Category: faith

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He Is My Refuge”¦

Watching hurricane Maria destroy parts of the West Indies, and earthquakes decimate Mexico, the word was “take refuge where ever you can”. My question to you today is — where do you take refuge when the storms of life come? Where do you go for comfort and safety? Some people find it easy to turn to their friends, their job, alcohol or even a bowl of ice cream. Before you turn to anything turn to God. He wants us to take refuge in Him. He longs to protect us, defend us and give us His strength. We serve a good God, and when we take refuge in Him, He will pour out His abundant blessing in our lives.

Today, taste and see that the Lord is good, and His promises are true. When you turn to God, you will find rest and refuge for your soul in the Bible’s promises. Lean on Him when you’re not strong, no matter what storm you may be facing, come to the Father. He will give you His peace and strength as you take refuge in Him.

“Taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” 

(Psalm 34:8, ESV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, today I open my heart to You, please be my refuge during my storms. Thank You for Your peace and rest, and for showing me Your hand of blessing as I take refuge in You. God, help me today while I’m going through some hard times. I hold on to You with all I have, trusting in Your promises, in Jesus’ name! Amen.

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Is COVID-19 Seasonal?

Most people are familiar with the idea of a “cold and flu season”, and the current pandemic has people across the globe looking forward anxiously to the end of it for this year. Fresh warm air and bright sunlight are deadly to viruses, so it is hoped that this first day of spring (in the Northern Hemisphere) will start a countdown to the end of this contagion.

But the seasonal nature of the pandemic can also be understood in the context of 2 Timothy 4:2 which tell us to be ready “in season and out” to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. ’ This pandemic can be understood as a fantastic opening for Christians to proclaim the truth, but in order to properly seize this moment we have to be equipped. I hope to assist with that in whatever modest way I can.

But First

Before we get started, let me say that I do not find any evidence in Scripture that this pandemic is God’s doing or His will. I believe that this is either from Satan or simply another consequence of the fall. But regardless of the cause, let’s remember Genesis 5:20 and work with God to use what is intended for evil and accomplish something good.

The good thing is for people hear how much God loves them and wants them to come into a relationship with Him based solely on that love. In fact, there is nothing better than that. The mindset of those deeply concerned about the COVID-19 pandemic presents an opportunity to do that in a way that will resonate with both their emotional and their rational sides. Approaches that hit both notes are very effective.

Sympathize

“Sympathy” seems to be a pretty rare commodity when it comes to evangelism these days. Christians are much more likely to preach the consequences of sin than start form a point of common ground. But the pandemic is the perfect chance to begin with sympathizing, because the fear felt by non-Christians is something we ourselves have felt before. It is the practical application of 1 Corinthians 6:11.

Those fearful of COVID-19 have been disappointed by the medical system and their national government. They have put their confidence in these institutions and trusted them to take care of them and protect them. Effective vaccinations and security checkpoints were depended on to be a shield and bulwark. Put together, these two institutions presented what seemed to be an unconquerable Goliath.

The Window

The toppling of that behemoth has left those who trusted it fearful and confused. It’s easy to start a conversation (conducted at the proper social distance, of course) about how these institutions should have seen this coming. Everyone remembers the SARS, MERS, Zika and Ebola outbreaks. From there it is simple to draw the conclusion that institutions created by mankind are inherently unreliable.

“If we can’t trust those what can we trust?” is the fundamental question every Christian longs to answer, and it is the natural conclusion to the conversation. The reasons given to trust God in the current circumstance can branch in a variety of directions. One way is to quote Psalm 91 about how God protects those who abide in His love. This leads directly to a discussion of the perfect example of that love.

More Options

In some conversations it will be possible to answer that fundamental question with a personal testimony of our own disappointment with human institutions — and with ourselves — that led to our acceptance of Jesus Christ as our Savior. This approach may be appropriate for those who are deeply caught in a web of fear. Listen carefully to what you are being told and follow that lead.

