforded us in the Garden of Eden. Christ was even born first from flesh (Mary and Joseph), and then became spiritual.

Read 1 Corinthians 15:46-49.

Well, it looks like the Bible was right -- again.

God = 31, 102 [Number of verses in the original Bible KJV.]
Jim = 0
LOL

Lord, thank you for your logos Word that you cover us daily with wisdom, healing, and salvation. Thank you for the perfecting works of the Cross and Lord, I thank you for your rhema word and time spent with me this morning. I pray God’s wisdom, healing, rhema, and salvation over each and every one of you in the name of Jesus, amen.

ABSENCE OR ABSENCE, YOUR CHOICE

Poor little Johnny has really been getting a bad rap over the years and has been blamed for all sorts of wrong doing and mishaps just so we could make a point. Well. . .here’s my point, but first, I’d like to give little Johnny a reprieve from any further impunity and direct our thoughts toward little Jimmy.

Here’s the thing, little Jimmy was a good boy but nonetheless, he was just that. . .a little boy. He was still full of mischief, tested his parents, and was sometimes downright disobedient. . .some innocent, some not. It’s not that little Jimmy wanted to be disobedient; it was just something that he wanted to do at the time that garnered the warning of his earthly parents. He just did not see any harm or danger in doing that action.

What it all boiled down to was that he didn’t trust his parents when they told him “No.” He subconsciously wanted to find out for himself if they had any justification or credibility in saying no to that really fun thing that he wanted to do or didn’t they want him to have any fun? Like little Jimmy, we had to learn for ourselves the pain of doing wrong, whether the pain was physical, emotional, or spiritual. At one time or the other, we all did the opposite of what our parents told us.

As followers of Christ, we also do the opposite of what is right. We indulge in the above attributes of our earthly youth counterparts while we were young. In like manner, when we test and disobey our earthly parents, we also spiritually test God and are disobedient [1] to Him. In essence, when we disobey God, we are saying that we do not trust you Lord [2]. We also raise ourselves above God and become idolatrous.

When man grows spiritually, he feverishly tries not only to conform to the image of Christ [3], but he tries to remove all the bad things that are in his life [4]. So much so that he has a tendency to sometimes lose focus and perspective in the one he is trying to emulate [5]. In Christ, we have the truth and the guidance, but like earthly children who are still on milk [6], we ignore the truth and the guidance [7].

“. . .and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free [John 8:32 KJV].”

Ridding oneself of the bad things that saturate and destroy our life is a good thing. However, it is not the absence of the wrong things in our lives, but it is the absence of the right things in our lives that causes the turmoil. We will always have the bad things in our lives that plague and tempt us, but hallelujah, we will always have Jesus Christ who will never leave or forsake us [8] and who will always save [9], deliver [10], and heal us [11].

If we follow Christ with a passion, have Him at the forefront of our minds, and are obedient to Him, we should be able, theoretically, to repel the temptation from coming to fruition. Nevertheless, since obedience is all a process, we will eventually fail [12]; but greater is He who is in us than he that is in the world [13]. Nevertheless, when we fail, repentance is in order. However, repentance is not the act of worrying about the consequences of our sin, but true repentance is the act of wanting to restore the presence of God in our life. The former is not true repentance.

Christ is the right thing and if we focus on Him [14] in these days, we will be victorious [15], because Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life [16].

Let me leave you with this:

The enemy is an idiot, the more he persecutes us, the closer we get to God, and if Satan would just leave us alone, we’d destroy ourselves.

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[1]  Romans 3:23
[2]  Mark 9:24
[3]  Romans 8:29
[4]  proverbs
[5]  Ephesian 5:21
[6]  Hebrews 5:13
[7]  2 Timothy 3:5
[8]  Hebrews 13:5
[9]  Matthew 1:21
[10]  Galatians 1:4; 2 Timothy 4:18
[11]  Exodus 15:26
[12]  Isaiah 64:6
[13]  John 4:4
[14]  Psalms 22:3
[15]  1 Corinthians 15:57; 1 John 5:4
[16]  John 14:6

THINK ON HEAVENLY THINGS AND FOCUS ON CHRIST

When Jesus walked the Earth, He spoke to the Disciples in natural metaphors. In my dream, Christ spoke to me in the same fashion and gave me word pictures of Himself and of man. He revealed to us that both the saved and the unsaved were entering into a new paradigm of history. Each in his chosen direction, whether it is righteous or evil, will be in the extreme.

