Saturday, December 21, 2013
Sunday, December 8, 2013
A Declaration of War Dec. 8, 1941
The Presidential Address to Congress on December 8, 1941. Known as the Infamy Speech, it was delivered at 12:30 p.m. that day to a Joint Session of Congress by United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt, one day after the Empire of Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor Naval Base, Hawaii.
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Pearl Harbor Attack
Seventy two years ago today the nation of Japan attacked the United States of America Naval Base. The attack on Pearl Harbor was a surprise military strike conducted by the Imperial Japanese Navy against the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on the morning of December 7, 1941 (December 8 in Japan). The attack led to the United States' entry into World War II.
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
A Good Lesson for Today
I was a fool for many years saying that I was a Christian, but not actually seeking to be a Christian. Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. Romans 10:17 And the best way this can happen is by a daily diet of reading all of God's WORD.
In reading through the Bible we learn... "What does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul (Deuteronomy 10:12).
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7
Bible Pathway Devotionals
Through the Bible in one year in 15 minutes a day, from Bible Pathway Ministries, which also can be found at Christianity.com
Read Romans 8-10
Highlights: Free from sin nature and death; Nothing can separate; Gentiles also called children of God: Whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD.
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Rom-8-39" Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom. 8:38-39).
As Paul begins to search with the guidance of the Holy Spirit regarding the boundaries of grace, he comes to the profound conclusion that is conveyed here. For the human mind to come to an understanding of grace as the WORD of God reveals it, it must be understood that grace is both simple and complex at the same time. Many might question how that is possible. Understanding grace is as simple as understanding that it is the unmerited favor of God. That definition, however, is also what makes comprehending grace so complex. Why would God allow Christ, who was perfect and holy in all ways, to pay a debt for us who are neither perfect nor holy in any way? Jesus, who had no sin, took on the sin of every human who had ever lived, was living or would ever live. He did this so our sin could be eradicated.
For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. (1 Cor. 15:53-54). Why?
The answer to this question is the same as the answer to many question that might be asked concerning the interactions of God and man. The answer. once again, is simple. It can be given in one word, love. The love of God for mankind is quite nearly unexplainable. The fact is that the LORD loves us in spite of ourselves. He wants us to learn to love others the same way. The majority of the time it is not difficult to love those that love us and treat us well, but Christ's love is deeper than that. Likewise, He requires our love to go deeper. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you (Matt. 5:43-44).
We learn even more of the depths of God's love here in Romans. As Paul asks the question, Who shall separate us from the love of Christ (Rom. 8:35). The answer given in the WORD of God is a resounding "No one!" He goes on to give a list of things that may try to separate the love of God from us, but he notes that each one will ultimately fail in its attempt to cause God to love us any less. While there will be times that He will dislike or even hate our actions, that will not diminish His love for us. We can be assured that God's love has always been present and always will be present.
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins (1 John 4:10).
Thought for Today: Without question, the Christian who strives to read and obey God's WORD becomes a more effective servant of Jesus Christ
In reading through the Bible we learn... "What does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul (Deuteronomy 10:12).
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7
Bible Pathway Devotionals
Through the Bible in one year in 15 minutes a day, from Bible Pathway Ministries, which also can be found at Christianity.com
Read Romans 8-10
Highlights: Free from sin nature and death; Nothing can separate; Gentiles also called children of God: Whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD.
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Rom-8-39" Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom. 8:38-39).
As Paul begins to search with the guidance of the Holy Spirit regarding the boundaries of grace, he comes to the profound conclusion that is conveyed here. For the human mind to come to an understanding of grace as the WORD of God reveals it, it must be understood that grace is both simple and complex at the same time. Many might question how that is possible. Understanding grace is as simple as understanding that it is the unmerited favor of God. That definition, however, is also what makes comprehending grace so complex. Why would God allow Christ, who was perfect and holy in all ways, to pay a debt for us who are neither perfect nor holy in any way? Jesus, who had no sin, took on the sin of every human who had ever lived, was living or would ever live. He did this so our sin could be eradicated.
For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. (1 Cor. 15:53-54). Why?
The answer to this question is the same as the answer to many question that might be asked concerning the interactions of God and man. The answer. once again, is simple. It can be given in one word, love. The love of God for mankind is quite nearly unexplainable. The fact is that the LORD loves us in spite of ourselves. He wants us to learn to love others the same way. The majority of the time it is not difficult to love those that love us and treat us well, but Christ's love is deeper than that. Likewise, He requires our love to go deeper. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you (Matt. 5:43-44).
We learn even more of the depths of God's love here in Romans. As Paul asks the question, Who shall separate us from the love of Christ (Rom. 8:35). The answer given in the WORD of God is a resounding "No one!" He goes on to give a list of things that may try to separate the love of God from us, but he notes that each one will ultimately fail in its attempt to cause God to love us any less. While there will be times that He will dislike or even hate our actions, that will not diminish His love for us. We can be assured that God's love has always been present and always will be present.
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins (1 John 4:10).
Thought for Today: Without question, the Christian who strives to read and obey God's WORD becomes a more effective servant of Jesus Christ
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Monday, August 19, 2013
How Great is Our God: with Louie Giglio
Your life is a miracle, and the Creator of the universe knows you by name. He's big enough to breathe out stars, yet intricate enough to fashion together the trillions of cells that make up every facet of who you are. The God who spoke the universe into existence made you, too, and knows everything about you. From the smallest molecule to the situation you find yourself in right now, He's aware of your circumstances and intimately acquainted with everything you do. And He cares about you and promises to carry you through.
That's where we find hope in the midst of the darkest places in life. The journey is often complicated and painful, filled with confusion and chaos. Yet, the cross of Christ reveals God's promise to preserve and restore you no matter what the circumstance. He will hold onto you and hold you together, giving strength to those who hope in His unfailing love.
He is the everlasting God!
Louie Giglio
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Where Is The Wrath of God?
Where Is The Wrath of God, what the Prosperity Preachers will not preach by Michael Brown.
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Friday, June 21, 2013
10 Things You Should Know
What I have found to be the "10 Greatest Discoveries in "My Life," are what I consider the ten most vital things that should be known by every individual in all the world today.
