Category: faith

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(Chapter One) Growing up as a “Born In” Jehovah’s Witness – Bio

(Chapter One) Growing up as a "Born In" Jehovah's Witness - Bio

In my early years, the Kingdom Hall was spiritually grounding for me. My mother and Father introduced me to God at a very young age. It wasn’t until my late teens that I began to realize that the God that what my parents introduced me to was the God of the Jehovah’s Witnesses. He was God no other place except for being God of the Watchtower. Nevertheless, I was willing soldier ready to die for what I thought were my own beliefs. I was religiously preoccupied and a zealot for the Jehovah’s Witness organization. This would lay a foundation for the diagnosis I would receive many years later: Bipolar 1 depression with hyperreligiosity. My illness was exacerbated by trying to keep up the demands of the leaders of my high control religious group. I have suffered many losses as a result of my decision not to go back to the religion( finances, community, family, business contacts etc.) Over the last year, I have run into Jehovah’s Witnesses who are supporting the decision by the Leadership to shun me as a ” spiritual leper” which means actively ignoring me. Some say that when a Jehovah’s Witness is excommunicated or “disfellowshipped”, that it feels like a death in the family. The Leadership of the Jehovah’s Witnesses has convinced their followers that shunning is a loving practice, designed to “wake the person up “to their senses and come back to the organization. ( Watchtower, April 15,2015).

I remember a few years ago, I was going back to the meetings to be reinstated back as a Jehovah’s Witness and I was told by the elders that I was not ready to become a Jehovah’s Witness again. A year before they would accept me back into the congregation. The elders showed me a few scriptures during that meeting that were out of context but I called them on it. They also told me that I had to wait for a little over a year. They told me that if my husband took the family in service more than it may speed up the process It is my belief that it is not until Jehovah’s Witnesses go through the judicial system that many began to realize that something is wrong with the religion. Though my judicial committee was unnecessarily traumatizing it was my reinstatement meeting that “woke me” up. It was only then that I realized something was wrong and begin to reexamine my faith.

The leaders refused to let me back in the proverbial “ark” for years. To me, that was worse than kicking me off the ark. A few days later after the judicial decision, a sister who was having doubts asked me whether I believe in the 1914 doctrine taught by the Jehovah’s Witnesses. I replied no. As she was telling me that she didn’t either I fully expected to go to this website to call out the author as an apostate. Instead, my eyes were open. I knew that they were wrong about Jesus being established as king in 1914. But could they be wrong about the heavenly hope? I bought a new bible as the New World Translation Bible that I grown up with I discovered had many errors. From the point on I was determined to research their teachings. In my mind, if the Bible I was reading was badly translated then the teachings had to be off. I went months of just studying with a few other active Jehovah’s Witnesses online in a forum. My journey climaxed with giving my life to the Lord in August of 2014 and being rebaptized in a Church in August of 2017.

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‘Healing Touch’ Ministry to Asia’s Marginalized Highlighted in Gospel for Asia Special Report

World Leprosy Day: Gospel for Asia-supported workers’ hands-on care for sufferers brings practical help and spiritual hope to those still marginalized by long-feared disease. WILLS POINT, Texas – Gospel for Asia (GFA) is spotlighting its efforts to bridge the historic social gulf caused by the disfiguring disease that leaves sufferers disadvantaged and often despised–one outstretched arm at a time. As Gospel for Asia-supported workers prepare a series of events offering hands-on care to sufferers across Asia, to mark World Leprosy Day, Sunday, Jan. 27, the organization is also publishing a special report on worldwide efforts to eradicate the disease.

Gospel for Asia-supported pastor helps a leprosy patient.
A GFA-supported pastor helps a leprosy patient as part of the Reaching Friends Ministry caring for those afflicted by the stigmatizing disease.

The latest in an in-depth series of GFA reports addressing key global issues, “Leprosy: Misunderstandings and Stigma Keep it Alive” examines how leprosy continues to see those infected shunned despite breakthroughs in treatment, and the fact that most people are naturally immune to the disease.

Though there have been significant medical advances, more than 210,000 new cases were diagnosed in 2016–the majority of them in India. Millions more around the world are suspected to be infected but are not yet symptomatic because the disease’s incubation period is so long.

While doctors and scientists continue to work on prevention and treatment, GFA-supported workers are providing practical and emotional help to those affected. Often losing fingers and toes because leprosy’s nerve damage means they are unaware of infection and injury, many sufferers are left physically unable to work, or as a result of being shunned.

Through associated local churches and members of its Sisters of Compassion ministry, specially trained women missionaries, GFA helps provide practical care, from cooking and cleaning to bathing and dressing wounds. As well as providing physical help, these healing touches also seek to tend to emotional wounds by demonstrating to leprosy sufferers that they have not been rejected.

“When we were completely lost and dejected, Christ came to us and lived among us,” said GFA founder Dr. KP Yohannan.

“By serving these precious people who happen to be afflicted with leprosy, we are not doing anything extraordinary or special. We are simply extending the love that was first given to us.”

GFA’s ministry also endeavors to release patients from the guilt many carry because, the report notes, over the centuries many have believed the disease is the result of some great sin of theirs.

“Eliminating discrimination and false conceptions of leprosy is key to eliminating the disease itself,” the reports adds. All too frequent are “the stories of men and women abandoned by their spouses, in-laws, or even kicked out of their homes by their children.”

The World Leprosy Day outreaches are being arranged in addition to GFA’s ongoing ministry to care for patients. GFA-supported workers have reached thousands of leprosy patients since the Reaching Friends Ministry, as it is called, began in 2007. They visit some of the isolated colonies in which many patients are forced to live, often cut off from the rest of the world.

“We thought we would name the ministry differently, where they won’t have to remember their sickness or feel the stigma of it,” said Tarik, the pastor who helped launched the initiative.

“We thought, ‘Let us call them “friends” because they have been created in the image of God, like us. It is only the sickness that keeps them different, but let us not make that a barrier. Let us accept them as friends.’ “

Among the Sisters of Compassion reaching out is Sakshi, a former leprosy sufferer whose story is shared in the report: at one time she considered suicide because of her despair. Receiving treatment and care, and coming to faith through Reaching Friends Ministry, she now offers help and hope to others.

“Nobody wants to love them, hug them or to come near to them to dress them,” said Sakshi. “They have so many inner pains in their heart, because they also are human beings. They also need love, care and encouragement from other people.”

Observed internationally each year on the last Sunday in January, to raise public awareness of the disease, World Leprosy Day is marked on Jan 30 in India, to commemorate the death of leader Mahatma Gandhi, who championed concern and care for sufferers.

To schedule an interview with a GFA representative, please contact Gregg Wooding @ 972-567-7660 or gwooding@inchristcommunications.com

To read more news on World Leprosy Day on Missions Box, go here.

Gospel for Asia (GFA, www.gfa.org) and its worldwide affiliates have–for almost 40 years–provided humanitarian assistance and spiritual hope to millions across Asia, especially among those who have yet to hear the Good News. Last year, this included more than 70,000 children, free medical services in over 1,200 villages and remote communities, 4,600 wells drilled, 11,000 water filters installed, Christmas gifts for more than 200,000 needy families, and spiritual teaching available in 110 languages in 14 nations through radio ministry.