With individuals who are more inclined to an intellectual discussion, explaining how suffering originated from man’s disobedience may be the way to go. This authenticates Scripture as the basis for rational decision making. Few people will argue these days against the statement that “It’s a fallen world.” This is also an effective response to the false charge that God is causing this pandemic as punishment.

Conclusion

It is probably not a good idea to preach Christ in the current situation in the context of the coming Tribulation. This approach is fraught because once fears of the pandemic subside the teaching becomes open to ridicule. The other approaches outlined above can continue to resonate long after this current crisis has ended.

The key to seizing this opportunity is not only to remember how we felt when we were without hope, but also to seriously evaluate how much hope we are putting in the Word of God ourselves. 2 Corinthians 3:15 tells us to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith. That’s a great thing to do before — or even if — we evangelize others, and is advice that never goes out of season.

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Life’s Ups And Downs

I always say life is like a roller coaster. In life, we all have ups and downs. This time of year can be especially challenging. There are seasons that are more difficult when our character is being developed, and our faith in God is being strengthened. Sometimes, it can feel like we are taking two steps forward and three steps backward. If we’re not careful, we’ll start thinking that life is always going to be this way.

God doesn’t want us to live life like a roller coaster. He wants to bring us to a place of stability, so we can remain strong in Him. Jesus said, “I am the vine. You are the branches. If you abide in me, you will bear much fruit and your fruit will remain.” The word “remain” means “to be fixed, immovable, not affected by circumstances.”

Today, if you will just keep abiding in Him, just keep meditating on His Word, He’ll bring you through. He’ll make you strong. He’ll keep you stable, and you’ll embrace the life of blessing and focus He has prepared for you!

“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

(John 15:7, NIV)

Pray With Me
Yahshua, thank You for wanting to remain with a sinner like me. I choose to set my heart and mind on You, despite the roller coaster of life, knowing that You are good, faithful and stable. Father, I trust that as I seek You and put You first, You will direct my steps. God, today I’m choosing to remain in You, and follow You in everything I do, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

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God Has Prepared Your Blessing

Victory In Christ

God took Adam, who He had just breathed life into, and put him in the garden. Notice Adam came into a prepared blessing, something that God had already finished for him. Think about Adam and Eve in the garden. God took the first five days and created the heavens, the earth, the sky, the land and the water. He planted a garden. He put in it beautiful flowers and luscious fruit. He designed rivers to flow through it. He put precious treasures in the ground: onyx, gold and silver. Yes Adam came into a prepared blessing.

When God laid out the plan for your life, He lined up the right people, the right breaks and the right opportunities. He has blessings that have your name on them. If you will stay in faith and keep honouring God, one day you will come in to what already belongs to you. It’s a prepared blessing! Hallelujah!

Today, in the same way, God has some prepared blessings in store for you. He has worked, arranging things in your favour, getting it all perfectly in place. You couldn’t make it happen on your own. It’s just the goodness of God bringing you into a prepared blessing!

“You prepare a table before me”¦”

(Psalm 23:5, NIV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for preparing a place of blessing for me from before I was born. Father, I choose to trust You and Your timing, knowing that You are working things out on my behalf. God, I glorify You for Your awesome timing and preparation in my life, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

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Alone?

Everyone goes through times in life when they feel a little lonely, or wonder where they belong. God designed the family to always be a place of love and acceptance. Maybe you didn’t come from an environment like that, or maybe you’ve been away from your family. Maybe they are no longer around. God still desires to meet that need for family. The Bible says that He is the Father to the fatherless, and He places the solitary in families. God wants to give you a circle of people you can trust, who will embrace and accept you.

If you need family today, ask God to meet that need and show you where you belong. Or, maybe you are the one who can open your home and heart to someone who is alone. The point is that God loves family. He designed the family for a purpose. Jesus said in Matthew 12 that those who do God’s will are His family.

Today, if you are part of the family of God, you are never alone! He promises to never leave you nor forsake you. He promises to fill you with His peace and joy, so that you can live as an overcomer all the days of your life!

