The Word

 John 1:1 - In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

The Word speaks for itself/Himself. 

The Word is the Bible. 

The Word made flesh is Jesus. He is the Word, both written and which was born, lived and died, then rose again. 

The words within the Word are His. If He says so, it is. He never changes. 

He, and His Word, will live on forever.

By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible. (‭Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭3)

But the word of the LORD endures forever. Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you. (‭1Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭25‬)

For indeed the gospel was preached to US AS WELL as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it. (‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭2‬)

It is not our works that save. True story, from a testimony given yesterday: A man who realized the destruction he was creating in his marriage because his life was consumed with alcohol (it could be consumed with _______...fill in the blank) knew he needed to change. He walked into the pastor's office one day and asked: What must I do to be saved? The pastor gladly told him to repent, turn from his ways and follow the Lord. They prayed a prayer for salvation, the pastor telling him if this man meant it in his heart, it would be so. The man asked: Now that I've done that, give me a list of things I need to do! 

That's just it. There is no list. It's just as simple as what the Word of God states: And he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. (‭Acts‬ ‭16‬:‭30-32‬)

It's all about the Word. It's about having faith that believing is enough. It's about hearing the Word, reading the Word, knowing the Word, knowing Christ. Knowing Christ is a deep spiritual, heartfelt occurrence, not just a mind thing. 

There is power in that Word that cannot and will never be extinguished. This Word has authority. It definitely does convict. It definitely can save. Our salvation experience is truly a miracle brought about only by our God. It is He who calls us and converts us, by the power of His Spirit. We can do nothing on our own...because we are nothing without first having the Lord Jesus. 

He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me. (‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭24‬)

Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all. Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you. (‭1Timothy‬ ‭4‬:‭13,15-16‬)

The Bible you can hold in your hand is only cardboard, paper and ink, maybe some leather! It can be physically destroyed...burned, marked up, ripped from its binding. But the Word who is Christ is still alive and active. His Holy Spirit lives on and is still able to transform lives. There is no power in a written Bible itself, but what the Bible says has a lot of power. If we know that Word and are the willing vessels to share that Word, there also can be power. We are nothing without God; we have no power, we are dead in our trespasses but with God nothing is impossible! 

His Word and words, however, can be offensive because the truth is sometimes hard to hear. BUT...the Word is also so very powerful that it can change anyone. It's that sharp sword of the Spirit: For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭12‬)

As a pastor once said: There is nothing in scripture that says we cannot believe. We choose not to. Will you believe?

Romans 1:16 - For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.

Something to Think About

Romans 5:17-19  - (...For if by the one man’s offense death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.) Therefore, as through one man’s offense judgment came to all men, resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man’s righteous act the free gift came to all men, resulting in justification of life. For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.

This “one man’s” offense was the act of disobedience displayed in the garden of Eden. True, Eve was the initial perpetrator, but Adam followed her lead for some reason. He knew the rules. He walked with God and had daily communication with Him. God gave Adam the command and Adam passed the information down to Eve. It’s only speculation at this point but perhaps Eve misunderstood. But the fact that Adam didn’t stop her puts him in the position of blame.

So we live in a sin-sick world today because of these actions of disobedience. They chose to disobey, as do many today. Are any of us perfect? No. Even if we have called on the name of the Lord to be saved, we fail daily. We continue in our sins...yet we are also being perfected. That will continue till we die or the Lord returns.

Sin entered the world, and along with it all the illnesses, diseases, anger, hatred, disputes, through one man. Only one Man can change that. It’s why it is important we know this Man, Jesus. It’s why we must call on the name of the Lord to be saved. It’s why He has told us:

Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:3,7,16)

Jesus’ free gift of grace is offered to all. It produces righteousness, not deserved by any, but offered. It is a gift! It must be received. It is not just a given that because we call ourselves Christians (because we are not Jewish or Muslim or Buddhist) one is saved. It is not determined by one’s denomination or how long we have attended church. Jesus was not about a denomination. This salvation is for anyone when one confesses that Jesus is Lord. Then comes the act of baptism, to show that one means business!

We’re talking about life here, eternal life in heaven or hell. The soul lives on after death in one place or the other. It will either be glorious or pure agony...eternally. Life does not just end when death comes. The soul lives on. 