Source: InChristCommunications.com, World Leprosy Day Outreach and Special Report Spotlight ‘Healing Touch’ Ministry to Asia’s Marginalized

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Names and titles of Jesus

 Jesus was born into a culture in which names were filled with hopes and expectations. Jesus and Emmanuel and a variety of titles are used to refer to Jesus in the New Testament and have salvific attributes. In all Jesus’s many names are representative of who He is and the many roles he plays in the plan of salvation. Jesus himself was no stranger to multiple names. This Advent season, we want to help you worship Jesus for who He really is. So we’re going to look at a few of the names of Jesus, why they matter and how we can use them to draw closer to God.

Jesus

Jesus was the name God told Mary to give her son, the Savior. This common Jewish name means “God saves.” “Jesus” is the shortest prayer, and all prayers are offered through the name of Jesus. Scripture declares the honor to be given the name and therefore the person of Jesus: “At the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth” (Philippians 2:10). Some people bow their heads when the name Jesus is said.

Rabbi

In the Gospels Jesus was sometimes called rabbi. This term meant “teacher.” It did not imply that the person was a trained teacher but that he was an authority. A rabbi was a male more than 30 years old.

Son of David

Jesus was hailed as a Son of David to acknowledge that he was the Messiah, who was to come from the family of David, Israel’s greatest king. Jesus’ foster father Joseph, however, was of the tribe of Judah, the house of David. Jesus took his lineage from his father.

Master

Jesus was addressed as master particularly by the apostles. A master was a teacher followed by a group of people called disciples who hoped to learn from him.

Suffering Servant

Isaiah 42:1-4, 49:1-7, 50:4-11, and 52:13-53:12 refer to a person who takes on the sins of others and suffers for them. This mysterious figure is known as the suffering servant. He has been identified as Israel or Isaiah. To Christians these passages prophesy Jesus.

Immanuel

This Hebrew word means “God with us.” It is found in the prophecy of Isaiah, “The virgin shall be with child, and bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). Immanuel is described in chapters 9 and 11 of Isaiah. Jesus is the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy. He is God with us as one of us. (See Matthew 1:23 and 28:20.)

Redeemer

A redeemer is one who frees another from slavery. Jesus won our freedom from sin and death by his death and resurrection.

Prince of Peace

Isaiah foretells a Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:5). Psalm 72 explains that the Messiah will bring peace. When Jesus is born, angels announce to shepherds that he will bring peace to the world.

Alpha and Omega

Alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet, and omega is the last. In Scripture God is spoken of as the first and the last, the beginning and the end. In Revelation 22:13 Jesus says, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” In other words, Jesus is God, the source and the goal of all life.

The Bridegroom

In the Old Testament, God was portrayed as the bridegroom of Israel. When the Pharisees asked why Jesus and the disciples didn’t fast, he explained that wedding guests do not fast when the bridegroom is with them (Matthew 9:14). The Book of Revelation calls the Church the Bride of the Lamb (Jesus). Jesus and the Church (us) are like a lover and the loved one.

I Am

When asked by Moses to reveal the divine name, God responded, “I am who am.” One interpretation of this name is “I am there for you.” Jesus often calls himself “I am” in the Gospel of John, thereby identifying himself with Yahweh. (See John 4:26, John 8:28, 58, and John 18:5-8.)

Come to know Jesus Christ for yourself and why He is known by so many names.

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Micro vs. Macro Blogging

Godinterest Sites

You know what blogging is, but do you know the difference between macro and micro blogging?

Blogging and micro-blogging are both forms of social networking.

Blogging or “Web-blogging” has been used in instruction for years now and with it have emerged new and exciting possibilities for instruction, such as benefiting students in various academic disciplines and providing instructors with various added perspectives by including students’ personal voices in the learning process.

Macro

This is the standard blog you see all over the web. Typical posts run around 500 words, although of course some go longer or a little shorter. However, too much more than 500 and you run the risk of boring the heck out of your audience.

Micro

While Godinterest isn’t the only example of a micro-blog, it’s a great visual to use. You’re limited to 500 characters per status update which means you have to be as concise as possible. Of course there are ways around that (multiple status update etc.) but more often than not people stick to the format.

The distinctions between the two kinds of platforms create unique opportunities for instruction and student engagement.

Do you prefer macro or micro blogs? Maybe a mix of the two?

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Blogging Theology

Blogging Theology

Godinterest Launches WordPress Blogging Portal For Students And Teachers of Religion

Over a week ago, using the fully hosted version of the popular open-source WordPress content management system, Dean Jones introduced a blog portal that focuses specifically on religion to help people share their faith online.

Jones, a 36-year-old ex-lecturer from London argues that Godinterest gives occasion to a whole new set of conversations about religion in public life and represents the possibility of a common conversation among a diverse set of voices. “

There is no doubt that WordPress is one of the most popular blogging platforms so when asked what’s special and about Godinterest, Jones stated the following points: “

– Only for Religion – Godinterest is targeted at those in Religion rather than general blogging. We envision blogs being used to facilitate discussion, replace paper newsletters, encourage students to blog, post videos podcasts and presentation and create class publications.

– Accounts – Godinterest offers a range of accounts not limited to an individual. The basic version is a free account which gives you features comparable to WordPress but without some of the themes and Adverts (a nice incentive to an educator) after that there will be pro accounts which opens up more options like the ability to set up, and monitor, blogs for students, custom domains and visitor stats. Godinterest will also offer free upgrades for students when attached to a Pro blog.

– Privacy – students might be more conscious about their work than your average blogger. The built in privacy features (including password protection) are a great way to help students to build up their confidence.

Modules – We also plan to implement modules in Scripture, Worship (including Sacraments), Church History and Beliefs on Theology Challenges and provide a variety of resources to help teachers and students explore many aspects of religious knowledge. “

The future of education is with online technology and there are fewer and better things to be innovating on than just that right now, Godinterest offers that opportunity for any religious educator or faith blogger with specific themes and features that will make learning even more effective.

About us

Godinterest Sites is a blog-publishing service built with WordPress for Religion that lets you share your faith online

For a limited time Godinterest Sites will be offering free Pro upgrades for religious educational institutions worldwide.

For more information visit http://sites.godinterest.com

Note to Editors: To arrange an interview with Dean Jones, please contact Dean Jones at +44(0)7939024086 or via e-mail at pr@godinterest.com

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Young Christian bloggers

Young Christian bloggers

Some of the web’s most influential voices now belong to bloggers as young as 13.

“Kids often start writing blogs just for the hell of it,” says Sadie Stein, a contributing editor at the US online feminist fashion mag, Jezebel. “Sometimes it’s because they are feeling isolated in small conservative towns and want to connect with other kids; sometimes it’s because they have areas of specialised interest they want to share.”

We think it’s about time to make this official: 2018 is the year of the young‘uns.

We’ve invited children and young people to write for us on a regular basis. Their blogs can be about anything– popular culture, rights in their life, or the issues they care about in the world. We hope their work will mean more young people visit our website, so that they can learn more about the things that matter to them.

Godinterest is built with WordPress a software designed for everyone, emphasizing accessibility, performance, security, and ease of use. The basic WordPress software is simple and predictable so you can easily get started. It also offers powerful features for growth and success.