As I dreamt, he showed Himself as king, servant, man, God, the Way, as Revelation, and as the only one who could fill the empty void of hope found in mankind's psyche today. Granted, there are some nasty things on the horizon but if we do not fear, get our eyes off of the world, think on heavenly things, focus on Jesus through prayer, study (His Word), and our love for Him, we, as believers, will have a good spiritual 2014 and beyond. Christ is our hope of glory and soon coming husband.

Christ is not coming for a wounded, defeated, or limping Bride. He is coming for a holy and righteous Bride who is on fire for Him. He wants a bride who has a passion for Him and not just church on Sunday and Bible study on Wednesday (although these are great), but He wants a bride with a sold out mentality toward Him 24/7/365. He gave His all, including his life for us. . .it is now our turn.

. . .that he might present the church to himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish [Ephesian 5:27 KJV].

As I metaphorically revisit and look out the 11th floor window, God continues to give me glimpses of things that are coming to the world. In my spirit, I do, in fact, perceive the collapse of the American dollar, a new currency, and a food shortage. I perceive a national gun registration, national gun confiscation, and eventual martial law. I perceive open borders. I perceive Obama as our first king and dictator for we are already mirroring the days of Octavius. America or the world will not fare so well this year or the next, but do not fear, we belong to the Lord and to His kingdom. We are in the world, but not of the world, and no one can snatch us out of His hand. War also looms on the horizon.

We are fast approaching the return of Christ. The signs are everywhere and unless other Watchmen start warning the people as well, they will not know that the day of the Lord is imminent and they will not be able to prepare for His coming.

2014 is the year of focus, favor, and of a great awakening. We should rightly be aware of the world around us and of the corrupt political climate, for it gives us keys in terms of the current place in prophecy. The Bible does warn us to be sober and vigilant. It also warns us to be aware of the signs of the times. However, do not fear, all these things must happen but the end is not yet. Instead, think on heavenly things for our lives are hid with Christ in God. We will just not dwell on or worry about what the world is doing but focus on Christ and His kingdom for His is our kingdom. What the Bible says WILL happen, and no one can change or fix it. If we haven't influenced the world enough to change its course in 2000 years, or changed God's mind in terms of eschatology. . .

It is Christ who saves, not the government. Ronald Reagan said it best and it is one of the reasons why progressives cringe at his name. He said, “In this present crisis, government is not the solution to the problem. Government is the problem.”

Since 9/11 we’ve been under judgment by God but we are in a period of grace right now. God always gives us the grace after judgment and a time to repent. If we do not repent, He brings more judgment. Alas, this period of grace is soon to end in 2014 for the world. So think on heavenly things and focus on Christ. Here are just a few Scriptures to help in this endeavor and for your edification. Speak them out loud because faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of Christ.

John 3:16
John 10:28
Romans 8:31-39; 10:17
Colossians 3:2, 4, 5
Hebrews 11:1; 12;2
1 Peter 3:15

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OLD MAN'S DREAM: THE INTERPRETATION

God’s Word tells us to get our eyes off of the world and to think on heavenly things. God has not called us to save the world from itself or to solve its political views. Saving and convicting the world of its sins is Christ’s job, not ours. We are to concern ourselves with the lost and spreading the love of God in these last days.

Set your mind on the things that are above, not on the things that are upon the earth [Colossians 3:2].

As I lay there in bed thinking on whether to get up or not, that night’s dream planted itself in the forefront of my memory banks replaying each aspect. The Lord began speaking to my spirit explaining what I’d just experienced in la-la rem land. Insights into the dreams meaning started forming and I got the unction to listen up. I’ve learned to recognize that unction so I reached for my pad and pencil, which I keep by my bed and at different locations throughout my apartment at all times. I then communed with the Lord for about two hours that morning writing and listening. . .writing and listening. I’ve never had such a weird dream like that before. A story started to unfold, and it was all about Jesus.

When I felt that a business was in the process of moving, it was then that the Lord explained to me that in 2014, man would be entering full force into a new paradigm. A paradigm of focus and favor. There will also be a spiritual awakening. He reminded me of the beginning of my dream. God told me that it was man’s soul which would be changing.

History has been leading up to this moment of human events and spiritual awakening for decades, but has magnified over the last five years or so. The world finally has its leader. America is the last bastion of freedom. Where will people go to be free when America goes down? I’ll tell you where we can go to be free. We are free in Christ and need to return to Him. This is where we should go.

