Rejection Of Need For Repentance & Redemption Of One's Soul

Consider this a different kind of blog post. I want to make some statements and then ask some brave readers to give examples in the comment section. With your agreement to participate (please make a note that it is O.K. with you to have your comment re-published in this post), I will copy and paste your comments into this original blog post. Also, feel free to share a link to a blog post that you may have written that coincides with this subject matter.

If you just want to sound off (please, no cursing, swearing or taking the name of the Lord in vain) on the topic, please indicate that you only want your comment to remain as a comment.

My statement:

There appears to be a recurring theme of rejection by the liberal, progressive left towards recognizing the need for repentance of sin and thus redemption of one's soul through God.

Take almost any issue heralded by the left as "good," which at the same time is opposed by Conservative Christians who follow Jesus Christ and His Word, the Bible, and you will see that the rejection of the need for repentance of sin and the rejection of the need for redemption of one's life and eternal soul is one of the big reasons why the left will inevitably always clash with the right.

Agree or disagree?

Care to share some examples?

Christine

The Word of God -

Ephesians 1:7 - 23

Eph 1:7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;


Eph 1:8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence;


Eph 1:9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:


Eph 1:10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; [even] in him:


Eph 1:11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:


Eph 1:12 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.


Eph 1:13 In whom ye also [trusted], after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,


Eph 1:14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.


Eph 1:15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,


Eph 1:16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;


Eph 1:17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:


Eph 1:18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,


Eph 1:19 And what [is] the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,


Eph 1:20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set [him] at his own right hand in the heavenly [places],


Eph 1:21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:


Eph 1:22 And hath put all [things] under his feet, and gave him [to be] the head over all [things] to the church,


Eph 1:23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

Memorial Day Memories and Messages

Today is May 30, 2010. It has been fifteen years since my dad passed away (at the young age of 72) from mesothelioma - an inoperable form of lung cancer that is usually contracted as a result of unprotected exposure to asbestos. He was a wonderful dad. A tireless and determined provider for our family. As a brave World War II veteran, he was a member of The Greatest Generation.

You can read about my Memorial Day Memories from 2008 by clicking this link. Included in that post is the account of the salvation experience of my dad while visiting him back in January, 1995. The experience resulted in a miraculous event that you can read about in my post True Ministry.

The following is a partial list of some of the Memorial Day essays and tributes written and shared by several blog roll authors. More to share tomorrow.

Christine

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If You Enjoy Freedom, Thank the Military
posted by Phil at The Right Side of Life - 2 hours ago
www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2RwRi2TjA0 A patriotic tribute (via US4Palin): It is the veteran, not the preacher, who has given us freedom of religion. It is the veteran, not the reporter, who has given us free...

The Meaning of Memorial Day
posted by evil@evilconservativeonline.com (Evil Conservative) at Evil Conservative Radio - 2 hours ago
What does Memorial Day mean to you? I always think of John 15:13, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." At any rate, here's another great Memorial Day piece th...

Sarah Palin's Memorial Day Message
posted by evil@evilconservativeonline.com (Evil Conservative) at Evil Conservative Radio - 3 hours ago
Speaking of leadership, you know who I think has it in spades? Thanks, Mrs. Palin, for having the class our elected President is lacking. I think we could do a heck of a lot worse for a President that you....

Memorial day weekend, Lest we forget, Citizen Wells open thread, May 30, 2010

posted by citizenwells at Citizen WElls - 16 hours ago
Memorial day weekend, Lest we forget, Citizen Wells open thread I know more about ancestral participation in the American revolution than I do of the Civil War. However, I discovered the obituary of an anc...

Memorial Day 2010 - Ronald Reagan Speech at Arlington National Cemetery
posted by maggiesnotebook@cox.net (Maggie Thornton) at Maggie's Notebook - 1 day ago
Memorial Day is set aside to express our deepest gratitude to those, who for the love of our country, accepted death. The video below is narrated by Ronald Reagan. Read about Arlington National Cemetery...

Hat Tips to all links.

Some Thoughts About Haiti and Theodicy

Bill Muehlenberg of "Culture Watch" has an excellent post up entitled Haiti and Theodicy There are a lot of good Christian commentaries on the blogs about the tragic earthquake in Haiti, including guesses as to God's role in allowing it to happen. Perhaps what is most important is what we can all learn from such a disaster. Bill's post is one of the best!

Excerpt:

Atheists will simply use this most recent tragedy as another attempt to say, “See, I told you so – of course there is no God”. They will seek to offer this disaster as more evidence that the biblical conception of a benevolent deity is untenable and must be utterly rejected.

This of course is an age-old debate, and it is unlikely that either side will willingly cede any ground here, or offer any new insights or arguments. And one can rightly ask whether either side should be seeking to score cheap points here in the face of such unmitigated human suffering.

But like the earlier quake, such disasters inevitably bring out profound questioning, from both believers and non-believers alike. Thus we have an obligation to try to make sense of all this, at least on the basis of our own particular worldview.

That certainly describes what has been going on in the comment thread of my original post about the devastating earthquake in Haiti! Be sure to go over and read Muehlenberg's entire essay.

Here is a copy of my comment there (still in moderation as of 6:34 a.m. PT):

People at my blog have been arguing over God’s role in this disaster. Your post is one of the best that I have read so far. Thank you so much for sharing it with us.

One Christian writer once summed up that the deaths of Christian believers from disasters (or any other cause of death for that matter) can be viewed as being “taken away from evil.” We know that Haiti has suffered from decades of evil influence.

We also know that God is a God of redemption. Being reconciled back to God the Father through His Son, Jesus Christ, is the most important decision a person can make on this earth. The Bible tells us to “redeem the time for the days are evil.”

The lives lost and the suffering of those who are injured, hungry, thirsty, and without shelter is truly tragic, heartbreaking, and terribly sad. But each time we experience such things, we know how God the Father must have felt when His precious Son was injured, hungry, thirsty, severely beaten, spat upon, cursed at, humiliated and despised by those whom he came to save.

But what did Jesus say about them?

“Forgive them Father, for they know not what they do.”

They couldn’t murder him. He voluntarily laid down his own life “as a ransom for many.” Of course, Jesus had the added horrid experience of taking the sins of the entire world upon himself so that we could be forgiven and reconciled back unto God; a burden that believers will never have to face because of Christ’s finished work at the cross of Calvary. His resurrection from the dead is proof that He is who he says he is and He keeps his promises to those who are called by His name.

Redemption often comes out of suffering and tragedies more than when people are comfortable. Many of those who survive the Haiti earthquake of 2010 will receive the life-giving eternal message of the Gospel. Many people who are watching this tragedy unfold may re-think their current status of spiritual oblivion and will likely receive the Gospel message that they may have rejected in the past. That is the true and everlasting comfort that will come to those who have been affected by this event of natural evil.

As commenter Ewan McDonald had stated in this thread, “the length of our lives in this life is in comparison a ‘vapour.’ What matters is where we will spend eternity, not how many years we get in this life.”

More lives will be saved, spiritually speaking, as a result of this horrible devastation. Those who probably would not have been given (or accepting of) the Gospel will change their attitudes, and thus their eternal destination. That is God “redeeming the time for the days are evil.”

Hat Tip:

Culture Watch

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Update:

Joel Rosenberg has a post up that reminds us of what will occur during the end times via biblical prophecy:

Joel Rosenberg Blog: BIBLE SAYS ISRAEL, WORLD TO FACE MAJOR EARTHQUAKES IN LAST DAYS: Israel not prepared
Bible prophecies tell us to expect multiple severe earthquakes in the last days.