“God places the solitary in families”¦” 

(Psalm 68:6, NKJV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for making me a part of Your family. Father, thank You for diminishing my loneliness and being my Father. Thank You for accepting and embracing me always, even when I embarrass You with my sinful behaviour. God, show me how I can reach out and be an example of family in someone else’s life, in Christ’s Name! Amen.

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God I Want Joy And Excitement

Portrait in Stockholm, Sweden by Oliver Ragfelt

After a hard week many of us may have lost the joy and excitement we started the year with. Did you know that it is God’s will for you to be joyful always? He wants you to be happy and carefree. He wants you to love your life no matter what your circumstances look like. In fact, when you have joy in the midst of difficult circumstances, that is evidence that you have faith and trust that God will bring you through.

Remember, joy is strength. When you have His supernatural joy, you can stand strong no matter what’s going on around you. You might say, “I’m just not a real jovial person. I’m more serious. I never laugh much.” And of course, God made us all differently, but you can train yourself to laugh more. One article said that the average child laughs over 200 times a day, but the average adult only laughs 4 times a day. What’s happened? As we get older we’ve allowed the pressures of life, stress and more responsibilities, little by little, to steal our joy.

Today, make the decision to get your joy and excitement back! Decide that you are going to look beyond these serious problems, and look at what God will do on your behalf. Ask Him everyday to fill you with His supernatural peace and joy, so that you can live in His strength and victory every day of your life!

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

(1 Thessalonians 5:16—18, NIV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, I humbly receive Your Word today. Father, I choose to open my heart to You and invite You to fill me with joy and excitement and strength and spiritual vigour. God, I want to spiritually be excited again, I rebuke the negative mundane daily news that stresses our lives, that rob me of my God-given joy. Fill me Your goodness, and empower me with Your grace. I bless You today and always, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

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What Is the Kingdom of God?

With all that’s going on in this world, have you been wondering about God’s kingdom? What it is, or where it is? The Bible says the kingdom of God is in the here and now, and thank God, we have a kingdom that cannot be shaken! The kingdom is simply God’s system and His throne. It’s His way of doing things. The Bible tells us that His kingdom is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Hallelujah!

In God’s kingdom, when you give, it shall be given back to you, pressed down, shaken together and running over, this is not only talking about money. In God’s kingdom, you can have an abundance of peace and prosperity in your spirit, mind and body, no matter what’s happening around you. And just like the verse says, His kingdom cannot be shaken! That means, if the stock market goes down, God’s kingdom is still strong. If the housing market goes down, God’s kingdom is still strong. If gas prices go up, God’s kingdom is still strong!

Today, you can live in God’s kingdom that cannot be shaken no matter what’s happening here on earth. Begin to thank God today for His kingdom. Thank Him for His system of blessing in every area of your life. As you obey His Word and worship Him with a grateful attitude, you’ll embrace His kingdom and walk in the abundant life He has for you!

“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” 

(Hebrews 12:28, NIV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for Your kingdom of peace that lives amongst us. Father, thank You for Your system of blessing in my life. I praise You oh God for Your kingdom that cannot be shaken by the things of this earth, the economy, the prime minister or manifesto, biological games, or people with demonic intent. God, I open my heart to You and ask that You reveal Your truth to me, so that I can live in Your ways all the days of my life, in Christ’s Name! Amen.

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Spotlight with Rob DePalo Writer/Producer Tapestry (2019) – Christian Film

In 2011 I was called into meet with my boss at a major commercial bank in New York City. After 25 years of top-performance,  I was told that my position was eliminated and there was no longer a place for me in middle-management.  I was angry, devastated, bitter and worried. My oldest son was about to enter an expensive college, we had just booked an expensive 7-day cruise for our family of five and suddenly like the flip of a light switch, things had turned dark… a 50 year old family man with no job! 

To compound matters,  my marriage was in a bad place, my kids were at the point where they no longer needed me,  and my mother was in the hospital dealing with a life-threatening illness. I managed to stay on with the bank but in order to do so I had to take a lower level position which began to create episodes of panic attacks and long-term depression.  All along I was still dealing with the problems within my family life and my ailing mother.  My world was crumbling. Just when all seemed lost, events started to unfold which led me to a different perspective on life and God’s involvement in our lives. 

