Tag: Bible

The Bible is a collection of sacred texts or scriptures. Varying parts of the Bible are considered to be a product of divine inspiration and a record of the relationship between God and humans by Christians, Jews, Samaritans, and Rastafarians.

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Is a Thorough Knowledge of the Bible Really worth More than a College Education?

A thorough knowledge of the Bible is worth more than a college education. - Theodore Roosevelt

“It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.”
– George Washington

No other study will so ennoble every thought, feeling, and aspiration as the study of the Scriptures. No other book can satisfy the questionings of the mind and the craving of the heart. By obtaining a knowledge of God’s Word men may rise from the lowest depths of ignorance and degradation to become the sons of God, the associates of sinless angels.

“Nobody ever outgrows Scripture; the book widens and deepens with our years.”
– Charles Haddon Spurgeon

As an educating power, the Bible is without a rival. Nothing will so impart vigour to all the faculties as an effort to grasp the stupendous truths of revelation. The mind gradually adapts itself to the subjects upon which it is allowed to dwell. If occupied with commonplace matters only, it will become dwarfed and enfeebled.

“Reading through the entire Bible provides an opportunity to better understand Scripture’s “big picture.”

In its wide range of style and subjects, the Bible has something to interest every mind and appeal to every heart. In it the most simply stated truths are involved – principles that are as high as heaven and that encompass eternity.

There is no position in life, no phase of human experience, for which the Bible does not contain valuable instruction. Ruler and subject, master and servant, buyer and seller, borrower and lender, parent and child, teacher and student – all may here find lessons of priceless worth.

“The first and almost the only Book deserving of universal attention is the Bible.”
– John Quincy Adams

But above all else, the Word of God sets forth the plan of salvation: shows how sinful man may be reconciled to God, lays down the great principles of truth and duty which should govern our lives, and promises us divine aid in their observance. It reaches beyond this fleeting life, beyond the brief and troubled history of our race. It opens to our view the long vista of eternal ages – ages undarkened by sin, undimmed by sorrow.

“The American nation from its first settlement at Jamestown to this hour is based upon and permeated by the principles of the Bible.”
– Justice David Joseph Brewer, Supreme Court Justice

Don’t forget to spend time in prayer. Thank God for giving you eternal life and His Word. Ask Him to teach and guide you so that you will become even more faithful in following Him.

If you have questions about the Bible, we would love to talk to you about this book, and what it can mean as a part of your life.

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Let’s Talk About “Biblical” Discipline

Let’s Talk About “Biblical" Discipline

The Bible calls it discipline, sometimes chastening. Society calls it hitting, spanking, and by its legal term, corporal punishment. As of Time Magazine’s 2014 tally, 43 countries have now declared child corporal punishment illegal. Worldwide, the debate goes on about the rightness of spanking one’s child.

Biblical Discipline is not about inflicting pain.

While biblical discipline may necessitate spanking, it is a temporary measure to instil discipline and learning. Proverbs 13:24 says, “He who spares his rod of discipline hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines diligently and punishes him early.” Proverbs 22:15 says, “Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him.“

Spanking is needed when a child is too young to understand his wrongdoing  and when no length of explanation will cause him to understand or remember that his act is wrong. Remember the saying, “No pain; no gain“? People learn more from painful experiences. Experiences and learning accompanied by pain have a more lasting impact and effect.

From the verses just quoted, we learn that discipline must be gentle. The goal is not to inflict pain but for the child to understand and refrain from his wrong behaviour. It goes without saying that as the child gets older, talk must always precede physical punishment. Once your child can be reasoned with, physical punishment may be suspended. Godly discipline will take fruit in due time and you may happily find your child at age 6 (or younger) easy to talk with about correct behaviour.

Biblical discipline is not about releasing anger.

Discipline is not hitting. Discipline is not verbal abuse. A parent should take no satisfaction from physical punishment and nagging or shaming  of a child. That is not loving; that is revenge. Biblical discipline is about what’s best for your child, not what would appease you. The focus is not on how embarrassed or upset you are with the misbehaviour, the focus is on how your child will develop good values and habits.

Biblical discipline is not about having your way.

During the formative years, children are dependent on you for life and direction. They need to learn trustful obedience. As a child grows older, he begins to gain maturity. His mental, spiritual, social, and financial capacities get stronger. He must then gain the freedom to make decisions and to act independently. When it is about right or wrong, as parents you may intervene. But don’t discipline just because your advice was not followed. Don’t say, “I gave you this car and I’ll take it back if you don’t do what I say.” Remember, alternative actions are not necessarily wrong. Let children make poor choices and learn on their own.

Biblical Discipline is about clarity.

Biblical discipline does not hurt the innocent. It corrects the erring. Parents must establish a clear offence. Sometimes, we mistakenly discipline our child for an offence that somebody else committed.

Biblical discipline does not punish the unaware or ignorant. Children need to have a clear understanding of the offence. Take time to explain. Don’t lazily resort to “Just because I said so.“ statements.

Biblical discipline deals with current offences. It does not rehash old ones. Physical or verbal discipline should be appropriate and sufficient for the offence presently committed. Don’t perform a monologue or nag your child over past wrongdoings.

Correction and rebuke is a blessing. Discipline can be beautiful if you do it right.

Scriptures say, “Blessed is the one whom God reproves; therefore despise not the discipline of the Almighty. For he wounds, but he binds up; he shatters, but his hands heal.” When God disciplines us, He blesses us with growth. When the discipline causes pain and wounding, God Himself brings healing. Let us learn from His example and start disciplining our children rightly. May we never leave a child broken and shattered. May we actively bring healing and growth. And may we always assure them of our unconditional love.

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The Key to Breaking Habitual Sin

The Key to Breaking Habitual Sin

It is impossible for any human mind to exhaust one truth or promise of the Bible. One catches the glory from one point of view, another from another point; yet we can discern only gleamings. The full radiance is beyond our vision. As we contemplate the great things of God’s Word, we look into a fountain that broadens and deepens beneath our gaze. Its breadth and depth pass our knowledge. As we gaze, the vision widens; stretched out before us, we behold a boundless, shoreless sea. Such study has vivifying power.

The mind and heart acquire new strength and new life.

This experience is the highest evidence of the divine authorship of the Bible. We receive God’s Word as food for the soul through the same evidence by which we receive bread as food for the body. Bread supplies the need of our nature; we know by experience that it produces blood, bone, and brain.

Apply the same test to the Bible; when its principles have actually become the elements of character, what has been the result? what changes have been made in the life? —

“Old things are passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

In its power men and women have broken the chains of sinful habit. They have renounced selfishness. The profane have become reverent, the drunken sober, the profligate pure. Souls that have borne the likeness of Satan have been transformed into the image of God. The change is itself the miracle of miracles. A change wrought by the Word, it is one of the deepest mysteries of the Word.

We cannot understand it; we can only believe, that, as declared by the Scriptures, it is “Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

A knowledge of this mystery furnishes a key to every other. It opens to the soul the treasures of the universe, the possibilities of infinite development.

As we pursue freedom from the entanglements of sin, here are a few practical, plain-folk strategies that can help us get there.

1. Be willing to take radical steps.

Maybe you’re not as free as you thought. Recognise the behaviour as a problem that needs to be dealt with.

2. Recognize your triggers.

There are particular life events and circumstances that trigger your problem. The time, the way and the place are all to be cautiously considered and avoided if they lead to sinning.    State the behaviour as wrong. Consciously label it “wrong” in your mind

3. Believe you can change. We mean, really believe.

This is probably the most important point. If you don’t believe you are capable of change, you won’t change. Refuse to entertain – consciously decide not to give it any room in your thoughts any longer.

4. Take care of your body.

Stop watching Netflix until  2 am in the morning. It’s remarkable how much exercising, sleeping, and eating right affect your perception of the world. Fasting and abstinence are also important disciplines that train the will to say no to the body and yes to God.

Take care of your body. You will need it to break your habit.

5. Re-define normal”¦right now.  

“I must re-define normal.” The word “sin” is out of fashion these days. However, realise how this behaviour makes the heart of God sad and furious.  That’s powerful.  Bad habits, just like good ones, enjoy normalcy.  Your ultimate goal is to stop dipping out of the same toxic well.

We love you all. To God be the glory forever. Amen!

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Who’s Pimping Who…?

Who’s Pimping Who…?

A man and a woman coo over each other. A bystander turns to another and says, “What does she see in him?” Or, conversely, “What does he see in her?”