We believe in democratizing publishing and the freedoms that come with open source.


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‘It is all God’s fault’

'It is all God's fault'

‘It’s all Gods fault’It’s amazing how quickly even Christians blame God when things go wrong in our lives, even the question ‘Why me God’ points an accusing finger at our Father in heaven.

It’s been part of our old nature since Adam turned on God and blamed him for ‘the woman he gave him’ as being the one who caused the problem of sin. Eve learned the ‘blame game’ all too quickly and pointed to the serpent the real perpetrator.

At least Eve got it right, the only troublemaker; the one who always blames God, the one who is the accuser of the brethren is that old serpent Satan.

                    So being part of Adams race I too would have to blame God”¦

Its Gods fault that I am saved for he give me ‘the faith to believe in the grace that saved me’ Ephesians 2:8

Its Gods fault that I am ‘blessed with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places’ Ephesians 1:3 instead of being cursed with a curse

Its Gods fault that I am healed for ‘Jesus himself took my infirmities and carried my sicknesses and by his stripes I am already healed’ Matthew 8:17 1st Peter 2:24

Its Gods fault that I am righteous for ‘Jesus himself became sin with my sin so that I would be the righteousness of God in him’ 2 Corinthians 5:21

God’s to blame for if he had left me alone I could have been in hell instead of heading for heaven

God’s to blame for giving me’ life more abundant’ John 10:10

God’s to blame for giving me ‘joy unspeakable and full of glory’ 1st Peter 1:8

God’s to blame for giving me ‘peace that passes all understanding’ Philippians 4:7

Its Gods fault that I am forgiven for he has promised that if I ‘confess my sin he is faithful and just to forgive me and to cleanse me from all unrighteousness’ 1st John 1:9

Its Gods fault that’ I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’ Philippians 4:13

Its Gods fault that I am ‘delivered from the power of darkness and have been translated into the kingdom of his dear Son’ Colossians 1:13

It’s God’s fault that I ‘have redemption through his blood even the forgiveness of sins’ Colossians 1:14

God’s to blame for ‘blotting out the handwriting of laws that was against me, which was contrary to me and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross’ Colossians 2:14

God’s to blame for ‘baptising me in the Holy Ghost and power’  Acts 1:8

God’s to blame for ‘sending his Son who came into the world to save sinners of whom I am chief’ 1st Timothy 1:15

God’s to blame for ‘every good and every precious gift that comes down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variableness neither shadow of turning’ James 1:17

Its Gods fault that I have ‘all things pertaining to life and to godliness according to his divine power’ 2Peter 1:3

Its Gods fault that I have been ‘given exceeding great and precious promises; that by these I might be a partaker of the divine nature’ 2Peter 1:4

Its Gods fault that I am prospering and am in perfect soundness of health even as my soul prospers’ 3rd John 2

Its Gods fault that I am not poor for in Christ, ‘the wealth of the sinner is laid up for me’ Proverbs 13:22 because ‘he became poor that I might be rich’ 2 Corinthians 8:9

God’s to blame for ‘he daily loads me with benefits’ Psalm 68:19

God’s to blame for he ‘has made me a little lower than the angels, and has given me dominion over the works of his hands; he has put all things under my feet’ Psalm 8:4-6

God’s to blame that I am not condemned for in Christ ‘there is now therefore no condemnation to those who walk after the spirit and not after the flesh’ Romans 8:1

God’s to blame that I am not fearful for ‘God did not give me a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind’ 2 Timothy 1:7

Its Gods fault that I am free for ‘he that the Son sets free is free indeed’ John 8:36

Its Gods fault that all my needs are met, for he has ‘provided all my need according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus’ Philippians 4:19

Its Gods fault that I do not suffer from afflictions for ‘the Lord has delivered me out of them all’ Psalm 34:19

Its Gods fault that I am not stuck in ‘a horrible pit in miry clay for he brought me up and set my feet upon a rock and established my ways’ Psalm 40:2

Its Gods fault that I am not poor for in Christ, ‘the wealth of the sinner is laid up for me’ Proverbs 13:22 because ‘he became poor that I might be rich’ 2 Corinthians 8:9

God’s to blame that I am not lost for Christ ‘came to seek and to save me when I was lost’ Luke 19:10 ‘he is ‘my Good Shepherd who gave his life for me’ John 10:11

God’s to blame that I am not orphaned because in Christ, ‘I am adopted whereby I can call God my Abba, Daddy, Father’ Romans 8:15

Gods to blame that I am not depressed for my ‘God has given me the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness (depression)’ Isaiah 61:3‘

Gods to blame that I am not weak for ‘through Christ I can do all things for he strengthens me’ Philippians 4:13

Its Gods fault that I am not guilty before God for in Christ I live ‘justified by faith’ Romans 3:28, ‘justified by his grace’

Its Gods fault that I am not afraid of dying for Christ is my resurrection and my life’ John 11:25

Its Gods fault that I am not fearful of judgement for the Lord he is ‘my righteous judge’ 2 Timothy 4:8 the’ judge of the living and the dead’ Acts 10:42

Its Gods fault that I have eternal life and this life is n his Son’ 1st John 5:11

I may be of Adams seed; I may well have his desire to blame God and others when things go wrong but because I am born again of incorruptible seed in Christ 1st Peter 1:23 I now find it impossible to truly blame God for bad things because he is a good God.

When we turn and blame God or others for our dilemmas, can it be that our speech comes with the hissing sound of a serpent? ‘The accuser of the brethren who has been cast down’ Revelation 12:10

What spirit then would drive us to accuse God of sending evil things such as sickness and disease or poverty? ‘God cannot be tempted with evil neither does he tempt any man’ James 1:13

‘Do not err, my beloved brethren.  Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. James 1:16-17

Jesus himself set the record straight when he said; ‘If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? Matthew 7:11

God hasn’t changed; he is still a good God who only gives good gifts and does good things for his children.

So by all means accuse God but at least accuse him of good things for which he truly is to blame”¦

Ps I am sure as you read the scriptures you will find a thousand reasons to blame God, search well and when you find them give him thanks for his goodness; it will change your life”¦

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‘Who Am I’ to You Lord? Speak to Me My True Identity”¦..

There are times in the hills and valleys of life we lose our way and lose who we are.  This has been my experience after leaving the highly controlled religious group- The Jehovah’s Witnesses. As a Jehovah’s Witness, we were discouraged from making friends outside of the religion, the pursuit of higher education and/or pursuing hobbies outside the rigid schedule that was set before us from the leadership. After years of indoctrination and following orders of the religious leaders who dare set themselves in the place of Christ, I  left and had trouble making friends outside of the religion and really did not know how to express Christlike love.

Then Jesus came into my life and began to help me learn who I am:I am redeemed, loved and seated with Christ in the heavenly realms above.

Sitting with Christ in the heavenlies is a reality right now for children of God -not a promise for the future! It is because of the resurrection of Jesus that we have the privilege to eternally be one in the Spirit with Jesus Christ. Being seated with Him keeps us grounded in the sphere of heaven as we set our minds and hearts on the heavenly things above. (Colossians 3:1-2) We have been given a position of victory because our King reigns over us victoriously. Knowing this, we can reign over and overcome trying circumstances while resting in the arms of the Everlasting God.

