Archive for Religion & More
02.12.09
Posted in Religion & More at 9:03 am by admin
Before I get on with this article (my final one for awhile), I’d like to take a moment to apologize to you for something.
These articles are in electronic format and can be easily sent to other people (in fact, I encourage you to send it to your friends). Because of this, I had to hold back on what I offer in them. Here’s why…
Using Magick energy to “make things happen”, is very different from having the secrets to control it. The art of Witchcraft is one that should be approached carefully. You should never pick up a book on Witchcraft, read the spells – and then try to do them. You need to SEE somebody doing – not only the spells – but the important techniques of connecting with, and controlling, your own Magick energy.
The truth is, there is no way for me to actually show you these techniques in articles like the ones I have written. And I am worried that – if I lay out all of the steps for the spells, rituals, and other Witchcraft techniques in full, they may be abused (even “unknowingly abused”) by raw beginners getting in tune with Magick energy for the first time.
This could cause unthinkable problems, and it would be difficult to live with myself knowing that these articles caused anybody harm.
That’s why I held back. It is also why I have taken a lifetime of Witchcraft secrets that I personally used to change my life, into one big box. I mean, you could find a good wicca school, but it can be expensive to find a dedicated teacher.
I have other resources I have completed that contain everything you need to gain full control of the hidden energy inside of you.
Not only do you get full step-by-step guides – but you get to see demonstrations of every technique.
I know Witchcraft will will change your life in ways you could only dream.
My sincere hope for you, is that after going through these articles, you will understand what is possible with Magick. And if they help you in any way, click here to tell me all about it (I’d really love to hear from you).
The hidden energies that fuel real Magick are used every day (in many different forms) to literally transform people’s lives with breathtaking miracles.
Everybody was born with the power to control Magick energy, and it really is easy to use it for your benefit once you know the secrets. As a matter of fact, your focus and emotions send out Magick energy every day – and you may not even realize it.
The difference is knowing how to focus your emotion and belief toward something specific (like bringing romance, friends, wealth, and happiness into your life).
No matter where your path takes you in life (and in Magick), I give you my Brightest Blessing on your future. May your road be filled with wonder, love, excitement, and pure happiness.
Rose has been practicing different forms of Witchcraft for over 27 years. For more information on schools of witchcraft visit her site The Ask Rose Ariadne Witchcraft Site”
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Posted in Religion & More at 2:55 am by admin
I had never been particularly interested in religion especially after my schooldays when it was rammed down my throat – it just seemed so boring and unreal with so many rules and regulations that to me it was just something for “sad” people living their sad and pathetic lives.
I’d heard of stories where people had had “amazing experiences” and apart from thinking what liars they were I also felt that they should be locked away in mental institutions to protect the rest of us sane people from their delusions.
Well, I became one of these people just under three years ago after the most amazing experience that I would never have believed if someone else had told me it had happened to them. My family and friends can vouch for this because they have seen the change in my life over the last three years so it can’t be dismissed as just a “flash in the pan”
I went from living on my own and quickly drinking and smoking myself to death to a guy that was reunited with his wife and family and has never had the urge to touch a drink or a cigarette since.
I had been on an Alpha course (a 12 week informal course that discusses who Jesus is and what Christianity is all about) a couple of years before and although that had been fun I had done nothing further – it was only when I was so desperate and at the end of the road that I remembered the course I’d been on and just yelled out to God in sheer desperation rather than in any form of hope or expectation that HE would actually do anything for me – the result of this was however instant and I don’t know why I was so blessed.
Life is just so brilliant now and I feel that this peace, happiness and pure inner contentment that I have on a daily basis is so wonderful and couldn’t even be compared to having monetary riches beyond your wildest dreams that I just wanted to share this with the rest of mankind.
The book I wrote will show you what I did, what is on offer to you all and that there are no silly rules and regulations which were MAN MADE and nothing whatsoever to do with God.
Why not just have a look for yourself – you’ve nothing to lose and truly, what you may gain is priceless – you can then do the same for others – what a legacy that would be.