She’s tall, he’s short, shes from the city, his from the country, she  talks a lot, he’s quiet, he likes Australia, but she likes New York, he’s a Hill-song gospel music fan, she’s a Marilyn Manson fan. She also loves the bright lights and big options, shes unholy, she’s not righteous, she’s impure, she’s been around the block. People know her by what she does, not by her name. There the ‘odd couple’.

Now it’s been said that “Men marry women  with the  hope they will never change. but that “Women marry men  with the  hope they will  change.”

But not in this case. God has told this holy man to marry an unholy woman, a woman which will not be faithful, a woman by her wicked nature is sure to commit adultery, a woman that will cause endless frustration and monumental grief.   Hosea is a prophet, his wife is a prostitute. He’s a man of God, she’s a woman of the night, he is faithful, she is unfaithful, he peaches the power of the living God, she provides ungodly considerations for cash. The story of Hosea puzzles even the devout and zealous Christian. There an ‘odd couple’.

Why did God ask his own prophet to marry a prostitute?

An immense allegory can be interpreted from the depths of Hosea’s life.  The prophet Hosea was commanded to marry an unfaithful wife, and this set up a model of our broken relationship with God.

Hosea’s wife: an allegory of God’s undying  love

The LORD is the husband of Israel, and Israel’s passionate, chronic attraction for idols was like the lust of an adulterer. His people were as unfaithful as a prostitute.  For the land had committed great whoredom by forsaking the LORD.

Could you imagine Hosea’s, groomsman – you’re respected, a wise man, but your decision making is in question? Your wife is a disgrace. Why on earth are you married to a woman like that?

The reply, why on earth is such an awesome, good and powerful God married to a people like you?

Young people and self-esteem

Self-respect is perhaps the most essential quality for young women, especially in our generation.

We live in an era where girls as young as middle school are posting provocative things online. It’s a cry for attention being sought from boys or anyone else who will listen.  The story is told of a young girl who had a male friend who came to her with an article  in the classified section of a newspaper. The proposal was, if you have sexual relations with a stranger for 1 million dollars there are three things you are guaranteed:

  1. Nobody will ever know
  2. No disease
  3. No baby

1 million dollars, no questions asked, out the door, he asked her, would you do it? She thought about it, like some people reading this article.

The girl the said, are you kidding me, nobody will ever know, no disease, no baby, sure i’ll do it. Well then he said, would you do the same for $10?

She replied, “What, do you think I’m a prostitute?” To which he replies,  “We’ve already established that — I’m just haggling over the price.”

However, young ladies, you don’t have to lower your standards or provide ungodly considerations for cash. Tell that young man, I’m not for sale and because you’re not for sale, take off all those for sale and on sale signs.  Hug appropriately, speak appropriately.  Text appropriately, stop posting  barely-clothed photos, sexual innuendos, and explicit language. Be honest in your motivations for being  in a relationship.

Young ladies, if he can’t take care of himself now,  how is he going to take care of you later.

So the question today is who’s Pimping you?

Sorry boo-boo”¦ hate to burst your bubble, but you have been bamboozled, conned, led astray , run amok, dupe, tricked, fooled, swindle, hoodwink; you have been deceived”¦

You see, Satan has been pimping from the third chapter of the Bible onward and is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. The pimp of all pimps and you want to hang out with him!

But he has no power in the life of a believer unless we give it to him. That’s right! Regardless of how you’ve been thrown out to the trash,  we want you to know that Jesus loves you.  Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made you free, and do not be entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Gal. 5:1) Refuse to make deals with Satan, no matter how attractive the trinkets. Refuse to be a commodity that is for sale to the highest bidder.

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What Is The The Holy Spirit?

What Is The The Holy Spirit?

The Holy Spirit is the most highlighted and the most overlooked (and misunderstood) Person of the Trinity in our churches today. Often, how Christians perceive the Holy Spirit influences the way they do life and ministry. You may have had the experience of visiting one church for Sunday worship and it felt like the atmosphere was so serious that you had no clue if the people were sad, in mourning, tired or just plain bored. Likewise, you may have had another experience of visiting one church where it felt as if everything was out of control; the preacher was short of shouting in your ears and the people around you couldn’t stay still and silent for a minute. In the first, you see powerlessness; in the second, chaos.

I heard one pastor say that “The Holy Spirit is not a showman or an out of mess force that brings craze into meetings”. That is so true. Scriptures tell us that the Holy Spirit is in us, working alongside us, guiding us into all truth and into all that God has for us. He is God, bringing order and direction into our lives. He is also:

1. Our Most Competent Prayer Partner.

It’s a great blessing to have a buddy you can count on to pray for you and with you, to have someone you can text or call for a quick prayer item. But at times there are things happening in our lives that are difficult to share.

Do you know that the Holy Spirit is there for us instantly and at all times?   And even when we couldn’t find the exact words to explain how we feel, when we’ve lost all sense of praying and seeking God as we should, He knows exactly what’s going on and what we truly need? The Bible assures us that the Holy Spirit “comes to our aid and bears us up in our weakness. And when we do not know what to pray for, He makes right prayers for us.

“He pleads in our behalf with unspeakable yearnings and groanings too deep for utterance.”

We can count on the Holy Spirit to offer intelligent prayers to God the Father for us.

2. Our Life Aide.

Successful politicians or public servants will always have the best political aides behind them. A political aide works full time. He helps his boss navigate his political duties.   He makes the speeches and issues press releases. He conducts informational research vital to strategy and decision-making.   He prepares his boss for debates and other issues and defends him in times of criticism. He is essential to the politician’s career and overall job performance. The political aide is always at the politician’s side.

Do you know that the Holy Spirit is exactly like that and more? He is our Life Aide. He helps us navigate our life and duties.   Scriptures call Him “parakltos“ meaning, “called to one’s aid”. From John 14:26 we know that He teaches and reminds us of all things God has revealed to us from His Word. In Luke 12:11-12 we learn that in times of conflict, the Holy Spirit will teach us what we ought to say. He is ever at our side.

3. Our Champion Who Never Disappoints.

While we have special people we can lean on for forever, like us, they have limits. They aren’t always able to carry our burden with us or for us. But the Holy Spirit is our constant and consistent champion. Like the character of Achilles in the film, Troy, we can count on Him to do and win battles with us and for us.

Acts 1:8 teaches us that the Holy Spirit is our power, our enabler. He is our efficiency and might. He sustains us for everything God has called us to do and accomplish. From 2 Timothy 1:7 we understand that “God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but of power and of love and of sound mind”. He gave us His very self in the person of the Holy Spirit and He will never disappoint.

In the American medical drama TV series titled, “Grey’s Anatomy”, a character named Dr Cristina Yang introduces us to the term, “My Person”. One of her explanations about the meaning of this term (and I quote) is, “She’s my person. If I murdered someone, she’s the person I’d call to help me drag the corpse across the living room floor. She’s my person.”

“My person” is the one you straightway go to for anything and everything; the person that enables and sustains you for everything you do. “My Person” is always there for you, with you, for life.

The Holy Spirit is “Your Person”. He brings certainty, He brings steadiness. He is Power who is reliably at work. He is The One who’s forever got your back and much more!  

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Wrestling with Doubt and Disbelief

Wrestling with Doubt and Disbelief

Life is not all made up of pleasant pastures and cooling streams. Trial and disappointment can overtake us at anytime; and if privation comes; we are sometimes brought into trying places.

Conscience-stricken, we reason that we must have walked far away from God, that if we had walked with Him, we should not have suffered so. Doubt and despondency crowd into our hearts, and we say, The Lord has failed us. But, God is still there despite any tragedy you may be experiencing.

But why does God allow us to suffer?

That “why” question is not a new one. The “problem of pain,” as Christian scholar, C.S. Lewis, once called it, is atheism’s most potent weapon against the Christian faith.

God cannot love us; if He did He would remove the difficulties from our path

Our human intellects and notions of fairness reject the apparent contradiction between a loving God and a world of pain. Therefore, the only way to reconcile this issue is to view the world from God’s perspective. But, the only way to even begin to understand God’s perspective is to read His Word, the Bible. Because God does not always bring us to pleasant places. If He did, in our self-sufficiency we would forget that He is our helper. He longs to manifest Himself to us, and to reveal the abundant supplies at our disposal, and He permits trial and disappointment to come to us that we may realize our helplessness, and learn to call upon Him for aid.

What should be our attitude toward suffering?