1. The tomb is empty and Jesus is alive.
(If you seek Him, He will be found by you, but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you..)
2. The Ten Commandments are God's guide for living a good life.
(Were it not for the Law, we would not have known what sin was.)
3, Evolution is the biggest scam of them all.
(There are no transitional links and intermediate forms in either the fossil record or the modern world. Therefore, there is no actual evidence that evolution has occurred either in the past or the present. And the Book of Genesis gives the world a detailed description of Creation.)
4. The Bible is its own greatest proof of authenticity.
(Probably no historical record has been more scoffed at than the Bible. However, the facts show that if it weren't a book of religion and it had only recently discovered by archaeologists, it would be proclaimed the most significant find in all history. For, its details as to family lines, lands of occupation, life spans, and events should provide positive proof to even the most skeptical observers that its accounts are genuine and accurate.) http://www.2001translation.com/Authenticity.htm
5. It is "LIFE" at conception.
(It is no more difficult to understand then this... "All seeds produce their own kind and Life begets life.")
6. The FEAR of the LORD is the beginning of true Wisdom.
(Some men's wisdom and ignorance can be measured within the same bowl. Man will travel the world over seeking the proof of the existence of God and not even see one of God's greatest creation as they look in the mirror.)
7. Love is great and to be loved is grand.
(Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. And I know, Christ died that I might live. I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand on the earth.)
8. Heaven and Hell are for real.
9. Jesus is the only way to the Father.
(Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.)
And what I believe is by far the greatest of them all is -
And what I believe is by far the greatest of them all is -
10. The Gift of Salvation is Free.
(We need only to repent of our sins, accept Christ Jesus as our LORD and SAVIOR and obey His commands.)
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Rom 8:28
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Saturday, June 15, 2013
SHRINERS AND FREEMASONS
This symbol was found from a Google of "Shriners Symbols"
SHRINERS AND FREEMASONS SERVE SATAN. DON'T BE DECEIVED BY THEIR "GOOD WORKS".
The full name of the Shriners is the "Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine". Shriners are well known for their "Shriner Circus" where they claim to raise money for their burn hospitals. Shriners are a branch of Freemasonry. In their initiation ritual, the Shriner makes a blood oath of secrecy by appealing to the Pagan god of the feared terrorist Muslim religion! Every Shriner who has confessed an oath to "Allah" which is the great Shahada, or “confession,” which faithful Muslims around the world declare daily, has denied the Lord Jesus Christ by committing idolatry! Please read this study on the idol called Allah.
This Shriner symbol shown below, was borrowed from the "symbol of Islam", the worship of the moon god, (Allah) represented by the crescent moon. In pre-islamic times, Allah was the chief god with lesser goddesses (Al-lat, Al-uzza and Manat) which may be represented by the star. The symbol originates from the Ottoman Empire! The person in the crescent resembles a pharaoh looking character
and you will notice it's the face of the Sphinx, (a lions body with a face of a man) which literally means "the strangler" (Webster's Dictionary). In Greek mythology, the sphinx at Thebes strangles all those who pass by that are unable to guess its riddle. The scimitar or sword used through the centuries to behead the Christians who would not deny Jesus and confess "Allah" as God (and confess Muhammad as God's prophet), hangs over the crescent moon!
Each Temple or Shrine, has a "Potentate" and a "High Priest and Prophet". I must ask, "High priest and prophet of WHICH god"? Each Shrine is named after a Muslim or Egyptian city or place of worship! Is the name of Jesus Christ ever invoked upon in prayer within the Shrine? NO! Yet they invoke the name of "Allah" in their initiation rites! Furthermore, they disobey the scripture that declares that Jesus is the ONLY Potentate as they belittle Christ by replacing him with a Muslim worshiping Shriner who takes this glory upon himself!
1 Tim. 6:15 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;
If you are in the Shrine and claim to be a Christian, you have unknowingly (or maybe knowingly) forsaken the living God into a confession of serving the idol god of the Muslims, and proudly wear the symbols of the worlds most feared terrorists and most horrible, current day enemies of the Christian faith!
It is interesting to me, how a man feels that he must commit to, and Serve another god, in order to do good works, help children and build burn centers! As Albert Pike wants to promote, and has declared, that Lucifer (the god of Islam, and the god of the Masonic Lodge) is the "God of light and God of Good", and Adonai, the God the Christian faith, is the "God of Darkness, and Evil"!
A little bit about Albert Pike:
Albert Pike (GRAND COMMANDER, SUPREME COUNCIL 33° ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE OF FREEMASONRY, SOUTHERN JURISDICTION USA 1859 - 1891), the highest ranking Mason in his day, in "Morals and Dogma”, identifies Lucifer as "the Light-bearer."
Following the conspiracy of over 6 Lodges and 69 Masons, who murdered Captain William Morgan on Sept. 11th 1826 for exposing Masonic secrets, and President John Quincy Adams unsuccessful attempt to bring these men to justice, many men left the Lodge. The short lived anti- Mason political party was started and the Lodge was almost brought to extinction in the U.S. It is known, that Albert Pike, almost single-handedly, re-birthed the Lodge again in the U.S., and is the father of the current day Masonic Lodge! Pike also helped to start the Ku Klux Klan, an anti-negro group. As we all know, negroes cannot join the Masonic Lodge, and therefore started their own Lodge called "Prince Hall" Masonry! Masonry is "racism" in the worst form and continues to be racist today!
This symbol was found from a Google of "Islamic Symbols"
Sunday, June 9, 2013
Saturday, June 1, 2013
Today's Bible Lesson
Here is one good example in today's Bible study how God can even use those from heathen nations to work His divine will.
Bible Pathway Devotionals
Through the Bible in one year in 15 minutes a day, from Bible Pathway Ministries, which also can be found at Christianity.com
Read Ezra 1 – 2
Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing, saying, Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The LORD God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and he hath charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah (Ezra 1:1-2).
It could be hard for some to believe that this king of a heathen nation would be used to fulfill the will of God. It might be even more difficult to understand because of the magnitude and importance of the mission from God that Cyrus was being directed to make manifest. The reality of the matter was he was used to help launch the rebuilding of the Temple. The prophet Isaiah predicted Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid (Isa. 44:28).