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Update:

Bill Muehlenberg has posted my comment and replied! He wrote:

Bill Muehlenberg
16.1.10 / 1am Thanks Christine

Yes sadly many people do not think about spiritual matters or the state of their soul until some tragedy strikes, wiping off the gloss of this world, and reminding them of eternal verities. We need to pray for all those affected, for their physical condition as well as for their spiritual condition.

Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch

Well said and I completely agree!

Help is on the way, but I have been heard via the news that it has become difficult to get the food and supplies to the victims. I pray that the distribution of food, water, medical supplies and shelter will get to the people ASAP.

Revisiting Hal Lindsey's 2007 Article

Interest in the end of the world has been stirred up once again due to the new movie "2012." Over the past several weeks, my Histats website statistics page has shown an increasing amount of searches for "Hal Lindsey 2012" along with similar search titles. Today I decided to see where Talk Wisdom popped up on the search. To my complete surprise, it was listed as the first link in a Google search!

The Talk Wisdom post contains just a short excerpt from Hal Lindsey's WorldNetDaily article that was written back in August, 2007.

If you read through the comment thread at the Talk Wisdom link above, you will notice that a blogger named "Aaron" took me to task for agreeing with Lindsey's article. He perceived the following portion from Lindsey's original article at WorldNetDaily in 2007 to mean something different than how I perceived what Lindsey was actually saying:

We live in much greater stress and anxiety because of the "exponential rate of change" that is accelerating in our world. The world into which I was born ceased to exist a long time ago. But the change was gradual enough to allow me time to adjust. The world into which people were born in the year 2000 is already disappearing. It will not exist by 2012.

I think that commentator "Aaron" saw the statement "it will not exist by 2012" as a statement that meant that Lindsey believed that the entire world would not exist by that date. However, that does not fit with the context of what Lindsey stated next:

Just try to figure what the impact of the following facts will be. There are 3,000 new books published every single day. We've gone from information overload to information explosion. More new information will be generated this year than in the previous five thousand years.

The way I perceived what Lindsay was saying is that the specific way that the world existed in the year 2000 will not exist by 2012.

Look at the huge changes our nation has experienced due to the election of 2008! Of course, Lindsey could not have predicted (and didn't try to) who would win the election. However, our nation has ALREADY experienced that "exponential change" that Lindsey predicted for the future year of 2012!

Now, the following paragraphs are speculation, on my part. However, if you will allow me to think out loud for a moment, we could see how prophetically accurate Lindsey really was in his prediction for "exponential change" in the year 2012.

While walking my dog this morning, several thoughts occurred to me.

1. I thought about a post I read (will locate links later - time constraints right now) over at RepubX that claimed that the voting machines in many states can be rigged to achieve a positive outcome for the party already in power. This could affect both the 2010 congressional elections as well as the 2012 presidential election.

Let's say that by 2012, the American people want to vote out the current administration. However, the rigged voting machines keep Obama in office. Is there any doubt that there would be a civil war here in America??

2. I also thought that perhaps the 2012 election would include a three-way race between Obama, Palin (as an Independent), and a Republican candidate. Perhaps the split between Palin and the Republican candidate would give Obama his second term. I absolutely SHUDDER to think what American will look like if Obama stays in office. The nightmare that we are currently experiencing will look like a fairy tale compared to the tyranny that would be inflicted upon us in his second term.

3. Before the 2008 election, I read an intriguing comment by a Christian writer over at The Nein Blog (hope I can find it again) that contained a prediction that George W. Bush will be the last American President. If it is true that Obama was ineligible to be POTUS, as many of the lawsuit plaintiffs have claimed, then that could be an accurate and true claim - especially if my fourth comment of speculation (God forbid!) came true.

4. With the public becoming increasingly alarmed at Obama, his creepy czars, and his terrible policies (plus the fact that Congress will most likely [hopefully] change its majority to Conservative Republicans in 2010), it seems to me that he could never be re-elected legitimately again. In 2010 or 2011, Congress will investigate his British citizenship and see that he is not a natural born citizen (see sidebar for information about this). What such a discovery could lead to is any one's guess. However, if we still see the refusal of the liberal leftist courts to take the case, Obama and his cohorts would have to rig the election (with far more powerful methods than ACORN and SEIU in 2008) or just basically declare himself as a tyrannical dictator - similar to what Hugo Chavez did in Venezuela.

*End of speculation comments.*

The outrage that most of the public feels with Eric Holder's announcement of trials for 9/11 terrorists in a N.Y. civil court - rather than through the proper channels of military tribunals - might just be the straw that broke the camel's back.

There was a good back and forth commentary between O'Reilly and Karl Rove on The O'Reilly Factor last night. Bill asked why the Bush Administration didn't push through the military hearings on the terrorists. Karl said that the ACLU lawyers held up such proceedings. Now, with a radical liberal-leftist administration in there, the ACLU has finally gotten it's way to move the trials into civilian court.

What a travesty of justice!! 96% of people in a Fox News poll said that they thought this was the wrong move by the Attorney General!!

Back to Lindsey's article.

Even though it has been only two years and three months since the writing of Lindsey's article, what he predicted in it is already coming true!

Here is the rest of the 2007 article:

The technical knowledge explosion is governed by Moore's Law, which says computers will get twice as smart every 18 to 24 months. It takes four years to get a technical degree. By the time a student graduates, his education is virtually obsolete.

The prophet Daniel was given visions of the world as it would exist in the days leading to the Second Coming of Christ. The Apostle John was time-traveled forward to be an actual eyewitness of the final days of this age. Unfortunately, both men also suffered from the same communication difficulties. There were no words in their vocabularies to describe what they witnessed.

How could a man of the first century A.D. who has never seen a machine describe the technical marvels of the 21st century? John was told to write about what he saw. I think he did an inspired job.

Today, Daniel and Revelation are among the most discussed and debated books within the whole canon of Scripture. More expositions have been written in the past 10 years focusing on Daniel and Revelation than probably any other books in the Bible. It's as if the words of these books were sealed up until the time appointed.

Even 60 years ago, most of what Daniel predicted here didn't make sense. These things certainly did not make sense to the generations prior to the 20th century. Daniel, directly taught by Heaven's highest angel, Michael, said as much. Daniel asked the archangel, "As for me, I heard but could not understand; so I said, 'My lord, what will be the outcome of these events?'"

Note very carefully the archangel Michael's reply, "Go your way, Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed up until the end time. Many will be purged, purified and refined, but the wicked will act wickedly; and none of the wicked will understand, but those who have insight will understand."

This was the second time Michael told Daniel that the words were to be sealed until the time of the last days generation to whom they were addressed. The archangel concludes with special instructions to Daniel: "But as for you, Daniel, conceal – or encrypt – these words and seal up the book until the time of the end; many will go [travel] back and forth, and knowledge will increase."

Knowledge has greatly increased. And as we've seen will increase even more. Also, just as predicted in this verse, the limitations of time and space to travel have been exponentially decreased.

This has unlocked the encrypted prophetic messages that were intended for this generation. Current events have unlocked them further. All of these things point to the fact that the Lord Jesus Christ is coming very soon.

Don't put off your decision any longer. Time is rapidly running out for you to get ready to meet Him when He comes. Just recognize you are a sinner, and accept the gift of pardon He purchased for you in His own blood. He is coming, and soon.

Whether you are ready or not.

Hat Tip:

WorldNetDaily: Hal Lindsey's "The Words of Daniel Finally Unsealed.


For more about Hal Lindsey and his writings see his website:

The Hal Lindsey Report

Has not God Made Foolish the Wisdom of this World?