First, it should be one of worship. We ought to say,

“O God, I believe You are the great and mighty God. I don’t understand all the things that are happening in my life, but, O God, I trust in You.”

Remember God can cause cooling streams to flow from the flinty rock.

We shall never know until we are face to face with God, when we shall see as we are seen and know as we are known, how many burdens He has borne for us, and how many burdens He would have been glad to bear if with childlike faith we had brought them to Him.

God’s love is revealed in all His dealings with His people; and with clear, unclouded eyes, in adversity, in sickness, in disappointment, and in the trial we are to behold the light of His glory in the face of Christ and trust to His guiding hand. But too often we grieve His heart by our unbelief.

‘You can never learn that Christ is all you need, until Christ is all you have’

God loves His children, and He longs to see them overcoming the discouragement with which Satan would overpower them. Do not give way to unbelief. Do not magnify your difficulties. May we be people who fight spiritual amnesia with God-given means of remembrance.

I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus – Philippians 3:14

Suffering is a state of this fallen world. However, the complete message of the Bible is that God has His plan for redemption all worked out. Those who put their faith in Jesus Christ have a hope of eternity with God in a place where there is no more suffering or evil.

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Were they “bad girls of the Bible” or just misunderstood?

Part 1 of an interview with Sandra Glahn,  Editor of  Vindicating the Vixens

Bathsheba, Tamar, Rahab, Hagar, and the Samaritan woman at the well—were they really the “bad girls” of the Bible or simply women whose situations were greatly misunderstood? In Vindicating the Vixens: Revisiting Sexualized, Vilified, and Marginalized Women of the Bible (Kregel Academic), sixteen writers, alongside general editor Sandra Glahn, take a closer look at the stories of these and other prominent women to help readers gain a better

understanding of these women’s God-given roles in the biblical narrative. The church has a long history of viewing notable women of the Bible through a skewed interpretive lens. For example, Eve is best known for causing the fall, Sarah is blamed for tensions in the Middle East, Ruth acted scandalously on the threshing floor, and Mary Magdalene is infamous for a life of prostitution. But do these common representations accurately reflect what Scripture says about these women of the Bible?

Part 1 of an interview with Sandra Glahn,  Editor of  Vindicating the Vixens

Bathsheba, Tamar, Rahab, Hagar, and the Samaritan woman at the well—were they really the “bad girls” of the Bible or simply women whose situations were greatly misunderstood? In Vindicating the Vixens: Revisiting Sexualized, Vilified, and Marginalized Women of the Bible  (Kregel Academic), sixteen writers, alongside general editor Sandra Glahn, take a closer look at the stories of these and other prominent women to help readers gain a better understanding of these women’s God-given roles in the biblical narrative.

The church has a long history of viewing notable women of the Bible through a skewed interpretive lens. For example, Eve is best known for causing the fall and Mary Magdalene is infamous for a life of prostitution. But do these common representations accurately reflect what Scripture says about these women of the Bible?

Q: Vindicating the Vixens is a collaboration written by an international team of scholars. How did the concept and execution of the book come together?

Vindicating the Vixens has been on my heart and mind for more than a decade. When I served as editor-in-chief of Dallas Theological Seminary’s magazine for seventeen years, I became acquainted with the writing and research of men and women from a cross-section of multiple societies who brought perspectives to some biblical stories that seemed truer to the original than what is typically taught in the West. Then, as I studied history and ancient cultural backgrounds at the doctoral level, I ended up revisiting some of our western-influenced interpretations such as marriage practices in the ancient Near East. The woman Jesus met at the well in Samaria would not have dumped five husbands. More likely, she had been widowed many times.

As I revisited some Bible stories such as this one and as I read the works of others who had done similar work, I wanted to bring all this research together in one place and include a variety of ethnicities and backgrounds.

Q: Some women in the Bible most certainly fall into the category of “bad girls.” How do those women differ from the ones discussed in the book?

Right! Our goal is not to vindicate women who did evil—such as Jezebel who lied and had someone killed over property or Potiphar’s wife who tried to seduce Joseph and left him stuck in jail. We are looking at women wrongly vilified. Take Bathsheba, for example. There is nothing in the text that even suggests she consented to physical contact with David and certainly not that they “had an affair,” as some claim. The text says she was washing herself—and that word “washing” could mean she was washing her hands. What we know about power differentials also suggests that when we consider a king’s authority over the wife of one of his soldiers, we need to stop making Bathsheba responsible. That is not how the author of the story tells it. The text says David saw her washing and sent for her—sent men, plural, for her.

What happens when we blame her instead of placing the responsibility where the author does? We can end up with the idea (prominent in many churches) that women are the temptresses; we can teach that it’s a woman’s job to keep a man from falling, that men are helpless and controlled by their passions so women must cover up, be hidden, and take responsibility for men’s actions. What an insult to men! We women are called to love our brothers, but we are not called to take responsibility for their actions.

Q: When discussing the genealogy of Jesus as outlined in Matthew 1, it’s not uncommon to point out the few women included and refer to their sordid pasts. Why do we have the tendency to focus on the negatives of their history, especially when the men in the bloodline had as many flaws as the women?

Jesus’s genealogy in Matthew is full of both male and female sinners, but the women’s sinfulness is not the point Matthew is making. Not all of the women in Jesus’s line had sordid pasts, and in making their sex lives our focus, we miss what the author is telling his Jewish readers. In the highly stylized genealogy in Matthew’s Gospel, every person is intentional, with Jesus’s ancestors arranged into three groups of fourteen generations. Matthew makes a break from the usual exclusion of women from genealogies, and he’s clearly up to something. In his Gospel, foreign  kings worship Jesus at his birth. Later a centurion—a Roman soldier—requests healing for his servant, and the text says this centurion “amazes” Jesus with his faith. Jesus grants the request and tells the disciples, “I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.” Notice “not anyone in Israel.” Matthew salts his narrative with the faith of Gentiles. In the genealogies, Matthew is setting up his readers, the Jewish faithful, to accept cultural and racial outsiders into the community of faith through belief, not blood.

Judah married the Gentile Tamar. Bathsheba is the wife of a Hittite. Rahab is a Caananite. Ruth is a Moabite. These are outsiders who are women of faith in the Messianic line. Judah says of Tamar, “You’re the righteous one, not I.” Rahab says she believes in Yahweh Adonai as Elohim. Ruth says Naomi’s God will be her  God. Bathsheba suffers a great injustice but is grafted into the royal line. The idea of Gentiles being included would have blown the minds of Matthew’s readers, but that was the promise God had made to Abraham—that through him all nations would be blessed.

Q: Throughout the past couple of months, the news has reported story after story of women coming forward, sharing their experiences of sexual harassment and abuse from men in a position of power. What similarities might their stories have with someone such as Bathsheba?

Sarah Bowler, the person who wrote the chapter on Bathsheba, said of her that understanding her tale has ramifications for how Christians respond to a world saturated with sexual misconduct. She wrote, “As I researched, I found current examples in which Christian writers and editors failed to be empathetic toward victims as they reported stories. Even sadder, some spiritual leaders rape or sexually abuse young women, and many of the victims still receive partial blame in situations where a spiritual leader is fully at fault.

“It really hit home for me after a pastor’s kid I had discipled several years ago started reading [my writing] about Bathsheba. She got back in touch to say: ‘Thank you. I was raped two years ago Friday on a date in my home. I had three ministry leaders whom I held on a pedestal put full blame on me. . . . I can never thank you enough for not blaming the victim.’ How we interpret biblical narratives affects how we interpret events around us. When we say phrases such as ‘Bathsheba bathed naked on a roof,’ we overlook the fact that Bathsheba was an innocent victim. We may also forget the modern-day Bathshebas. I long for the day when believers eradicate the line of thinking in which the victim shares partial blame for a perpetrator’s sin. One step toward that end is sharing the true  Bathsheba story.”

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How Can You Trust Christianity Is True When There Are So Many Unanswered Questions?

How Can You Trust Christianity Is True When There Are So Many Unanswered Questions?

“Have patience with everything unresolved in your heart and to try to love the questions themselves as if they were locked rooms or books written in a very foreign language. Don’t search for the answers, which could not be given to you now, because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps then, someday far in the future, you will gradually, without even noticing it, live your way into the answer.” –   Rainer Maria Rilke, Letters to a Young Poet (1929)

I found this quote so helpful many years ago. I had left the high control and high demand religion in which I had grown up and was going with a friend to a Catholic Church. This brought many conflicting emotions, for though it was some years since I had left, for the best part of thirty-six years, I had been indoctrinated with the belief that all religions, apart from one, were part of “Babylon the Great”, “false religion” or not “The Truth” as they called it, and therefore, condemned to be destroyed at the final war against all wickedness, Armageddon.

