Do You Know if You Are Saved?

 Romans 8:4 - For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees?

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Where is your hope? Do you have hope? Hope cannot be in the things around us. Hope can only be found by looking to the One who gives us that hope...Jesus Christ.

Do you know if you are saved?? Some don’t know what it is. Some believe there are many ways to be saved, that all religions somehow, in their own ways, can save us. What does it mean? What happens? How does it happen?

Often it happens when we come to our wits end, the end of the rope, the end of ourselves, the bottom of the barrel, we hit a wall. And yet for others it can just happen without a specific incident. The heart just knows.

All of this is nothing new to this blog! 

God saves everyone uniquely in His way to suit any particular person. It’s personal. I think that’s why a prayer prayed with head bowed corporately does nothing. It’s about the heart that is ready to change. It’s unexplainable how it happens. It just does...and one will know when it does.

I can repeat a prayer all I want but it doesn’t mean a thing without an immediate heart change toward God.

God loves us all but He will not allow all to receive eternal life without first receiving His Son. And receiving is the key word. Our works or our perceived goodness cannot give us eternal life. That would mean Jesus’ death on the cross was meaningless. Why, then, did He have to suffer the anguish and humiliation if we could get to heaven on our own merit? The Bible tells us it is a free gift from God. We don’t deserve it either. He offers it...and we must make a conscious effort to receive it.

There are so many lost “Christians” who will be sadly disappointed some day when they realize they heard the truth (or even those who were fed lies from their church) and did nothing (could do nothing) about it. Maybe they figured they had plenty of time left or just thought the truth was THE lie that true believers believed.

There is not one true church. Jesus wasn’t about denominations. They are all man made, according to certain men’s ideas, sometimes for power over people. But there is THE Church of Jesus Christ. It is made up of people of all tribes, tongues and nations who believe that only Jesus Christ can save. No other man or woman. He is a jealous God, so He will not allow our devotion to anyone else. No one.

After writing this this popped up on Facebook (love when this happens): The Church, the house of God, is simply Christ Himself in undivided oneness found in all those in whom He really dwells. (T.A. Sparks) Really dwells...by the power of the Holy Spirit. 

It’s Jesus Christ alone. Government won’t save, idols won’t save, no man or man made thing will save. When we come to that realization some day that we can’t do this “thing” whatever it is on our own or we can’t fix it, we’ve come to the end of ourselves. That’s a very good time to seek the One who saves. He will save us from ourselves, our enemies, our death and the coming earthly judgment. Only Jesus saves.

Our hope, trust and faith must be in that which we cannot see. While we cannot see Jesus, He is alive spiritually. And He will save until God the Father says, “Enough, it’s time to return to earth and wage war on the enemy.” No one knows the day or hour but earth looks pretty far from the Garden of Eden these days. Best to be prepared.

2Corinthians 4:18- ...while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

Isaiah‬ ‭45:22 - Look to Me, and be saved, all you ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other.

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We Can Have Hope

Jeremiah‬ ‭17:7‬ ‭- Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, and whose hope is the LORD.

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We can have hope. First, however, one has to believe there is a God. Not just any god, but the God. The God who created the heavens and the earth.

• Then one must believe in His Word, the Bible.
• Then one has to believe that God is in control of all things, no matter what anyone else will say.
• Then one needs not fear!

Do you believe in God? Not in a god but the God? There is only one Who can promise eternal life.

Do you believe that He created all things...the earth, heavens, mankind, flora and fauna...you? You were knit by Him in your mother’s womb. The earth in six days.

Do you believe God knows all things? Like the beginning to the end. He knows everything about you too!

Do you believe God is in control of all things? He places the stars in the sky and they move by His hand. Same with the sun, the moon, the planets and constellations. He knows all that is necessary about the weather, our number of days, the seasons. He places people in power and He removes them. All these are to bring about His will.

Do you believe in the Bible? It is God speaking to us, teaching us, showing us past, present...and the future. We would be wise to want to know what He has to say about today's headlines and our future. It's all spelled out in His Word.

Then do you believe all that is written in the Bible? It is not just a book of fables. It is His truth.

Do you believe God cannot lie? He is God and cannot lie because He is holy.

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Do you believe He loves all mankind? And that He might be willing to allow distress in our lives to hopefully steer people toward looking to Him for help? And life.

Do you believe God holds the keys to life and death? He does. Would be wise to consider this too.

Do you believe in heaven and hell? It’s mentioned in the Bible as real places. (Luke 16:29-31)

If you can say yes to these, you know Who is our hope and what our end will be. You know His promises to those who love Him. If you can't, you can still call out to God and ask that He guide you to His truth. He might guide you to someone who can show you how to know God and especially His Son Jesus, who is the only way, truth and life; the only way to our Father in heaven. His thoughts are what count!