Although we may never be whole on this side of heaven God will always step into the broken places to raise us up by the same Spirit and power that raised Christ from the dead! He will raise us above the problems in our lives, He will raise us above our own hearts and minds to be with Him. He will raise us above our own carnality to pass over into the spiritual so that we may enjoy the rich blessings of loving Him for all eternity.

Agape,

Spencer Tyler

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Christians Are Not Perfect, Jesus Is

Do not take your troubles to human beings. Take them to the Lord. You may think that others ought to sympathize with you in your trials, but you will sometimes be disappointed. Jesus never disappoints the one who comes to Him for help. He is saying to you today, “Come unto me, … and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). He will give you rest in Him. No one who comes to Him goes away unhelped. Take your burdens to the divine Burden Bearer and leave them with Him, knowing that He will carry them for you.


Act your part in helping yourselves, as all must do who would be blessed. Do not dwell upon the hardships of the Christian life. Do not talk of your trials…. Do not utter one despondent word, for such words please Satan. Talk of Christ’s goodness and tell of His power. Words of hope and trust and courage are as easily spoken as words of complaint…


When the enemy tells you that the Lord has forsaken you, tell him that you know He has not; for He declares, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Hebrews 13:5). Dismiss the enemy. Tell him you will not dishonor the Lord by doubting His love….


There is no limit to the help that the Saviour is willing to bestow on us. He asks us to bring into our lives the grace that will keep us from sin. From the cross of Calvary there comes to us liberty, hope, and strength. Do not dishonor your Redeemer by doubting His power. Trust Him all the time. Take hold of the riches of His grace, saying, “I will believe; I do believe that Jesus died for me.” The way before you may seem dark, but Jesus can make it light.


Be joyful in God. Christ is light and in Him is no darkness at all. Look toward the light. Accustom yourselves to speak the praise of God. Make others happy. This is your first work. It will strengthen the best traits of character. Throw the windows of the soul wide open heavenward and let the sunshine of Christ’s righteousness in. Morning, noon, and night your hearts may be filled with the bright rays of heaven’s light.

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The Two Most Annoying Things About ‘Revelation’ Commentaries

A Precious Promise: The Outpouring of God’s Spirit

It’s always in the first few pages.

Every author does it, though I’m sure some are ‘asked’ to do it by their publishers, though they would rather keep it out of their books.

Some people may not be annoyed by it, but for me, it’s one of the most frustrating things about commentaries on the book of Revelation.

”INTERPRETATIONS OF THE BOOK OF REVELATION”

That may be one of the biggest misnomer and backhanded comments from the author to other Christians I’ve ever read in a biblical commentary.

Let’s discuss this. Continue reading “The Two Most Annoying Things About ‘Revelation’ Commentaries”

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Barely arrived on Monday and it’s already Friday

Hardly the day started and … it is already six o’clock in the evening.

Barely arrived on Monday and it’s already Friday.

… and the month is already over.

… and the year is almost up.

… and already 40, 50 and 60 years of our lives have passed.

… and we then realise that we have lost our parents and friends. And then we realise that it is too late to go back …

So … Let’s try, however, to take full advantage of the time we have left …

Let’s not stop looking for activities that we like …

Let’s put color in our greyness …

Let’s smile at the little things in life that put balm in our hearts.

And yet, we must continue to enjoy serenely the time that remains. Let’s try to eliminate the “after” …

I do it after …

I will say after …

I will think about it after …

We leave everything for later as if “after” was ours.

Because what we do not understand is that:

after, the coffee cools …

after, priorities change …

after, the charm is broken …

after, health passes …

after, the children grow up …

after, the parents get older …

after, the promises are forgotten …

after, the day becomes the night …

after, life ends …

And after that it’s often too late ….

So … leave nothing for later …

Because always waiting for later, we can lose the best moments,

the best experiences,

the best friends,

the best family …

The day is today … The moment is now …

We are no longer at the age where we can afford to postpone until tomorrow what needs to be done right away.

So let’s see if you’ll have time to read this message and then share it.

Or maybe you’ll leave it for … “later” …

And you will not share it “ever” ….

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Faith or Farce?

Blanche Taylor Moore was a preacher’s daughter, preacher’s wife, and a mother.  Her life was encircled by the church, the Bible, and prayer.  From the outside looking in, it was most likely speculated that Blanche lived a good Christian life.  Yet in 1986, she was convicted of murdering her long-time boyfriend, Raymond Reid, by arsenic poisoning.  Blanche is also the prime suspect in many other arsenic poisonings that resulted in the death of her father, mother-in-law, sister-in-law, and first husband.  Not to mention the attempted murder of her five day newlywed second husband; the Reverend Dwight Moore.  By all depictions; Blanche is a serial killer, but many years later it was reported by Blanche’s daughter that her letters and cards from jail still teemed with Bible scripture.

God’s assassin?

I don’t endeavor to understand all the goings on inside the thoughts of someone like Blanche, but I would be willing to wager that somehow in her mind, she justifies it.  I imagine that she believes herself to be at peace with God; whether by denying her guilt (even to God!), or in some way believing what happened was God’s will.  I also entertain the notion that I am way off base, and the religious façade is simply her way of feigning innocence to the very end.  But I doubt it.

I gain my soured outlook from years of watching my own mother’s behavior through the years.  My mother has never killed anyone (at least I hope not!), but many of the aspects of her life are in direct contradiction to the Bible.  And yet, she will still maintain that she lives a life modeled by Christ.

My mother suffers from Narcissistic Personality Disorder.  The narcissist is akin to the sociopath, in that they both lack empathy (among other similarities).  The difference is that the narcissist is completely unable to see anything from another’s perspective, while the sociopath may be able to see how their actions affect others; they just don’t care.  Many serial killers are sociopaths.  A narcissist wouldn’t likely kill anyone, though not due to feelings of guilt or remorse, but more accurately because of the negative implications that the act would have on themselves.

From one extreme to the other

In a wholesome, genuine Christian home, faith will thrive and a legacy of service to God will flourish.  Sure, there may be resistance along the way but, as Proverbs 22:6 says; “Bring up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” (KJV)  One need only to consider the family heritage that Billy Graham left behind to see what I mean (I realize that I am setting the bar pretty high here!).

In a dysfunctional Christian home, however, concepts of God and faith are skewed.  The worst part is, we don’t figure this out until we are grown, if at all, and by then the damage is done.  We grow up believing our upbringing is normal, and then internal conflict arises when we delve into the faith on our own, or simply go out into the world on our own.  Once we see what normal really is, it sets our world upside down.  Often this internal conflict can result in substance abuse and addiction, mental health issues, or a complete turning away from the faith; at times all of the above.

In my case, my mother used the idea of God in order to manipulate my actions.  If I did something that my mother viewed as unacceptable; then my behavior was displeasing to God.  The danger of any narcissistic parent is their need to dominate their children at any cost.  The danger of a narcissistic Christian parent is that the line between the parent’s will and God’s will becomes blurred, and God is reduced to a meager instrument of control.

If this was Christian living, I wanted no part of it!