The focus was on social justice issues, the church had a community agency attached which offered practical assistance to the homeless, refugees, those with addictions and ex-prisoners. A men’s shelter was located on the other side of the church and sometimes during the service on Sundays, an older inebriated male would cause a noisy distraction at one of the side doors, however, the person would be treated with gentleness and compassion.

Passages from the Bible were read before the homily, not the jumping backward and forwards all over the Bible to prove a particular point and taken out of context to which I’d been accustomed.

The rituals, the garb the priests wore, the hymns, the physical church itself were all alien and mysterious. However, somehow it felt nurturing to my hungering soul.

Fast forward several years and I am the other side of the world for work and to have the opportunity to travel. I am with several other social workers recruited from Australia to work in the UK and though I find their company helpful initially as we settle in, soon I am longing for belonging. And not just to a social group, but a faith community where there are people who live by Bible principles.

So I end up at the local Borough Church which is Anglican. I am greeted at the door by an elderly woman who is a Warden. The church is full of people of many different ages, some with learning or physical difficulties are assisted by carers and there has been a presentation by the children before the sermon. The new minister is dressed in a suit and open-neck shirt and preaches about a long passage in Matthew, bringing out several levels of insight and depth, making it relatable and relevant to life today; I feel as if I have “come home”.

When the service is finished, the minister comes directly to my seat to introduce himself and invite me to the new group he will be starting shortly called “Christianity Explored” which he says is going through the book of Mark. He emphasizes there will be no pressure and questions are welcome.

I go to the first of six meetings at the vicar’s family home. There are others also attending the group, however, my mind is on high alert, watchful for any number of dangerous outcomes and I am not “present” enough to absorb their existence.

The weeks pass, and though still wary, I am enjoying the simplicity of reading a portion of Mark followed by discussion and any questions. I even asked one or two myself, long-held questions on passages that are covered, but for which previous explanations had been unsatisfactory. As well, the minister holds a tension with the view and expectation that some answers will not become evident until we have the full picture at the end.

When this happens, and I have an understanding that is so true for me of my own imperfection and that God’s love and grace (translated “undeserved kindness” in the Bible used by my previous religion) have redeemed me and I can never do or not do anything that will lose them, I am able to invite Jesus into my life, as an adult. Whilst at 12 years of age, I had dedicated my life to the god of my childhood religion and been baptised in symbol of that, it held me to one interpretation – one that meant I would be shunned if I left, one that meant I could not think for myself, could not get a higher education, had to remain in an abusive marriage and had to only wear skirts or dresses at any church-related gatherings including going door to door to try to bring others into “The Truth”.

The Gospel came alive to me. The four years I remained in that church was some of the best in my life, how valuable is hindsight in appreciating those times. Yet they prepared me to some extent for the many challenges I would face on my return to Australia. That is another story, and I include the painting below by Janet Goodchild-Cuffley called “Ellen Meets Her Maker” depicting Ellen Kelly, mother of the notorious Australian bushranger Ned Kelly after a long life full of loss and difficulty. It aptly represents my position towards the many questions I still have for God. In the meantime, I will continue to draw on the comfort of Rilke’s famous quote at the beginning of the article.

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Is our Creator God still Creating Today?

Is Our Creator God Still Creating Today?

I was working on some paper works one day. As I rested my eyes for a bit, I got a view of my son outside through the window blinds. He was out there again, at his usual spot, working yet again on another craft project. My son just loves creating stuff with his hands. He is into building dioramas and other miniature stuff. He re-creates scenes from his favourite superhero or sci-fi films. He loves playing with his toy figures. He enjoys creating backgrounds and stage sets for toy photography and mere play. The thing about him is that he can’t stand taking a break after completing a project. You will see him appreciating and celebrating his finished product. But, within a day or two, everyone’s sure to observe this creative boy pouring his mind into deciding and planning what to build next.

I leaned back and felt a smile of amusement form on my face. Then, thoughts wandered towards God, our creator God. With an extremely creative mind, could He be that way as well? Could he be like my son who can’t stop imagining stuff to do and make? Could he be exactly like my son who gets excited about the prospects and the process of coming out with another finished product? Like my son, could he be so in love and passionate about creating? My heart believes Him to be so. My heart believes God is highly much more than how my son is as a creator.

Well, yes; Genesis 1 to 2:2 does give us an account of the creation of this world we live in. And, yes; the passage further tells us that God finished the work He had been doing and then rested. This may clue us that God has stopped creating in our part of the world. However, this doesn’t tell us that God is done with creating.

Just by looking at our side of the universe, we see how great and awesome God’s handiworks are. Nature gives us a glimpse of His power and capabilities. Job shared his thoughts and wonderings on that in Job 37.   We just need to behold all the natural landscapes and breathtaking wildlife and feel instinctively that God must still be creating today. His creative genius must not be bottled up. It is impossible for One of magnificent talent to just sit by and do nothing.

We can consider God’s astonishing work on our bodies. Much has been understood about how our body works and all that is inside of us. Yet all this time more remains to be discovered and understood.   In January 2017, scientists have just recognized and have given a name to one important organ in the body, the mesentery. It connects the intestine to our body and keeps it in place. The mesentery transports blood and lymphatic fluid between the intestine and the rest of our body. It is crucial to a right functioning of our “intestinal, vascular, endocrine, cardiovascular and immunological systems.”

We can also think about the humungous blue whale for a minute. The National Geographic confirms it to be the largest animal on earth. It grows up to 105 feet and weighs up to 200 tons.   A cool thing about these graceful swimmers is that they can communicate with each other up to 1,000 miles away. They have excellent hearing. With their voice, they sonar-navigate the deep and dark oceans. Search for testimonies of those who go whale watching. You’re sure to read accounts of people crying, breathless, and frozen in wonder at the sight of such a great creature.   Isn’t it highly unlikely that the creator of this blue whale remains unproductive, “wasting” his talent when He is at an unending prime of His life? Isaiah 40:28 tells us of an everlasting Creator God who never grows tired or weary. He is forever strong. He is forever able.

Believing that God is still creating today leaves me excited about an eternity to come. In ignorance, some people make comments on how boring it would be to spend eternity in heaven. This won’t be so for a child of God. The Bible speaks of a new heaven and a new earth that will be there for exploring. And with such a God as we have, there must be so much more out there for us to discover, explore, and enjoy. To fully grasp the wonderful nature of God; to behold all the wondrous works that an unlimited God can do; well, eternity may just not be enough!

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2 Things to Remember About God’s Love

2 Things to Remember About God’s Love

The Bible talks a great deal about God’s love. And when Scriptures talk about God’s love, it’s mostly in superlatives. John 3:16 says God so loved that He sent His one and only Son to ensure man’s full redemption from the doom of hell. What no amount of human sacrifices can achieve, Christ secured for us once for all on the cross. By placing our full trust in Christ’s finished work, we all enter into this love relationship. Forever redeemed, forever experiencing the love of God. This is the best thing that can ever happen to a lost sinner.

God’s love is unlimiting.

Human love can be suffocating at times. It can be demanding or restricting. At times, we love someone so much, we begin to fear and worry. Overprotection sets in, we don’t want them getting hurt. Jealousy and insecurity may surface; we don’t want to lose them.

God’s love is unlimiting. It is in fact liberating. Those who don’t understand think Christianity is boring and rigid. They have the idea that in this “religion”, people don’t get to be and do a lot of things.   But the Bible shows us differently. In true Christianity is freedom. There is liberty. We become free and enabled to do right. We don’t need to be sinful all the time, we don’t have to do succumb to wrong pleasures each time temptation comes. Once, we had great tendencies for evil and wrongness. Now, as children of God we are empowered by the Holy Spirit for right and fruitful living.

God’s love is unlimiting. It unleashes the strength and grace of God in our lives. We find endurance to press on towards fulfilling our goals. We find wisdom in making right directions and pursuits. We learn to put our efforts into what is worthwhile and we get to experience satisfying joy, not just in achieving but in the journey itself.

God says His plans for us are for our welfare and not for evil, to give us a hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11) In love, He works all things for our good. (Romans 8:28) Sometimes, the present doesn’t seem to be turning out well but while the end remains hidden from sight, we can trust God’s love in the process.