A recent testimonial, exerts of which are included below, show just why I want this book to reach and touch people who are looking for what I’ve found.
I LAVISHED your book. My life was in shambles; my wife had divorced me and tonight I was in such a state of despair that I had rung my Mother to tell her that suicide was my only option – after reading your book I have a peace about me that I have not had since I was 19 and I’m 56 now. Thank you thank you for allowing God to speak through you to me – I now feel a complete relief from all the pain and misery I have known for the past 37 years and I thank you for saving my life – actually GOD SAVED MY LIFE but you threw me the life preserver – may God continue to bless you, your family and your ministry.
Roy Thompson, Atlanta, Georgia – royjrthompson@bellsouth.net
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02.08.09
Posted in Religion & More at 1:56 pm by admin
Is Hell a real place, or is it just a symbolic representation of a place where bad people should go? Does it really exist, or is the Bible trying to give us some insight into the torment that non-believers have in their final days of existence on earth? Or is it just fantasy put in the Bible to persuade people to believe in God? I once heard a preacher say, “You can believe whatever you want to about whether hell is real or not, but it does not change the fact that it is a real place of torment for non-believers.” Let’s take a look at what the Bible has to say about hell.
By examining the scriptures, we can learn a great deal about the place we call hell. We see that there is going to be everlasting destruction. “…in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,…” (II Thessalonians 1:8,9) We see in this passage a glimpse of hell. It is for those “who do not know God, and those who do not obey the gospel.” In other word for those people who fit two categories: (1) those who do not know or believe in God, who voluntarily choose not to, and (2) those who profess to believe but by their actions and the way they live their lives, do not follow or obey the gospel.
There are millions of people who have heard the gospel message, some I am sure dozens of times, and reject God and His Son. They do not give their lives to Christ, choosing rather to go their own way or perhaps the way of the world. According to this passage, these people will spend eternity in hell.
I am convinced there is also a large number of people who claim to be Christian and simply go through the motions, never really obeying the gospel or following the teachings of the New Testament. Their lives and hearts were not changed. These too shall spend eternity away from God.
So what is hell? The above passage again gives us a glimpse into this. “These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord…” The fate of those we are speaking of is to be banned eternally from being near God, or to be out of His presence. What is being “destroyed” in the passage is the ability or opportunity to be in the presence of or near God. Death, by spiritual definition, is separation. The first death is when our spirit is separated from our bodies. The second death will be when a person’s spirit is eternally separated from God.
I think we can see from the above passage that hell is a real place. We can also see that it is for certain that it will exist. In the book of Mark we see another glimpse of hell as a terrible place. “And if your hand makes you sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed, than having two hands, to go into hell, into the fire that shall never be quenched — where ‘their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.’” (Mark 9:43,44) The last part of this passage, “their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched,”is quoted from Isaiah 66:24. It simply tells us that though the physical body is dead, the spirit is still in existence. The spirit of those going to hell will be an existence as of a worm, or as Isaiah put it, “They shall be an abhorrence to all flesh.” (Isaiah 66:24) If we “in the flesh” could actually see exactly what hell is like we would truly be horrified. It is a terrible place of eternal existence for those who do not know God and those who will not obey the whole gospel.
Not only is hell a terrible place, but it is also a place of eternal existence. “Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels,…’” (Matthew 25:41) “And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into everlasting life.” (Matthew 25:46) The judgement, once pronounced, will be final, irreversible, and unending. For those of us that are obeying the gospel of Jesus Christ the thought of eternal life with God and Jesus is joyous. However, just the thought of eternal existence in hell makes me shutter. I cannot imagine — and I don’t want to — what it would be like to spend eternity in a place where I could not praise and worship my Heavenly Father. That alone, for me, would be terrible.