I wrote a story and called it “TAPESTRY” and that story became a film.  Not only had God aided me in my life, but I truly feel that HIS hand was weaving a Tapestry that would take me down a road of discovery and ultimately peace in my life. This film in many ways was written by God as HE gave me the gift and inspired me to tell a story that I truly feel God wanted me to tell. I am a first time film maker who had a very small budget to make this film with but thanks to God’s will, and many very talented Christians who came together in a labor of love, we were able to get veteran actors such as Stephen Baldwin, Tina Louise and Burt Young to play the main characters in the movie. My name is Rob DePalo. 

I hope that people will watch this film,  and take from it the messages of Hope, and Love, and Christianity. The film is streaming on Amazon Prime, iTunes,  Christiancinema.com,  Comcast Xfinity, and VUDU  and is also available in DVD format as well.  

Tapestry was an official selection at the following film festivals:  International Christian Film Festival,  The IndieFest FilmAwards, The Green Mountain Film Festival,  The Winter Film Awards and the International Online Web Fest.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIfIhxjUvXk

Director:

Ken Kushner

Writers:

Rob DePalo, Ken Kushner 

Stars:

Tina Louise, Stephen Baldwin, Burt Young 

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COVID 19 or Psalm 91?

The ongoing COVID 19 pandemic has Christians and non-Christians alike worried and on edge. These fears are fed by the reality that the basic facts of this virus (transmission and mortality rates, for example) are still poorly understood and there is no vaccination against the spreading contagion. However, Christians have a defense that is not available to non-believers.

The most direct evidence of this is found in Psalm 91. These 16 verses speak generally about the Lord acting as our defense and specifically mentions protection from infectious disease 3 times. This is in addition to at last 4 references to being protected from danger and evil. A full reading of the text gives a blessed assurance of security. (This is the ESV.)

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High

will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress,

my God, in whom I trust.”

For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler

and from the deadly pestilence.

He will cover you with his pinions,

and under his wings you will find refuge;

his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.

You will not fear the terror of the night,

nor the arrow that flies by day,

nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness,

nor the destruction that wastes at noonday.

A thousand may fall at your side,

ten thousand at your right hand,

but it will not come near you.

You will only look with your eyes

and see the recompense of the wicked.

Because you have made the LORD your dwelling place–

the Most High, who is my refuge–

no evil shall be allowed to befall you,

no plague come near your tent.

For he will command his angels concerning you

to guard you in all your ways.

On their hands they will bear you up,

lest you strike your foot against a stone.

You will tread on the lion and the adder;

the young lion and the serpent you will trample underfoot.

“Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him;

I will protect him, because he knows my name.

When he calls to me, I will answer him;

I will be with him in trouble;

I will rescue him and honor him.

With long life I will satisfy him

and show him my salvation.”

Which Testament is this in?

The critical point in this fantastic promise of safety is found in the first line of the last stanza (verse 14) where we are told that God will do this “because he holds fast to me in love.” This is a remarkable statement coming from an Old Testament writer operating under the covenant of the law where “do good to get good” was the normal mode of operation.

Instead of an “if you do this, then” formulation typically found in passages based on law, the blessings of Psalm 91 are unconditional. They come from God because we hold fast to Him in love. Obedience or service is not mentioned as a condition. Instead the entire psalm describes benefits that come from a relationship with God based on love.

Who’s love?

An interesting perspective is gained by considering the possibility that the love referred to is an understanding of God’s love for us, not our love for God. This is in keeping with 1 Peter 5:7 where we told that God cares for us, and so we should cast our concerns on Him. (Which is another good piece of Scriptural advice when dealing with COVID 19).

Of course, 1 John 4:19 identifies God’s love for us as the root of our love for God. Just like any plant cut off from its root dies, so too would our love for God wither if it were cut off from the understanding that God loves us. While we might protest that this is impossible, if it happened to the Ephesians (Revelation 2:4) it can happen to us.

Is this real?