God is fully capable of using whoever He chooses to accomplish His will. Think of the words in this verse. The spirit of King Cyrus was stirred by God. This king surely had many matters of state to attend to, as any in his place would have. However, God turned Cyrus' heart towards God's business and made it a top priority in Cyrus' life. He chose to follow God's will for his life. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure (Phil. 2:13).
The clear message here is one that will always bear repeating again and again. Cyrus heard from God and acted upon the command. He could have turned a deaf ear to God's voice just as many do today. Praise the Lord for those that hear and recognize His voice and commands and respond obediently!
God still speaks to humans today. He draws the lost to come to the cross to find salvation. He seeks out the wandering saint to bring him to a place of dedication to God. God calls those who are consecrated to Him into a life of service. Finally, at the end of the life of each believer, God will give the call to come home to be with Him.
God is still doing His part, the calling. It falls to us to respond as Cyrus did and say "yes, here I am Lord, I'll do Your will." God may have a task for any one of us at any time. The Holy Spirit may be trying to stir you or me even as we speak. Listen for God in your prayer time, study time and anytime. Answer the call.
Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear (Matt. 13:43).
Thought for Today:
Never forget, we should always pray, as Jesus did, that God's will be done for His glory.
Bible Pathway Devotionals
Through the Bible in one year in 15 minutes a day, from Bible Pathway Ministries, which also can be found at Christianity.com
Read Ezra 1 – 2
Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing, saying, Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The LORD God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and he hath charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah (Ezra 1:1-2).
It could be hard for some to believe that this king of a heathen nation would be used to fulfill the will of God. It might be even more difficult to understand because of the magnitude and importance of the mission from God that Cyrus was being directed to make manifest. The reality of the matter was he was used to help launch the rebuilding of the Temple. The prophet Isaiah predicted Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid (Isa. 44:28).
God is fully capable of using whoever He chooses to accomplish His will. Think of the words in this verse. The spirit of King Cyrus was stirred by God. This king surely had many matters of state to attend to, as any in his place would have. However, God turned Cyrus' heart towards God's business and made it a top priority in Cyrus' life. He chose to follow God's will for his life. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure (Phil. 2:13).
The clear message here is one that will always bear repeating again and again. Cyrus heard from God and acted upon the command. He could have turned a deaf ear to God's voice just as many do today. Praise the Lord for those that hear and recognize His voice and commands and respond obediently!
God still speaks to humans today. He draws the lost to come to the cross to find salvation. He seeks out the wandering saint to bring him to a place of dedication to God. God calls those who are consecrated to Him into a life of service. Finally, at the end of the life of each believer, God will give the call to come home to be with Him.
God is still doing His part, the calling. It falls to us to respond as Cyrus did and say "yes, here I am Lord, I'll do Your will." God may have a task for any one of us at any time. The Holy Spirit may be trying to stir you or me even as we speak. Listen for God in your prayer time, study time and anytime. Answer the call.
Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear (Matt. 13:43).
Thought for Today:
Never forget, we should always pray, as Jesus did, that God's will be done for His glory.
Friday, May 31, 2013
Pres. Barack Obama's Brother
Pres. Barack Obama's Brother got Sweetheart Charity 501c Deal
Pres. Brack Obama's Brother In Bed WITH TERRORISTS Granted TAX-EXEMPT IRS STATUS!
Sunday, May 26, 2013
A Salute to all who Serve
A Salute to who have given their all and their families
And a Salute to all who are serving or have ever served in the United States Forces
Friday, March 22, 2013
That's My King Dr. S.M. Lockridge
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
We Reap What We Sow
Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life Galatians 6:8.
I believe the following is a good argument against our government's plans on GUN CONTROL.
Dear God:
Why didn't you save the school children at:
Newtown, Connecticut
Virginia Tech 04/16/07
Amish Country, PA
Columbine High School
Moses Lake, Washington 2/2/96
Bethel, Alaska 2/19/97!
Pearl, Mississippi 10/1/97
West Paducah, Kentucky 12/1/97
Stamps, Arkansas 12/15/97
Jonesboro, Arkansas 3/24/98
Edinburg, Pennsylvania 4/24/98
Fayetteville, Tennessee 5/19/98
Springfield, Oregon 5/21/98
Richmond, Virginia 6/15/98
Littleton, Colorado 4/20/99
Taber, Alberta, Canada 5/28/99
Conyers, Georgia 5/20/99
Deming, New Mexico 11/19/99
Fort Gibson, Oklahoma 12/6/99
Santee, California 3/ 5/01 and
El Cajon, California 3/22/01?
Sincerely,
Concerned Student
-----------------------------------------------------
Reply:
Dear Concerned Student:
I am not allowed in America's schools and universities.
Sincerely,
God
----------------------------------------------------------
How did this get started?...
-----------------
Let's see,
I think it started when Madeline Murray O'Hare complained saying, she didn't want any prayer in our schools.
And we said, "OK.."
------------------
Then someone said, "You better not read the Bible in school, the Bible that says, "Thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbors as yourself,"
And we said, "OK..."
-----------------
Dr. Benjamin Spock said, "We shouldn't spank our children when they misbehaved because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem."
And we said, "An expert should know what he's talking about so we won't spank them anymore.."
------------------
Then someone said, "Teachers and principals better not discipline our children when they misbehave."
And the school administrators said, "No faculty member in this school better touch a student when they misbehave because we don't want any bad publicity, and we surely don't want to be sued."
And we accepted their reasoning...
------------------
Then someone said, "Let's let our daughters have abortions if they want, and they won't even have to tell their parents."
And we said, "That's a grand idea..."
------------------
Then some wise school board member said, "Since boys will be boys and they're going to do it anyway, let's give our sons all the condoms they want, so they can have all the fun they desire, and we won't have to tell their parents they got them at school."
And we said, "That's another great idea..."
------------------
Then some of our top elected officials said, "It doesn't matter what we do in private as long as we do our jobs."
And we said, "It doesn't matter what anybody, including the President, does in private as long as we have jobs and the economy is good...."
------------------
And someone else took that appreciation a step further and published pictures of nude children and then stepped further still by
making them available on the Internet."
And we said, "Everyone's entitled to free speech...."