It is difficult for us to conceptualize what eternity will be like. Everything which we experience here on earth is limited by time. We tend to think of a lifetime as a very long period. In reality, in the frame-work of eternity, a lifetime is but a twinkle of an eye. It is but a fraction of a second in comparison. I like the way the song Amazing Grace phrases it, “When we’ve been there ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun, we’ve no less days to sing God’s praise than when we first begun.” How glorious that will be for us, and how terrible it will be for those in hell.
Specifically, who will be in hell? The Bible tells us exactly who will be in this place of eternal torment. “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and the books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. The sea gave up the dead which were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.” (Revelation 20:11-15) This is a long passage, but it shows clearly that everyone will go through the judgement. Those whose name is found written in the Book of Life will be entering into eternal life with God. Those whose name is not found in the Book of Life will be cast into the lake of fire, or hell. In other words, to put it in simple terms, all who are not saved by the grace of God through the blood of Jesus Christ shall spend eternity in hell.
The Scriptures also show us that hell will be a place where those who are there will be in a state of consciousness. They will be aware of their torment. Jesus in the Parable of the Lost Son illustrates this fact, “And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame,…’” (Luke 16:23,24) They will be aware of their existence, condition, and the reason for their torment. I think that this will be especially severe for those who knew Christ, and have fallen away.
I suppose when the average person hears of hell being referred to as the lake of fire, they also picture it as a bright place. After all fire puts off quite a bit of light. But the scriptures also describe hell as a place of darkness. “But the sons of the kingdom will be cast out into outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” (Matthew 8:12) The outer darkness may be a way to contrast the beautiful picture painted for us in Revelation of what heaven will be like. The outer darkness may be an indication that it will be the opposite of the beauty of heaven. It is no doubt a very ugly place. The “outer darkness” could also be literally that; complete and utter darkness. We know that the parable of the lost son indicates that those in hell can see to the other side, but that does not mean that they can see and understand what is going on right next to them. The torment spoken of in the Bible would surely be multiplied if it happened in complete darkness.
Those in hell will be fully aware of what they have missed. It is hard for us to conceptualize the beauty of heaven and the ugliness of hell. But for those who get sent to hell, they will know of both. It will also be a place where those who are there are separated from their Christian loved ones. “There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves thrust out.” (Luke 13:28) What a horrible experience for someone to be able to see their loved ones; mother, father, brothers, sisters, and friends enjoying themselves in heaven and know that they themselves are cast into hell for eternity.
We know that in heaven there will be no pain, no sadness, and no crying. In order for this to be true, we will not be aware of all the sad memories we have today. But that will not be true in hell. There will be memories. The ones which are sad for those hell-bound today will be even more pronounced. And the joyous memories of today will turn to sadness as they realize what could have been.
Have you ever made a poor choice in life and have it “come back to haunt you?” Anyone of any age at all that has not experienced this is truly a unique person. We all make poor choices, and they will usually come back to haunt us in the future. As those in hell are remembering their life on earth, they probably will be also remembering all the opportunities that they had to give their lives to Christ, and didn’t. They will probably remember each excuse that they used. They will remember those things that they did not want to give up to become a Christian, and how little those things eventually meant to them. The memories of all those things will be horrible memories indeed.
And finally we see that hell will be a place of no release. “And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” (Matthew 25:46) A few years ago I was lamenting to a friend of mine about some aspect of my life that I was having trouble dealing with. We all go through that, dealing with unpleasant matters. My friend said, “Remember, this too shall pass.” Whereas this is true with everything on earth, the opposite is true in hell. Hell is for eternity, and for those banished there, it will not pass away.
Is hell a real place? Yes, it certainly is. It is a terrible place, and it is a place of eternal punishment. It is for all the unsaved who reject the gospel and turn away from God. It is a place of consciousness, torment, darkness, separation from Christian loved ones, separation from God, a place without any hope of release, and a place of horrible memories.
The unsaved need to know about hell. I hope that this article will help you to be a witness to the lost in your community as well as your friends and loved ones who are without Christ. My prayer is that you will use this information to share with them.
All scriptures quoted are from the New King James Version unless otherwise noted.