Jeremiah‬ ‭29:11 - For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

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Good Will Come Out of Evil

Matthew 5:4 - Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

The other day our Wisconsin winter turned nasty with very cold temperatures. Of course there were many comments on Facebook regarding this...and all the winter storm watches people were concerned about...that rarely come to the fruition as prognosticated! (How’s that for a word?)

So I posted this on Facebook:

Was just thinking… 

There have been many comments recently about the cold weather and how we either like it or we don’t. (I’m okay with cold because I know it won’t last forever. I love the change of seasons.) 

A thought I had yesterday as I was out and about was if we didn’t have the dislikes in life we would not be able to appreciate the likes, which we all know. 

So my mind wandered. I got to thinking if we don’t have Christ in our lives the things that are disturbing as seen on the news or on Facebook can really be blown out of proportion because we don’t have the knowledge or peace of God. I have to admit there are times when I get upset with the things that I see on the news, on Facebook, and I remind myself that this is what we are told life will be like in the last days...and it ain’t gonna get better.

So those who understand this, be thankful for the greatest thing we know we have, Jesus Christ and His peace, hope and truth. We can appreciate the new life we have received-through Christ-and can just know the disturbances in this world are temporary as far as we are concerned. Share Christ and hopefully others will be able to have the same peace, hope and truth.

I did not expect to receive as many likes as I had. 

Then our sermon was done by a one of our wise young men while pastor was out of town. What he said hinted at the same thing. He started with the verse above from the Beatitudes. 

Donny suggested that we can pray righteous prayers for personal reasons, for national or worldly reasons but it does not mean they will be answered! But they were prayers from a righteous heart desiring good to come out of evil. Here are two instances where God didn’t even answer His own Son’s prayers: 

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing! See! Your house is left to you desolate; for I say to you, you shall see Me no more till you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!’” (Matthew 23:37-39) This was a prayer to Israel, the Jews, who did not see Him as their long-awaited Redeemer because He did not fit their prescribed mold. I see this as being similar to prayers we may pray for the wickedness apparent in this country or the world. God may ignore those prayers knowing some have gone too far in their decision to do what is evil in the sight of God. And He knows a change of heart will not happen.

...He went to the Mount of Olives, as He was accustomed, and His disciples also followed Him. And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed, saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. (Luke 22:39, 41-44) Thus, Jesus was crucified. But there was an excellent reason...so that He would overcome this death, so then when we received Him to ourselves we too would overcome death. 

Like I mention in my thoughts...we must experience the not-so-good things in life that we can appreciate the good. When Jesus returns someday, those who have received Him, followed Him and endured to the end, despite losing friends, being ignored or scoffed at because of their beliefs, those will have tasted that difficulty. But...when those who are in Christ are taken up to be with Him there will be an instantaneous joy. All tears will be wiped away. By some miracle those will be so caught up with being in the presence of our Lord and so transformed, the pains of life on earth, whatever they might have been, will be gone. Pain, suffering and tears are traded in for peace, prosperity and gladness. Though we have mourned, we will be comforted! Though we have experienced the not-so-good, we will appreciate even more the good.

Receiving Christ is the most important thing one can do in this lifetime. Only He offers hope, will wipe tears away and restore joy. His ministry before His crucifixion was the attempt to gather us as His children, to offer us a better life with a changed heart and knowledge of His truth. He still doesn’t always fit the model of a Savior because we want our own view of how God should see us, not the Jesus He claims to be. However, if this is not done, those are among they who will be desolate, apart from God for eternity. 

I look forward to this:

Psalm 30:5 - For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.

Psalm 37, Day 10

Psalm 37 tells us just what we all can do if/when the cares of the world get the better of us. We know we live in disturbing times. (Some will view this disturbance one way, others another, depending on where their allegiance is: with God or the world.)

Do you trust in HIM alone? I know that God is in control, that He knows the beginning from the end, He absolutely knows the hearts of man. He has stated that by nature, apart from Him, man’s heart is geared to do evil. He will return to bring His wrath on evil man and the righteous will be saved. By knowing God’s views and submitting to Him now we can be counted among the righteous. We have been both warned and promised! Our only hope is in the Lord. Which side are you on?

Psalm 37:35-40 - I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a native green tree. Yet he passed away, and behold, he was no more; indeed I sought him, but he could not be found. Mark the blameless man, and observe the upright; for the future of that man is peace. 
But the transgressors shall be destroyed together; the future
of the wicked shall be cut off. But the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; He is their strength in the time of trouble. And the LORD shall help them and deliver them; He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in Him.

Amen!

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Psalm 37, Day 9

Psalm 37 tells us just what we all can do if/when the cares of the world get the better of us. We know we live in disturbing times. (Some will view this disturbance one way, others another, depending on where their allegiance is: with God or the world.)

Do you trust in HIM alone? I know that God is in control, that He knows the beginning from the end, He absolutely knows the hearts of man. He has stated that by nature, apart from Him, man’s heart is geared to do evil. He will return to bring His wrath on evil man and the righteous will be saved. By knowing God’s views and submitting to Him now we can be counted among the righteous. We have been both warned and promised! Our only hope is in the LorD.