A narcissistic Christian parent will study the Bible relentlessly.  This way they can pick out the parts they want to use, and minimize the portions that don’t fit into their spiritual geo-dome.  “Honor thy father and thy mother” was my mother’s favorite commandment to throw at her children if ever we disagreed with her.  However, I cannot ever remember an instance when she quoted Colossians 3:21; “Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.” (KJV)  Yet even if this scripture would have been brought to her attention, I am sure her response would have been; “I’m not your father.”  She could be very literal when it was to her benefit.  Vague as well, whatever the situation called for.  Manipulation can be very diverse.

Another scripture that was often hijacked by my mother was (the first part of) Psalm 111:10; “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (KJV) Her rendering was apparent: If you are smart, you had better be afraid of God.  This makes perfect sense if your intent is dominance.  The most effective method of control is through the use of fear.  Still another quote she frequently used was “Spare the rod, and spoil the child”.  I wonder at times if she really believed that this was a Bible passage.  It is actually a quote from a poem entitled Hudibras, by Samuel Butler.  Nonetheless, the result was that I grew up viewing God as an omnipresent overseer whose foremost intention was catch me in offense, and punish me.  Who wouldn’t rebel against that?  And rebel I did.

My life became a tumultuous abandonment of the faith; riddled with alcohol, drugs, and irresponsibility.  The good news is that God was intent upon showing me his candidness.  He was not about to leave me to my own devices without first allowing me to see Him for who He really is.  He unabashedly pursued me with His love.  Not fear, but love.  I grew to know a God much different than the one that my mother had taught me.  And I came to realize that the god she had shoved down my throat for so many years was not God at all, but a twisted version created in order to gain compliance and feed narcissistic supply.

Are we lighting the path or extinguishing the flame?

The disturbing reality is that inside our churches lurk many parents the likes of my mother, or even Blanche Taylor Moore; with varying degrees of dysfunction.  Is there any question as to why seventy to seventy-five percent of young people are leaving the church after high school?  God isn’t driving them away!  Our own legalism and false teaching is!  God should never be diminished to a mere bridle placed in the mouths of our children in order to steer them the way we want them to go.  God knows the way, God will show the way, and Jesus Christ will lead the way.  Bringing up a child in the way he should go ought to translate into living a life devoted to God and our families, nothing more and nothing less.  The rest is up to Him.

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Faith Matters

‘Have Faith in God’ Mark 11:22 Have ‘the God type of faith’ Says Jesus in Verse 22 of Mark chapter 11, not some man made, mind over matter rubbish but the type of faith that believes for the impossible. Not wishful thinking, not some dream but faith that is based on the never changing word of God.

You can never base faith on things or on people for things and people die away, but God is eternal as is his word, so you can take his word as gospel truth.

’For truly I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be you removed, and be you cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he says shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he says. Therefore I say unto you, What things so ever you desire when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you shall have them’ Mark 11:23, 24

Now that’s what I call faith’ it is not a man-made pie in the sky, wishing for something to happen kind of faith, it is the God type of faith which truly believes for the impossible, it’s the same faith that created the world we live in by the Word. That’s the kind of faith that creates something out of nothing.

These are days when we need to have our faith strengthened, when we need to know God. God has designed that ‘the just shall live by faith (Hebrews 10:38) Any man or woman can be changed by faith, no matter how much bondage they may find themselves in, God’s word is sufficient.

One word from God can change an individual and it can change a nation, His word is from everlasting to everlasting it’s unchanging and as such you can trust it completely.  It is through the entrance of this everlasting Word, this incorruptible seed, that we are born again, and come into His wonderful and complete and free salvation.

Its Gods word that creates this new life in us and this new life needs feeding ‘Man cannot live by bread alone, but must live by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God’ Matthew 4:4 ‘Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God’ Romans 10:17

If we want to see miracles we need to walk in the Spirit and that way we will not fulfil the lusts of the flesh (Galatians 5:16 ‘whatsoever is not of faith is sin’ Romans 14:23 It’s not your flesh that believes it is your born again spirit, it’s your spirit that will enable faith to take a leap and believe for the miraculous.

It’s not something that your mind dreams up, it is the word of the living God seeking release in order to bring glory to His name, you cannot pray it in, you can’t pray it down but you can read and hear it and hear it until you believe it enough to take your dream and make it a reality.

We need to be renewed in the spirit of our minds, Ephesians 4:23 in other words when we were in the world we were brainwashed by the lies of Satan now as Christians we need to be renewed from all the rubbish that was sown there. Walking in faith is easy; it comes by choosing Christ instead of the world, it comes by choosing to read and digest Gods word instead of TV soaps, it costs but the rewards are clean hands and a pure heart, Psalm 24:4

Everywhere people even so called ordained ministers are trying to discredit the Bible and take from it all the miraculous.

They have ‘forms of godliness but deny the power thereof, 2nd Timothy 3:5 they ‘feast themselves in the church, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withers without fruit twice dead plucked up by the roots. Raging waves of the sea, foaming out of their shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever’ Jude 1:12

These so called ministers are among the church spreading dissention, deceiving the weak and destroying the weary. They look the part yet ‘inwardly they are ravening wolves, false prophets who come in sheep’s clothing’ Matthew 7:15 they are easy to recognize for as Jesus said ‘you shall know them by their fruit’

Look for the fruit of righteousness in men, do not judge them by their clothes or their speech, for ‘a good tree brings forth good fruit and a corrupt tree brings forth evil fruit’ ‘not everyone who say unto Christ, Lord, Lord shall enter into the kingdom of Heaven but he that does the will of my Father which is in heaven’ Matthew 7:17- 21

It’s not fine words that mark out the man of God, it’s his love of Christ and his utter dependence on God’s word out of which flows the fruits of the Spirit.

It’s not even the works that mark the man of God for there are many who will say to the Lord ‘have we not prophesied in your name? And in your name cast out devils? And in your name done many wonderful works? For even so Christ will say ‘I never knew you, depart from me you that work iniquity’ Matthew 7:22-23

Today  foolish men may deny the virgin birth, the atoning sacrifice of Christ and his resurrection, some may even say that healing is not for today, they may say that God glories in sickness but God has the final say, they will die but the word of the Lord abides forever 1st Peter 1:23

We have a wonderful God, a God whose ways are past finding out, and whose grace and power are limitless.

’What things so ever you desire, when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you shall have them’

See for yourself these truths, ‘God has placed no limit to his giving’ the truths here are eternal they are life changing to anyone who would dare to take God at his word.

I remember well one evening sitting reading in my office when a knock came to the door, it was an elderly gentleman who said he needed help.  He was in serious pain with arthritis and so I began to speak to him about Christ the great saviour. Son he said; I have been saved 40 years I asked him how his faith was.  He replied ‘I have great faith’

After prayer he was able jump up and down with no pain but he was not satisfied and complained, “I feel a little bit of trouble just there,” pointing to a certain place. ‘Do you know what your problem is’ I said?” He answered, “No.

I said, ‘Imperfect faith’ We went to Marks Gospel and read, ‘What things so ever you desire, when you pray, believe that you receive there, and you shall have them’ the dear man saw it and said ‘If God said it that settles it, I am healed for that’s what I came for’ Immediately every pain, even the trouble spot disappeared back to hell where it was birthed.