God’s love is relentless.

While some debate the idea that we can call God’s love as reckless, there’s no doubt that His love is relentless. We understand the reckless love doesn’t consider the risks. It is not cautious. It is not deterred by danger or loss. Reckless love jumps right in no matter what. Indeed, God’s love may be somewhat like that. But on a whole, reckless love is a far term to describe God’s love. Reckless bears a primary usage and meaning of “heedless of danger or the consequences of one’s actions; rash or impetuous.”

God’s love is nothing like that. In eternity past, He has counted the cost. He has foreseen the danger and the consequence. He has deliberately and committedly set His love toward us. In Luke 22:39-46, we gain insight into how painful and agonizing it was for the triune God to face separation for the first time. The sin of the world was to be laid upon Christ and the Father had to look away as the full weight of our sin was placed upon Him. That was far from a reckless kind of love.

Relentless love is unceasingly intense. It is persistent and continuing. It is unstoppable.   It does not allow itself to be hindered. It is defiant in a sense that it will cross boundaries to provide what is beneficial for its object of love. It is unsparing in a sense that it will give whatever is necessary for the benefit of its object of love. Relentless love is thoughtful love. It is deliberate. It counts the cost and takes intelligent account of what is necessary to achieve the highest good for the object of its love.

God’s love is relentless.   It is non-stop. “One Thing” by Jesus Culture articulates it quite well. The message says, “Your love never fails. It never gives up. It never runs out on me.” The rest of the song lyrics say:

Higher than the mountains that I face

Stronger than the power of the grave

Constant through the trial and the change

One thing remains. This one thing remains

Your love never fails, and never gives up

It never runs out on me

Because on and on and on and on it goes

Before it overwhelms and satisfies my soul

And I never, ever, have to be afraid

One thing remains. This one thing remains.

Be encouraged with the truth of this song today.

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Best advice to find your spiritual gift

It breaks my heart that the spiritual gifts don’t seem to be taught or emphasized much throughout Christendom these days. Their utilization is critical for the Church to function properly in society.

Paul taught, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given us… let [us] use [them] in proportion to [our] faith,” Romans 12:6.The spiritual gifts are found in three separate passages in the New Testament (Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12—14; and Ephesians 4). The lists are not exactly identical. Some overlapping occurs. According to 1 Corinthians 12:6, God the Father pours in the power, Jesus the Son assigns the ministry, and God the Holy Spirit gives out the gifts as He deems necessary for the proper functioning of the church body.

The gifts may be organized in several ways. We will use the most common grouping.

Establishing Gifts (Ephesians 4:11 and 1 Corinthians 12:29): Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, and Pastor-Teachers. These gifts are used primarily for planting and growing churches.

Supporting Gifts (Romans 12:6-8): Prophecy, Service, Teaching, Encouragement, Giving, Administration/Leadership, and Mercy. These gifts are used primarily to organize and administrate the church so that it may best carry out its responsibilities.

Ministry Gifts (1 Corinthians 12:8-10, 27-31): Wisdom, Knowledge, Faith, Healing, Miracles, Prophecy, Helps, Administration, Leadership, Distinguishing Spirits, Speaking in Tongues, and Interpreting Tongues. These are the tools that the Holy Spirit utilizes for the ongoing ministry of the church.

It goes without saying that congregations are spiritually impotent when the members do not freely and responsibly allow the Holy Spirit to manifest God’s ministry and power through the gifts He has given. Here are a few guidelines on how to identify and unwrap your spiritual gift(s).

#1 — “Can I lose a spiritual gift (such as by my sinning) once I have received it at the time of my salvation?”

There is simply no evidence that a spiritual gift is ever taken from a believer. It was a “grace gift”, and unless God takes His gifts back, then we will always have our gifts.  Now, the gift might not be used as a person is living sinfully and selfishly, but it remains our gifts. We are stewards of all that God has given us including our spiritual gifts, and, as with our money and opportunities, we will give an account as stewards at the Judgment Seat of Christ (see 1 Cor. 4:1-5).

#2 — “Can I asked God for other spiritual gifts, if I believe that I don’t have a particular gift?”

It is unlikely that we should ask for additional gifts.  Keep in mind that the all-knowing, sovereign Holy Spirit decided who would get what gifts.  The Spirit knew your life and where you would go and what believers you would be in contact with, and gave you those gifts to cover all those settings.  So unless He missed something (which is not going to happen), we should trust His choices.  Quite often    1 Corinthians 12:31 is appealed to as evidence that we are given permission to ask for additional gifts.  But if you read the context carefully (12:11-31), it will be seen that Paul is talking to the church and not to individuals when he says to seek the “better gifts”.  He is exhorting them, as they gather together as a church, to look for the gifts that are designed specifically to edify believers.  These gifts are the ones which are “better” for the spiritual maturing of believers and should dominate the public services.  Some of the sign gifts, such as tongues and miracles, do not directly edify believers and so should not play a significant role at the church gatherings. But people with such gifts as teaching or exhortation should be given a priority when the church comes together; they have the “better” gifts for the edifying of believers.

#3 — “Can unbelievers have spiritual gifts?”

The short answer is “no”.  While they might initially appear to have a certain gift, such as teaching, they do have that “version” of teaching that can edify the Body of Christ.  They could well have a natural ability which came to them at their physical birth, but they have not had a spiritual birth and so have not been anointed as a believer-priest by the Holy Spirit. What they have might resemble the spiritual gift, but usually a closer inspection allows us to see that what they have is not one of God’s spiritual abilities.

#4 — “What is the relationship, if any, between my spiritual gift and a natural ability that I might have?”

To the believer in Jesus, God has given both natural abilities as well as spiritual gifts.  We have been “packaged” by God to be able to serve Him and live for Him in a wonderful way.  We believe that He intends for these natural abilities and spiritual gifts to be wedded together.  For example, a person might have natural musical ability, and they might also have the spiritual gift of encouragement.  We can easily see how God might use this person to encourage and challenge fellow believers through their musical abilities.

#5 — “Must I wait for the Spirit’s “moving” on me to use my spiritual gift.”

No, the gift was given to you by the Spirit and it “belongs” to you.  It is now part of your stewardship responsibility and thus you are in charge of it.  As Paul put it, “the spirit of the prophets is subject to the prophets.”  In other words, you determine when and how you will use your gift.  And you are responsible for using it and will eventually give an account to the Giver for our use of it.  Of course, the Spirit can give us direction in using it, just like He can in using our/the Lord’s money in our giving to others.

#6 — “Can a believer be living in unconfessed sin and still use his/her spiritual gift in a way that shows results?”

Unfortunately, believers can use their gifts even when out of fellowship with the Lord.  It should not be this way, but sometimes it is.  For example, a pastor with the gift of pastor/teacher might effectively open the Word of God on Sunday mornings to his congregation with the result that many are built up by the Word. They are clearly benefitted with the pastor’s ability to make the Scriptures understandable.  And yet, he might at that very time in his life be involved in immorality, which could go on for some time. But usually in this life, as well as at the Judgment Seat of Christ, the matter will be dealt with. What we need to keep in mind is that the “fruit of Spirit” and the “gifts of the Spirit” are two different things.  The “fruit” shows where we are in our spiritual maturity and relationship with the Lord, while our gifts are simply those abilities (capacities) that have been given to us. They both should, of course, be part of our lives as believer-priests of Jesus Christ.

#7 — Are all spiritual gifts permanent and for today or are some of them temporary, really just for the first days of the church?

There does seem to be evidence that some spiritual gifts were designed to be temporary, being needed in the early days of the early church.  But to answer the question about any particular gift, there are two things that must be considered.  First, what is the gift; that is, how does the Bible define it. It is not what we say it is, it is what the Bible says it is. For example, the gift of “apostle” is seen as a foundational gift for the church (Eph. 2:20).  Apostle were ones “sent with authority” by Christ; that is, they had the ability to work miracles to validate their new message (see 2 Cor. 12:12).  So, unless someone can “on demand” work miracles then that one is not an apostle.  And while some claim to work miracles, the evidence does not support their claims. This points to the temporary, foundational nature of the gift of apostle.  But if “apostle” is defined loosely as “one who is sent”, such as a missionary, then you would argue for their presence in the church today. But this looser definition fails to include the all-important aspect of authority.  Second, what is the reason why God gave the gift. Its purpose must be understood.  Lack of clarity in seeing the purpose will always breed lack of clarity in answering the question, “was the gift temporary or permanent”?  For example, healings were done to authenticate God’s message and messenger (see Jesus’ point in John 5:36 about His miracles).  They were not done primarily to compassionately heal people (remember that everyone healed in the NT is now dead, so the healing didn’t last).  Once God’s message (the Scriptures were authenticated) the gift of healing/miracles was not needed.  (God can, of course, heal anytime He wishes, but that is different from a human being having the gift of healing/miracles).