------------------
And the entertainment industry said, "Let's make TV shows and movies that promote profanity, violence and illicit sex... And let's record music that encourages rape, drugs, murder, suicide, and satanic themes..."
And we said, "It's just entertainment and it has no adverse effect and nobody takes it seriously anyway, so go right ahead."
------------------
Now we're asking ourselves, "Why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, classmates or even themselves."
------------------
Undoubtedly, if we thought about it long and hard enough, we could figure it out. I'm sure it has a great deal to do with...
WE REAP WHAT WE SOW
------------------
With life there are responsibilities that we must all bare.... Godly wisdom is needed and a little common sense certainly couldn't hurt...
But we should all consider God's wisdom and warnings:
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. Proverbs 1:7.
Fools flatters themselves and the ones with worldly wisdom flatters the fools. Both fail to believe the truth when it is made known to them….. All of those that deny the truth will come to the end of their lives and at this time they will be brought before the JUDGE… He will say, "Depart from Me for I never knew you." And the consequences for denying the truth will be played out with the gnashing of their teeth, a never ending thirst for all eternity and this is a promise from God Almighty the Creator of all life.
56 Million Exterminated Under the Guise of Gun Control
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Shall We Compromise?
Compromising with God's desires can lead to great sorrow and even death as seen throughout man's history. It seems as though it is everyday we hear our elected officials screaming that we must compromise if we are going to accomplish anything.
To compromise on some issues can be productive but most always when man begins compromising therein follows the corruption of man moral values, which can and does eventually leads to death.
There are certain things that a real man never compromises on... With the fear of the LORD he will never compromises on his love for God's statutes and they shall guide the man to be a godly husband to his wife, a godly Father to his children, a godly neighbor to his neighbors and a godly leader/employer/employee in other words, a godly citizen hopefully with no acceptations.
Man's compromising on critical personal issues has given us approx. 56 million deaths through abortion and a nation that has bathed itself in sexual perversion and divorces.
Compromising on God's WORD has driven God and prayer out from or schools, universities, businesses and this too has brought about death and destruction.
Compromising on our moral integrity has given us the most corrupted government leaders not only in Washington, DC but also in our state and local governments at nearly every level.
For all of this we have no one to blame but ourselves, either for remaining silent for to many years, choosing to be wicked or from supporting the corruption by being an uninformed voter.
Bible Pathway Ministry
Christianity Daily Devotional online.
**********************
Read Numbers 32 – 33 (NIV)
Highlights:
Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh settle east of the Jordan; a summary of Israel’s 40 years in the wilderness
More than 40 years had passed since Moses, while still in Egypt, foretold that God would lead the Israelites to the land He had promised to Abraham. While moving forward with great anticipation and almost in view of the promised land, two of the twelve tribes, those of Reuben and Gad, which had a very great multitude of cattle (Numbers 32:1), decided they would be better off if they remained on the eastern side of the Jordan. So they said to Moses: The country which the Lord smote (conquered) . . . is a land for cattle, and thy servants have cattle: Wherefore, said they . . . let this land be given unto thy servants for a possession, and bring us not over Jordan (32:4-5). Moses replied: Wherefore (Why) discourage ye the heart of the children of Israel from going over into the land which the Lord hath given them? (32:7). They were joined by half the tribe of Manasseh (32:33). Humanly speaking, it was a wise financial decision; but, spiritually, it was an act of compromise. The unity of the nation and being able to worship regularly in the presence of God at the Tabernacle should have been uppermost in their desires.
Over a period of years they gradually became involved in idol worship and ignored the Lord’s instructions: These words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up (Deuteronomy 6:6-9).
The two and one-half tribes typify self-indulgent Christians who foolishly allow financial, social, or physical advantages to overly influence their decision making. Like the two and one-half tribes, allowing worldly interests to influence anyone to neglect weekly worship is a slippery slope that will ultimately lead to eternal tragedies as the prophet foretold: My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge . . . I will also forget thy children (Hosea 4:6). Christ is to be Lord of every Christian’s life. Whatever the faults of the Church as we know it, the Church is Christ’s Church and Christians are to be responsible members of a local body of believers. If we neglect the Church, we shall eventually drift into secular ac-tivities and a loss of spiritual values. Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. . . . For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? (Matthew 16:24,26).
Thought For The Day:
Are you content to do God's will? The Lord says godliness with contentment is great gain.
To compromise on some issues can be productive but most always when man begins compromising therein follows the corruption of man moral values, which can and does eventually leads to death.
There are certain things that a real man never compromises on... With the fear of the LORD he will never compromises on his love for God's statutes and they shall guide the man to be a godly husband to his wife, a godly Father to his children, a godly neighbor to his neighbors and a godly leader/employer/employee in other words, a godly citizen hopefully with no acceptations.
Man's compromising on critical personal issues has given us approx. 56 million deaths through abortion and a nation that has bathed itself in sexual perversion and divorces.
Compromising on God's WORD has driven God and prayer out from or schools, universities, businesses and this too has brought about death and destruction.
Compromising on our moral integrity has given us the most corrupted government leaders not only in Washington, DC but also in our state and local governments at nearly every level.
For all of this we have no one to blame but ourselves, either for remaining silent for to many years, choosing to be wicked or from supporting the corruption by being an uninformed voter.
Bible Pathway Ministry
Christianity Daily Devotional online.
**********************
Read Numbers 32 – 33 (NIV)
Highlights:
Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh settle east of the Jordan; a summary of Israel’s 40 years in the wilderness
More than 40 years had passed since Moses, while still in Egypt, foretold that God would lead the Israelites to the land He had promised to Abraham. While moving forward with great anticipation and almost in view of the promised land, two of the twelve tribes, those of Reuben and Gad, which had a very great multitude of cattle (Numbers 32:1), decided they would be better off if they remained on the eastern side of the Jordan. So they said to Moses: The country which the Lord smote (conquered) . . . is a land for cattle, and thy servants have cattle: Wherefore, said they . . . let this land be given unto thy servants for a possession, and bring us not over Jordan (32:4-5). Moses replied: Wherefore (Why) discourage ye the heart of the children of Israel from going over into the land which the Lord hath given them? (32:7). They were joined by half the tribe of Manasseh (32:33). Humanly speaking, it was a wise financial decision; but, spiritually, it was an act of compromise. The unity of the nation and being able to worship regularly in the presence of God at the Tabernacle should have been uppermost in their desires.