The idea that Christians have nothing to fear from COVID 19 because God will protect us from the virus may strike some as laughable. However, the whole idea of God becoming man and dying for our sins is considered laughable by many. The bigger issue is that this Psalm asks us to do something that makes us very uncomfortable.

C.S. Lewis said it best. “The state of having to depend solely on God is what we all dread the most.” This is the appeal of many Christian religions which add a healthy dose of works to their message of salvation. While it is straightforward to reject that error, it is still a challenge to depend on God’s love to protect against a pandemic.

Conclusion

It is fitting that the numbers 19 and 91 are in reverse order, because God’s wisdom runs in the exact opposite direction from that of mankind. Our “wisdom” looks like absolute foolishness to God according to 1 Corinthians 3:19. The simple reversed order of the numbers also serves as a useful memory tool.

When you see “COVID 19”, remember “Psalm 91”. When you see fear, remember confidence. When you are told that medical systems are unable to cope with this crisis, remember that the purpose of Scripture is to fully equipped us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:17). Psalm 91 is the perfect example of that truth for today.

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God Will Hide You – Safely Hide You…

When The New Year Doesn’t Feel Like The Start Of Anything

Challenges may come your way, but you won’t be worried about them. You know that ultimately, things are going to work out for your good. You know that no weapon formed against you shall prosper. What a wonderful promise we have, that when we seek God, when we serve Him with our whole hearts, He will hide us in His shelter. Hallelujah!

That means you can be so connected to Father God, that you are untouchable, and invisible to the enemy! You are hidden in Him! No matter what is happening around you, you can have strength, confidence and rest in Him.

Today, people may be talking about you, trying to make you look bad, but you don’t even give it a second thought. You know that your future is too bright to be distracted. You know they don’t control your destiny. You just keep on being your best, walking in integrity, meditating on the Word and worshipping throughout the day, so you remain hidden in Him!

“For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock.” (Psalm 27:5, NIV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, I come to You today with an open and humble heart. Father, I thank You for Your promise that You will hide me. Make me invisible and untouchable to the enemy. I surrender every area of my life to You. God, mould me into Your image, and keep me hidden in You. I bless You and praise You today and always, in Christ’s Name! Amen.

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A NEW YOU: God can change impossible situations

Does this situation look impossible? It’s time to believe God for something that seems impossible? We serve a great and mighty God, and He can create something out of nothing! He can make a way when there seems to be no way. Before God spoke the world into existence, it was formless and void. If God can make the world out of nothing, He can take the empty places in your life and create something beautiful too.

Today, God can speak light into your darkest hour. He can take your formless dreams that seems to be fading and give them shape. He can resurrect your dormant gifts and talents! He can make your crooked places straight! Trust Him in all things, because He can make something out of nothing, there is nothing too hard for Him! trust Him at this time!

“The earth was formless and void”¦and God said, let there be light.” (Genesis 1:2—3, NASB)

Pray With Me

Yahweh, I trust that You will make a way where there seems to be no way. Father, thank You for forming my shapeless life. Now God, fill the void that is in my life today because of this world’s circumstances and instabilities. Please, I beg You, turn on the light in our darkness today. Give me Your peace and faith, and give me a vision of hope which is bigger than my now. I trust You in Christ’s Name! Amen.

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Don’t Get It Twisted – God Is My Sustainer

I was washing my hands thinking about life, I began to think that water is the great sustainer of life – we drink it, bathe in it and now we are being told it could save our lives by washing our hands. We are told most of our sources are generated by water. But don’t get it twisted, the greater sustainer and generator of life is God. He is your source of life. He wants you to abide in Him and rely on Him for everything. He wants to be your source for strength, provision, hope and joy. Like the air you breathe, He wants you to rely on Him for your very existence.

Remember, abiding in God begins by communing with Him, and meditating on His Word all day long. When you abide in Him, you talk to Him before you go to sleep at night. You think about Him when you first wake up. You dwell on His promises all throughout the day, and continually fellowship with Him in prayer. You make Him your number one priority and stay connected with other believers. Notice what this verse says will happen when you abide in Him–you will produce much fruit! He will be your water and sunlight in the midst of your darkness, so that you can produce gigantic fruit for His Kingdom!