We are living in trying times. While the events of today may pass, they may appear again. Many believe, as do I, that we live in the last days. I heard a message (many actually) which stated these days are like birth pains. They start out small and increase in intensity, like when child is born. There are always reprieves. But after a reprieve the next pain becomes more intense. While we might see a reprieve in this Covid19 crisis, more things may occur and intensify. What if...this does happen? We might get upset with government, even see conspiracy theories, but the main thing is to see how this all fits into God's eternal plan and what His Word tells us these days will be like. I'm seeing things I never thought I'd see. I can be anxious for a moment, but ultimately the peace of God comes again and I thank Him that I see what His Word has told us these days would be like. 

This is the time to seek God for His protection. It’s time to be serious about Him. It’s time to understand what His Word says about these days we live in and recognize the prophetic words spoken thousands of years ago of Jesus’ birth, His death, His resurrection, His ability to save spiritual lives, that death is not a thing to fear, unless one is without Christ.

The things of this world truly have no importance: only one thing is important...a life in Christ. Food, alcohol, entertainment, parties, sports or drugs are all distractions to keep us from focusing on God. It’s only a matter of (short) time before Jesus will put an end to all the nonsense. Those whose focus is not on earthly things but have kept their eyes on Him will reap the benefits. Not so much for others. We all have to make the decision or choice for Christ.....

Maybe I seem like a fanatic or am considered to not know anything about anything, but what if I’m right? Why would God have written such an amazing Book? Why has it not been done away with and not been destroyed? Why does God’s Word continue if it is all a lie? His Word, He says, will not return to Him void but will accomplish what He desires and achieve the purpose for which He sent it. That's about truth, sin, salvation...and end of time. Something to think about. 

Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-9  - But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved)... For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.

This Day and a Day In the Future

Matthew 16:1-4 - Then the Pharisees and Sadducees came, and testing Him asked that He would show them a sign from heaven. He answered and said to them, “When it is evening you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red’; and in the morning, ‘it will be foul weather today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ Hypocrites! You know how to discern the face of the sky, but you cannot discern the signs of the times. A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” And He left them and departed.

There’s a lot going on in this world. In fact, the Bible has prophesied it. I hesitate writing things like this because it might be considered doom and gloom, or I out of my mind. Fortunately, for some, this is an exciting time. For some, we see the signs that the Lord's return is near. Oh, we've heard date setters destroying biblical credibility. The Bible states we cannot know the day or hour. But...as Jesus says above, we can know the signs of His appearing.

Ancient men, long before Jesus, spoke about the things to come. It’s why there is a Bible. It was written that we may know about the wars and rumors of war, the weather, violence, the blatant immoral acts and lifestyles. See what the Bible has to say...  All predicted as man has chosen his own way of life rather than God’s. To even be accepting of these things is wrong in His eyes, as difficult as that sounds. Look at the words Jesus used above...they were rather harsh. The Pharisees and Sadducees were learned religious leaders. But they turned many blind eyes to the truth Jesus spoke. Others do the same.

Jesus spoke to show that no matter what happens in this world, we can be saved from it in the end, through Him. He came to seek and save the lost. He came that we might have an abundant spiritual life which includes eternal life in Him. He knew and knows that this world's only hope for peace and security is a Savior and He is it. Man cannot do it. We cannot save ourselves, no matter how good we think we are (pride). No man is good, not one the Book of Roman 3 states.

I’m writing this on an especially beautiful snowy, white, clean-looking day. 

I know deep in my spirit that only God could bring about such beauty. I think of the scripture that says: “Come now, and let us reason together,” says the LORD, “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” (Isaiah 1:18)

What's the connection? When I see the beauty in this day, I know Who has created it. I do not worship the creation, but I worship the Creator. I know Him personally. I trust in Him. I know what His Word says, though I’m not an expert, but I know it is the truth. How do I know? His Spirit lives in me and teaches me. He shows me things and He has shown me scriptures relating to these days we live in. I am grateful to have this understanding, though I don’t get it all. I just know that Jesus came one day to save the lost so that upon death or His second coming, I would know I was safe in Him. 
As a bonus, I recognize the signs of the times. And it's exciting to me. 

This day with all its temporary beauty is a reminder of He who is never-ending, what He has done for those who love Him, how I have no need to worry because I am secure in Christ. Because one day I realized my need for Him and embraced Him and His truth. I'm thankful that I believe this, despite what others might think. I will continue to praise HIM.