Have you ever genuinely thought about and contemplated the meaning of the following Bible verses?

1Cr 1:27 But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty;


1Cr 1:28 and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are,

The current political climate in the United States of America demonstrates the truth of those verses. Anyone who has been paying close attention sees this. Tomorrow, I will post about commentary that has appeared on news channels and in a major weekly magazine that will show you just how "foolish things of the world [do] put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty."

For now, let's look at the Bible verses surrounding the above two:

1Cr 1:17 For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of no effect.


1Cr 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.


1Cr 1:19 For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, And bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent." [fn]


1Cr 1:20 Where [is] the wise? Where [is] the scribe? Where [is] the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?


1Cr 1:21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe.


1Cr 1:22 For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom;


1Cr 1:23 but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks [fn] foolishness,


1Cr 1:24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.


1Cr 1:25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.


1Cr 1:26 For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, [are called].


1Cr 1:27 But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty;


1Cr 1:28 and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are,


1Cr 1:29 that no flesh should glory in His presence.


1Cr 1:30 But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God--and righteousness and sanctification and redemption--


1Cr 1:31 that, as it is written, "He who glories, let him glory in the LORD." [fn]
[NKJV]

1 Cr 1:17 analysis:

I have seen many examples of people trying to make "the cross of Christ should be made of no effect" literally come true. Even those who would label themselves "Christians." The liberal leftist churches are most guilty of this. There is a huge reason why they do this. It is because they want to ignore the need for repentance.

The cross of Christ is shameful to "those who are perishing." Why? Because Jesus' finished work at the cross of Calvary points to their need to confess sin and turn their lives over to Christ. They want to remain in the center of their existence, instead of putting Christ there.

The question is, however, how do we get them to turn around when they think that they are not in error? Please share your suggestions and experiences in the comment section.

Then we have those who have not been brought up in the church at all. Their parents are either agnostic, atheist, or just skeptics. Maybe the child of such parents had dabbled in other religions - like say - Buddhism. Maybe they think that all religions lead to the same place. But the Bible tells us this is impossible for Christ himself stated,

"I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except by me."

In this "tolerance at all costs" atmosphere (including rejecting genuine concern about where one will spend eternity); and our current multi-cultural, diversity-driven, religious coexist-demanding society, Jesus' words might be considered "intolerant." But is that the real problem? I don't think so and the Bible tells us why.

1Cr 1:21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe.


1Cr 1:22 For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom;


1Cr 1:23 but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks [fn] foolishness,


1Cr 1:24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.

Examine this verse:

1Cr 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

Those who reject Christ's sacrificial death on the cross for their sin are perishing. They think it is foolishness. But look at how that verse completely changes the concept of "the message of the cross [as] 'foolishness'" to be the power of God to us who are being saved!

Now, man has his/her own version of "wisdom." However, when it is not of God, for God, and about God - such "wisdom" is confounded!

1Cr 1:21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe.

In the prior verse, Paul asks:

1Cr 1:20 Where [is] the wise? Where [is] the scribe? Where [is] the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?

When man relies on his own version of wisdom [e.g. "the wisdom of this world"] we see that God has called it out and turned it around as foolishness. So, just what is considered the most foolish kind of man's "wisdom"?

1Cr 1:21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe.

Answer: Not knowing God.

Then, look at this verse:

1Cr 1:25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.

How many people have tried to make Christ's sacrificial death at the cross a type of "foolishness" and have tried to either combat against such belief or trick people into believing something else as the truth? Probably millions.

What does it mean that "the weakness of God is stronger than men?"

I think that it means that those who perceive Christ's death at the cross as "weakness" or "foolishness" is ultimately and emphatically stronger than the wisdom of those who think that way.

Paul says it this way:

1Cr 1:22 For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom;


1Cr 1:23 but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks [fn] foolishness,


1Cr 1:24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.

What in the world could possibly be better than KNOWING "the power of God and the wisdom of God?"

That particular knowledge is Jesus Christ!

Paul instructs us:

1Cr 1:26 For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, [are called].

As Christians, what are we called to do? Preach the gospel, of course. What else? Jesus told us to wait for his return, watch for his return, and WORK as we wait for his return. Each of us have unique skills and spiritual gifts that enable us to work in many different ways to point people towards Jesus Christ. Christ does the saving - we are here to spread the message of the gospel "to those who are perishing."

Each situation may be different and we need to be wise in how to handle it.

For example.

I often give people the book "Traveling Light" by Max Lucado. It helps to ease them into wanting to know more about Jesus Christ. I have also given Bibles along with the book to those who I know probably don't have one.

I recently gave that book to one of my daughter's friends who, in her young life, has been going through a rough time over the past several years. She wrote the following to my daughter:

"Your mom gave me this book, and I think her just simply reaching out to me has changed my life. Tell her I said thanks. And I love you both!"

I sent a text back to my daughter: Wow! Really? It changed her life? I'm crying - tears of joy. Praise God - He did that!

And He did!! He opened the door of her heart to receive the "wisdom of God" instead of the wisdom of men which had not been helping her figure out the truth and the meaning of this life. I can't wait to see her again and talk with her about the book!

So far, I haven't had anyone tell me that they didn't like that book. Of course, I haven't given it to any "stranger" who might have objected and called my gesture "proselytizing" - which is that negative word that skeptics like to use against Christians for simply sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with people.

We can't let their negativity, objections, and threats stop us from sharing the TRUTH!

There are MILLIONS of people who don't know Christ and just need someone to reach out to them so that they CAN get to know Him!

We are called to point people towards salvation in Jesus Christ.

God does the saving!

We can pray for the unsaved, invite them to church, talk with them, listen to them and participate in Bible study with them. Why should we do all of these things? Because they are "those who are perishing." The acceptance of the gospel message is between them and God. We do the sharing - He does the saving. Ultimately, all the glory belongs to the Lord!

Paul:

1Cr 1:30 But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God--and righteousness and sanctification and redemption--


1Cr 1:31 that, as it is written, "He who glories, let him glory in the LORD." [fn]


NKJV Footnotes:
(1:19) Isaiah 29:14
(1:23) NU-Text reads Gentiles.
(1:31) Jeremiah 9:24

The following is the devotional that inspired me to write this post:

Daily Light on the Daily Path Devotional
Sunday September 20, 2009
http://bible.christiansunite.com/devotionals.shtml


Morning

Happy [is] the man [that] findeth wisdom, and the man [that] getteth understanding.

Whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD.

Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise [man] glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty [man] glory in his might, . . . the rich [man] glory in his riches: but let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I [am] the LORD.--The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of wisdom.

What things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things [but] loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them [but] dung, that I may win Christ.--In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.--Counsel [is] mine, and sound wisdom: I [am] understanding; I have strength.

Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.

He that winneth souls [is] wise.

Pr 3:13 8:35 Jer 9:23,24 Pr 9:10 Php 3:7,8 Col 2:3 Pr 8:14 1Co 1:30 Pr 11:30

Evening

Poor, yet making many rich.

Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.--Of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.--My God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.--God [is] able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all [things], may abound to every good work.

Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?--Not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, [are called]: but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.

We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

2Co 6:10 8:9 Joh 1:16 Php 4:19 2Co 9:8 Jas 2:5 1Co 1:26,27 2Co 4:7

Treasures of Wisdom and Knowledge

God gave Solomon . . . largeness of heart, even as the sand that [is] on the
sea shore.

Behold, a greater than Solomon [is] here.--The Prince of Peace.

Scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.--Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.--The love of Christ . . . passeth knowledge.

Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.--In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.--The unsearchable riches of Christ.--Of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.