This is a short answer, but the point is that the evidence is that some gifts are no longer needed today because the purpose for them is not in existence today.  (See the question on the gift of tongues in a separate discussion).

#8 — How do I find out what gift(s) I might have?

We must assume that God is not playing “hide and seek” with us.  He wants us to know, so it would be important to ask Him. So pray.  Second, when we have a gift it will soon be evidenced with “results” and a personal “passion” that we have when operating in the area of our gift.  So, seek ministry/service opportunities in your church, noting where you seem to be most effective.  Third, speak to believers that know you and that are spiritually mature and ask them what they see in you related to your spiritual gifts.  Often, they will agree on what is evidenced in your life of service.  But even if it does not become immediately clear what your gift(s) are, serve Christ.  Soon you will come to see what your gifts are.

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What Does #MeToo: Stories of Sexual Abuse, Harassment Have to Do with You?

How to cope with a mis-sold job

There is a concept that some in the field of neuroscience call “increased integration.” Apparently, when someone tells his or her story and is truly heard and understood they feel a greater sense of emotional and relational connection, decreased anxiety, and a greater awareness of and compassion for others’ suffering.

In recent months the #MeToo  has spread virally as a two-word hashtag used on social media in October 2017  by women around the world who shared their experiences of sexual harassment and assault on social media.

The allegations of sexual assault and rape against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein also saw tens of thousands of people taking to social media to share their stories using the hashtag, ‘#MeToo’. Additionally, an assertion that being “touched upon the metro” should be a “non-event” also provoked fury.

“There is a line, obviously, between [sexual] desire and realization, and some cross it and some don’t.”

Thanks to women coming forward to tell their stories about being raped, fondled or harassed by men, we can now see the prevalence of this practice.

The tweets show that people of all ages, genders, backgrounds and sexual orientations are vulnerable to sexual violence.  The perpetrators also ranged in age, background, and ethnicity.

So what could possibly be fueling this upsurge in harassment?

Perhaps the breakdown of morality, lack of a spiritual life and old-fashioned selfishness. But is that all there is? There have been men who exhibit high morals who have harassed women. There have also been Pastors who have done the same.

So what is the common denominator?

Pornography!

The Internet is really really great”¦ FOR PORN!
I’ve got a fast connection so I don’t have to wait”¦ FOR PORN!
There’s always some new site”¦ FOR PORN!
I browse all day and night”¦ FOR PORN!
It’s like I’m surfing at the speed of light”¦ FOR PORN!
The Internet is for porn!
The Internet is for porn!
Why you think the net was born?
Porn! Porn! PORN!

In 2003, these lyrics were heard on the Broadway stage courtesy of Jeff Marx, Robert Lopez and the puppets of musical show  Avenue Q. It would quickly become a famous Internet meme and catchphrase. But why?

In the last 30 years, pornography has grown to be a multi-billion dollar a year industry. Today’s children live in a digital world that has embraced sexuality. Images of sex abound on the internet, and are freely accessible to children with the simple click of a computer button, or by downloading an image on a cell phone.

Pornography is not just something a few men view in the late hours in the privacy of their homes.

According to recent statistics at least 70 percent of porn is downloaded during work hours (9 am to 5 pm).

The wages of sin are enormous when pornography is involved.

“The societal costs of pornography are staggering. The financial cost to business productivity in the U.S. alone is estimated at $16.9 Billion annually ; but the human toll, particularly among our youth and in our families, is far greater.”

I heard from a young woman the other day who didn’t get why I was anti-porn. “It’s a great way for my fianc, to meet his needs when I’m not in the mood. I don’t want him to keep bugging me if I’m not into it that night. And he shouldn’t just have to ‘deal’ with frustration, either.”  

So What’s Not to Love About Porn?

Well, Patrick F. Fagan, Ph.D, psychologist and former Deputy Assistant Health and Human Services Secretary research states that pornography hurts adults, children, couples, families, and society. It also states that among adolescents, pornography hinders the development of a healthy sexuality, and among adults, it distorts sexual attitudes and social realities. In families, pornography use leads to marital dissatisfaction, infidelity, separation, and divorce.

The average age when a man is first exposed to pornography is at 11 years of age and the largest consumers of porn are 12 to 17-year old’s. Victor Cline, a psychologist, documented how men become addicted to pornographic materials, then begin to desire more explicit or deviant material, and finally act out what they have seen.

He maintained “that memories of experiences that occurred at times of emotional arousal (which could include sexual arousal) are imprinted on the brain by epinephrine, an adrenal gland hormone, and are difficult to erase. This may partly explain pornography’s addicting effect.”

The next step is escalation. Previous sexual highs become more difficult to attain; therefore users of pornography begin to look for more exotic forms of sexual behavior to bring them stimulation and so on.

A Biblical Perspective?

God created men and women in His image (Gen. 1:27) as sexual beings. But because of sin in the world (Rom. 3:23), sex has been misused and abused (Rom. 1:24-25). The act of sex was originally meant to bring a husband and wife into a close, intimate relationship that only they could share. Pornography attacks the dignity of men and women created in the image of God. Pornography also distorts God’s gift of sex which should be shared only within the bounds of marriage (1 Cor. 7:2-3). After years of watching it, consciences become  smeared and he or she can no longer see what is right and wrong. – Timothy 4:2

Are You Addicted?

Some of you reading this may have already developed an addiction to porn. If you see any of the patterns I’ve described above in your life, you need to put the brakes on right now. Is porn beginning to control your life? You can’t put it down — you keep going back for more? Perhaps you find yourself needing to see increasingly graphic pornography. You’re starting to take risks or act out physically for sexual thrills.

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind”¦” Romans 12:2

The Bible also warns against the misuse of sex. Premarital and extramarital sex is condemned (1 Cor. 6:13-18; 1 Thess. 4:3). Even thoughts of sexual immorality (often fed by pornographic material) are condemned (Matt. 5:27-28). Christians, therefore, must do two things. First, they must work to keep themselves pure by fleeing immorality (1 Cor. 6:18) and thinking on those things which are pure (Phil. 4:8).

General pornography stats

  • Every second 28,258 users are watching pornography on the internet
  • Every second $3,075.64 is being spent on pornography on the internet
  • Every second 372 people are typing the word “adult” into search engines
  • 40 million American people regularly visit porn sites
  • 35% of all internet downloads are related to pornography
  • 25% of all search engine queries are related to pornography, or about 68 million search queries a day
  • One-third of porn viewers are women
  • Search engines get 116,000 queries every day related to child pornography
  • 34% of internet users have experienced unwanted exposure to pornographic content through ads, pop up ads, misdirected links or emails
  • 2.5 billion emails sent or received every day contain porn
  • Every 39 minutes a new pornography video is being created in the United States
  • About 200,000 Americans are “porn addicts”

Valerie Hughes co-wrote this post and is the founder of Sufficient Grace Ministries offering hope and healing to women who have been involved with a porn addiction. Her current book “When Porn Takes the Place of Love” tells of her journey of healing and includes a 10-part Bible Study.  

Disclaimer:  Fighting the stigma faced by sexual violence survivors is a crucial step in forcing the change referenced by Tamblyn. The “#MeToo” hashtag shows that more and more people are ready to share their stories and change the dialogue surrounding sexual violence.  The article attempts to shed light on one of the overlooked influences that help develop a man’s mindset on how they treat women.

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What ‘Love Your Enemies’ Means in an Era of ISIS

What ‘Love Your Enemies’ Means in an Era of ISIS

We live in a time of political polarization and while parts of the world have experienced random violence against civilians for years, it seems agenda-driven mass violence—terrorism—has touched the U.S. and UK in this generation more than ever in our history. Some even say we’ve entered

“The age of terrorism.”

Well, whether this is an age of terrorism or not, we certainly are a generation terrorized.

But love your enemies? Come on.  How on earth can you love someone that keeps sinning against you? Easier said than done right. With this current atmosphere of terror, Jesus’ command to love our enemies is baffling and  something we all struggle with at times.  