Over a period of years they gradually became involved in idol worship and ignored the Lord’s instructions: These words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up (Deuteronomy 6:6-9).
The two and one-half tribes typify self-indulgent Christians who foolishly allow financial, social, or physical advantages to overly influence their decision making. Like the two and one-half tribes, allowing worldly interests to influence anyone to neglect weekly worship is a slippery slope that will ultimately lead to eternal tragedies as the prophet foretold: My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge . . . I will also forget thy children (Hosea 4:6). Christ is to be Lord of every Christian’s life. Whatever the faults of the Church as we know it, the Church is Christ’s Church and Christians are to be responsible members of a local body of believers. If we neglect the Church, we shall eventually drift into secular ac-tivities and a loss of spiritual values. Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. . . . For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? (Matthew 16:24,26).
Thought For The Day:
Are you content to do God's will? The Lord says godliness with contentment is great gain.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
A Nation In Distress
I do not take this likely to display a symbol of our "Freedom and Liberty,' The United States of America' Flag upside-down, thus meaning that our nation is in great distress.
I therefore say, "I believe the life, liberty and property of US citizens are in dire danger and distress,” I am heart broken to see our nation in such turmoil and with the direction that this nation is going there is great destruction lying directly in our path.
If you don't believe we are in danger of losing our freedom and liberty then you have surely been out of the country, in a coma or blind and deaf for the past several years.
Today we are living in a society that shows very little respect to God's WORD or for that matter to anyone else. Parents are killing their children, children are killing their parents, children are killing children and strangers are killing with little or no discretion in the least. But why should anyone be amazed at this since we have allowed the murder of approximately 4,000 children per-day through abortion for the last 40 years here in America and now with an estimated death tow of over 56 million babies.
They shed innocent blood, the blood of their sons and daughters..........., and the land was desecrated by their blood. Psalm 106:38
These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, Proverbs 6:16-17 (KJV)
For the last 50 years or so we have stood idly by allowing our leaders in Washington DC to get away with numerous offenses that none of us would never have allowed from our neighbors or co-workers. The corruption in Washington DC today is truly mind boggling and it is in all three branches at every level.
The corruption in our states and county governments is nearly as great within most offices. To make matters worse if that is possible there has been very little accountability if any at all by federal, state or county officials for most of these offenses.
For the first 200 years or so of America's existence the citizens could rely upon informative and truthful media outlets in aiding and informing the citizenry, but today most of these organizations have traded their morals and integrity for a story that will either fill their pocket or heighten their own career.
Please keep in mine that it has always been the Conservative Patriots that has protected the sanctity of the America symbol of "Freedom and Liberty," and it has always been the Liberals that supports their rights to burn the America Flag while protesting.
The Liberals have fought and advocated for the process of no identification required at the poling centers and there is only one reason that they would advocate for this and that is allowing for easier voter fraud. There is absolutely no integrity within these people.
In today's society we are required to provide identification nearly everywhere we go. We know there were numerous incidents of voter fraud all across America and in addition, a large portion of the absentee ballots from soldiers overseas were delivered a day late, therefore excluding them from being counted. This is totally unaccepted and I feel that felony charges would be appropriate for those that were responsible for this happening.
Flying a flag upside down has military origins and the U.S. Flag Code permits this use of the American flag as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property. Displaying a flag in this manner has been used as a statement in the belief that there is distress in civic, political and social discourse and grave disagreement in the nation.
Under the First Amendment, Supreme Court rulings protect this form of expression. As the liberal United States Supreme Court Justice William Joseph Brennan, Jr. noted, the "principal function of free speech under our system of government is to invite dispute; it may indeed best serve its high purpose when it induces condition of unrest, creates dissatisfaction with conditions as they are, or even stirs people to anger."
The distress felt by millions of Americans today is because of the direction that this administration is leading America. We not only believe but know the Democratic Party’s current direction is literally destroying our way of life and our children's future. When a government proceeds with virtually no consideration for the people's health and wealth having no concerns for an incomprehensible and growing national debt that can never be repaid, which is the financial obligation of every tax payer; therein, creating a danger of life, extreme danger to our property and our existence.
THE UNITED STATES FLAG CODE
Title 4, Chapter 1
§ 8(a)The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property.
Most individuals who have served in military service of our nation should recognize this signal.
Example: To protest the economy, an election or against a war. The Flag Code states it should only be displayed upside down when there is extreme danger to life or property.
It is recommended that people who wish to make a protest in this fashion and to do so is respectful of the flag. We must remember that our flag represents the government of the United States and all of its policies. It also stands for our freedom of speech, our right to practice or even not to practice the religion of our choice and it represents one united nation in all its glory and the American values. And most importantly it stands for the sacrifices made past, present and in the future to protect our freedoms.
Friday, January 25, 2013
An Untold Love Story
My prayer today is that all who would read this Love Story is that you would pray for the Muslims people, I know from experience, that it is only love that opens the eyes to the truth of God's WORD.
***********************
An Untold Love Story
by Yagmur Dursun
2005/03/13
My name is Yagmur (it means "rain"). I was born in rural Turkey, in a village. Generally Turkish women enjoy many freedoms, which our Arab sisters can't even think of. Rural Turkey is a different story. Honor killings take place every day, women don't have much say (if any) in household matters and female employment is out of question. However, much hard work is done by women because men don't want to strain themselves; women are like cattle or slaves. If husband tells you to do something, you have to obey.
My mother was a fairly educated woman, she taught me at home and I even went to school. My hobby was reading books. Through them I learnt different languages and acquired a lot of knowledge.
I was a disciplined and obedient girl, unlike my sister who was somewhat uppity. When she was 18, she fell in love with a young man. They both loved each other but he was meant for another girl, thus his parents had decided. Dating is utterly forbidden in Islam, marriages are arranged and often young people meet on their wedding day.