1Ki 4:29 Mt 12:42 Isa 9:6 Ro 5:7,8 Php 2:6-8 Eph 3:19 1Co 1:24 Col 2:3 Eph 3:8 1Co 1:30

Daily Light on the Daily Path Devotional
Saturday August 22, 2009
http://bible.christiansunite.com/devotionals.shtml

Would You Rather Have the Wages or the Gift?

That is the ultimate question that Dr. David Jeremiah asks near the end of the video presentation called "Finding Freedom Through Slavery" (below) in his new series, "The Upside Down Life." The title sounds like quite the paradox* - doesn't it? You will discover the truth about that statement when you view the video!!

Before you click on the video link, I'd like to take this opportunity to wish all of the dads out there a very Happy Father's Day! At our home, it's "Father's Day Weekend" - not just one day...ha ha. Anyway, we have a big seafood fest planned - we found lobster selling for $6.00 a pound at Costco! (Correction: The lobster was from Major Market!) ;-) Some family time is planned - like playing monopoly on the Wii (my son ALWAYS WINS!) and some backyard activities too. It's a day to get away from work, the computer, and any other distraction that might take us away from family time.

But before you turn off your computers today and even if you just returned from church, it is my hope that you will take my recommendation to view and listen to Dr. David Jeremiah's lesson called Finding Freedom Through Slavery from his "The Upside Down Life" series.

It is excellent, people!!!

Remember, if time is short you can "fast forward" to the sermon. But do watch the 1:20 introduction at the beginning of the video. The lesson starts at 18:05.

God bless your day!

Sincerely,
Christine

*P.S. Please keep in mind that the term "slavery" being used in this sermon is not meant to downplay, insult or hurt anyone in the African American community who have suffered, or have known others who have suffered greatly under racial slavery in the past.

Christians vs. Atheists in Discussions

In the comment section of this post I have been reading the continuing conversation between Ken McKnight and Gary Baker.

Some of the quips are quite humorous:

Gary asks Ken about:

"being the snarky idiot?"

Ken replies:

"Ta,ta, Gary. I hope you and your ego will be very happy together."

But then returns with:

"BTW Gary,

On at least two separate occasions I have complimented Christine on that very point.

It's not just liberals. I tried commenting on the Miss America controversy on the Alliance Defense Fund site. I was extremely polite, yet my comment was cut because I didn't parrot the party line."

Gary replies:

"I was expecting you to withdraw from the discussion. Generally happens to liberals of your intellectual caliber when repeatedly pressed for facts, evidence, and logic which neither their education nor mentality has prepared them for. I must confess disappointment however. You didn't even try to come up with reasonable replies, so I guess that makes you lazy as well as cowardly. Let me know when you grow a spine."

Of course, these are just small snippets of each comment. However, it brings to mind a question that I have had over the course of several years - both while running my discussion forum and this blog. Are deep, true, solid, non-biased, thoughtful, considerate, intelligent, polite, complimentary, uplifting, kind, inspiring, enthusiastic, acceptance of evangelizing attempts, and non-ridiculing discussions actually possible between atheists and Christians?

I have found that in rare moments, there are some areas of agreement. But oftentimes, the discussions are very confrontational.

Tonight, I was reading a comment written by GMPilot who was answering part of a comment written by Sothenes over at my Talk Wisdom forum and I found what he had written fascinating. Here is a copy of the brief discussion:

Quote:
Originally Posted by Sothenes

As far as fishing is concerned, imagine how the non-believer feels. He throws his hook into the water and doesn't catch anything. Does that mean there are no fish? Does he fish again because he lost faith in there being fish?

GMPilot:

You don't have to imagine how the non-believer feels, Sothenes; just ask one. It doesn't have to be me, but since I'm here...

I'm not trying to catch anything. It's only Christians like yourself that are seeking an ecclesiastic body count. Besides, the fish have been biting for nearly 2000 years. What sort of bait do you use? Fear of death? Awareness of their sin? Promise of eternal life? It would be interesting to know.

But every fisherman I know of has a story about 'the one that got away'. It checked out the lure, even nibbled at it; but once it was hooked, it fought with all its power to get off that hook, and win its life and freedom. Fishermen usually speak of that fish with grudging respect, because it wouldn't succumb to the trap.

Think of the non-believer as that sort of fish.

Take a look at their signature quotes:

Sothenes:

"If there were no God, there would be no Atheists."-GK Chesterton

GMPilot:

"Religion is fundamentally opposed to everything I hold in veneration--courage, clear thinking, honesty, fairness, and above all, love of the truth." --H L Mencken

"The next time someone asks you if you're a god, say yes." --"Ghostbusters"

We can see why GMPilot thinks of Christian faith as "succumbing to a trap" because his signature quote states, "Religion is fundamentally opposed to everything I (he) holds in veneration -- courage, clear thinking, honesty, fairness, and above all, love of the truth."

So, how does one witness and attempt to evangelize someone with such an attitude?

Sothenes' signature quote combats GMPilot's view that "there is no God" with the quote: "If there were no God, there would be no Atheists."-GK Chesterton

Christian faith is courageous.

Christian faith is involved with clear thinking.

Christian faith is honest.

Christian faith is fairness.

Christian faith is, above all, the TRUTH!

However, a non-believer thinks that his "version" of "the truth" is completely opposite the Christian's view of truth.

So, this leads me to ask some questions:

1. Where do such conversations lead?
2. How do they usually end?
3. Are seeds of faith planted as a result?
4. Are seeds of doubt increased?
5. Can you think of more questions to add to this list?

As Christian believers who are involved with Jesus' Great Commission command to share the gospel with everyone we can, it is true that we may not know (this side of heaven) how many people we have positively influenced towards salvation in Christ.

I have found that skeptics/non-believers/atheists/agnostics sometimes tell me that my witnessing efforts have actually driven them further away from faith in Jesus Christ. They claim that my judgmental attitude and (fill in the blank!) have solidified their skepticism.

Should believers be concerned about this?

My opinion?

No.

The reason being that a non-believer is in no better (or worse) position in having heard the gospel shared in a perceived "wrong way" vs. not hearing the gospel at all.

Consider the fact that they were separated from God in the first place, so any additional negative influence does not change their destiny in eternity.

However, a seed planted (even if viewed as being planted poorly by the Christian evangelist according to the skeptic) could still sprout towards belief in Christ as a result in the future. This would change the destiny of the already condemned non-believer towards heaven.

Isaiah 57:15-21 NLT -

Isa 57:15 The high and lofty one who inhabits eternity, the Holy One, says this: "I live in that high and holy place with those whose spirits are contrite and humble. I refresh the humble and give new courage to those with repentant hearts.


Isa 57:16 For I will not fight against you forever; I will not always show my anger. If I did, all people would pass away--all the souls I have made.


Isa 57:17 I was angry and punished these greedy people. I withdrew myself from them, but they went right on sinning.


Isa 57:18 I have seen what they do, but I will heal them anyway! I will lead them and comfort those who mourn.


Isa 57:19 Then words of praise will be on their lips. May they have peace, both near and far, for I will heal them all," says the LORD.


Isa 57:20 "But those who still reject me are like the restless sea. It is never still but continually churns up mire and dirt.


Isa 57:21 There is no peace for the wicked," says my God.


Readers, what are your thoughts on this topic?

Calvary

Yesterday evening, I glanced through the menu of cable T.V. channels searching for any movies about Jesus Christ. I found one. It was a mini-series called "Jesus" on TBN. Since I have the video of this series, I didn't record it.

I don't know about you, but it seems to me that with each passing year, there are less and less movie presentations on T.V. of portraying Jesus' life, death, and resurrection during the holy days.