Therefore, today’s focus should be on the Lord. Man needs to return to Christ and get their eyes off of the world. We can learn about the full essence of God by studying the Gospels. In the book of Matthew, Christ is king. In the book of Mark, He is a servant. In Luke, Jesus is man and we can learn of His humanity there. Finally, in John, Jesus is God. God’s story continued, as the four Gospels became the four stacked ticker tapes that I briefly saw in my dream.

Not with an audible voice but with the inaudible voice that comes deep from within your psyche, the Lord told me that He was the elevator and that His Spirit would take us to all truth and to our destination(s). God will meet us where we are at but once He's there, up is the only way to go. Christ is the Way to anywhere we want to go for He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

I remember entering the elevator and that many people in suits got on with me. Their demeanor said that they did not even know I was there. In other words, they did not perceive what I perceived and I was evidently in the Spirit. They looked right through me. After the elevator moved up, people started getting off on different floors. No one spoke a word the entire trip. I asked the Lord, “Who were those people?” The Lord told me that they were the elect who have been deceived and who were at different levels of their faith. He said not to worry because no one could snatch them from His hand. I perceived that those passengers were not seeking the fullness of God, and were satisfied with the floor on which they got off.They were luke warm.

I remember vividly when I reached the 11th floor, which was as far as the elevator went. I believe that the Lord did not tell me the spiritual significance of the number 11 at that moment because it was above the level of my understanding in terms of the prophetic. We are to wait on the Lord for the interpretation. If we do not wait, we can slip into our own understanding. We all prophesy in part and the Lord wanted me to learn something about the number 11. So He sent me a prophet. Later, after hearing my dream, the prophet told me that I had just stepped into a new level of prophetic revelation because that was what the number 11 meant spiritually, “prophetic revelation.” Many believers are experiencing dreams, thoughts, and revelation today of the number 11's significance.

After I’d disembarked the elevator, I remember going to a row of windows and looking down at the hustle bustle of all the people going to and fro. They were all totally oblivious to what was going on in the world and most of them probably didn’t care. They probably didn't even realize that they were supposed to care. They seemed to only have concerns of what they were doing, where they were going, and for whatever reasons. They were unaware that anyone was looking down on them – me or God. The Lord said that these people were all the unsaved people of the world and that they were our mission field. The city was abuzz with thousands of unsaved people. There are so many souls Lord and so little time.

At first I perceived that the empty cafeteria signified a food shortage that was soon coming. I perceived this in my spirit. However, it was deeper than that. The thing is, I had not waited on the Lord to receive my interpretation. Believers are experiencing worldwide persecution, even to the point of death, and many have not even a crumb of hope to sustain them spiritually, which the counter-top barrenness signified. People are looking for a way out of this morass of government takeover and corruption. On the one hand, it is man run amuck. However, on the other hand, man is also open and looking for a way to safety. Jesus Christ is THE WAY and He is the bread of life and our ultimate glory when we are caught up with Him. Get on the elevator brothers and sisters and come up to the 11th floor.

The Lord said that the entirety of the 11th floor was revelation and the Good News message because Jesus Christ IS revelation. In 2014, we, as believers, will boldly come out of our closets, metaphorically take the elevator to the 11th floor to receive (our) message, and begin to give that message of hope, grace, salvation, and the Good News. However, there will be much persecution for our boldness! Many will not recognize the land in which they used to call America anymore. It will be reminiscent to the days of Octavius.

After reading my dream, the prophet said that in 2014, fresh bread was coming to the body and it will revive hope, give encouragement, and the joy of men’s hearts will return to God’s people, and they will be true bearers of the Good News. An interpreter said that the 11th floor could also represent the 11th hour, which many think that we are in today. I say that it is 11:59.

So. . .

GET OUR EYES OFF OF THE WORLD: The night after my dream, the Lord kept me up most of the night exhorting me in my spirit. He showed me what men think of first and He reminded me that it was what I thought of first as well before I realized that this message was from Him. I had looked at the lack of food and the collapse of the dollar first before the Lord and I had our discussion. This is not to say that there isn’t going to be a collapse of the dollar and a food shortage but it was my own understanding at first and not the interpretation of my dream. However, God was patient with me and began revealing to me what my dream actually meant. Not many look to the spiritual connotations of any given situation first. God wants us to look to Him first. So. . .get our eyes off of the world. Focus on Christ. This is the message of my dream.

Next week we will look at point three and four, Think on heavenly things and focus on Christ.

AN OLD MAN'S DREAM

The Bible says that young men will see visions and old men will dream dreams [Joel 2:28; Acts 2:17]. Wednesday night I qualified for old man status.