That is why you must rely on the Holy Spirit because  that coworker, family member, bad friend, or boss probably has never seen a true Christian and you’re probably the only one who can share the gospel message with them. We must remain calm and forgive.

Here’s a look at 28 quotes (largely attributed to the holy-bible) that will inspire the way you live your faith.

  1. “Want to keep Christ in Christmas? Feed the hungry, clothe the naked, forgive the guilty, welcome the unwanted, care for the ill, love your enemies, and do unto others as you would have done unto you.” ’- Steve Maraboli
  2. “Loving and forgiving your enemies doesn’t take away or downplay the importance of actively resisting evil, corruption, and oppression.” ’- Unknown
  3. “We must still seek justice, defend truth, march in solidarity for those who are mistreated, protest against the wickedness and even oppose government authorities and actions if they contradict the teachings of Jesus ’- it’s just that everything we do must be rooted in love.” – Unknown
  4. “When you are loving your enemies it helps you conform to the image of Christ.” – Unknown
  5. “Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”  ’- Luke 6:28
  6. “It is a man’s own mind, not his enemy or foe, that lures him to evil ways.” – Unknown
  7. “In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” ’- Matthew 7:12
  8. “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.” ’- 1 John 4:7
  9. “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly Do not be wise in your own estimation.” –  Romans 12:14-21
  10. “If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; For you will heap burning coals on his head, And the LORD will reward you.” –  Proverbs 25:21-22
  11. “But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most-High; for He, Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men.” ’- Luke 6:35
  12. “The Bible tells us to love our neighbors, and also to love our enemies; probably because generally they are the same people.” ’- G.K. Chesterton
  13. “Let all that you do be done in love.” ’- 1 Corinthians 16:14
  14. “As Jesus was being ruthlessly murdered, He gathered up the very last of His physical strength to utter the words “Father, forgive them ”¦” ’- Luke 23:34
  15. “Let love be without hypocrisy Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” ’- Romans 12:9-11
  16.  “Love transforms not just our enemies, but it transforms us—making us more Christ-like.” –  Proverbs 20:22
  17. “It is only once you see the baffled expression on the face of your enemy when you give his cruel words a warm smile that you’ll understand, truly understand, what love is all about.” ’- Vironika Tugaleva
  18. “Do not say, “I will repay evil”; Wait for the LORD, and He will save you.” ’- Proverbs 20:22
  19. “But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved.” ’- Matthew 24:13
  20. “It’s also vitally important to recognize that our war isn’t just carnal, but rather spiritual, and in spiritual warfare, love is the ultimate weapon against Satan.” ’- Unknown
  21. “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” ’- Acts: 7:60
  22. “Touch your enemies’ heart with love. It will bloom flowers of gratitude and joy.” ’- Debasish Mridha
  23. “It’s not about going around trying to stir up trouble. As long as you’re honest and you articulate what you believe to be true, somebody somewhere will become your enemy whether you like it or not.”
    ’- Criss Jami
  24. “When you see a person acting violently, ask yourself whether he knows how powerful he is. If he knew his power, would he feel the need to assert it?” ’- Vironika Tugaleva
  25. “Whenever you are confronted with an opponent. Conquer him with love.” ’- Mahatma Gandhi
  26. “May God help us to forgive and love generously ’- even in the face of death.” ’- Unknown
  27. “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” ’- Martin Luther King, Jr.”
  28. “The best way to destroy an enemy is to make him a friend.” ’- Abraham Lincoln  

Love someone. Share wisdom. Get passionate about something. Promote others. Bring an idea to life. Create, make, do. Rinse, repeat. And watch the world change.

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What Does ‘True Beauty’ Mean to You?

What Does ‘True Beauty’ Mean to You?

We live in a society that places a high degree of importance on physical appearance.  Beauty is commonly defined as a combination of qualities, such as shape, skin color, or form that pleases the aesthetic senses.

True beauty has also commonly been tied to good works. However, people have done good works that were later found to be wicked. Adolph Hitler, Joseph Stalin, and Mao Tse Tung come to mind.

Probably the most famous quote about beauty comes from Margaret Wolfe Hungerford in her book Molly Bawn, in 1878, where she wrote;

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”

It’s never been truer! Especially when the fashion and entertainment industry try to shove their idea of beauty down our throats. That quote deters from looking at a physical appearance for God looks at the heart of all people and things. Use these 30 hand-picked quotes to find the real beauty in yourself, others, and what surrounds us.

  1. “Beauty is a heart motivated by a love of God and a love of our neighbor.” – Unknown
  2. “We become truly beautiful by becoming like Christ.” – Unknown
  3. “What it means to be beautiful is when I found my most authentic self, that’s when I truly knew I was beautiful.” – Brely Evans
  4. “Accepting me, my good, my bad, my indifference, my flores, but loving me in spite of me, that’s  beautiful.” – Wendy Raquel  Robinson
  5. “It looks like actions and behaviors of Jesus Christ that are demonstrated by believers who are diligently seeking to become like Christ.” –  Dr. Michael Williams
  6. “Can be summed  up in one word, family.” – Malis Family
  7. “Having fun and expressing myself.” – Journey
  8. “Beautiful means to be confident, secure, and aware.” – Robin Reed
  9. “Someone who has gone through a lot in life and they may fall down a bunch of times, but they are determined in there heart to get up, to never ever, ever give up, that to me is beautiful.” – Sophia Luke
  10. “It was when I was happiest that I longed most. The sweetest thing in all my life has been the longing to find the place where all the beauty came from.” – C.S. Lewis
  11. “Outward beauty gets the attention, Personality gets the heart.” –  Tehreem
  12. “The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.” – Elisabeth Kubler Ross
  13.  “True beauty is commonly regarded as beauty on the inside.” – Unknown
  14. My eyes saw your unformed substance (Psalm 139:16).” – The Bible
  15. “Inner beauty is inside each of us. We are all beautiful in God’s eyes as we are created in the image of God.” – Unknown
  16. “Sensual pleasures are like soap-bubbles, sparkling, evanescent. The pleasures of intellect are calm, beautiful, sublime, ever enduring and climbing upward to the borders of the unseen world.” – James H. Aughey
  17. “Beauty is not who you are on the outside, it is the wisdom and time you gave away to save another struggling soul like you.” ’- Shannon L. Alder
  18. “Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything beautiful, for beauty is God’s handwriting.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
  19. “Prayer beautifies you” ’- TemitOpe Ibrahim
  20. “God crowned you with glory and honor as the pinnacle and final act of the six days of creation.” – Unknown
  21. “To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don’t need to be accepted by others.” – Unknown
  22. “I am the Creator and you are my creation. I breathed into your nostrils the breath of life (Genesis 2:7).”- The Bible
  23. “I knit you together in your mother’s womb.” (Psalm 139:13) – The Bible
  24. “Beauty is about being comfortable in your own skin. It’s about knowing and accepting who you are.” – Ellen DeGeneres
  25. “There is nothing more beautiful than someone who goes out of their way to make life beautiful for others.” ’- Mandy Hale
  26. “Please girl don’t act beautiful, be beautiful.” – Unknown
  27. “You are fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:14) – The Bible
  28. “True beauty is measured by the number of pearls within you, not those around your neck.” – Suzy Kassem
  29. “A true beauty radiates from the most beautiful feature in the world – the heart.” – Unknown
  30. “Look to Jesus. Keep your eyes on him. He is the author and perfecter of your faith.” – Unknown
  31. “Unless you break free from the shackles of beauty as dictated by the media and society, true beauty will be elusive.” – Khang Kijarro Nguyen
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Jesus Christ as a Project Leader

You’re the Project Leader,  congrats. However, have you ever asked yourself, “Am I a good Project Leader?”  and felt unsure of the answer? or what makes a project leader great? Are you a truly amazing project leader or just a mediocre  one?

But what can project leaders learn about project management from Jesus of Nazareth?

In the four gospels describing the life and work of Jesus, one sees that his life was to spark widespread interest in the goal of both personal and social transformation.

When given very difficult questions – even questions designed to make him look bad – he finds a way to express the truth so that even his enemies respect him.

Being a project leader is hard. People don’t naturally wish to have one.  And not everyone wants  to be one.  But most people are anxious to follow a good leader, and all projects  live or  die on the quality of the leaders who run them.

“It’s not a stretch at all to say that Jesus was the greatest leader the world has ever seen. There’s a reason why you see all those churches in your town.”