Psalm 51:6-7 - Behold, You desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

One Sacrifice for Another

Ephesians 2:8 - For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God...

Got to thinking early this morning about Adam and Eve. As you know, they were the cause of all the sin in this world that has entered mankind at birth. Are they in heaven, I wondered? It wouldn’t seem right for them not to be but they were, after all, the cause of mankind’s sin!

I googled the question. And immediately was taken to one scripture that solidified the fact they were! And from that scripture others popped into my head. Even as far back as Adam and Eve there was a type of Christ and His forgiveness evident.

Adam and Eve committed the first act of sin and immediately hid from God and were ashamed of their nakedness. And what did God do? He brought about the first blood sacrifice. Also for Adam and his wife the LORD God made tunics of skin, and clothed them. (Genesis 3:21) As early as Genesis 3!

And life as we know it began. So He drove out the man; and He placed cherubim at the east of the garden of Eden, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to guard the way to the tree of life. (Genesis 3:24)

Adam and Eve accepted the offer of clothing from God which was the first blood sacrifice. God sacrificed the animal. Animals were sacrificed throughout the Old Testament (a type of Christ). Their blood was spilled out.

For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you upon the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul. (Leviticus 17:11)

Blood during that time was not allowed to be eaten.

Only be sure that you do not eat the blood, for the blood is the life; you may not eat the life with the meat. You shall not eat it; you shall pour it on the earth like water. (Deuteronomy 12:23-24)

Life is in the blood. God sacrificed His own Son. His sacrifice; His blood, poured out that we might have life if we humble ourselves before Him.

This is nothing new. As for me I was glad I looked into it. I never tire of hearing about these types of Christ in the Old Testament. I always look forward to rereading the accounts in the early part of the Bible, to look for Jesus in the pages. Right from the start God made a way for mankind to be saved. The Old Testament believers in God had only their faith. They never saw their Redeemer. Hebrews 11 in the New Testament shows that by listing the faith that so many people had; it shows us that our faith must be just as strong. Faith in something we do not see, knowing that one day (maybe sooner than we know) Jesus will return...for those only who have put this faith in Him. That’s why it is so important to know this God. We cannot have faith in anyone or anything else. BUT GOD...

As did Adam and Eve, so must we have faith. We are to humbly go before God and realize our shame and receive the sacrifice of Jesus’ work (not our works) on the cross...be covered by His blood, become clothed by Him in His righteousness.

When we go to Christ and ask for forgiveness of our sins, and we all have them, He will know the intent of our heart and He will either forgive us or He will not. God looks down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there are any who understand, who seek God. (Psalm 53:2)

For by GRACE you have been saved THROUGH FAITH, and that not of yourselves; it is the GIFT of God, not of WORKS, lest anyone should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)  

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things NOT SEEN. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony. (Hebrews 11:1-2)

As Adam and Eve were covered, by God, so He offers the same for us through Jesus. This is a serious thing. It isn’t done your way but His. It’s not about a prayer once said (or repeated many times) because the prayer without a heart change doesn’t count. It’s a change of heart and life. If Jesus is not important every day, that heart has not changed.

Just as God told Adam and Eve not to eat of a particular tree in the garden, He now offers us the Tree of Life:

He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God. (Revelation 2:7)

It’s all about Him. From Genesis to Revelation. The Alpha and Omega. We sacrifice our old lives (become overcomers) for the new one Jesus gives. One sacrifice for another.

But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. (John 19:34) 

This is He who came by water and blood—Jesus Christ; not only by water, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who bears witness, because the Spirit is truth. (1John 5:6)  

Isaiah 61:10 - I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness...

The Letter

John 14:1-4 - Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.

Though we should not follow any man, there is a One we should. No man should be put on a pedestal (not even the man who wrote this letter) but One (who is who is seated at the right hand of God). His truths are revealed to as many as those who want them.

This is quite the departure from my typical blog, and yet it’s not! If you read this letter to the end you’ll see this man describes what I attempt to.

Aug. 7, 1982

Dear Loyal,

I hope you’ll forgive me for this, but I’ve been wanting to write you ever since we talked on the phone. I am aware of the strain you are under and believe with all my heart there is help for that.