Today, when you are connected to God, everything you set your hand to will be fruitful and blessed. Just like a branch thrives when it is connected to the vine, you will thrive and be prosperous when you abide in Him!

I am the vine, you are the branches. The one who abides in me while I abide in him produces much fruit…”

(John 15:5, ISV)

Pray With Me

Yahweh, today I have decided to abide in You. Please be my source. Father, as I wash my hands more than ever before, and drink more water to survive and remain healthy, I won’t get it twisted, but remember, You are my sustainer and I totally depend on You. God, thank You for Your promise of blessing on me, and help me to always be a blessing to others at this time. God, I praise You today because You are my primary sustainer and generator of my life, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

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What does the Bible say about Judgment Day?

I was recently looking into “life expectancy” rates and discovered that they are all over the map. Quotes from various websites, for example, set mine at 67, 78 and 88. (Suzie Orman says that it’s in the 90s!)

Here’s another surprise……..as you age, your life expectancy can actually increase because by then, you will have survived many of the things that could have brought about an earlier death.

Here’s an example that I found online”¦”¦”¦”¦..

In 2006 the life expectancy at birth of someone born in 1942 was about 68 years. If that person survived to 65, they could expect to live another 18.4 years, meaning their life expectancy was no longer the same as it was at birth.

The biggest surprise to me, however, was to realize that half of the people who shared the same life expectancy died earlier than their expected end.

Consequently, for those who plan to turn from sin and accept Christ’s offer of forgiveness at some point in the future, it is a foolish and perilous thing to do. It is a sign that deep in your heart, you are more in love with the world than with God (1 John 2:15; Matthew 7:21-23).

But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’

(Luke 12:20)

The same principle applies to believers who have decided that they will get serious about living for God at some point in the future. They say to themselves: “I’ll just be glad to get into heaven.” And certainly, we’ll all be glad to get into heaven!

However, the crowns and rewards that are on offer will be ours for all eternity! So also will the loss of such crowns and rewards — making this a far more important issue than is often realized.

What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived — the things God has prepared for those who love Him — these are the things God has revealed to us by His Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.

(1 CORINTHIANS 2:9-10)

Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us”¦”¦..

(Ephesians 3:20)

Salvation by God is a Limited-Time Offer!

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom!

(Psalm 90:12)

The Bible teaches that the number of our days are fixed and are already known by God. In other words, salvation by God is a limited-time offer!

From one man He made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and He determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us. For in Him we live and move and have our being. As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are His offspring.’

(Acts 17:26-28)

Man’s days are determined; You have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed.

(Job 14:5)

For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from You when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, Your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be.

(Psalm 139:13-16)

You Have Been Designed to Win Big!

This explains why so many people who have had near-death experiences are met by loved ones who are already in heaven – who have obviously been alerted to their arrival. It also explains why some are told that they have to return to earth because their “time” has not yet come.

Based on the character of God, I believe that the number of days assigned by God, whether many or few, has been calculated to produce the greatest, eternal outcome for us on the Day of Judgment. Even the severity of a negative outcome may be lessened in this way.

It’s true that King Hezekiah begged God to allow him more time on earth. After many tears, God relented and gave him an extra 15 years beyond what had been allotted. (See Isaiah 38-39).

However, during those extra 15 years, Hezekiah foolishly invited the king of Babylon to see all the treasures of Israel, only to see those treasures stolen, his sons kidnapped, castrated and sent into exile.

This is where the exception proves the rule. God had calculated the years Hezekiah should live — I believe, in order to maximize his eternal and temporal blessings and to save him from the disasters that would come upon him should he live longer.

You see, God knows our hearts. He knows our sins – past, present and future. And He knows whether we will repent of sin and surrender our lives to Jesus Christ. He also knows the number of days that will optimize the outcome of our final judgment.