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02.04.09
Posted in Religion & More at 11:15 am by admin
Even tho God is a Loving God, He still has a measure of Respect that He demands of His people(Children). Lets read, Pro 1:23-31; “Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.
Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof: I also will laugh at your calamity ( “destruction” the King James Version); the devastation of war (Jer.46:21 adversities of any kind (Pro.27:10).); I will mock when your fear cometh;
The significance of the covenant idea in the Old Testament can scarcely be overestimated.
The prophets constantly make reference to it by insisting that the fate of Israel will always be determined by the extent to which its people are faithful or unfaithful to the obligations placed upon them by the covenant. When israel entered into a covenant relationship with God, they agreed to all stipulations that were laid down by God. When Israel broke this covenant they became a “Disobedient, Back-sliding and Gain-saying” People.
Rom 10:20-21; But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me. ( This was the Gentile race of people)
But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gain-saying people. (The word,”gain-saying” means; to contest, argue, dispute, and challenge.)
Jer 3:8 And I saw, when for all the causes whereby back-sliding Israel committed adultery I had put her away, and given her a bill of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Judah feared not, but went and played the harlot also. ( The people of Israel, as in the Days of Moses, were getting tired of following after The covenant relationship that they agreed to. They started to follow after strange gods and doctrines.)
When your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you.= (
This last statement is Bible Prophecy that has come to pass, not only in the days of Roman occupation but also in recent history.)
Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer they shall seek: (Psa.78:34-36; Hos.5:15, Hos.6:1-4;) they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me:(Gen.6:3; Job.27:9, Job.35:12; Psa.18:41; Isa.1:15; Jer.11:11, Jer.14:12; Eze.8:18; Mic.3:4; Zec.7:13; Mat.7:22, Mat.7:23, Mat.25:10-12; Luke 13:25-28; James 4:3) For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord (They hated knowledge – This argues the deepest degree of intellectual and moral depravity).
They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof. ( Pro.1:30, Pro.5:12, Pro.12:1; Psa.81:11) Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. This statement is also prophecy. It not only represents the state of Israel but also includes the Gentile race. We are allowed by God to make our own decisions but we are held accountable for them.
This is also prophecy in Jer 18:17 I will scatter them as with an east wind before the enemy; I will shew them the back, and not the face, in the day of their calamity. I will provoke you – These words are taken from Deu.32:21. In that place the declaration refers to the idolatrous and wicked conduct of the Jews. God says that they had provoked him, or excited his indignation, by worshiping what was not God, that is, by idols; and he, in turn, would excite their envy and indignation by showing favors to those who were not regarded as a people; that is, to the Gentiles.
They had shown favor, or affection, for what was not God, and by so doing had provoked him to anger; and he also would show favor to those whom they regarded as no people, and would thus excite their anger. Thus, he would illustrate the great principle of his government in 2Sa.22:26-27, “With the merciful thou wilt show thyself merciful; with the pure, thou wilt show thyself pure; and with the fro-ward thou wilt show thyself unsavory,” that is, fro-ward.
Barnes states:
Psa.18:26. In this passage the great doctrine which Paul was defending is abundantly established – that the Gentiles were to be brought into the favor of God; and the cause also is suggested to be the obstinacy and rebellion of the Jews. It is not clear that Moses had particularly in view the times of the gospel; but he affirms a great principle which is applicable to those times – that if the Jews should be rebellious, and prove themselves unworthy of his favor, that favor would be withdrawn, and conferred on other nations. The effect of this would be, of course, to excite their indignation. Rom 10:19-21;
But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you.
But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me.
But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gain-saying people. The prophet Isaiah proceeds to specify in what this rebellion consisted, and to show that this was their character; Isa.65:2-7. The argument of the apostle is this; namely, the ancient character of the people was that of wickedness; God is represented as stretching out his hands in vain; they rejected him, and he was sought and found by others. It was implied, therefore, that the rebellious Jews would be rejected; and, of course, the apostle was advancing and defending no doctrine which was not found in the writings of the Jews themselves.