Did you believe before you were saved? You see feelings do not come into the realm of the spirit; there was never a man who ‘felt’ saved before he believed. God’s plan was always, if you can believe, all things are possible’ Mark 9:23

In these last closing days before Christ comes I believe God wants to bring us all to a definite place of unswerving faith and confidence in Himself, if ever the body of Christ needed to walk in Holy Ghost power it is now because ‘the night is soon coming when no man can work’ John 9:4

There is a dirty rainy day coming, a day when we will need all the power of heaven on our side, you may have already experienced the dirty rain from hell’s kitchen if so you will know what I mean. Sickness which seems incurable, debt that is beyond your ability, wounds that seem impossible to heal, broken hearts all need the power of God’s anointing to destroy them.

It may be too late to seek an answer from heaven when you are dying unless your faith is built up and you know the will of God for your life. It never ceases to amaze me how many of God’s children leave him out in the early stages of their problems, like Adam and eve they hide from God and almost run away from Him until there is no more place to run.

They come to our home after spending weeks or even months in agony weak in strength and in spirit and we have to start to build their faith up to receive, what a foolish thing, leaving the great physician out of the picture until they face death.

Why does Jesus use a mountain when he is teaching his followers about faith? Simply because if you have faith to remove a mountain, you can remove anything you see the plan of God is so awesome, that ‘if you will only believe, all things are possible’ Mark 9:23

In Mark 11:23 we read, ‘And shall not doubt in his heart’ you see it’s the heart were faith grows, it’s not that your head gets full of God’s word it’s from your heart (spirit) that all the issues of life flow. It’s from your heart that faith springs forth and reveals the saving, Healing Christ; it’s from your heart that life changing power flows so ‘guard your heart with all diligence’ Proverbs 4:23

As we continue to have heart fellowship with our LORD our faith cannot be dented, we cannot doubt in our hearts and as such we receive, because He has given us an impartation of His very life and nature within.

As we read His Word and believe the promises that He by His grace has given to us, we are made partakers of His very essence and life and nature 2nd Peter 1:4 The Lord is made to us a Bridegroom, and we are His bride Revelation 21:2

His words to us are spirit and life (John 6:63) transforming us and changing us, expelling that which is natural and bringing into that which is divine.

‘Gods love heals’

It is impossible to comprehend the love of God as we think on natural lines we need to have the revelation of the depth of His great love from the Spirit of God.

If we do not have a revelation of Gods all-embracing love we can never find true liberty we will always be tempted to work for our salvation we will never truly believe that He is willing to forgive all and to heal all. We need to see that God gives liberally, it was Jesus who said ‘he that asks, receives, he that seeks finds and he that knocks the door will be opened unto him’ Luke 11:10

God is willing to bestow on us all things that pertain to life and godliness 2nd Peter 1:3 It was the love of God that sent Jesus, it was His love that caused Christ to be made sin who knew no sin that we might become the righteousness of God in Him 2nd Corinthians 5:21 This same love helps you and I to believe in a saviour we have never seen except in pictures for in every weakness God is our strength.

You who need His touch but in order to receive it you need to remember that He loves you even if your wretched, helpless, sinful and sick, its time to turn to the God of all grace, whose very essence is love, who delights to give liberally all the inheritance of life and strength, health and power that you are in need of.

God brings us into a place of perfect love and perfect faith anyone who is born of God is brought into an inward love, a deep desire to serve the Lord only, ‘he that is forgiven much loves much’ Luke 7:47

Me? I am a product of love just like a child is a product of the love between his parents only His love takes no count of wrongs, it is pure and undefiled, a ‘perfect love which casts out fear for fear is made perfect in love’ 1st John 4:18

We serve a saviour that heals the broken-hearted, who sets the captives free, and who saves the very worst from the darkest of destinies. How foolish it is to turn your back on this glorious Gospel of God for spirit, soul and body?

This full Gospel has in great measure been hidden, this Gospel that brings liberty, this Gospel that brings souls out of bondage, this Gospel that brings perfect health to the body, this Gospel of entire salvation, watered down by foolish men with carnal minds.

Listen again to this word of Him who left the glory of heaven to bring us this great salvation, “Verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, be thou removed, he shall have whatsoever he says’

‘Hindrances to living faith’

God can never bless us if we are hard-hearted, critical or unforgiving for these abominable acts will hinder faith quicker than anything.

I believe there are a great many people who would be healed, but they are harbouring things in their hearts that are like a cancer eating away at every ounce of ground breaking faith they receive, I urge you let these things go no matter what the reason for your bitterness and resentment they are not worth dying over are they? Forgive, and the Lord will forgive you

I have met many good people, people that mean well, but they have no power to do anything for God, in most cases it’s over some little thing that came in their hearts years ago, an angry exchange, a word of rebuke that offended and their faith has been paralyzed ever since.

If you wish to receive from God bring everything to the light and allow God to wash it all away, let the precious blood of Christ cleanse you from all sin. If you will but believe, God will meet you and bring into your lives the very power of His love to forgive and to restore your broken relationships.

In 1 John 1verse 7 we read this promise; ‘If we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another and the blood of Jesus Christ cleans us from all sin’ what is being reported here needs to be understood for when a brother has anything against us we can have no fellowship with God.

Sin breaks fellowship with God, it destroys the very essence of our new life, we walk in darkness and not light, is it then any wonder we stumble around in doubt and fear? is it any wonder then that our bodies get sick?

Clear the decks, set things to right between you and those who have offended you and then you will grow into a man or woman of faith, well able to do mighty exploits in His name; Daniel 11:22

WITH CHRIST you truly can do all things!

David Robinson

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Touched by the Love of God

‘Touched by the Love of God’ Chapter 1

GOD IS LOVE: 1st John 4:16

‘The love of God never fails; it will never come to an end. Prophecies will fail, speaking in unknown tongues will cease and the gift of knowledge shall vanish away.’ but ‘God’s love will never fail.’ 1st Corinthians 13: 4-7

To those who would accuse Jesus of doing evil, of causing them harm, allow me to ask; would such love kill an unborn child or take the life of a teenage son or daughter?

Would Jesus destroy the very life he created? Would he send poverty, would he abuse or hurt the very child he formed in its mother’s womb?

Would Jesus crush the broken hearted, would he oppress his own or leave and forsake his own child?

No! Jesus died for the unlovable and the ungodly. He willingly ‘laid down his life for you’ 1st John 3:16 and for all those who would reject him?

Have you not heard that, ‘while you were still sinners Christ died for you?’ Romans 5:8 Have you not read that, ‘he washed you from your sins in his own blood’ Revelations 1:5.

‘Jesus was despised and rejected of men a man of sorrows acquainted with grief, he carried your griefs and your sorrows,

‘Christ was wounded for your transgressions, he was bruised for your iniquities, the chastisement of your peace was upon him and by his stripes you are healed’ Isaiah 53:3-5

He took your infirmities and carried your sicknesses’ Matthew 8:17 and again he declares, by his stripes you were healed; 1 Peter 2:24, because that’s what real love does.

Jesus ‘died for you when you were ‘without strength,’ ‘while you were still an ungodly sinner, he died for you’ Romans 5:6-8 He loved his own which were in the world, indeed he loved them to the end’ John 13:1

Jesus, ‘left you another comforter’ the Holy Ghost who will teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever he said unto you’ John 14:26

He left you ‘peace so that you need not be troubled’ John 14:27 and Joy that’s unspeakable and full of glory.