The “Bema Seat” vs the “Great White Throne” Judgment

I believe that God’s judgment for the lost will be designed to limit the eternal suffering that will be the consequence of their earthly lives. In some cases, God may shorten their earthly years in order to limit the number of sins for which they will be penalized. (This is speculation on my part, but it is based on the merciful goodness of God).

For believers, God’s criteria for final judgment, (and all the evidence that pertains therein), is based on what we have done in the body since our salvation (2 Corinthians 5:10). It perfectly flows from His omniscience (Romans 2:5-7; Psalm 18:30) and like the judgment of the unbeliever, cannot be appealed.

Again, for believers and unbelievers alike, it is likely that God plans the number of our days on earth so that we will have the best possible outcome on Judgment Day (Matthew 25:31-46; Hebrews 4:13).  Yes, He is that good!

The “Bema Seat” judgment of believers will determine the rewards, or loss thereof, for those who gave their life to Jesus Christ and have therefore escaped eternal separation from God. (See Romans 8:1-2; 14:10c-12; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Hebrews 9:27-28; Revelation 14:13). They will be saved, but as through fire (1 Corinthians 3:15).

Assuming that the ”crowns” given to believers are different than the “rewards” cited above, those too can be won or lost at the judgment of believers. (See 2 Timothy 2:5; 4:8; James 1:12; 1 Peter 5:4; Revelation 2:10).

As for the “Great White Throne” judgment, which is for those who never repented of their sins and accepted Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, they face a divine determination of what their experience in Hell will be like for all eternity. In other words, Hitler’s experience of Hell will undoubtedly differ from that of the sweet lady next door who never surrendered her life to Jesus Christ. (See Matthew 12:36-37; Luke 23:41; John 5:29; Romans 2:5-11; Hebrews 2:1-3; Revelation 2:23c; 20:11-15).

So for both believer and nonbeliever, the Bible declares”¦”¦

I urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. For He says, ‘In the time of My favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.’ I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.

(2 Corinthians 6:1-2)
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What Did Jesus REALLY Write in the Sand?

It has long been a mystery what Jesus wrote on the ground the day the scribes and Pharisees dragged an adulterous woman before Him (John 8:3-11).

One day, as I was reading in Jeremiah, I was surprised to find the answer hidden deep in the Old Testament…….

The scribes and Pharisees had demanded that He sentence the woman to death, as taught in Leviticus 20:10 and Deuteronomy 22:22-24.

[The NASB Study Bible notes that “they altered the law a little. The manner of execution was not prescribed unless the woman was a betrothed virgin. And the law required the execution of both parties, not just the woman”]

If Jesus had said to stone her, they would have charged Him with hypocrisy, since He was always teaching about mercy. If He said NOT to stone her, they would have charged Him with breaking the Mosaic Law.

Spotting their trick, He stooped down and wrote something on the ground, saying…..

If anyone of you is without sin, let him

be the first to throw a stone at her.

(John 8:7)

He then proceeded to write something else on the ground, after which they dropped their stones and walked away.

What was it then that Jesus wrote on the ground?

O Lord, the hope of Israel, all who forsake You will be put to shame. Those who turn away from You will be written in the dust because they have forsaken the Lord, the spring of living water.

(Jeremiah 17:13)

This passage seems to indicate that Jesus first wrote their names in the dust and perhaps then wrote a sin that they had committed next to their name. Busted by Jesus, they walked away in shame and frustration. You see, being Yahweh, He knew what was in their hearts. (See 1 Chronicles 28:9; Matthew 12:25; 22:18; John 2:25; 1 Corinthians 14:25).

According to the Venerable Bede, (as well as St. Augustine), when Jesus wrote on the ground with His finger, He was harkening back to the time on Mt Sinai when He had written the Ten Commandments on stone tablets with His finger (Exodus 32:15-16). In other words, the same finger that had written the Law back then was also the finger that was writing on the ground now. Therefore, since He was the author of the Law, He was the One to properly interpret and execute it (Exodus 31:18; Deuteronomy 9:10).

Additionally, being the One who was soon to receive the penalty for the sins of the adulterous woman upon Himself, He had every right to extend grace and mercy to her.