Surely  by adopting the habits of Jesus and shunning the sins of bad project leaders, anyone can do a better job of managing projects. Just as  long as the leader has  a growth mindset.

Not sure how you stack up? Here are some  key beliefs that are held by the best Christ-like project leaders, but that is often  rejected by the worst.

  1. You treat others the same way you want them to treat you.
  2. You  put the human before the project and understand that life sometimes gets in the way.
  3. The  success of the project  depends largely on you being the master of obvious and mundane things, not  obscure, or breakthrough ideas or methods.
  4. People  you manage  feel comfortable bouncing ideas off you, sharing  feedback, saying ‘I don’t know’ and admitting mistakes.
  5. You are  aware of what motivates you  and your  decision-making.
  6. You  strive to be confident enough to convince people that you are the project leader, but humble enough to realize that you  are  often going to be wrong.
  7. You always  roll up your  sleeves and pitch in when needed right alongside your team.
  8. You  give feedback — “the good, the bad and the ugly”.
  9. You  shepherd your people through every hard turn.
  10. Your rewards for success are keeping your job and receiving, even more, responsibilities and challenges.
  11. You are  aware of your  own blind spots and challenge  yourself  to step out of your  comfort zone in order to build trust and motivate  the team.
  12. You realize that  most difficult part of  being a project leader is striking the balance between being too assertive and not assertive enough.
  13. You leave your ego at the door and are  able to surround yourself  with people that are more knowledgeable and more skilled than  you  are to complete the project tasks.
  14. You are  transparent.
  15. You  inspire.
  16. You  aim to fight as if you  are  right, but  listen as if you  are wrong.
  17. You admit to having a inaccurate understanding of what it feels like to work for you.
  18. You understand that how you  do things is as important as what you  do.
  19. You understand that because you  wield power over others, you  are at great risk of being  insensitive and not knowing  it.
  20. You  create clear structures for each team member  and ensure  that they know what their responsibilities are.
  21. You are  approachable and show real  concern to the issues facing  the people on your team.
  22. You use your  status for the greater good of the company and treat the team members  with respect.

In God’s project of reconciling man with God, Jesus Christ is the “man in charge”. He kept the elements of God’s Salvation project together and as the project leader, worked within the elements of scope (reconciliation of all mankind unto God; 2 Peter 3:9),  time (when the fullness of time has come, God sent forth Jesus, his Son to be born of a woman to redeem and Save all mankind who were under the law; Galatians 4:4-5) and cost (willingly laying down his very own life; John 10:18).

Learn to inspire, teach, protect, remove obstacles  and be human and you’ll become the unforgettable project leader  that your people will remember for the rest of their life’s.

 

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50 Profound Martin Luther Quotes About Faith

A lot has been written about Martin Luther’s legacy and even though he was born in 1546, the legacy of the reformer is still felt today.

Though he was a student of Scripture, Martin is probably best known for defying the Catholic Church of his day, laying some of the groundwork for protestant theology, forming the Lutheran tradition. He was both a  complex, influential ”ž and controversial ”ž.

In today’s hectic world, there is much we can learn from Martin’s commitment to simple living, good stewardship and value of nature.

He had much wisdom to share, here are some of his most influential and controversial ”ž quotes that are sure to give you some food for thought:

  1. “I have held many things in my hands, and I have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God’s hands, that I still possess.” –  Martin Luther
  2. “Whoever drinks beer, he is quick to sleep; whoever sleeps long, does not sin; whoever does not sin, enters Heaven! Thus, let us drink beer!”  –  Martin Luther
  3. “The Christian shoemaker does his duty not by putting little crosses on the shoes, but by making good shoes, because God is interested in good craftsmanship”  –  Martin Luther
  4. “Reason is a whore, the greatest enemy that faith has; it never comes to the aid of spiritual things, but more frequently than not struggles against the divine Word, treating with contempt all that emanates from God.” –  Martin Luther
  5. “A person who…does not regard music as a marvelous creation of God, must be a clodhopper indeed and does not deserve to be called a human being; he should be permitted to hear nothing but the braying of asses and the grunting of hogs.” –  Martin Luther
  6. “The devil, the originator of sorrowful anxieties and restless troubles, flees before the sound of music almost as much as before the Word of God….Music is a gift and grace of God, not an invention of men. Thus it drives out the devil and makes people cheerful. Then one forgets all wrath, impurity, and other devices.”  –  Martin Luther
  7. “To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.“ –  Martin Luther
  8. “I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer.” –  Martin Luther
  9. “You are not only responsible for what you say, but also for what you do not say.” –  Martin Luther
  10. “Faith is a living, daring confidence in God’s grace, so sure and certain that a man could stake his life on it a thousand times. I know not the way God leads me, but well do I know my Guide.“ –  Martin Luther
  11. “The Bible is alive, it speaks to me; it has feet, it runs after me; it has hands, it lays hold of me.” –  Martin Luther
  12. “Be a sinner and sin strongly, but more strongly have faith and rejoice in Christ.” –  Martin Luther
  13. “If you want to interpret well and confidently, set Christ before you, for He is the man to whom it all applies, every bit of it.” –  Martin Luther
  14. “The  Gospel cannot be truly preached without offense and tumult.” –  Martin Luther
  15. “Therefore we conclude that all law, divine and human, treating of outward conduct, should not bind any further than love goes. Love is to be the interpreter of law.” –  Martin Luther
  16. “We  are nothing with all our gifts be they ever so great, except God assist us.” –  Martin Luther
  17. “Those  speak foolishly who ascribe their anger or their impatience to such as offend them  or to tribulation. Tribulation does not make people impatient, but proves  that they are impatient. So everyone may learn from tribulation how his heart  is constituted.” –  Martin Luther
  18. “My heart, which is so full to overflowing, has often been solaced and refreshed by music when sick and weary.” –  Martin Luther
  19. “True humility does not know that it is humble. If it did, it would be proud from the contemplation of so fine a virtue.” –  Martin Luther
  20. “Be a sinner and sin boldly, but believe and rejoice in Christ even more boldly.” –  Martin Luther
  21. “Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree.” –  Martin Luther
  22. “I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer.” –  Martin Luther
  23. “So when the devil throws your sins in your face and declares that you deserve death and hell, tell him this: “I admit that I deserve death and hell, what of it? For I know One who suffered and made satisfaction on my behalf. His name is Jesus Christ, Son of God, and where He is there I shall be also!” –  Martin Luther
  24. “Whatever your heart clings to and confides in, that is really your God.” –  Martin Luther
  25. “To find Christ in such poverty, and what his swaddling clothes and manger signify, are explained ”¦ that his poverty teaches how we should find him in our neighbors, the lowliest and the most needy; and his swaddling clothes are the holy Scriptures; that in actual life we should incline to the needy; and in our studies and contemplative life only to the Scriptures; in order that Christ alone may become the man of both lives and that he may everywhere stand before us.”  –  Martin Luther
  26. “A Christian man is the most free lord of all,  and subject to none; a Christian man is the most dutiful servant of all, and  subject to everyone.” –  Martin Luther
  27. “I am more afraid of my own heart than of the pope and all his cardinals. I have within me the great pope, Self.” –  Martin Luther
  28. “Where the battle rages, there the loyalty of the soldier is proved.” –  Martin Luther
  29. “God writes the gospel not in the Bible alone, but on trees and flowers and clouds and stars.” –  Martin Luther
  30. “I am afraid that the schools will prove the very gates of hell, unless they diligently labor in explaining the Holy Scriptures and engraving them in the heart of the youth.” –  Martin Luther
  31. “You have as much laughter as you have faith.” –  Martin Luther
  32. “There never yet have been, nor are there now, too many good books.” –  Martin Luther
  33. “This life therefore is not righteousness, but growth in righteousness, not health, but healing, not being but becoming, not rest but exercise. We are not yet what we shall be, but we are growing toward it, the process is not yet finished, but it is going on, this is not the end, but it is the road. All does not yet gleam in glory, but all is being purified.” –  Martin Luther
  34. “The dog is the most faithful of animals and would be much esteemed were it not so common. Our Lord God has made His greatest gifts the commonest.” –  Martin Luther
  35. “We are saved by faith alone, but the faith that saves is never alone.” –  Martin Luther
  36. “If you want to change the world, pick up your pen and write.” –  Martin Luther
  37. “Everything that is done in this world is done by hope.” –  Martin Luther

 

 

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