He ‘gave eternal life to you’ 1 John 5:11 and to all who would simply, believe.

Jesus healed all that came to him, Matthew 12:15 indeed he healed every sickness and every disease among the people Matthew 9:35

He fed the multitudes, Matthew 15:32-38 and cleansed the leper. Matthew 8:1-3

He raised the widows’ dead son and gave sight to the blind, hearing to the deaf and a voice to the dumb. Luke 7:12-15

He preached good news to the poor, he delivered the captives and gave recovery of sight to the blind and brought liberty to those who were bruised (downtrodden and abused) Luke 4:18

Jesus took upon himself the sins of the whole world, 1st John 2:2

He was beaten until his appearance was like no other man, Isaiah 54:14 ‘they made his back like a ploughed field they laid long their furrows’ Psalm 129:3

He was crowned with thorns, spat upon, mocked and laughed at. Matthew 27: 29-31

He was nailed to a cross and even when in agony, even while forsaken (Matthew 27:46) and he forgave the dying repentant thief and, he forgave you and I. Luke 23:42-43 all because that’s what love would do…

Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost, Luke 19:10 he adopted you; indeed he gave you the Spirit of adoption whereby you can call God your Abba, your daddy, your Father and your God. Romans 8:15 Forever!!

Today is the very day that the Lord has chosen to give you a new life, a new beginning and all you have to do is to repent of your sins, ask him to rescue from sins power and to be your personal Lord and saviour”¦

This is your day to be touched by the love of God

‘Touched by the love of God’ Chapter 2

‘God is love’ 1st John 4:16

It is God’s nature to love; there is not one evil thought, word or action that can come from Gods heart.

He is love personified, he is love in action for true love itself is from him, ‘the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts through Christ (Romans 5:5) such love in Christ died for us while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8)

It was love that formed man out of the red dust of the garden of Eden and it was love that pursued Adams fallen race all the way to Calvary and on that lonely hill love purchased a pardon for all who would simply believe on Christ.

Some deluded bible teachers would tell us that God sends sickness or that God allows someone to have an accident, how foolish to make such a statement of a good God, a God who is love.

Thank God for his word that never changes, praise God for faithful witnesses like James the apostle who wrote, ‘Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God; for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempts he any man’ (James 1:13)

I remember one occasion being at a meeting when one young man stood up to give his testimony, he began with words that struck me like a fiery dart; he declared ‘God broke my back and put me into hospital for months so that he could speak to me’

I was stunned and ached against such an accusation for I knew it was accusing a good God of an evil deed. I sought the Lord and he brought me to the scripture above, the young man was awestruck at the word when I revealed it to him and said it was a revelation of truth to him.

Look at the next few verses of James chapter 1 and see that ‘Every man is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lusts and enticed’ (v.14) ‘then when lust has conceived, it brings forth sin, and sin when it is finished, brings forth death` (v.15) Instead of blaming God we need to look to ourselves and our own actions which bring about accidents and injuries and indeed sometimes sickness.

When we blame God we are as guilty as Adam was when he blamed God for making Eve who Adam in turn blamed for sin.

When we ask, ‘why me God’ we are accusing Him of some evil thing which has touched our lives, when we say God allowed it we do the same thing, it’s time we realized that God is good all the time instead of just singing about it.

God is not into evil works; see verse 16-17 ‘Do not err, my beloved brethren. Every good and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the father of lights with whom is no variableness neither shadow of turning’

Its good things that come down from above, they come from an unchanging God of light not from the god of darkness, Satan.

Ask your self would you as a mother or father hurt your children in order to teach them something? Would you allow them to get cancer? Or would you allow someone to abuse them? Of course not, then why accuse a good God of hurting those he loves?

Jesus put it this way ‘What man is there of you if a son asks bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish will he give him a serpent?’ If you then being evil know how to give good things unto your children, how much more shall your father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?’ (Matthew 6:9-11)

Does that sound like God wants you to suffer?

No; goodness cannot flow from an evil heart a good tree brings forth good fruit because it is its nature, goodness flows from a heart so full of love that it overflows and gives good things to all that ask. Is sound health a good thing? Then it is a love gift, is sufficient finances a good thing? Are peace and joy good things? Then they are a love gift from a good God.

If you still doubt that God is good then ‘Christ coming into the world to save sinners’ 1st Timothy 1:15 must surely convince even the most hard hearted that He is love.

Surely a glimpse of the cruellest of deaths, a mere glimpse of Calvary’s butchered saviour would open the eyes of the most blinded of eyes”¦ for there even the most foolish could not help but be touched by the Love of God

‘Touched by the love of God’ Chapter 3

Love and Compassion go hand in hand, if love is the glove then compassion are the fingers that reach into the dark recesses of human misery and sets men and women free.

Compassion is not pity for pity is a source of many fine words while compassion works to remove suffering whatever its root.

In Psalm 86 David writes about the Lord’s nature saying; ‘ For you Lord, are good and ready to forgive; plenteous in mercy to all them that call upon you’ ‘But you O lord are full of compassion and gracious, longsuffering and plenteous in mercy and truth’

God’s word reveals our sinful nature but it always balances it with good news about a loving God who forgives all our iniquities and heals all our diseases (Psalm 103:3)

Every time the psalmist bemoaned his sinful nature, every time he spoke of his sufferings he spoke of Gods great mercy (Psalm 86:13) and reminded himself of Gods compassion, his grace and long suffering.

Love is like that, I mean true love; it always is willing to forgive and to show mercy and compassion, true love does not hold grudges, it runs to help the wounded even though they are suffering at their own hands.

Psalm 103 tell us that when we deserved death, love redeemed our lives from destruction, when we deserved wrath it crowned us with loving kindness and tender mercies (v.4) when we deserved Gods anger and wrath he poured out mercy and grace (v.8) for as high as the heaven is above the earth so great is his mercy toward them that fear him’ (v.11)

In the Old Testament we see a Father who loves his children, who would do anything to save them from their sins, a Father who gave them a blue print for living while warning them that departing from it would cause them great pain and death.

In the New Testament we see the Son Jesus doing exactly the same because ‘He worked the works of God who sent him (John 9:4) in the same measure as the Father loved, he loved, he showed the same mercy and grace, he revealed the Fathers compassion and healed the sick and fed the hungry.

Matthew (9:35) records that, ‘Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people’ that’s what love does, it heals the sick, it never walks away shaking its head or hides its eyes from the hurts of others. Love reaches out and touches the deepest need of every human being; the need to be loved, the need to feel wanted; the need to be counted worthy of someone’s time.

Compassion goes deeper than the physical needs of the human soul; it digs deeper and goes to the root of the problem desiring to bring us total freedom.

Jesus was ‘moved with compassion on the multitude because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd’ He had fed the people who had come seeking his help but the thing that moved him most was their spiritual hunger, their need of salvation, their need of a saviour.

Religion offers laws instead of grace and mercy, manmade offerings of impure grace and purchased mercy, it offers freedom in chains, shackled liberty and false hope.