My sister was rebellious. She "dated" that young man. Every night she would go to see him. They even kissed and actually their relationship went too far. She got pregnant. At first they planned to run away to a big city where they would be safe. They knew in villages, religion rules and they could be in trouble. Authorities don't care what's going on in rural Turkey. Sometimes imams, mullahs and elders who try to practice Sharia and break the secular state law are punished but usually authorities are more interested in big cities full of tourists and turn a blind eye to what happens in villages.
I remember their young faces. I didn't understand the whole situation; I was a little girl. But when I looked at them I could see they were happy. Their happiness made me happy too and I wanted to smile.
Instead of eloping, they decided to speak to my father. "Pregnancy is a very good reason to get permission for marriage", or so they thought.
Alas, my sister had miscalculated my father's love for her and his obsession with his religion. He became furious. Instead of letting the two young lovers marry and build their nest of love, he took her to the religious elders and they ruled that she had committed adultery. She was sentenced to death by stoning. They showed no mercy even for her unborn child. She had stained the "Honor" of the family and the only way to remove that stain was to nip her life in the bud. Her unborn baby was a stain too and that little creature had to be destroyed as well, so my family could live honorably.
In the evening before her execution, she came to my room and told me that she would miss me. She was crying and hugged me to her bosom. Then she smiled and said that soon she would see her unborn baby. I was blissfully unaware of her fate, but I felt that something bad was about to happen. I was so scared!
I still remember her black eyes; she stared at the sky while she was dug into the ground. She was wrapped in white sheets and her hands were tide to her body. She was buried up to her waist. The rabid mob circled her with stones in their hands and started throwing them at her while the roars of Allah-u-Akbar Allah-u-Akbar added to their frenzy. She twitched with pain as the stones hit her tender body and smashed her head. Blood gushed out from her face, cheeks, mouth, nose and eyes. All she could do was to bend to the left and to the right. Gradually the movements slowed down and finally she stopped moving even though the shower of the stones did not stop. Her head fell on her chest. Her bloodied face remained serene. All the pain had gone. The hysteric mob relented and the chant of Allah-u-Akbar stopped. Someone approached and with a big boulder in his hand smashed the scull of my sister to finish her off. There was no need for that; she was already dead. Her bright black eyes that beamed with life were shut. Her jovial laughter that filled the world around her was silenced. Her heart that beat with such a heavenly love for only a short time had stopped. Her unborn baby was not given a chance to breathe one breath of air. He (or she) accompanied his young mother in her solitary and cold tomb, or who knows, maybe to a better place where love reigns and pain and ignorance are not known. These two budding lives had to be nipped so my father could keep his honor.
A woman being prepared for stoning - Iran
She wanted to marry a man whom she loved. She dreamt wearing a white wedding dress, that there would be a big ceremony, lots of people would be invited and they all would congratulate her, chant merry songs and throw flowers and confetti at her. Yes there was a ceremony, but it was not her wedding. She was dressed in white but that was not her wedding gown. Lots of people came to the party but they came to curse her and to throw stones at her. No music was played and no merry songs were sang; only screams of Allah-u-Akbar filled the air. The only hug she got was from the cold earth in which she was half buried. The only kisses that she received were from the rocks thrown at her that tore her flesh and broke her bones. They were the kisses of death. She was not united with the man whom she loved but was wed to death.
This was a tragedy for my sister's young lover. His life lost its meaning. He got lashes but nothing more. He could well forget about the whole affair and get along with his life, but he didn't. I recall seeing him standing in front of our house every day, as if waiting for my sister to come out and meet him. I could see him crying. I can only imagine that when he was not crying in front of our house he was in the cemetery, crying over the grave of his love and his baby. One day he could no more bear his pain and hanged himself.
His death was hushed and no one talked about it. Maybe no one cared. He was reunited with his love and his baby. No one can hurt them anymore. No one can separate them from one another again.
It is a sad story. But unlike the story of Romeo and Juliet it is a story that is never told. No one talks about those young lovers. No one sheds tears for them. Not only they were buried, their memories were also buried as if they never existed - their tender love was a shame to others - a shame that had to be washed with blood.
But the saddest part is that according to Islam my sister deserved that death. The elders were sure she would be burning in Hell for eternity. No, I can't imagine that God can send someone to Hell for loving and for being happy. I can't accept a cruel God.
____----****O****----____
Now back to my life. When I turned 18, I was married off to a Turkish businessman from Germany. When I came to Germany I found out that he had another wife.
He is not a bad man at all. He is very kind, but he is a Muslim. He doesn't understand why Europeans don't like polygamy, for instance. He doesn't allow us to leave the home. He protects our honor in this strange way.
Then we moved to the UK. Here we are even more isolated than in Germany because there are fewer Turks. In Germany we at least could meet our fellow expats.
As for my relationship with my husband's first wife, we are friends. There is some rivalry between us, that's for sure. But I am alone and can't meet anyone or leave home. Her life is just as dull and empty as mine. We can't hate each other; we should be friends to overcome our troubles. My co-wife and I are like two cellmates. We only have each other. There is not much room for antagonism or hard feelings.
I have 5 children, she has 4. She occupies a more privileged position within our family because she has a son. I have given birth only to daughters so far.
We are both educated, but she is so obsessed with kids that she has given herself up. I am still trying to grasp at non-existent straws; probably one day I will be freed... I read books, keep myself informed and like to think. She is not remotely interested in reading books or thinking. I am alone.
Sometimes I think of running away, but I have 5 daughters. I can neither leave them, nor run away with them. Actually, I am stuck.
Even though I left Islam a long time ago, I cannot stop praying or fasting. My husband keeps a rod for the disobedient...
When I try to protest, my mouth is shut up with quotes from the Quran. Islam defines our lives. Isn't it stupid that people live according to a book written a long time ago?
I am not whining about my life but I do hate Islam. At least I could object to certain traditions but Islam preserved the worst in our culture, reducing women into slavery and keeping them ignorant. What can you expect from an uneducated woman?
When I look at my daughters, I pray that they may live in a free world, free from Islam and this slavery.
Ali, you promised to defeat Islam very soon, so please do it.
I know sometimes you must feel like giving up. It seems to me you've devoted yourself fully to the good cause of yours. You may feel at times that you will never succeed. I just want to say that you are fighting for women like me. When you despair, think of me and millions of women with similar tragic experiences. Never give up. You are my knight in shining armor. I just want you to know that I am your keen supporter.