I can recall seeing dozens of Jesus movies and Bible epics on T.V. at Easter time during my teen years. Everything from "Ben Hur" to the "Ten Commandments" to "King of Kings" was broadcast between Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday. On Good Friday, there were usually several different movies shown commemorating Christ's crucifixion.

What has happened?

Why do the networks refuse to show these important films anymore?

Late this morning, I watched Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ." This was the fourth time I had viewed the movie, but the first time that I watched it alone. Each time I see it, the message of the cross hits me like a ton of bricks.

It is a movie that I cannot get through without crying. The grief felt by me for my sin which Jesus died for is often to much to bear. I find myself wanting to fast-forward through the scourging and crucifixion scenes - but I do not allow myself to do that.

The term "passion" originally meant "suffering." Today, it is often used as a romantic term related to sexual attraction or activity. But the "passion" of Jesus Christ was the suffering he endured for all of mankind's sins on the cross.

In the beginning of the movie, we find Jesus in the Garden praying to the Father. We also see Satan (appearing in the form of an androgenous being) trying to convince Jesus that taking on the sins of the world is too much for one person to bear. It can't be done.

Isn't that just like Satan? Claiming that the God-Man Jesus can't do the work that God the Father sent him to do. Satan tries the same thing with believers. Recall how he asked to sift Simon Peter "like wheat."

What a great scene it was in the movie to see Satan in his pit screaming and tearing his hair off because Jesus accomplished the goal of redemption for mankind. All of that suffering brought glory to the Father and salvation for all those who believe in Jesus. What a moment!

One of the most touching scenes was when Jesus' mother Mary reached him when he had fallen down while carrying the cross. There was a flashback in the movie to a time in Jesus' childhood where he had fallen and Mary ran to pick him up and to cuddle him and ease the pain. In this instance, there was nothing that she could do but briefly touch his face, look into his eyes, and hear her son say, "Mother, I make all things new."

What a powerful, powerful moment. This time, Jesus was SAVING HER -and all of us from the ravages of sin, evil and death!

As we remember your death at the cross, Jesus, let me say THANK YOU MY LORD AND SAVIOR! There is no greater love than for a man to lay his life down for his friends. Jesus did that. And, he rose again on the third day. He willingly went to the cross, and had the power to take up his life again. The horrible suffering and sorrow of that day turned to rejoicing on that first Resurrection Sunday - just as Jesus had previously told us it would:

John 16:20-22

Jhn 16:20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.


Jhn 16:21 A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world.


Jhn 16:22 And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.

Previous posts:

The Christ of the Passion

"When our depravity meets His divinity, it's a great collision."

Good Friday

The Power of Christ's Cross

The brutality of Jesus' crucifixion was captured in the film, "The Passion of the Christ." Why was Jesus tortured, maimed, spit upon, beard torn, whipped beyond recognition, stabbed in the side, nailed to a cross, humiliated unto death? Because that is exactly what evil does. God allowed those forces of evil to do what they did in order to send us a message so strong that we couldn't possibly miss it.

The enemy of our souls has the goal of devouring us in our sin. He prowls around like a roaring lion, bringing along with him evil, sin and death. That very thing was conquered by Christ at the cross. Because he was the "sinless Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world," he accomplished what no ordinary man could ever do. He kept the Law while on earth, then paid the penalty for our sin so that we would not suffer an eternity without him! He was bodily resurrected to life on that first Easter morning approximately 2,000 years ago, and that event changed the world forever.


Why Did Jesus Have to Die?

At Calvary's cross, we stand at the crossroads to heaven and hell.

Final Curtain Call

The title of Dr. David Jeremiah's March magazine and devotional is "A Graceful Exit." In the essay called, "The Great Curtain Call," the author briefly explains and compares The Rapture of the Church (all believers) as the Church's final curtain call. This is because the roles of the audience and performer will be reversed.

Jeremiah:

Calling us out to join Him for all eternity will be the Lord of the Church, Jesus Christ Himself.

Even though our lives have been lived out - like characters in a play - it is all believers everywhere who will applaud Jesus Christ because of his plan for the redemption of mankind.

Jeremiah:

It is Christ alone who deserves the credit and praise. He wrote the script, funded the production at the expense of His own life-blood, chose the cast, empowered the players, and then rewards us at the end for accomplishing something that He alone made possible. The Rapture will be a final curtain call like no other.

Recall the question and answer about Rockefeller - one of the richest men in the world - when he died? It was asked, "how much (money) did he leave?" Answer: all of it.

All that we have, all that we think we own, all that we give to others in all honesty - belongs to the Lord. We are stewards of this earth. All that we enjoy while here while on this earth is in all actuality "on loan" to us.

Dr. Jeremiah's paragraph about Christ alone deserving the credit and praise is true about our entire lives. Have you ever really thought deeply about that? That paragraph reminded me to think more deeply about it. The promise that He rewards believers "at the end for accomplishing something that He alone made possible" is strikingly awesome! Why? Because it is so true! Allow me to share some Scriptures that reiterate this point.

Mat 6:19 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.

Mat 6:20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.

That is some powerful Word to keep in mind - especially today. With all of the financial worries, woes, stealing, thievery (even via taxes through our own government!!) loss of jobs, loss of homes etc. we might need to look at those verses and understand why our nation is experiencing what is currently happening today. Any ideas?

Could it be that many of us have forgotten God?

Could it be that God is calling us out from our slumber and sinful ways?

Could it be that we are relying too much on "things of this earth" rather than relying on God?

Moths can ruin and destroy the most expensive piece of clothing. They can also destroy the oldest raggedy piece of clothing. Rust can damage the most expensive car, as well as an older car. Get one ding in a new vehicle which results in paint chipping off and rust is soon to follow.

This probably isn't the time to say, "The Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh away." When it comes to possessions and this current economy, we don't want to hear that. But there is a purpose even in times of great loss. When Katrina hit New Orleans, many people turned back to God as a result of it. I have read on other blogs that many civilians in Iraq, though they have suffered years of loss from Saddam Hussein's brutal regime, are now coming to Christ in record numbers after having been liberated by our brave military and the coalition forces.

But consider this, also. When it comes to utilizing such a statement in light of all eternity - we most certainly should have a completely joyful attitude. "The Lord giveth (eternal life), and the Lord taketh away (the sins of the world)."

Dr. Jeremiah tells us that the Rapture of the Church could happen at any time. There is nothing on the prophetic calendar that needs to be done before we "meet the Lord in the air." Bible scholars refer to this as the "imminent appearing of Christ," imminent meaning "at any moment."

Dr. Jeremiah:

To put this event in perspective, let's step back and review God's plan for the ages:

* After the fall of mankind into sin in the Garden of Eden, God called a people out of the human race for Himself: Abraham and his descendants.

* When that people failed to fulfill their mission of attracting the nations of earth to God by manifesting His glory on earth, God sent His Son, Jesus, to call out a new people from all the nations of the earth: the Church - the spiritual, not physical, descendants of Abraham.

* When the Church fulfills her mission of taking the Good News of God's forgiveness and salvation throughout the earth, Christ will return in the sky and call the Church to Himself in heaven to avoid the judgment God will bring upon the enemies of God on earth. That "calling out" - that final curtain call - is the Rapture, when the entire Church from all ages is united for the first time with her Lord and Savior.

Nothing remains on God's prophetic timetable to be accomplished before the Rapture can occur. But on important question does remain to be answered.

The Most Important Question

The script that God has delivered to us for His drama on earth is not specific as to times and dates; it is only specific in terms of events. That is, we know Christ is going to return for His Church - but even He did not know the exact day or hour (Matthew 24:36). Therefore, we must be ready for God's curtain call to come at any time.