First I want to tell you of a personal experience I’ve kept to myself for a long time. During my first year as Governor you’ll recall the situation I found in Calif. was almost as bad as the one in Wash. today. It seemed as if the problems were endless and insolvable.

Then I found myself with an ulcer. In all those years at Warner Bros., no one had been able to give me an ulcer and I felt ashamed as if it were a sign of weakness on my part. John Sharpe had me on Malox and I lived with a constant pain that ranged from discomfort to extremely sharp attacks.

This went on for months. I had a bottle of Maalox in my desk, my briefcase and of course at home. Then one morning I got up, went into the bathroom, reached for the bottle as always and some thing happened. I knew I didn’t need it. I had gone to bed with the usual pain the night before but I knew that morning I was healed. The Malox went back on the shelf.

That morning when I arrived at the office Helene brought me my mail. The first letter I opened was from a lady — a stranger — in the Southern part of the state. She had written to tell me she was one of a group who met every day to pray for me. Believe it or not, the second letter was from a man, again a stranger, in the other end of the state telling me he was part of a group that met weekly to pray for me.

Within the hour a young fellow from the legal staff came into my office on some routine matter. On the way out he paused in the door and said: “Gov. I think maybe you’d like to know — some of us on the staff come in early every morning and get together to pray for you.”

Coincidence? I don’t think so. A couple of weeks later Nancy and I went down to L.A. and had our annual checkup. John Sharpe, a little puzzled, told me I no longer had an ulcer but added there was no indication I’d ever had one. Word of honor — I never told him about that particular day in Sacramento.

There is a line in the bible — “Where ever two or more are gathered in my name there will I be also.”

Loyal I know of your feeling — your doubt but could I just impose on you a little longer? Some seven hundred years before the birth of Christ the ancient Jewish prophets predicted the coming of a Messiah. They said he would be born in a lowly place, would proclaim himself the Son of God and would be put to death for saying that.

All in all there were a total of one hundred and twenty three specific prophesys about his life all of which came true. Crucifixion was unknown in those times, yet it was foretold that he would be nailed to a cross of wood. And one of the predictions was that he would be born of a Virgin.

Now I know that is probably the hardest for you as a Dr. to accept. The only answer that can be given is — a miracle. But Loyal I don’t find that as great a miracle as the actual history of his life. Either he was who he said he was or he was the greatest faker & charlatan who ever lived. But would a liar & faker suffer the death he did when all he had to do to save himself was admit he’d been lying?

The miracle is that a young man of 30 yrs. without credentials as a scholar or priest began preaching on street corners. He owned nothing but the clothes on his back & he didn’t travel beyond a circle less than one hundred miles across. He did this for only 3 years and then was executed as a common criminal.

But for two thousand years he has ... had more impact on the world than all the teachers, scientists, emperors, generals and admirals who ever lived, all put together.

The apostle John said, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that who so ever believed in him would not perish but have everlasting life.”

We have been promised that all we have to do is ask God in Jesus name to help when we have done all we can — when we’ve come to the end of our strength and abilities and we’ll have that help. We only have to trust and have faith in his infinite goodness and mercy.

Loyal, you and Edith have known a great love — more than many have been permitted to know. That love will not end with the end of this life. We’ve been promised this is only a part of life and that a greater life, a greater glory awaits us. It awaits you together one day and all that is required is that you believe and tell God you put yourself in his hands.

Love, Ronnie

Original letter

Jesus can help change situations. He knows. Sometimes it’s not exactly as we would expect it. Sometimes he changes how we view something. It’s because He knows best what we need. First, of course, is our need for Him. It all begins and ends with Jesus. He wants our hearts, our souls, our minds. He wants devotion to Him. He wants to save us from this world of sin, troubles, illness, anger, hatred, lies. The greatest miracle is the miracle of a new life in Christ. It’s a hard word from a loving Savior. Our thinking we are good, moral and that our good works will please God without first coming to Christ is one of the greatest lies the enemy throws at us. Praise God for His saving grace! Praise Him He gives us the faith to endure if we seek Him.

John 14:6 - Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

Positivity!

Hebrews 1:10-12 - ...You, LORD, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands. They will perish, but You remain; and they will all grow old like a garment; like a cloak You will fold them up, and they will be changed. But You are the same, and Your years will not fail.