Christ on the other hand shows compassion,

In Matthew 15:32 we read that ‘Jesus called his disciples and said ‘I have compassion on the multitude, for they have been with us three days, and have nothing to eat, I will not send them away fasting in case the faint in the way’

That’s what compassion does, it does more than just talk, it feeds the hunger in every heart, it meets a person’s deepest desire and fulfils his greatest need, the need to be forgiven and to be loved.

Compassion like love cares nothing for itself, it cares only for the needs of others,

Compassion is the divine nature of God revealed in Christ and in every believer whose heart has been melted by Christ’s love,

Compassion is an unworthy sinner being touched by the love of God

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Its by Grace Alone!

We have a son named Daniel and a daughter named Rachael. We have five amazing Grandblessings. Sue Ann my adored has one brother and two sisters. I Have two brothers and one sister and another sister who was a twin unfortunately died when she was just 12 months old.

It’s amazing what you don’t know about people even when you have known them for quite a while isn’t it!  Some people feel they know our family well yet I can tell you what we are really like because I know them all so well.

Most people have at least heard about Jesus – they may have even formed a mental picture in their minds as to what he looked like, what he wore, where he went, where he was born even how he died and for the majority of people out there that’s about it.

To get to know Jesus better check out the gospels – here we have the facts from the people who knew HIM better because they actually lived their human life here on this amazing spinning ball we called earth with Him during the three short years of His ministry.

Most people that I have talked to assume they know Jesus, yet I wonder at their complete lack of knowledge regarding Him. They readily tell me that he was a great teacher or that he came completely from left field, or even that he didn’t exist. Some tell me he was the founder of Christianity some even tell me he was the son of God.

Knowing about Jesus intimately nearly always brings surprises – he is the SURPRISING JESUS.

I think the most surprising thing about Jesus is His complete trust in the Father – He knew he was born to die and die horribly for us – for example if Jesus had died peacefully in his sleep one night then I doubt the impact of the life changing and incredible sacrifice for our sins wouldn’t have had the impact it had on that terrible but beautiful day on Calvary all those years ago.

Do you know the real meaning of the cross? many people wear crosses with no idea what they are adorning the necks with and how the REAL cross saves people even today.

The REAL Jesus can change your life!

John R W Stott asks in his book THE CROSS OF CHRIST why the cross emerged as the symbol of Christ? Why did the early Christians not choose a crib where he was born, or a boat where he preached, or towels with which he washed dirty feet, or the stone rolled away from the tomb where he rose?

Stott goes on to say that while Jesus’ birth and life and preaching are all so vital – It’s his crucifixion and resurrection that are absolutely central to really knowing him.

I truly believe at his death on Calvary and that last cry IT IS FINISHED was a shout of victory not a cry of resignation – Jesus had finished the work he was destined to fulfil.

The Father’s will was completed – Jesus had paid the price for you and me to know Him fully. It is really really sad that many people don’t grab hold of the incredible truth and apply it to their own lives – if they did they would notice a HUGE change

The resurrection of Jesus of course is the very climax of the life of Jesus and being raised he is again with the Father, It is really THE most important event in the history of world,

One amazing day the heavens will open wide like a huge scroll and then everyone who has gotten to know Him not just on paper but intimately known Jesus and invited Him into their hearts to rule their lives will be caught up to meet Him – an amazing event indeed.

Jesus came to earth to save sinners like you and me. If you are one of those people who couldn’t care less about what happened 2019 years ago then I urge you to take a bigger and better look at who Jesus really is then sit down and really think about what you have learnt – it could have wonderful unimaginable or disastrous consequences of your life.

Once we are dead it is far too late to come back – there really are no second chances after that but let me tell you this one important fact about Jesus – he died for your sins. The sins you committed before you knew him, the sins you have committed since knowing him and even the sins you will commit in the future,

All you have to do is come before the Lord, confess your sins – ask Him to rule your life and to truly repent asking him to forgive you.

Once we have given our lives to Him – then His very spirit will come in and take up residence in your life, then when you do mess up His spirit will prompt you to come back ask forgiveness again – it really is that simple.

It is really simple but is THE biggest decision I made such a long time ago. Did I ever mess up since making that decision? Of course I did and still do BUT the most amazing part is that God in his mercy and because of what Jesus did on that cross is so willing to forgive me.

Of course it doesn’t mean that I can live my life doing exactly what I want and when I want to do it – my whole demeanor changed that day and I really want to live for Jesus. He always ALWAYS prompts me and helps me to confess and restart when I mess up.

Come to Him today.

Do you know JESUS REALLY?

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I Promise

I Promise

The Lord is trustworthy in all He promises and faithful in all He does” (Psalm 145:13). The mothers of the nation of Israel, Sarah and Rebekah, both have stories marked by the power of God. They both saw God move in wonderful and amazing ways, in impossible situations. Wouldn’t you think they, of all people, would trust God completely?

Yet both women’s stories show them taking God’s promises into their own hands. Sarah heard God’s promise to give Abraham a son through whom He would build a great nation. When the promise was delayed Sarah devised a plan for Hagar to serve as a surrogate so that “through her I can build a family” (Genesis 16:2). The world is still suffering the consequences. The Lord told Rebekah that her younger son would rule over his older twin brother, yet when the time came for Isaac to give the blessing, Rebekah schemed to make sure her favorite younger son was in place under his father’s hand. Because of her actions Jacob was forced to flee from the wrath of his brother and she never saw him again.

I understand that tension. God has made promises to me and circumstances made those promises seem impossible. The truth is, I am as guilty as my ancient sisters of trying to manipulate God’s promise into fruition. And just as it did for them, my actions always led to frustration, heartache, and emptiness.  Sarah and Rebekah doubted God would keep His promise. So have I. They determined it was up to them to see God’s plan fulfilled. So have I.  Ultimately God did fulfill His promises to them and to me. He was and is faithful after all.

The Bible assures us that “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ” (2 Corinthians 1:20). Unlike you and I, God does not make promises He cannot or will not keep.  Charles Spurgeon says, “God keeps His promises before He makes them.”  Think about that.  When God makes a promise, it is as good as done no matter how the situation looks. God can be trusted to fulfill what He has promised.

Now think about what God has promised to you.  Can you see the thing coming into reality right now?  Probably not.  Does that mean that God will fail to keep His promise?  Absolutely not.  It means you need to keep your eyes on Him and not on the circumstances.  It means God is going to do something amazing before your eyes.  In fact, the more impossible the situation looks, the bigger the miracle to bring it to fulfillment.  And you don’t want to miss that do you?

Beloved, you and I do not have to doubt that God will keep His promises.  We also don’t have to scheme and plot and manipulate to bring God’s promises to fruition.  It is completely His job and He doesn’t need any help from us.  Anything you and I may accomplish by our feeble actions will be empty and vain.  Everything God does to accomplish His promises will be extraordinary and beyond our wildest expectation.  I know this from His Word and from my own experience.  When I stand aside in faith and let God be God, He blows my mind!

Our only response to God’s promises should be “May it be to me as you have said” (Luke 1:38) as we wait — not in frustration and doubt — but in eager anticipation.  God is faithful.  He will not fail you.  He always keeps His Word.

Always.

Holy Father, You are the great Promise Maker and the faithful Promise Keeper.  Sometimes You make such amazing promises we wonder if they can really be fulfilled.  Give us faith to watch and wait, knowing that when You do what only You can do, it will be more than worth the wait.  Amen

 

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