While discussing that verse in a Bible study group, it was deemed necessary for Jesus Christ not to reveal the date or time. If we knew it, would we work as though his return was imminent? If the date was June 9, 2009 - probably yes! If it was set at June 9, 2209 - probably not. There is a specific reason why the date has not been revealed.

Mat 24:36 But of that day and hour knoweth no [man], no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.

Dr. Jeremiah:

Jesus told a parable to accentuate the need to live a watchful life: the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13)

Matthew 25:1-13 (NKJV)

Mat 25:1 "Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom.


Mat 25:2 Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish.


Mat 25:3 Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them,


Mat 25:4 but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.


Mat 25:5 But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept.


Mat 25:6 "And at midnight a cry was [heard]: 'Behold, the bridegroom is coming; [fn] go out to meet him!'


Mat 25:7 Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps.


Mat 25:8 And the foolish said to the wise, 'Give us [some] of your oil, for our lamps are going out.'


Mat 25:9 But the wise answered, saying, '[No], lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.'


Mat 25:10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut.


Mat 25:11 "Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, 'Lord, Lord, open to us!'


Mat 25:12 But he answered and said, 'Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.'


Mat 25:13 "Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour [fn] in which the Son of Man is coming.

NKJV Footnotes:
(25:6) NU-Text omits is coming.
(25:13) NU-Text omits the rest of this verse.

Dr. Jeremiah:

Those who participate in the final curtain call for the Church will be those who are on stage when it happens.

There will be no running onto the stage at the final moment in order to participate in the Rapture when Jesus appears for His Church.

So the question is, do you have a part in the script? Are you part of God's cast of characters who will be invited to participate in history's final curtain call? You can join the cast today by placing your faith in Christ, receiving Him as your Lord and Savior. Only then will you be assured of hearing His call when He returns to remove His Church from earth. It is earth's final graceful exit - not something that you want to miss.

Hat tip:

Turning Points Magazine & Devotional: A Graceful Exit by Dr. David Jeremiah, March 2009 pp. 24-25

Guest Blogger: Susan Smith

Talk Wisdom's guest blogger for today is Susan Smith. She is the author of a weekly newsletter called, "Life in Israel - One Body." I met Susan via Stephen Bennett's blog way back in 2004. At the time, she was working for a Christian organization in Israel called "Bridges for Peace." We have been corresponding ever since.

When Susan was living and working in Israel, the newsletter was named, "Life in Israel." Upon returning, Susan explains the new name of her newsletter:

This writer lived in the city of Jerusalem on earth for five years (2002-2007).
You read about my personal life during those years and God provided many divine encounters with taxi drivers, Israelis and one man studying to be a rabbi in particular. You heard about encounters with other Christian volunteers from all over the world. The Lord did very important and crucial spiritual work in my personal life during those years.”

Because I am convinced the one Church body and Israel are one and the same, spiritually speaking, I changed the name to “Life in Israel-One Body.”

Susan's writing has blessed me (as well as all of her subscribers around the world) immensely over the past four years. I have shared several of her past newsletters here at this blog.

Today, I am presenting two of her most recent newsletters together in one post. It is a marvelous way to start the new year of 2009 - with the heartfelt, Jesus-loving, Bible-based wisdom that is contained and shared in Susan Smith's wonderful writings!

It is my prayer that you are blessed by these two marvelous essays as much as I have been!

In Christ,
Christine

*******

Life in Israel-One Body 26Dec08



Have you ever received a Christmas present that causes pain? This year has brought the most shameful and painful gift into my life. In order to grow spiritually, we often have to face pain. Emotional pain hurts as well as physical pain. Jesus is our healer. The Holy Spirit is gentle. He never forces us to face an issue in our lives. We always have a choice. Are there things in your life that you need to work through with God?



The grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus the Messiah, the Father’s Son, will be with you in truth and love (2John 3) as you work through issues in your life. We can trust God. Even when others have hurt us, and we feel we can trust no one. We can trust God. Even when we believe or think no one can possibly understand, we can trust Jesus. The Lord knows our hearts.



All the days designed and intended for you were written in the Lord’s book before one of them came to be (Psalm 139:16). Is that hard for you to believe? Every Word of God is pure and flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him (Proverbs 30:5). Do you trust God? I do. He is a safeguard to those who put their trust in him.



So exactly what is this painful Christmas gift acknowledged by my heart? I have received one of the most excruciating and embarrassing revelations ever before in my life. I believe this revelation is from God. This is necessary. I must deal with it. The healing of my broken heart continues from sin that has touched my life. Praise God for his gentleness, his kindness and his grace. Too much light can blind a person. So often in our lives, we are unable to receive more light from God. In a sense there are obstacles to our sight just as there are obstacles to our spiritual growth. Only the love of God can remove the veil that covers our heart (2 Corinthians 3:14-15). Love never fails (1 Corinthians 13:8).



Two weeks ago we talked about hearts of stone. My heart is more pliable today than it was two weeks ago. Shameful memories from childhood can become demonic strongholds in our thoughts. I was in my forties before the sexual abuse by a brother during my early childhood was ever revealed to another human being. The memories of what happened were repressed and denied. These memories affected my behavior as an adult. I will be 60 next year.



Over the past two weeks there has been some unexpected feedback to this newsletter. One was from a doctoral candidate. This reader is working on her PhD dissertation. I have known her personally for more than 10 years, and her words of encouragement seemed like manna from heaven. Another message was from a reader in the State of Georgia whom I do not know personally. God’s timing is always perfect! The Lord used these two readers in a mighty way to encourage and lead me forward regarding the direction of these newsletters.



Following Jesus is often like stepping stones in our lives. We move from one to another as the Lord directs. The steps are always according to his good will and purpose. They are also according to his perfect timing. There is no running! By God’s grace we learn to wait on the Lord, and we learn to be strong (Psalm 27:14).



My waiting was difficult. It seemed very hard at times, but the Lord is my God. By his grace we have been saved, through faith . . . it is the gift of God (Ephesians 2:8). Our faith is a gift from God every day. Praise the Lord. My salvation happens over and over again. I was saved yesterday, I am being saved today, and I will be saved tomorrow! Following Jesus is a daily walk for every believer. This specific “waiting” period for me began in the newsletter dated 14Nov08. More than a month ago you read:



For the past week I have had a bit of a struggle in my soul (mind, will and emotions) regarding the direction of this newsletter. To open my heart a bit, it concerns my biological family. One of my professors at Columbia International University (CIU) has been lecturing about different family structures and how family systems work. The Lord has used some of Dr. Wagner’s words to touch my heart deeply.



Dr. Wagner was a guest speaker this fall during chapel at my school. You can see a photo of Dr. Larry Wagner at this web page http://www.ciu.edu/graduate/faculty/bio.php?id=32. During the chapel message he quoted someone and said, “We can never be free from what we are unwilling to name.” That quote touched my heart for some unknown reason so during our next class meeting I asked Dr. Wagner for the source of his quote.



God has used the answer to my question to lead me in amazing ways over the past two months. Dr. Wagner recommended a book called Leading with a Limp. The writer is Dan Allender. Dr. Dan Allender received a Master of Divinity degree from Westminster Theological Seminary and his PhD in Counseling Psychology from Michigan State University. Currently, he serves as Professor of Counseling and President of Mars Hill Graduate School in Seattle, Washington.