Have you received the gift of God and His inheritance of eternal life?

Psalm 37:29-34 - The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell in it forever. 
The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of justice. 
The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide. 
The wicked watches the righteous, and seeks to slay him. 
The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged. 
Wait on the LORD, and keep His way, and He shall exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are cut off, you shall see it.

Psalm 37, Day 8

Psalm 37 tells us just what we all can do if/when the cares of the world get the better of us. We know we live in disturbing times. (Some will view this disturbance one way, others another, depending on where their allegiance is: with God or the world.)

Do you trust in HIM alone? I know that God is in control, that He knows the beginning from the end, He absolutely knows the hearts of man. He has stated that by nature, apart from Him, man’s heart is geared to do evil. He will return to bring His wrath on evil man and the righteous will be saved. By knowing God’s views and submitting to Him now we can be counted among the righteous. We have been both warned and promised! Our only hope is in the Lord.

I have been young (and foolish) and now I am “old” and hopefully wiser. God IS merciful. Departing from evil is always a good thing.

Psalm 37:25-28 - I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lends; and his descendants are blessed. Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell forevermore. For the LORD loves justice, and does not forsake His saints; they are preserved forever, but the descendants of the wicked shall be cut off. 

Psalm 37, Day 7

Psalm 37 tells us just what we all can do if/when the cares of the world get the better of us. We know we live in disturbing times. (Some will view this disturbance one way, others another, depending on where their allegiance is: with God or the world.)

Do you trust in HIM alone? I know that God is in control, that He knows the beginning from the end, He absolutely knows the hearts of man. He has stated that by nature, apart from Him, man’s heart is geared to do evil. He will return to bring His wrath on evil man and the righteous will be saved. By knowing God’s views and submitting to Him now we can be counted among the righteous. We have been both warned and promised! Our only hope is in the Lord.

Psalm 37:21-24 - The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous shows mercy and gives. For those blessed by Him shall inherit the earth, but those cursed by Him shall be cut off. The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, and He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the LORD upholds him with His hand. 

Psalm 37, Day 4

Psalm 37 tells us just what we all can do if/when the cares of the world get the better of us. We know we live in disturbing times. (Some will view this disturbance one way, others another, depending on where their allegiance is: with God or the world.)

Do you trust in HIM alone? I know that God is in control, that He knows the beginning from the end, He absolutely knows the hearts of man. He has stated that by nature, apart from Him, man’s heart is geared to do evil. He will return to bring His wrath on evil man and the righteous will be saved. By knowing God’s views and submitting to Him now we can be counted among the righteous. We have been both warned and promised! Our only hope is in the Lord.

Psalm 37:10-11 - For yet a little while and the wicked shall be no more; indeed, you will look carefully for his place, but it shall be no more. But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. 

Psalm 37, Day 3

Psalm 37 tells us just what we all can do if/when the cares of the world get the better of us. We know we live in disturbing times. (Some will view this disturbance one way, others another, depending on where their allegiance is: with God or the world.)

Do you trust in HIM alone? I know that God is in control, that He knows the beginning from the end, He absolutely knows the hearts of man. He has stated that by nature, apart from Him, man’s heart is geared to do evil. He will return to bring His wrath on evil man and the righteous will be saved. By knowing God’s views and submitting to Him now we can be counted among the righteous. We have been both warned and promised! Our only hope is in the Lord.

Psalm 37:8-9 - Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret—it only causes harm. For evildoers shall be cut off; but those who wait on the LORD, they shall inherit the earth. 

Psalm 37, Day 2

Psalm 37 tells us just what we all can do if/when the cares of the world get the better of us. We know we live in disturbing times. (Some will view this disturbance one way, others another, depending on where their allegiance is: with God or the world.) 

Do you trust in HIM alone? I know that God is in control, that He knows the beginning from the end, He absolutely knows the hearts of man. He will return to bring His wrath on evil man and the righteous will be saved. By knowing God’s views and submitting to Him now we can be counted among the righteous. We have been both warned and promised! Our only hope is in the Lord. 

I will post a little of the psalm each day so as not to overwhelm! The psalmist not only writes truth but suggests: 

Psalm 37:5-7 - Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass. He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him; do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass. 

Psalm 37, Day 1

Psalm 37 tells us just what we all can do if/when the cares of the world get the better of us. We know we live in disturbing times. (Some will view this disturbance one way, others another, depending on where their allegiance is: with God or the world.) 

Do you trust in HIM alone? I know that God is in control, that He knows the beginning from the end, He absolutely knows the hearts of man. He has stated that by nature, apart from Him, man’s heart is geared to do evil. He will return to bring His wrath on evil man and the righteous will be saved. By knowing God’s views and submitting to Him now we can be counted among the righteous. We have been both warned and promised! Our only hope is in the Lord. 

So, I will post a little of the psalm each day so as not to overwhelm! The psalmist not only writes truth but suggests: 

Psalm 37:1-4 - Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.