It’s been awhile. I have cut back on news because it is getting harder to watch. Then a friend posted this scripture on Facebook: Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. (Philippians 4:8)  She is wanting to maintain about 30 days of positivity! 

So I am trusting God every day. Trusting Him for what He has planned for this world and for people and myself. It’s all in His hands. His Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light to my path. (Psalm 119:105)  Within this Word are both promises and admonitions, just like the Lord is both good and just. Opposites. There are always opposites! Fast/slow, up/down, obey/disobey, life/death...good/just.

Believers in Christ Jesus will understand this...while stuff goes on in this world we do not like or cannot understand, we can stand on the promises of God and look to Him for answers, which are all spelled out in His Word. Praise God for that!

Our God, our Lord and Savior, has always been, is today and will always be. As the verse above states, He laid the foundation of the earth. He created each of us. His creation has always been for His glory and for us to see and worship Him, not that we worship the creation but He who created. And...He will return someday to bring judgment upon this earth. This is shown to us in His Book. He shows us what the state of the world will be like...and it seems to be getting closer to what has been described. (Matthew 24) (2Timothy 3)

As is also stated (because of the sinfulness of man), this world will perish. In His perfect timing He will return for the final judgment upon all of us. For those who have put their trust in Jesus, judgment will determine our eternal rewards based on our works. For those who have not trusted in Jesus, who have rejected His free gift of salvation, they will be judged on works also; however, as Galatians 2:16 explains, man is not justified by their works, but by faith in Jesus Christ; by works no person will be justified. It is all based first on having faith in Jesus Christ. The Bible also tells us that not one of us on our own is good. Our good works and goodness as seen by God are based on our receiving Him first; they will not cause us to be saved.

So some day the world will end and although we’ve heard this for thousands of years, and sadly some wrongfully predicted His return, the days we are living in are very well described in the New Testament. Many believe it’s closer than we realize. The way the world is headed, I’m ready.

While this all sounds gloomy, it doesn’t have to be. These are exciting times. To see the prophecies in the Bible being played out is amazing, even if I don’t fully understand every detail. It’s exciting if one’s faith and trust is in Jesus Christ. 

We should not put off till tomorrow what we can do today...we are not promised tomorrow. He’s been suggesting to us for thousands of years: Seek the LORD while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. (Isaiah 55:6) His heart has never changed toward us. He doesn’t want our works, He wants our hearts.

Despite the hard words of God there is a wonderful promise. If we want that promise to be ours, we have our stuff and our life to relinquish. In our hearts and minds, He must be prominent. God gave His own Son for us. For a period of time that had to be a very hard decision for His Father. And Jesus had the decision to obey His Father and relinquish His life and suffer the worst pain and humiliation so that some (those who choose Christ) would receive the life He offers. Decisions, decisions. We each have this decision to make.  I have. It’s a decision you have to make too.

We don’t know what tomorrow holds. We don’t know when Christ will return. I’m ready. I’m looking forward to His return and the return to a perfect future, one without sorrow or pain, and a new heaven and new earth. Jesus is the good news. He brings the good news of eternal life. It's all about Him, not us. In this world we will go through difficult times, but when we know that no matter what we go through we can be assured that Jesus is by our side and that the final outcome is eternal life. I would say that's positive news.

2Peter 3:10 - But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.

Whaaaat?

1Thessalonians 5:1-3 - But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.

I wrote this awhile back but never posted, as will be seen in a news article quote.

The times and the seasons are in the news every day. Violence and/or destruction are ramping up. Society is loosening it’s grip on morals. How much more can we, as well as God, take? The Apostle Paul described the coming of Christ to raise the dead and judge the world. There have been verses that describe this. While it’s been thousands of years, the signs are pointing to a much closer than ever before time of His return. The sudden escalation of bad in the world is a sure indication. Just look at the political hatred, for one thing. Violence is another. Moral degradation, weather disasters...all mentioned in the Bible.

If this sounds negative...there IS good news to all of this. Of course!

The Bible predicts this type of behavior in the last days. How bad it has to get is not something we can know, other than the verses showing what must take place before Christ returns. And the Bible even tells us: ...knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.”