Earnestness, especially in beseeching, is denoted by the passages, (Job.11:13; Psa.68:31; Psa.88:9).
Jer 18:17
I will shew them the back – The hiding of God’s face is the sure sign of His displeasure Isa.1:15; Isa.59:2. “they gaze, they look” with joy “upon Me.” Psa.22:17. The rejoicing over them was doubtless, as among savages, accompanied with grimaces (as in Psa.35:19; Psa.38:16). Then follow words of insult. The enlarging of the mouth is uttering a tide of large words, here against the people of God; in Ezekiel, against Himself Eze.35:13 : “Thus with your mouth ye have enlarged against Me and have multiplied your words against Me.
I have heard.”
God states,”I have heard.” The dreadful words that God speakes against Israel. We are all bound by the words we speak. For the Bible states clearly that, “We shall give account for every idle word that proceeds out of our mouth. Israel spoke against Gods rule and God heard.
Bible prophecy; The name Jew – what ideas does it convey to all the nations of the earth? It is connected with reproach; a name regarded as belonging to a people accursed by God; a name more universally detested than any other known among people. And was it not because this name would be thus dishonored, reproached, and despised, that another was given to the true people of God – the name Christian – an honored name – denoting true attachment to the Messiah?
Isa 65:15 And ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen: for the Lord God shall slay thee, and call his servants by another name.(Christian.) Eze 22:4 Thou art become guilty in thy blood that thou hast shed; and hast defiled thyself in thine idols which thou hast made; and thou hast caused thy days to draw near, and art come even unto thy years: therefore have I made thee a reproach unto the heathen, and a mocking to all countries.
Isa 43:28 Therefore I have profaned the princes of the sanctuary, and have given Jacob to the curse, and Israel to reproaches. Mal 3:9 Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Gal 3:10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
(jfb)
Mal 3:7 Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return? Prophecy in Ezekiel chapter 5, shows the future of Israel. And thou, son of man, take thee a sharp knife, take thee a barber’s razor,
The prophet’s head, which was to be shaved, signified Jerusalem, which by the judgments of God was now to be stripped of all its ornaments, to be emptied of all its inhabitants, and to be set naked and bare, to be shaved with a razor that is hired, Isa.7:20. The head of one that was a priest, a prophet, a holy person, was fittest to represent Jerusalem the holy city.
end pt.2.
Temple of Spirit & Truth Ministries
http://www.ourchurch.com/member/a/arsmithsermons/
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02.03.09
Posted in Religion & More at 9:25 am by admin
In the year 2005, the American Constitution has put into law that the Ten Commandments cannot be displayed legally unless there is a historic theme to the display. I say what a joke.
If you really think about it the whole Bible is Historic from the beginning of time. I ask this question does science displays show any historic meaning, or furthermore does the nakedness of Greek Mythology displays show any historic facts.
I guess it depends on what historic fact is being emphasize or whom is in control. We have many structures in America that have everything from reptiles to who knows what. I ask why is that it we can put up with others signs and symbols, but they can’t put up with ours. Does it hurt them so much when they see the Ten Commandments displayed. If so why? What is the underlining cause of your hurt or contempt. After all if you can except the in God we trust symbol on the American dollar, why can’t you accept the viewing of the Ten Commandments.
Let’s see what the Bible says about Symbolization. In the book of Ezekiel 41:18 it says were carved cherubim and palm trees. Palm trees alternated with cherubim. Each cherub had two faces; the face of a man toward the palm tree on one side and the face of a lion toward the palm tree on the other. Now the NIV Bible dictionary states that the Cherub means this.
A winged, angelic being who exists primarily to glorify God and to vindicate God’s holiness against the presumptuous pride of fallen humans. Symbolic attendant marking the place of God’ enthronement in his earthly kingdom (Exodus 25:18) The plural co cherub is cherubim.