When I ordered Leading with a Limp from Amazon online, there were several books written by Dan Allender. I also ordered The Wounded Heart: Hope for adult victims of childhood sexual abuse. This second book has unleashed a flood of emotions in my soul, and the Lord is using it tremendously to heal me more from the inside out. Let me share two things from this book:



A father who uses his daughter as a surrogate wife or confidante has bound his daughter’s heart to him in a subtly sexual way . . . the damage may not be overt, and in fact the daughter may feel so special that she would defend to her death the appropriateness of her father’s interactions. It is nevertheless abusive . . . The fact that sexual abuse can be subtle ought not cloud our perspective that it is equally abusive and damaging.



“Damaged” is how I have often felt as a woman. What exploded like a bomb shell inside my heart later in Allender’s book was this: “The child that is set apart for abuse is usually hated for his or her privileges by the other siblings. The child who feels different because of the abuse is then even further alienated due to the sibling jealousy.” He then wrote, “The silence is rarely broken . . . It remains a dark secret for years, if not forever.”



Jesus came to heal the broken hearted (Luke 4:18 and Isaiah 61:1). God prepared my heart and I was able to receive the truth. Jesus heals (Psalm 103:3). I am ready to break the silence. What a wonderful, yet painful Christmas gift this is to my heart and soul. We will continue next week as the Lord leads. Have a wonderful New Year’s holiday. ~ Susan Smith

*******

Life in Israel-One Body 02Jan09


This newsletter will end for a while after today. My spirit, soul and body need a break. When we meet again, my plan is to share much more with you as the Lord leads. Since completing the course called Psychopathology, I am convinced the spiritual realm and the mental realm of our lives are closely related if not one and the same.



There is evidence of this supposition in my personal life and in the lives of others in my family. Les Parrot is a professor of clinical psychology and Leslie Parrot is a marriage and family therapist. In their book entitled Relationships, they talk about intimacy:



If you try to find intimacy with another person before achieving a sense of identity of your own, all your relationships become an attempt to complete yourself . . . when you come to a relationship lacking personal self-worth, all you can offer is neediness.



Wow! Drs. Les and Leslie tell about the “emotional baggage” we bring from our first homes on earth to our adult relationships. “No other relationship shapes who we are more than our family. Most of what we think, feel, say, and do is in response to the home we grew up in.”



No wonder Jesus said, “You must accept the kingdom of God as if you were a little child, or you will never enter it” (Mark 10:15). Every believer must be changed from within by a new way of thinking. You must “be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Every mind and heart has been stained with sin during childhood. Only a supernatural power can change the way we think. We live in a fallen world, but we have a choice every day. The evil one can change the way we think as adults, or the Holy Spirit can renew our minds and transform our lives. We are slaves to the one we obey (Romans 6:16). Do you understand?



The feedback to last week’s newsletter has been overwhelming. Thank you for responding. “Comfort, comfort my people, says your God” (Isaiah 40:1). The outpouring of love and encouragement expressed by my brothers and sisters in Christ who read last week’s newsletter has been incredible. “God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit” (Romans 5:5). I stand amazed at the awesomeness of God’s love expressed by his people all over the world. Thank you. Your inspired words have brought great comfort to my soul.



Have you ever felt as though you are in over your head? You know what I mean. It is like biting off more than you can chew. We all have our limitations, and there are times we all need a break. It is painful to receive light that exposes our sin and the sin of those we love deeply. There are times we must be still and wait.



There are times we must be still and know that God is God (Psalm 46:10). We must stop our activity and be silent. Dan Allender expresses this so well in a book called Bold Love:



The key is that the silence that dawns in light of seeing your own sin does not discount the damage of others’ sin. It simply puts it, for a time, in the background, where it waits to be addressed when our own heart is less disposed to judge and rage at another’s failure.



That time of being still to know and the place for being silent in God’s light has arrived for Susan Smith. Allender says, “Silence is required for deep change . . . the silence that deeply changes our heart is the hush that comes when we are caught in our hatred and found to be without excuse.”



God has loaded my plate with delicious food as I continue to learn at Columbia International University (CIU). This week I have had another taste of something that is very important. What I have learned is true for you too. Wherever God has you is where he wants you for his good will and purpose. The mighty God of Israel never makes a mistake. He loves us with an everlasting love. The Lord has led me to CIU in order for me to receive more healing for my heart and soul as well as to prepare me for the future. God took me to Jerusalem for five years to heal my heart as well as to work with Bridges for Peace in the accounting department. My healing continues.



Dan Allender tells a bit about how God loves us: “He dares, in fact, to tear us away from all presumptions of logic, fairness, safety, and normalcy . . . He will have His way and invites us to join Him in the mystery of relationship.” Scripture tells us to ask, seek and knock; we are then assured that we will receive, find and the door will be opened (Matthew 7:7). There is only one door to life. Jesus said, “I am the door” (John 10:9).



The evangelist, James Robison, said in 1989 that no matter how active we are or how diligently we “serve the Lord,” if we do not know him, and live in intimate fellowship with him, then we are not in the center of his will, and we will not experience the mainstream of his blessings and power. I agree. What James Robison said is true for you and for me.



I believe with all of my heart that God has placed me in school during this season for his good will and purpose. I am to learn. I am also to receive more healing in my heart and soul. The Lord can choose to use us to touch hearts and lives no matter where we are or what we are doing.



The land of my life needs to be healed. God’s healing is continuous if we choose to receive. The land and life of my country, the United States of America, needs to be healed. “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14). Does your life need to be healed? Does your country need healing?



We must always remember the correct order according to God’s Word. We must humble ourselves first. The second step is to pray and seek God’s face. The third step is to turn from our wicked ways. Then the Lord will hear from heaven; he will forgive our sin, and he will heal our land. No other order will work. Humility comes first.



Only in humility can we pray and seek God’s face. Only in humility by the grace of God are we able to turn from our wicked ways. Let us pray together, as Jesus the Messiah taught his disciples, for God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10). We will meet again after today. For now, the Lord is leading me to be still and silent for a season as I seek and ask for his mercy. Shabbat Shalom, until we meet again...

Christmas Stories

My family and I are all fans of the annual "A Christmas Story" movie. It is a comedy that is usually broadcast as a "marathon" on Christmas day on the USA channel.

The only criticism that I have about this movie is the fact that the family does not mention the REAL meaning of Christmas - the birth of Jesus Christ. And, they do not attend church either on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day - something that most people in the 50's would have done as part of their family traditions.

Of course, the secularists in our society wouldn't miss such a family tradition.

Anyway, today I want to post two of my favorite Christmas stories. Even though secular America may want to leave Christ out of Christmas, true believers still get to enjoy the realization of our Savior's birth and what His birth, life, ministry here on earth, death at the cross, and resurrection to life means for our salvation.

The Candy Cane at Christmas

THE STORY OF THE CANDY CANE AT CHRISTMAS.

A candymaker in Indiana wanted to make a candy that would be a witness, so he made the Christmas Candy Cane.

He incorporated several symbols from the birth, ministry, and death of Jesus Christ. He began with a stick of pure white, hard candy. White to symbolize the Virgin Birth and the sinless nature of Jesus, and hard to symbolize the Solid Rock, the foundation of the Church, and firmness of the promises of God.

The candymaker made the candy in the form of a "J" to represent the precious name of Jesus, who came to earth as our Savior. It could also represent the staff of the "Good Shepherd" with which He reaches down into the ditches of the world to lift out the fallen lambs who, like all sheep, have gone astray.

Thinking that the candy was somewhat plain, the candymaker stained it with red stripes. He used three small stripes to show the stripes of the scourging Jesus received by which we are healed. The large red stripe was for the blood shed by Christ on the cross so that we could have the promise of eternal life.