Actually, I can understand dreaming about a girlfriend, wife, or about an exciting trip that I may soon be taking. I can even imagine dreaming about that 30 pound salmon that is swimming in my favorite river and waiting for that hook to drop in the water with a huge juicy worm on the end. However, to dream about something that is totally off the wall crazy and doesn’t make any sense whatsoever, has God’s fingerprint all over it. Either that or. . .I have finally slipped a cog. You be the judge.

The dream went like this.

I was inside what appeared to be place of business in downtown USA when I saw what I thought was a sign. It really wasn’t really a sign per se, but looked more like four stacked ticker-tape strips with writing on them. I could see the letters but couldn’t read the words. As soon as I saw the sign, it disappeared. I got the sense that that the business was moving shop to another location.

The next thing I remember is entering an elevator in a high-rise building. Evidently, this was the new location of the business. I don’t know how many people got on the elevator with me but there was no conversation and they all looked right through me. They were apparently oblivious to my presence. It’s like I wasn't there – but I was there. They were all dressed in suits. I had absolutely no idea why I was there, where I was going, or on what floor I needed to disembark.

The elevator stopped and everybody but myself, got off. I do not know on what floor they got off or whether it is even important. All I know is, I stayed on the elevator. The door closed and I rode to the top floor, which according to the indicator above the door, was the 11th floor. Of that, I am sure.

I got off and the doors shut behind me. I walked over to the row of windows that lined the wall and looked down on the hustle bustle of the city. Everyone below went about their daily lives and business totally unaware that there was someone observing them from above.

I moved away from the windows and scouted the floor area. It actually looked like a deserted cafeteria. It had a couple of small hung shelves on the wall. There was a peninsula type counter that held a register and glass counter-top cabinet that could have held things like pastry and sandwiches. The only thing is, there wasn’t even a crumb to be found – anywhere. I was the only person on the 11th floor.

And I woke up.

I laid there in bed trying to process what I had just dreamt. Was this a dream from God or was this just a stupid dream from nowhere and meant nothing? After going over the dream in my mind, the Lord began revealing to me some of the aspects of my dream.

I will post my brief interpretation this coming Monday. Time will tell if it is from God or not. If the aspects of this dream do not transpire, then it was pizza, and I have slipped a cog. In any event, I have obeyed what I feel is from God.

Any dream interpreters out there. See if it gels with what I am hearing.

DO NOT FEAR

With China dumping their gold, the collapse of the American dollar looming, the White House spending us and our children's children into oblivion, the registration of weapons leading to confiscation, the decimation of the military through the purging of generals and high ranking leaders with martial law to follow, the threat of nuclear war on the horizon, the Patriot Act, NDAA, TSA, NSA, IRS, F and Ms Lybia, Benghazi, the Nationionalization of the healthcare-system/mortgage-industry/auto-industry/banks/student-loans, Machiavellian politics, Keynesian economics, and the list goes on and on and on and on ad infinitum, to where 2014 promises not to be a very good year for America or the world.

Major things are about to happen, if not in 2014, very shortly thereafter. Look for the collapse of the American dollar. Also for the nationwide registration of all weapons, which WILL lead to confiscation? Gun confiscation will lead to an uprising of the people. This is NOT because of the safety cries of the left but is that of power and control. They cannot control us unless we are unarmed. To bring on the NWO, four things must happen:

The destruction of the monetary system
The death of Patriotism
The destruction of the evangelical faith
The destruction of the traditional family

But brothers and sisters, fear not, these are only birthing pangs of a new kingdom that is yet to come, which is at the door as we speak (Matthew 24:33), hallelujah! Many things must come to pass but the end is yet to come.

And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet [Matthew 24:6 KJV (Matthew 24)].

The whole world is birthing right now and they see the same signs of the times as we do. However, they have rejected the only hope. They’ve determined to forget God and build a man-made New Age of Peace and Prosperity here on Earth.

Satan is doing his best today to hinder us in our faith [1 Thessalonians 2:18]. Therefore maintain your faith, have patience [Revelation 14:12], and wait on the Lord [Psalms 27:14]. We’ve read the end of The Book and we win. The Bible is very clear as to what we are to do and not do in these last days of human government. So, point one,

DO NOT FEAR [Hebrews 13:6]. The shofar is about to blow. Be prepared because the Lord is about to abduct His Bride.

Next week we will look at point two, Get Your Eyes Off Of The World.