It is interesting to note that in Luke 11:20, Jesus referred to the “finger of God” when He drove the demon out of a man who could not speak. The crowd had accused Him of driving the demon out by the power of Beelzebub – the prince of demons. In response, and for those with eyes to see it, Jesus’ “finger of God” language indicated that He was the same God who wrote the Law on the stone tablets and was therefore God Himself.

A final observation: We should note that since God had created man “out of the dust” (Genesis 2:7) – and since He had come to “write the law on people’s hearts” (Jeremiah 31:33; Psalm 37:31; Romans 2:14-15; 2 Corinthians 3:3; Hebrews 8:10; 10:16), it is likely that in His interaction with the scribes and Pharisees that day, He had in a sense, written the supreme call to mercy in the dust – sending the message that those who refuse mercy will not receive mercy (James 2:12-13), and, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36).

That allows us to circle back to see one final message to the Pharisees:

Judge not, or you too will be judged.

(Matthew 7:1a)

That is the ultimate fulfillment of the Law.

You are a letter from Christ….written not with ink,

but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.

(2 Corinthians 3:3)
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God Kill Those Weeds

I visited the four seasons nursery in Malawi some years ago and I was looking at the weeds. I am reminded of Jesus in Matthew 13, telling a parable about a man who went out to his field and planted wheat in the ground. He sowed good seed. This represents that he was doing the right thing — honouring God with his life and being good to others. But while he slept, an enemy came in and planted weeds. The man didn’t know what had happened. He was expecting to have a great harvest; after all, he had done all the right things, but the weeds still sprang up among his wheat and cause destruction amongst many.

When life seems great, unexpectedly things will happen. The enemy comes in and sows weeds to strangle us, and cause destruction that we didn’t have anything to do with. The key is to keep the right attitude and stay focused on God, the sower of goodness. When these unexpected challenges happen, we must say, “it’s just another weed, I won’t panic, I didn’t sow it, the enemy is not going to get me off focus, so I don’t have to reap it.” Then we can keep the door open for God to move on our behalf and deal with what the enemy has done.

Today, don’t let the weeds in your life take root. Don’t let discouragement creep in. Instead, lift up your eyes of faith to what your Father God can do for you. He will protect you from all evil, so keep believing, keep praying and keep hoping, because your harvest is on the way!

“Jesus told them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away.’”

(Matthew 13:24—25, NIV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for the truth of Your Word which sets me free from the weeds the enemy has sown in my life. Help me to keep my heart and mind focused on You and not the weeds. Father, give me Your peace, strength and wisdom, as I uproot the weeds in my life, and focus on the harvest that You have for my future. God, please remove the devil and his weeds today, so I won’t get strangled by them, and totally lose my focus, in Christ’s Name! Amen.

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More Hope Than Optimism

Talking to some of the youth at school yesterday, amidst their optimism, there also seems to be a lot of hopelessness. It’s time to set our hope on God so we are not easily swayed by the trials of life.

Setting our hope on God means we set our lives in the right direction. One translation of today’s verse says, “look forward to more and more of God’s favour.” God wants to pour out His goodness and grace on you. He wants to help you get ahead in this life. He wants to lead you to the right job. He wants to lead you to the right relationship. But here’s the key: we have to be on the lookout for more and more of God’s favour. More and more of God’s hope. More and more of God’s grace. That tells me that we can’t get stagnant.

Today, meditate on the truth that God wants to do more than you can even ask or think. It says in Ephesians that He wants to show us the immeasurable, limitless, surpassing greatness of His free favour. In other words, God wants to go above and beyond what we’re used to! He wants to show you favour in unusual and extraordinary ways. Set your hopes dynamically higher today, and increase your expectations of what God will do in your life!

“…set your hope wholly and unchangeably on the grace (divine favour) that is coming to you when Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is revealed.”

(1 Peter 1:13, AMP)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for Your abundance in every area of my life today. Father, I will set my hope on You, knowing that You want to do more in my life than I can ever imagine. God, by faith I receive more of Your favour, grace and hope. God, teach me to be a vessel used by You, in Christ’s Name! Amen.

 

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