No Matter What

2Timothy 4:7 - I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Paul, who had been known as Saul of Tarsus, a converted persecutor of Christians, was nearing the end of his ministry. At the time of this letter’s writing to Timothy he was in prison and the verse above and the verse at the end were believed to be his surmising of his soon death...being martyred.
He had been encouraging Timothy, to whom this letter was written, in his own ministry.

You see, whether as an individual or church or ministry, we are called to run the race, to persevere, stay strong in Christ. We will have times when we can grow weary and when we may need or are given, by God, a time to rest. Then it’s time to get back to our work, whatever He has called us to do. And we were so reminded again in church yesterday that: 1) we are all necessary within a church. 2)
not all of our ministries will be the same, like pastors or elders or deacons (how strange would a physical body be if it were all thumbs! 3) we are not all equipped the same; like above, we will be at different levels in our walk and talents and not equal, but vital just the same.

In a race like any marathon or the Olympics, generally there will only be one winner. Some may quit because they are not strong enough and just get tired. Again, not all are at the same level. But there can be many who will finish the race. Finishing is still an achievement. Putting this in perspective with regard to God: I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14)

Some won’t even start this race. It may be considered too hard. I think about what scripture says about the things of the world and how meaningless life is without God. Solomon suggested this in Ecclesiastes when he said all was meaningless, a grasping for the wind; all vanity...and in the end...Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil. (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14) 

Hard but true words. This earth should be considered temporary and heaven the home to look forward to. But that home comes with a price...devotion to God, following Him no matter what the cost, no matter what friends think, no matter the scorns and sneers and disagreements received. No matter what...running the race and enduring to the end.

I think about all those who were persecuted for their faith in the Bible. Then I think about the martyrs in today’s world. And then I think about Jesus who died for us, the persecution and suffering He endured. If He could endure, we certainly can, through His strength and His words of truth and peace. Then there's the fact that there will be a greater reward for all who have followed and endured. The greatest reward one can receive. One that this world cannot promise but Jesus can.

I will add, the shooting in a small town, in a small Texas church can be an example of enduring. We don’t know why God allowed this. We can know that if these people continue to have faith and trust in God they will be able to endure. God never told us that our life in Christ would be easy. We live in an evil world. We won’t see the results unless we trust in Him now but Jesus says this: These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)

Thank You, Lord. What a blessing to know You today. My great hope for my future. Praise You!

2Timothy 4:8 - Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.

Out of Heaven and on Earth

Deuteronomy 4:36-37 - Out of heaven He let you hear His voice, that He might instruct you; on earth He showed you His great fire, and you heard His words out of the midst of the fire. And because He loved your fathers, therefore He chose their descendants after them; and He brought you out of Egypt with His presence, with His mighty power...

Our God is amazing and awesome. He loves us all, even if we don't know or believe it or understand how. It is said He knows all about us so He knows any struggle we might be in the midst of. Egypt is a type of the world. The world can bring us trouble. But God can bring us out of it! Hallelujah!

About seventeen years ago His great fire for a moment in time surrounded me. I heard God's voice! It wasn't His audible voice but was through the words of a pastor. He was speaking as though directly to me but I know it could have been for others also. It was loud and clear in my spirit and seemed so incredibly personal to me, speaking to a trial of life where I so needed guidance/help. And I responded that very moment, was immediately filled (though I didn't know it, just sensed something) with His Holy Spirit upon my realization I could not do a thing, but Jesus Christ could. I was empowered immediately to receive Christ. I didn't even know what had just happened.

Trials of life draw us closer to God. When we have all we need and are comfortable with life it's easy to not need Him. We rely on ourselves or the things of the world. If you need His guidance now, ask Him to show Himself. He is able...to bring us up out of a pit, into His light to know His truth, forgive our sins after repenting of them, and transform our lives. But we must be willing to submit. He brings life, refreshing, peace, joy, hope and more. We cannot hope in anything but Him. Nothing or no one brings life but Him. 

When we say we have faith or hope, what comes after that? Do we say our faith is in Jesus or God...or some vague thing or nothing at all? If you can't put Jesus at the end of that phrase, your faith and hope are not in Him. Faith can only be in Jesus Christ.

We do not come to God on our own. He reveals Himself to us. Our salvation comes from Him alone. We do nothing to cause it but to receive Christ into our lives. We cannot boast of what we have done but we certainly can give all the glory to God. In the midst of the fire, He calls. So it was, when you heard the voice from the midst of the darkness, while the mountain was burning with fire, that you came near to me, all the heads of your tribes and your elders. And you said: "Surely the LORD our God has shown us His glory and His greatness, and we have heard His voice from the midst of the fire. We have seen this day that God speaks with man; yet he still lives.” (Deuteronomy‬ ‭5:23-24‬)

Hebrews‬ ‭12:25‬ ‭- See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven...

The Good News Is...

Philippians‬ ‭4:8‬ ‭- 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.”