(2Peter 3:3-4)

Again, as the Bible suggests, ...the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. God shows us the signs so that we will be ready and watching. A few years ago I would not have guessed I’d be seeing signs in my lifetime. Others have suggested the same. Not just the US but around the world. I’m thankful I know this God to recognize these signs, even if I don’t understand everything in detail. I’m thankful for His salvation and the power of His Holy Spirit to recognize these things. But I am sad for skeptics. I watch and wait.

So, even the news media, which is not watching and waiting, has quoted scripture! I’m sure we will see this more often in the future. Speaking at a press conference in Washington, Sec. Pompeo said the attacks on the ships were part of a “campaign” of “escalating tension” by Iran and a threat to international peace and security. (News.com)

It’s not the first time the phrase peace and security (safety) has been mentioned in the news. Peace and security

We can know that Israel is in the heart of the issue in the last days. It’s complicated but it’s all about God wanting His people to come into the realization that Jesus, whom they have rejected as Messiah, is as He has said. They have been in the news a lot. They will play an important role in the last days. There are nations gearing up to take Israel out. All the stuff going on in the Middle East is pointing to a time like we’ve not known.

But God...who knows the beginning from the end is preparing these things for the advancement of His will...and the return of Christ. But God...desires that none should perish but have everlasting life. He has made it clear that none are righteous apart from Him. He has said that only Jesus is the way to eternal life and if we earnestly seek Him and ask for forgiveness of our sins, He will save. But we have to admit we are sinful. No one can deny this. Everyone in the Bible except Jesus needed salvation, even His mother. Everyone needs to come to directly to Christ for eternal life. No man can save. You cannot save yourself. Only Jesus. That’s the best news ever.

I avoid the news as much as possible and look to the prophetic words of the Bible. I look up, not at what’s happening here on earth. Man cannot bring true peace and safety. Only Jesus can. 

So if you don’t like what’s going on in the news, consider looking into the Word of God and see what He has to say, see what He promises for those who love Him and put their trust and faith in Him, who WILL win in the end. The good, those who receive Christ, have quite an edge over the bad, who do not receive Christ.

John 5:28-29 - Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come forth—those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.

This is the Truth

John 3:3 - Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

We all need to be saved. There is no other name under heaven by which we can be saved. There are no multiple ways to heaven. There is only one way, one truth and one life. His name is Jesus. We are called to come as little children, to trust in He who created all things. Jesus is the first and the last...all encompassing...Alpha and Omega...beginning and end. Let your end be in and through Him.

Jesus said... “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25-26)  When you receive Christ you become a true believer.

I’ve often struggled explaining what the word believe means. I finally found an explanation!

In regards to salvation, the word believe always implies far more than mental agreement with truth. [Even] Satan and the demons know more than any of us the facts about Jesus, the meaning of His death and resurrection, and the truth of Scripture. To believe for salvation requires more than that. A believer is one who has transferred ownership of his life and future to the lordship of Jesus. Jesus said, “You are my friends if you do what I command you” (John 15:14). So a believer, in the biblical sense, is one who has responded to God’s calling and chosen Jesus as the Lord of his or her life. A believer looks to Jesus alone for salvation from sin and hell. By the same token, an unbeliever is someone who has not allowed Jesus to be the Lord of his or her life. Religious-sounding words may have been spoken, but if the heart has not changed, it is not saving faith (Matthew 7:21–23). The person claiming salvation while lacking evidence of the transforming power of the Holy Spirit is still functionally an unbeliever. (Gotquestions.com)

The only way I’ve been able to explain it was a change of heart, an experience where you know you have been touched by God. If one wants this, one only needs to seek God for it. He will know that person’s heart and the true intent of it. He will respond if it’s what that person truly wants. It’s why I pray for hearts to be willing to receive what He has to offer...that free gift of salvation that no works or personal goodness can attain, but that a heartfelt request can. It’s all about Him, not us.

A well-used verse...

Ephesians 2:8 - For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God...

Whoever Shall

Acts 2:21 - And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.

This truth about calling on the name of the Lord can either be easy or difficult to understand. First it is the power of God! But it also is an act of our will. It’s an easy thing to do but often our will gets in the way. Oh, that pride that so strongly dwells within each of us. 

To be truly saved and called children of God, we must do exactly as the Bible suggests...

Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." (Acts 2:38) Repenting of sin can only be done by calling on the name of the Lord...only on the name of the Lord. Jesus Himself said that He is the only way, truth and life. No one else saves. We cannot save ourselves by good works or by knowing someone who is saved or going to church. I’m sure by now this sounds quite repetitive (and will continue to be) but there’s only one truth and one way by which we can receive forgiveness of sin and life everlasting. How many ways can it be explained? Only one way...the same way!

Let’s go one verse further, Acts 2:39, For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call. This is telling us the promise of the remission of sin is for all people. This is not saying that because of one being saved, it passes on to others. Each must call on the name of the Lord. In some way, shape or form, He is extending the invitation to repent. It is up to us to respond. And a bonus when we do is the gift of the Holy Spirit who will teach us the truth. Jesus is the way to life and is the truth. He will open our understanding to the writings in the Bible.

You will note baptism comes after repentance. As a commentary I read explains: for several reasons be baptized should not be joined with for the remission of sins to teach baptismal regeneration. First, the context of this passage demonstrates that the repentance is only connected with the removal of sin at salvation: “whosoever shall call… shall be saved.” A baby can’t repent; it has no understanding of sin; so baptism for the remission of sin does not work and yet that is the way of most churches, including the one I was part of as a child. How could it be that so many churches are, sadly, mistaken? Two articles on baptism:

https://www.gotquestions.blog/biblical-baptism.html

https://www.gotquestions.org/children-baptism-communion.html

We must be able to understand we have a sinful nature and need for a Savior.  

Acts 4:12 - Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.

LORD, LORD ...

Matthew 7:21-23 - Not everyone who says to Me, “Lord, Lord,” shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?” And then I will declare to them, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!”

This can be a very troubling statement. We all think we are good. We might call ourselves Christians, but that doesn’t always mean we are good. There is only one way we can be sure. A narrow way; many Christians even believe that God wouldn’t turn anyone away, and that saying the road is narrow is absurd. But, obviously, the road is narrow because God says it is. These verses are for Christians and non-Christians alike. A sobering thought, to be sure.

I was watching a video as part of a Bible study I’m doing called Behold Your God. One of the speakers made this statement: Not everyone who says they are a Christian is a Christian. That statement is loaded!

I’ve known for many years that there is only one way to God, through His Son Jesus. No other way. No other person can be named. Some religions claim Jesus is not the only way. But there is no one else. Only one way, truth and life and that is Jesus Christ.  It’s not even about religion, but about relationship. Religion is man-centered; relationship is God-centered. Religion is works-centered; relationship is knowing that God did for us what we could not do for ourselves...redeem us. For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, (Ephesians 2:8)

It is only through the power of God are we made a believer and follower in Christ. We are changed, as the Bible says, made whole only by the power of God, not self, not anyone else. No prayer alone will do it; not knowing someone who is born again; not even attending church. We must give ourselves over to Him (that relationship) for this change to take place. I’m sorry for those who don’t like change or are afraid of it. These will never know the power of God in their lives until they shed the pride.

We are all sinners in need of salvation. All. We are either surface Christians. in-depth Christians or none at all. We either see God as just somewhere out there loving on people and allowing any lifestyle or within our own spirits and knowing He is of great magnificence and judgment, besides love. He is ALL power!

It is true that God will receive us just as we are; but he doesn’t want us to stay that way. We are called to repent and believe...and learn the truth...and turn away from our sinful lives...and we all are there before we receive Christ...enemies of God. Only God can do this work in us but we must be willing to set aside all we think we know, or our church teaches, to know what He alone says, through His Word.

The Bible from Genesis to Revelation speaks of Jesus. It does not speak of anyone else being able to save us. It is a very interesting study. I just started rereading a book on who Jesus is in each book of the Bible. And surprisingly, in Genesis the whole reason He came is clearly evident...because of the sin of man, which separated us from God...and He had to intervene to bring about the birth of One who would save, not by the intervention of man. Only through Jesus Christ. It’s the most narrow way possible, according to scripture. 

I won’t argue with scripture. God’s Word is truth. Not everyone who says Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom.  Through the writing and words of many different men empowered by the Holy Spirit, He has revealed His magnificence, His perfect plan for mankind, that plan fallen and the reshaping of man and that plan through His Son. Will you be onboard?

Matthew 7:13-14 - Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to 

destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.