______________________
Yagmur Dursun is a pen name. Some details of this story have been changed to hide the identity of the author.
***********************
An Untold Love Story
by Yagmur Dursun
2005/03/13
My name is Yagmur (it means "rain"). I was born in rural Turkey, in a village. Generally Turkish women enjoy many freedoms, which our Arab sisters can't even think of. Rural Turkey is a different story. Honor killings take place every day, women don't have much say (if any) in household matters and female employment is out of question. However, much hard work is done by women because men don't want to strain themselves; women are like cattle or slaves. If husband tells you to do something, you have to obey.
My mother was a fairly educated woman, she taught me at home and I even went to school. My hobby was reading books. Through them I learnt different languages and acquired a lot of knowledge.
I was a disciplined and obedient girl, unlike my sister who was somewhat uppity. When she was 18, she fell in love with a young man. They both loved each other but he was meant for another girl, thus his parents had decided. Dating is utterly forbidden in Islam, marriages are arranged and often young people meet on their wedding day.
My sister was rebellious. She "dated" that young man. Every night she would go to see him. They even kissed and actually their relationship went too far. She got pregnant. At first they planned to run away to a big city where they would be safe. They knew in villages, religion rules and they could be in trouble. Authorities don't care what's going on in rural Turkey. Sometimes imams, mullahs and elders who try to practice Sharia and break the secular state law are punished but usually authorities are more interested in big cities full of tourists and turn a blind eye to what happens in villages.
I remember their young faces. I didn't understand the whole situation; I was a little girl. But when I looked at them I could see they were happy. Their happiness made me happy too and I wanted to smile.
Instead of eloping, they decided to speak to my father. "Pregnancy is a very good reason to get permission for marriage", or so they thought.
Alas, my sister had miscalculated my father's love for her and his obsession with his religion. He became furious. Instead of letting the two young lovers marry and build their nest of love, he took her to the religious elders and they ruled that she had committed adultery. She was sentenced to death by stoning. They showed no mercy even for her unborn child. She had stained the "Honor" of the family and the only way to remove that stain was to nip her life in the bud. Her unborn baby was a stain too and that little creature had to be destroyed as well, so my family could live honorably.
In the evening before her execution, she came to my room and told me that she would miss me. She was crying and hugged me to her bosom. Then she smiled and said that soon she would see her unborn baby. I was blissfully unaware of her fate, but I felt that something bad was about to happen. I was so scared!
I still remember her black eyes; she stared at the sky while she was dug into the ground. She was wrapped in white sheets and her hands were tide to her body. She was buried up to her waist. The rabid mob circled her with stones in their hands and started throwing them at her while the roars of Allah-u-Akbar Allah-u-Akbar added to their frenzy. She twitched with pain as the stones hit her tender body and smashed her head. Blood gushed out from her face, cheeks, mouth, nose and eyes. All she could do was to bend to the left and to the right. Gradually the movements slowed down and finally she stopped moving even though the shower of the stones did not stop. Her head fell on her chest. Her bloodied face remained serene. All the pain had gone. The hysteric mob relented and the chant of Allah-u-Akbar stopped. Someone approached and with a big boulder in his hand smashed the scull of my sister to finish her off. There was no need for that; she was already dead. Her bright black eyes that beamed with life were shut. Her jovial laughter that filled the world around her was silenced. Her heart that beat with such a heavenly love for only a short time had stopped. Her unborn baby was not given a chance to breathe one breath of air. He (or she) accompanied his young mother in her solitary and cold tomb, or who knows, maybe to a better place where love reigns and pain and ignorance are not known. These two budding lives had to be nipped so my father could keep his honor.
A woman being prepared for stoning - Iran
She wanted to marry a man whom she loved. She dreamt wearing a white wedding dress, that there would be a big ceremony, lots of people would be invited and they all would congratulate her, chant merry songs and throw flowers and confetti at her. Yes there was a ceremony, but it was not her wedding. She was dressed in white but that was not her wedding gown. Lots of people came to the party but they came to curse her and to throw stones at her. No music was played and no merry songs were sang; only screams of Allah-u-Akbar filled the air. The only hug she got was from the cold earth in which she was half buried. The only kisses that she received were from the rocks thrown at her that tore her flesh and broke her bones. They were the kisses of death. She was not united with the man whom she loved but was wed to death.
This was a tragedy for my sister's young lover. His life lost its meaning. He got lashes but nothing more. He could well forget about the whole affair and get along with his life, but he didn't. I recall seeing him standing in front of our house every day, as if waiting for my sister to come out and meet him. I could see him crying. I can only imagine that when he was not crying in front of our house he was in the cemetery, crying over the grave of his love and his baby. One day he could no more bear his pain and hanged himself.
His death was hushed and no one talked about it. Maybe no one cared. He was reunited with his love and his baby. No one can hurt them anymore. No one can separate them from one another again.
It is a sad story. But unlike the story of Romeo and Juliet it is a story that is never told. No one talks about those young lovers. No one sheds tears for them. Not only they were buried, their memories were also buried as if they never existed - their tender love was a shame to others - a shame that had to be washed with blood.
But the saddest part is that according to Islam my sister deserved that death. The elders were sure she would be burning in Hell for eternity. No, I can't imagine that God can send someone to Hell for loving and for being happy. I can't accept a cruel God.
____----****O****----____
Now back to my life. When I turned 18, I was married off to a Turkish businessman from Germany. When I came to Germany I found out that he had another wife.
He is not a bad man at all. He is very kind, but he is a Muslim. He doesn't understand why Europeans don't like polygamy, for instance. He doesn't allow us to leave the home. He protects our honor in this strange way.
Then we moved to the UK. Here we are even more isolated than in Germany because there are fewer Turks. In Germany we at least could meet our fellow expats.
As for my relationship with my husband's first wife, we are friends. There is some rivalry between us, that's for sure. But I am alone and can't meet anyone or leave home. Her life is just as dull and empty as mine. We can't hate each other; we should be friends to overcome our troubles. My co-wife and I are like two cellmates. We only have each other. There is not much room for antagonism or hard feelings.
I have 5 children, she has 4. She occupies a more privileged position within our family because she has a son. I have given birth only to daughters so far.