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To prevent the things of the world from causing chaos in our lives, we must stay focused on the things of God. Without this understanding we will fall into one of two categories. Either we will see the problems we all face with little hope and much despair or we will bury our heads in the sand, turning to things that will distract us from thinking about what we see or are experiencing.

There's another alternative. What I have suggested, what God suggests...that we stay focused on Him. Stay focused on His promises. Stay focused on what we know He has told us will happen but what He will do if we endure with Him to the end. He is the good news we need to hear about. There is only one true gospel message we can put all our hope, faith and trust in. He is what it is all about. It's not about me or politicians or businessmen or rock stars or Hollywood or sports figures or anyone else.

As I have occasionally tuned in to the Republican National Convention, I am often reminded of this. I have to look to God. We might hear things that sound good but how do we know for sure? Remember, this is man's agenda. It is about what man wants. Some of the things might be what Jesus wants, but Jesus plays no role in any of this...unless the candidate is a believer and follows Christ. 

We live in a very messed up world where evil is perceived as good and good evil. Only God knows the real intent of anyone's heart. And no matter who gets elected as our next president, God already today knows this. He will use this person to exact His will, just as He did in the Old Testament. There were kings who did what was right in the eyes of God and those who did evil. The good ones brought blessings to the people. The others did not. God's sole purpose is redeeming souls! If He has to use our country's leaders, He will. God get our attention by allowing difficulties. Through them we might just turn back to Him. 

In the Old Testament His people, Israel, were released from Egyptian captivity by His hand. They recognized it...for awhile...then forgot and went back to their old ways. So God withdrew and allowed enemies to win battles with them. Israel again prayed for God to help them and He did. This happened repeatedly. 

Lord, let this Light of the world be evident in these days. If things do not improve in this world, perhaps people's hope would if they knew the God of all creation...if people would humble themselves, call out to You. Not everyone has to be troubled. You would prefer that none would perish. Let more meditate on the goodness of Your Word and its promises. 

We are at a time when God is needed more than ever in this world filled with hatred and violence. Even in this country with our own 
share of the same. If we want to make America great again we need to humble ourselves before our God and ask for His help. Man alone is nothing. Will we see either of these happen? Not so sure. 

I have seen all the protesting, flag burning and unrest. Most of the time these people don't really know what they want. Here's what God has to say about that: The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings. (Jeremiah‬ ‭17:9-10‬)  People sow what they reap. 

I love that the Lord has promises. They are promises that will not be broken. They are for everyone willing to humbly submit to Him and call Him Lord. He is the only hope. Through Him we are free. It may not seem like it now, but when all is said and done, it will all make extraordinary sense to those who have trusted Him. 

Exodus‬ ‭13:3 - And Moses said to the people: “Remember this day in which you went out of Egypt, out of the house of bondage; for by strength of hand the LORD brought you out of this place. ...”

Loving our Enemies

Matthew 24:12-14 - And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.

Ugh. As I read this scripture I contemplated the thought that has been repeatedly going through my head these days, Lord, I know we are to love as You do, but I can't do this without Your help. We are called to love our enemies but when they wreak havoc on innocent people, how do I do that? How do I speak Your word in love like You do? You used words of offense at times. You spoke directly, without sugar-coating Your words. You pointed out sin. And You spoke the truth. Everything You have said is truth. 

The part that bothered me in the verse above was the love of many will grow cold. I wondered if that applied to believers as well as unbelievers. I can see unbelievers growing angrier with enemies or governments or people who some would call idiots. We can so easily spout angry words.

Quickly, though, the thought came...what if this refers to believers? (It does not.) But, might it not be possible? If we do not maintain our focus on Him, couldn't this happen? It's why it's important to keep our minds planted in His Word. And then, aren't we also to love what God loves and hate what He hates? That's to be done with righteous judgment. How many of us truly have righteous ways of judging? Do I?? 

I spent the day with a friend this week and at lunch we talked about how we believe we are in some critical days. God is wanting to prepare His bride, His church, those who believe His return is imminent and possibly soon. He says He wants a bride without spot or wrinkle (Ephesians 5). He prunes us to remove unwanted, unnecessary faults or sins, that we might become spot and wrinkle-free, laundered, as it were, by His blood. If we reject the pruning, we basically reject Him. If we are not being pruned, well, maybe we aren't right with Him. 

So, this love thing has been cropping up a lot in my thoughts, along with criticism and judgment. They go hand in hand in hand! And yet, like I said before, Jesus spoke words that were difficult to hear. He spoke the truth in love. How did He do that? Was it His demeanor or a gentle voice? I can't help but think all a person had to do was look at Him to recognize a difference about Him. I think about if He were to enter my house how I would react. I think I could not stand but fall face down before Him.