Unfortunately, the candy became known as a Candy Cane -- a meaningless decoration seen at Christmas time. But the meaning is still there for those who "have eyes to see and ears to hear."

Every time you see a Candy Cane, remember the Wonder of Jesus and His Great Love that came down at Christmas, and that His Love remains the ultimate and dominant force in the universe today.

Religious Meaning of "The 12 Days of Christmas.

"The 12 Days of Christmas"

~ Origins and Religious Meaning ~

Caveat: I've discovered that there is a controversy disputing the authenticity of this interpretation, just to inform you. There are some who have labeled this an "urban legend."

Also: I heard this on a Christian radio station today, so I do not deem it only a "Catholic" religious message. It is inherently Christian and does not add any false doctrine (as far as I can see) to Biblical Christian faith.

Note: The concepts symbolized in "The Twelve Days of Christmas," are not just considered Catholic, because these were basic articles of faith common to all denominations of Christianity.

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Background:

Catholics in England during the period 1558 to 1829 were prohibited by law to practice their faith either in public or private. It was illegal to be Catholic until Parliament finally emancipated Catholics in England in 1829.

"The Twelve Days of Christmas" was written in England as one of the "catechism songs" to help young Catholics learn the basics of their faith. In short, it was a coded-message, a memory aid. Since the song sounded like rhyming nonsense, young Catholics could sing the song without fear of imprisonment. The authorities would not know that it was a religious song.

"The 12 Days of Christmas" is in a sense an allegory. Each of the items in the song represents something significant to the teachings of the Catholic faith. The hidden meaning of each gift was designed to help Catholic children learn their faith. The better acquainted one is with the Bible, the more these interpretations have significance.

The song goes, "On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me…"
The "true love" mentioned in the song doesn’t refer to an earthly suitor, but it refers to God Himself. The "me" who receives the presents refers to every baptized person. i.e. the Church.

1st Day:

The partridge in a pear tree is Christ Jesus upon the Cross. In the song, Christ is symbolically presented as a mother partridge because she would feign injury to decoy a predator away from her nestlings. She was even willing to die for them. The tree is the symbol of the fall of the human race through the sin of Adam and Eve. It is also the symbol of its redemption by Jesus Christ on the tree of the Cross.

2nd Day:

The "two turtle doves" refers to the Old and New Testaments.

3rd Day:

The "three French hens" stand for faith, hope and love—the three gifts of the Spirit that abide (1 Corinthians 13).

4th Day:

The "four calling birds" refers to the four evangelists who wrote the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke and John—which sing the song of salvation through Jesus Christ.

5th Day:

The "five golden rings" represents the first five books of the Bible, also called the Jewish Torah: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy.

6th Day:

The "six geese a-laying" is the six days of creation.

7th Day:

The "seven swans a-swimming" refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord
.
8th Day:

The "eight maids a milking " reminded children of the eight beatitudes listed in the Sermon on the Mount.

9th Day:

The "nine ladies dancing" were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit found in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control.

10th Day:

The "ten lords a-leaping" represents the Ten Commandments

11th Day:

The "eleven pipers piping" refers to the eleven faithful apostles.

12th Day:

The ‘twelve drummers drumming" were the twelve points of belief expressed in the Apostles’ Creed: belief in God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, that Jesus Christ was born of the Virgin Mary, made man, crucified, died and arose on the third day, that he sits at the right hand of the father and will come again, the resurrection of the dead and life everlasting.

So the next time you hear "the Twelve Days of Christmas" consider how this otherwise non-religious sounding song had its origins in keeping alive the teaching of the Catholic faith.

Adapted from email messages,from "How To Decode the Twelve Days of Christmas,"by Hugh D. McKellar, U.S. Catholic, 12/1979, and from "‘12 Days of Christmas’ is no nonsense, but a serious riddle" by David Crowder, El Paso Times, 12/19/1993.

Also, Origin of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" An Underground Catechism by Fr. Hal Stockert 12/17/95 http://www.cin.org/twelvday.html

Note: P.S. It has come to our attention that this tale is made up of both fact and fiction. Hopefully it will be accepted in the spirit it was written. As an encouragement to people to keep their faith alive, when it is easy, and when any outward expressions of their faith could mean their life. Today there are still people living under similar conditions, may this tale give them courage, and determination to use any creative means at their disposal to keep their faith alive.

Call My Name

"Call my name say it now, I want you to never doubt - The love I have for you is so alive!" Matthew 28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

Call My Name by Third Day

I love you, Jesus. Thank you for dying in my place to save me from my sins and for rising again to conquer the sting of death. Thank you for your unfathomable sacrificial death and gift of forgiveness. In six days we celebrate your birth on this earth. Thank you for showing me the way to salvation through your Word, the Bible, and by your mercy, love and grace, demonstrating Who you are. - Christine

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Continuing follow-up on the Obama "natural born citizen" controversy, here is some of the latest important information to share:

For those of you who are following (or, unsure about the reasons for all the lawsuits) the Obama "natural born citizen" controversy, the following two videos help to spell it out clearly:

Dr. Orly Taitz Video 1

Dr. Orly Taitz Video 2


In the videos, Dr. Taitz shares some very important facts.

1. Obama admits (on his website!) that he was born as a British subject (due to his father being from Kenya and when Kenya was under British jurisdiction).

2. The vault-length COLB (Certificate of Live Birth) from Hawaii (you know - the one that Obama has spent nearly one million dollars to conceal and not be revealed in a court of law or to the public) has a place on it where it says "foreign born" on it. In other words, even if the short form of Obama's birth certificate (you know - the one that has already been analyzed and determined to be fake) WAS real - the fact remains that he most likely was not actually born in Hawaii - just registered there later. We would know for sure if Obama would just release it to the court(s) and/or the public (as John McCain did), but he REFUSES to do so!

Obama supporters - don't you find that troubling?

I do.

A man who would hide his original vault-length birth certificate (which costs $12.00 to get a copy of) and spends almost 1,000,000.00 to prevent anyone from viewing it, probably has a lot more to hide, as well.

3. EVERY hospital in Hawaii has been investigated and NOT ONE OF THEM has ANY record of Obama's birth or his mother's presence there to give birth. Also, even if he happened to be "home birthed," why did his half-sister lie and claim that he was born at two different hospitals in Hawaii (she is quoted as saying as such on two separate occasions.)

4. Obama's paternal grandmother in Kenya claims that she was present IN KENYA - at his birth. There is video proof of this fact. Why would she lie? The more likely answer is that Obama IS LYING ABOUT THIS. Why? Because he is a lawyer by trade (supposed to be a "Constitutional lawyer") so therefore, he KNOWS that he doesn't meet the "natural born citizen" status necessary for POTUS.

The date of January 9th is very important. This is because Congress will have already done their job to certify (or, reject...but I doubt that) Obama's electors. It is then that Obama can be charged at the Supreme Court for his ineligibility.

I don't know if the Supreme Court will ultimately do their job and do the right thing regarding Berg's case. But at least millions of people have been made aware that if Obama is inaugurated, we will have a usurper in office. We shall see what happens.

For more details, please see:

Investigating Obama

Obama Crimes

[Note: 12/18/08 - URGENT NOTICE – False rumors are circulating – Justice Kennedy denied our Application for an Injunction to Stay Electoral Vote Count by Congress on January 8, 2009. However, our Writ of Certiorari is still pending and is now scheduled for Conference before U.S. Supreme Court on January 9, 2009.]

Anything and everything at Texas Darlin' blog; but especially this well written request of Dr. Kate to Chief Justice John G. Roberts:

Do Not Leave Americans With Silence