We are both educated, but she is so obsessed with kids that she has given herself up. I am still trying to grasp at non-existent straws; probably one day I will be freed... I read books, keep myself informed and like to think. She is not remotely interested in reading books or thinking. I am alone.
Sometimes I think of running away, but I have 5 daughters. I can neither leave them, nor run away with them. Actually, I am stuck.
Even though I left Islam a long time ago, I cannot stop praying or fasting. My husband keeps a rod for the disobedient...
When I try to protest, my mouth is shut up with quotes from the Quran. Islam defines our lives. Isn't it stupid that people live according to a book written a long time ago?
I am not whining about my life but I do hate Islam. At least I could object to certain traditions but Islam preserved the worst in our culture, reducing women into slavery and keeping them ignorant. What can you expect from an uneducated woman?
When I look at my daughters, I pray that they may live in a free world, free from Islam and this slavery.
Ali, you promised to defeat Islam very soon, so please do it.
I know sometimes you must feel like giving up. It seems to me you've devoted yourself fully to the good cause of yours. You may feel at times that you will never succeed. I just want to say that you are fighting for women like me. When you despair, think of me and millions of women with similar tragic experiences. Never give up. You are my knight in shining armor. I just want you to know that I am your keen supporter.
______________________
Yagmur Dursun is a pen name. Some details of this story have been changed to hide the identity of the author.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
A Brother's Love and Forgiveness
I always enjoy reading this story as to how God brings Joseph and his brothers back together. With great love and forgiveness Joseph opens his arms wide to receive his brothers who had sold him into slavery many years earlier.
God used Joseph as a type or example of the love and forgiveness that Christ would reveal many years later for us... Though we all have sinned, with love and forgiveness He is ready to receive us into His open arms...
Bible Pathway Ministry
Bible Pathway with Rick Hash
Christianity Daily Devotional online.
**********************
Read Genesis 43–45
Highlights:
Joseph reveals himself. See Christ's love, mercy, and forgiveness clearly as Joseph weeps for his brothers. Jacob's joy as he learns Joseph is alive.
If thou wilt send our brother with us, we will go down and buy thee food (Gen. 43:4).
Unrecognized by his brothers, Joseph gave them strict orders that they must bring their youngest brother Benjamin when they returned, or they would not be allowed to buy any more food. Hearing this, they were once again stricken with feelings of deep guilt over selling Benjamin's older brother Joseph.
After questioning them about their family, Joseph had them put in prison for three days — not for revenge, but to give them time to think about their sinful past (42:17).
Joseph then demanded that Simeon be kept hostage until they brought their youngest brother as proof they were telling the truth, that they were not spies but in need of food (42:11). After returning home, Jacob was deeply distressed concerning the demand to bring Benjamin to Egypt. Not until they were in desperate need and there was no choice but to either starve or let him go, would Jacob permit his sons to take Benjamin on their next journey.
In Egypt their sacks were once again filled. As they were returning home, they were arrested and their sacks searched. Joseph's silver goblet was discovered in Benjamin's sack where it had been secretly placed by Joseph's steward. Benjamin was immediately taken into custody. The brothers were all forced to return to Egypt and, in fear, met at the ruler's home. Judah begged to take Benjamin's place, pleading that they could not face their father knowing how heartbroken he would be. Although the cup in his sack made Benjamin look guilty, Judah was ready to become a slave to set Benjamin free. What a wonderful change in attitude!
Like Joseph, our Lord in loving-kindness, is merciful. He brings us to the place where we no longer attempt to defend ourselves but confess that we are undeserving sinners. It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is Thy faithfulness (Lam. 3:22-23).
Joseph's exalted position never caused him to lose sight of his loyalty to God because of the affairs of his life. Consequently, he held no hatred or bitterness for his brothers' cruelty. The Holy Spirit will work the same in the hearts of all who allow God to control their lives.
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye (Col. 3:12-13).
Thought for Today:
The circumstances of our lives change day by day. Much of life is dealing with the good and the bad times of our lives and responding properly to what comes.
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Beyond The Gates of Splendor (Pt. 2)
Fifty seven years ago today, January 8, 1956 five men sat out on a trip in attempted to evangelize the Huaorani (Waodani) people of the jungle of Ecuador.
Filled with the Love of Christ in their hearts, Nate Saint, Ed McCully, Jim Elliot, Peter Fleming, and Roger Youderian were martyred for their efforts and devotion to God's WORD..
This is what Christians missionaries do even today, risking their lives to share God's WORD to a lost and dying world.
End of The Spear
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAcMurNHBY4
Filled with the Love of Christ in their hearts, Nate Saint, Ed McCully, Jim Elliot, Peter Fleming, and Roger Youderian were martyred for their efforts and devotion to God's WORD..
This is what Christians missionaries do even today, risking their lives to share God's WORD to a lost and dying world.
End of The Spear
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAcMurNHBY4
Monday, January 7, 2013
End of the Spear
On Sunday afternoon, January 8, 1956, at about 3pm, Nate Saint, Ed McCully, Jim Elliot, Peter Fleming, and Roger Youderian all missionaries and faithful servants to their LORD and SAVIOR, Christ Jesus were killed while attempting to evangelize the Waodani people in the jungles of Ecuador.
I can remember when it must have been the next day or two that I asked my Mother why would these men have gone into such a dangerous area just to tell these people about Jesus? Mother said something like the rewards to them were far great then life itself. I was only eight years old and that made no sense to me...
It was in January '91 before I could really say I understood their sacrifice. There is absolutely nothing in this world that is more valuable to me than the souls of my loved ones, friends, neighbors and the hearts of those who may come to Christ in the coming days.
End of the spear 1 12 YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rV6YnenMu5s
I can remember when it must have been the next day or two that I asked my Mother why would these men have gone into such a dangerous area just to tell these people about Jesus? Mother said something like the rewards to them were far great then life itself. I was only eight years old and that made no sense to me...
It was in January '91 before I could really say I understood their sacrifice. There is absolutely nothing in this world that is more valuable to me than the souls of my loved ones, friends, neighbors and the hearts of those who may come to Christ in the coming days.
End of the spear 1 12 YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rV6YnenMu5s