This wasn't where I had planned to go with all this but it is linked...loving our enemies (and neighbors) and terrorism. Terrorism is defined as the use of violent acts to frighten people in an area as a way of trying to achieve a political goal, or as a means of coercion. (Webster) There is no place in this world free from terror. We can be angry with the senseless loss of lives if that happens, but we must also realize that these people, our enemies, are as lost as we were at one time, without Christ. They need Him too.

The good thing about knowing Christ is we do not need to be fearful. We will be disgusted, but we will also be constantly reminded that what we see happening in this world is to be expected; it has been prophesied.  The Word has shown us what we need to know and understand. He has and will reveal what is true to those who want to know. He will reveal His promises to those who believe, trust and have faith in Him. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God (Romans 10:17)...and faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)

And we who endure in these beliefs till the end will be saved...from not only the terror in the world but saved from our own destructive sin. There is a greater terror coming. It's one that happens when we are not secure in our belief about Jesus. I hate to imagine what that would be like. It's why knowing Jesus is so important. It's why I continue these blogs. In case someone "hears." The Word says there will be scoffers (2Peter 3:3). I don't mind. I know where my hope and peace comes from. I do what Jesus calls us to do.

There is a very real presence of evil in this world. We are all born into it, live it and sometimes die in it. If we know Jesus Christ, we can be secure in Him. Evil will always be around. So will Jesus! He is always available to someone who wants to know Him and trust Him.

John 14:1,27 - Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Psalm 19:7-11 - The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; the statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them Your servant is warned, and in keeping them there is great reward. 

I was reviewing a blog from six years ago. I came across this paragraph:

All I know, and it's something that is generally understood by those in relationship with Christ, is we have to know where and who we are, what or Who we stand for and what we as believers in Christ are called to do. We need to be ready with the words to speak when others just don't get what's going on. We need to be strong and secure in our relationship with the Lord first and then help others to see where our strength lies. We have to be willing to share what we know...be a light in the darkness of the world. Jesus was the Light that helped me to see and part of our responsibility is to shine that same light to others. 

This was six years ago. It seems to be a good starting point today! We are seeing uncomfortable and disturbing things occurring in this world. There are uprisings and a so-called need for tolerance for just about everything under the sun. We have a nightmare of a presidential election looming before us. Neither candidate, nor party, at this point, has what this country really needs. 

So...my hope is in God. He raises up and brings down kings. Jesus is the King of kings. Life without that understanding will appear to be so out of control. God…is not the author of confusion. God…brings to light the things hidden in darkness. God…is our salvation. No man or government will settle all that’s going on in this world, in our nation, without first relying on God. Sorry, it’s true! So it ain't gonna happen unless the world completely changes their thinking and I don't think that will happen either.

I stand on the Word of God. I have some understanding of what it says. I know that we are all sinners. I know that government cannot save us, money cannot save us, giving in to and tolerating everyone’s whims will not save us. There is a vast amount of bad in this world, some of which is believed to be good. It appears there is no structure anymore. 

• Life is about self, my wants and needs. 
• If it feels good, do it. 
• Cheat when you have to or if you feel like it. 
• Anything goes. 
• The majority is always right.

Boy, what a far cry from what God says. 

• Life is about dying to self, selfish needs, to follow God (Ephesians 4:22, Luke 9:23)
• You will reap what you sow, a way that seems right, but...(Proverbs 16:25)
• Lies, cheating will be exposed (Proverbs 12:19)
• If we adhere to God’s instructions goodness and life abound. (Psalm 19:7-14)
• It is foolishness to think we are smarter than God. (Proverbs 19:3, 1Corinthians 3:19)

I see all that’s happening in the world through what God's Word has shown us. Every time we hear of another terrorist attack I think of  Matthew 24:3 where Jesus’ disciples ask when the sign of His coming will be. His answer is it all starts with wars and rumors of wars…nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom and a beginning of sorrows. 

Aren’t we seeing people rising against people? Sorrows in the form of anger and rebellion? What for? Religious rights, power, and sorry to say, for the right of anyone to do what they desire, be who they desire or say what they desire. Truth sayers are looked down upon while the others are elevated. It’s just a matter of time when truth will come forth. And it’s all part of the very plan of God. 

I sound angry and disgusted. Partly true, but partly I'm sad that many don't know or recognize or even want to know what God's Word says. I stand firm. Some day I believe some people’s eyes will be opened. They will wonder why this is all happening. Hopefully they will know where to turn for real answers. Those answers won’t always be what they want to hear, but maybe some will come around. 

The Bible has clearly shown us what will come. It’s why it was written. If we follow this Book, know this Book and believe it, none of what’s happening should be either frightening or a surprise. Those in Christ just keep plugging along hoping changes of heart and mind will occur.

The world is very dark. But there is a very real Light, one who exposes all darkness, who is real, tells the truth, strengthens, comforts, protects. His name is Jesus Christ. It’s where I put my trust. I see the world growing darker and more corrupt in so many ways. Jesus is the only Person left I cling to for hope, truth and the realization that someday, in Him, through Him, there is a better life for me and anyone else who proclaims His name. 

Some people consider the things of this world of much higher significance than the things of God. As the Bible says, Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ. (Philippians 3:8)  I await the Lord.  I am content with the things I have but I know that much better awaits ahead. 

I’ve learned this through a relationship with Christ, through His Word, through His testimony, His commandments, statutes and laws. I know that without Him I would be nothing. I know that I am not where I should be. I also know that I trust Him. I trust Him with my life. I trust Him with my future. I trust that at the moment I need Him most, He will be there. I know that I could not fathom a life of trial without knowing Him. That day will come. His grace will be sufficient for each moment. 

Ask me and I will tell you what I know. Ask me how I found my hope. Ask me if I mean what I say. Ask me what the disciples asked Jesus about when He will return. My prayer is that the Lord would give me a voice other than a blog. I pray for the opportunities to share. 

May our hearts be much affected with the excellence of the word of God; and much affected with the evil of sin, and the danger we are in of it, and the danger we are in by it. - Matthew Henry

Psalm 18:30 - As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.

My Confession

Hebrews‬ ‭10:23‬ ‭- Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.

I started this blog this morning after reading this scripture before church. Finished it this afternoon. I say this because of the lyrics to a song I posted at the end. They ended up fitting so well.

How can I not hold fast the confession of my hope? I confessed Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior 17 years ago. I confess I have strayed now and then but I always came back. The (reverent) fear of the Lord draws me back. I'm drawn because His Spirit reminds me of what there is on the other side of life on earth, both the good promises and the bad ones. 

Holding fast to my confession started with a confession, too. I confessed ...with [my] mouth the Lord Jesus and believe[d] in [my] heart that God has raised Him from the dead...and I was saved. (‭‭Romans‬ ‭10:9‬)  This was a special moment. There was a change that took place in my heart and that change grew.  I had been touched by the Spirit of God, no doubt about it.

Have you ever done this? Did you confess Him and was it heartfelt, not out of obligation? More importantly, did it change you? Is God more important to you today than other things? Do you take time to be with Him, talk to Him, request His strength and wisdom for each day, thank Him for what you have, being content in the process? Is your Bible handy? Do you read it? 

Jesus must be confessed and considered daily. He must be so central in your life that when you forget to address Him you feel disjointed. How do I know this? I have been guilty. 

We need to confess our sins daily to Him. Yes, to Him. We 
all have sins to confess...daily. If we do not confess our sins daily I believe that is yet another sin...one of pride, believing we have 
no sin. The Word has words on that. Oooh, I was only going to post one verse, but I need to do more: If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. (1John‬ ‭1:8-10‬) Honestly, I think pride is the #1 sin. 

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I confess that Jesus is the Son of God, that He came for you and me to die for our sins so that one day, when/if we confess Him and profess our faith in Him, He will cleanse us of all unrighteousness and we will be called children of God. Some people may think I've taken this a little too far. 

If professing Him as Lord and Savior was good enough for the disciples, it's good enough for me. It's an amazing thing that He does. Others may wonder what happened or why I changed, but 
the truth is, God is the one who did the change. People planted seeds in my life, others watered those seeds, but God ultimately brought the change in me. (1Corinthians 3:6)  He still is in the business of doing this. 

I can say He has saved me. He is the hope I cling to. When all else fails, He remains and doesn't change. Here are those lyrics I mentioned from I Still Serve an Amazing God:

I still serve an amazing God

He's been with me every mile my weary feet have trod 

He still cares, He still hears, 

He's still mending broken hearts and drying tears 

This old world is bound to change, but I'm glad I know the One who always stays the same 

And my song will ever be: Amazing God, You're still amazing me.

Matthew‬ ‭10:32-33‬ ‭- Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in 
heaven.

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Titus 1:1-3 - Paul, a bondservant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect and the acknowledgment of the truth which accords with godliness, in hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began, but has in due time manifested His word through preaching, which was committed to me according to the commandment of God our Savior...

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Paul was addressing Titus, a fellow believer and follower of Christ. These letters Paul wrote to various people were to encourage, admonish or strengthen the addressee. In this case it was to build up believers' faith and their knowledge of the truth...in what Paul preached...simply, Jesus Christ. 

Paul started off with a bit of an introduction, as he usually did. He called himself a bondservant of Christ. If we are followers we are all called bondservants. If we are in Christ we take on the attitude of one willing to allow our God to direct our lives. This is not in the sense that we are puppets but we allow His Spirit to guide us to do the right thing, the best thing. Another way to put it is He must increase, but I must decrease. (John‬ ‭3:30)‬ ‭ Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” (Luke‬ ‭9:23)  It's safe to say this is where God loses people. 

Faith in God and having truth of His Word are part of a godly nature. As is explained next, with these we can have the hope of eternal life, which God promised us right from the start. If we believe all He says is true we do well. There's no picking and choosing scripture. It comes as an entire truth. The Word was written to teach, rebuke, correct and train in righteousness. (2Timothy 3:16)

The last part of this scripture shows that Paul preached these words, as did Jesus and any other follower of the Lord. Sometimes Jesus' words can be hard to swallow. Might I say this may be conviction. A person might not be adhering to these words. Are we ever perfect? I know we are not. But if we disregard something the Bible teaches as true, we are sinning. But God can use these words to change our thoughts, reveal truth.

We are called to trust and believe that God's words and His Word (and Jesus the Word) are all meant for our good. I listened to a sermon the other day about a specific sin. The pastor illustrated a box. Within that box were God's specific standards regarding the subject. It clearly defined what the Word says. Anything outside that box was sin. That's why there is a Bible. That is our "box," our boundaries.

Still, none of us is ever perfect but we should be striving to adhere to God's commandments and all other proverbs or parables He has chosen to help us. A parent scolds and sets boundaries for a child as protection. Think of God, our Father doing the same through His Word. If we are not following them we are as disobedient as any strong-willed child. 

If we follow Christ, we have become His children. What a privilege that is. If we are proud of our Father, in awe of Him, we want to talk...or write...about Him. We want to share who He is and what He has done for us and what He can do. We want to edify and bring hope to others. We want to glorify Him in our lives. When we are obedient to Him, He truly does lavish us with good.

Being a bondservant is not a bad thing. If you ever worked for someone who was great to work for, had integrity and honesty, didn't you want to do the best you could? Haven't you spoken of this employer? Haven't you even been amazed at how great it was to be part of his team? That's how I feel about God. I'm so thrilled that He cared enough to tap at my spirit that I would recognize Him and receive Him. But this is better than any job...this is as permanent as I am willing to allow it to be. As long as I remain grounded in His Word and strive to learn and change, I have that hope for my future. 

Titus‬ ‭2:11-14‬ ‭- For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.

Blessed is the Man

Psalm 1:1-3 - Blessed is the man 

Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, 

Nor stands in the path of sinners, 

Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; 

But his delight is in the law of the LORD, 

And in His law he meditates day and night. 

He shall be like a tree 

Planted by the rivers of water, 

That brings forth its fruit in its season, 

Whose leaf also shall not wither; 

And whatever he does shall prosper.

After our last Bible Study Fellowship gathering Wednesday, we were asked what we would study during the summer months. I have decided the Psalms. 

The first Psalm says it all. It's short. Read it in its entirety. Blessed is anyone who reads the Word, knows the basics of the Word, meditates on it and obeys it. We won't understand everything, but the basics are pretty understandable!

I had lunch with a friend yesterday. We got to talking about the state of the world and how despite all we see happening we have a sense of peace. We know, from the Word, these things must take place before Jesus returns. (Matthew 24) Ten years ago, even less, could we have imagined some of what is now acceptable? Some say times change and we must change with it. But God never changes and neither does His Word.

While evil has replaced good and while we shake our heads at it all, that peace that passes understanding lies deep in many souls. Do we want to see these things happen? No. Will we ever get used to it? No. But we know it was prophesied in the Bible thousands of years ago and it can be believed. How can one live with this peace?

Blessed are those who delight in His Word. There is a scripture relating to the Jewish people as they began their crossing over into the land that God had promised them. Basically, know God, fear Him, trust and obey Him and He will prolong life.
And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. ‭‭(Deuteronomy‬ ‭6:6-9‬)

When we know His Word today it will come to us for any situation tomorrow. It may be a promise, a conviction, exhortation, command, or comfort. We will be blessed, even in conviction, because God is wanting to do something good in us. There is a wealth of knowledge in this Book. A wealth of examples and truths. The Jewish men would bind small boxes to their foreheads (frontlets or phylacteries). These boxes held text of the laws as a reminder to keep them. We have Bibles to do the same. Is yours readily available? Do words from His Book come to mind? Are they written on the doorposts of your heart? 

The greatest truth you will find and delight in in His Word is that God sent His Son Jesus...He came down from heaven to be among us...so He could die that we might have life. Blessed are you if you know this and have received Christ because you have heard the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

He will prolong our lives...we will be like those trees planted by the rivers of water. Jesus is our Living Water. There is a tree of life awaiting those who will look to Jesus. The prosperity mentioned is not of this world but is in the Treasure of heaven, Jesus. The Treasure that has been offered to us to bring us life. Blessed are you if you know and understand this because it comes from the Word God has given us. 

If you recognize the unsettled lifestyle these days, seek God. You will learn why it is as it is, what to do. Instead of fear, we can have hope. We can have that peace that passes all understanding. From a well known hymn, It Is Well With My Soul:

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,

When sorrows like sea billows roll;

Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,

It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Deuteronomy‬ ‭6:1-2 ‭- Now this is the commandment, and these are the statutes and judgments which the LORD your God has commanded to teach you, that you may observe them in the land which you are crossing over to possess, that you may fear the LORD your God, to keep all His statutes and His commandments which I command you, you and your son and your grandson, all the days of your life, and that your days may be prolonged.