If people were really trying to enforce their belief on others, wouldn’t they create a cherubim. I think the Ten Commandments is a very good way of showing the historic fact not only of the Biblical sense, but also in the American sense for which this country was founded. It’s like back in the 1950″s when they insisted that the teaching of the Bible not be included in the school criteria. Now look at what we have today in America’s public school system, we have drugs, guns, gangs, pregnancy, rape, cheating of school grades by teachers and students. Yes I guess it was a good idea to remove Christ from school. But good for whom I wonder, think about it.
It is written in 1Timothy 4:13 it says Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. Now I ask when will we get back to basics, if ever?
When will we reserve the right to uphold the fundamentals on which this country was founded? Can someone tell me if it has change if so where is it written?
To conclude in the book of 2Thessalonians 2:15 it says So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
Love Always,
Your Sister in Christ,
Mellody Davis
Enjoy more reading at http://www.hostinghelps.com/allaboutjesus/AboutJesus.html
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01.30.09
Posted in Religion & More at 7:06 pm by admin
Divorce and Remarriage
Ray Stark
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This is a subject that has caused much heartache, spiritual shipwreck and tragic loss of ministry potential. I am not speaking of the heartache of broken homes and broken dreams which are the inevitable results of a failed marriage, but rather the legalistic and unbiblical attitudes which bring lifelong guilt and bondage to many believers as a result of not rightly dividing the New Testament teaching on this subject.
As the church of Jesus Christ our mandate is to set the captives free, not put heavier chains on them and then kick them off the dock and into the deep waters of discouragement and despair. Hopefully the following paper will bring freedom and peace to many who read it.
NOTE: As we study this subject please keep in mind that Jesus was talking to Jews under the Old Covenant and Paul is writing to the Church under the New Covenant. When you take this into account you find no discrepancy between the teachings of Jesus and those of Paul.
JESUS ON DIVORCE & REMARRIAGE
“What does Moses (The Law) say?” (Mark. 10:1-12)
Mark 10:1 And he arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts of Judaea by the farther side of Jordan: and the people resort unto him again; and, as he was wont, he taught them again. 2 And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife? tempting him. 3 And he answered and said unto them, What did Moses command you? 4 And they said, Moses suffered to write a bill of divorcement, and to put her away. 5 And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept. 6 But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. 7 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; 8 And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. 9 What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. 10 And in the house his disciples asked him again of the same matter. 11 And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her. 12 And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery.
Under the Law Remarriage is Legitimate in Some Cases
Remarriage is permissible under the law when divorce is the result of sexual immorality. (Matt 19:3-9 also see Matt 5:31,32)
Matt 19:3 The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? 4 And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, 5 And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? 6 Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. 7 They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away? 8 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. 9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery. 10 His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry. 11 But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given. 12 For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother’s womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.
NOTE: For believers, sexual infidelity should be grounds for forgiveness and reconciliation, not an excuse for divorce. Moses made his concession because of the hardness of their hearts.
Please keep in mind that Jesus is teaching Jews under the law of Moses in the scriptures quoted above. We need to look at the writings of Paul on the subject in order to find out what the teaching to the church is on the subject of divorce and remarriage.
PAUL’S TEACHING ON DIVORCE
In 1 Corinthians the seventh chapter Paul give us the New Testament teaching on divorce and remarriage. He is apparently in answering questions the Corinthian church sent to him asking for a definitive doctrinal teaching on the subject.
1 Cor 7:1 Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. 2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. 3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. 4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife. 5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency. 6 But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment. 7 For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that. 8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I. 9 But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. 10 And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: 11 But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife. 12 But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. 13 And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him. 14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. 15 But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. 16 For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife?
Note: In vs 10 Paul emphatically states that what he is about to write concerning the married believers is a direct command from Jesus Christ Himself, “I command, yet not I, but the Lord”. He is not going to disagree with Jesus in the following teaching, he is going to deliver the command the Lord gave Him for the church. First he states unequivocally that it is not the will of God for either husband or wife to give up on their marriage and seek divorce.
Depart: 5563 cwrizw chorizo kho-rid’-zo AV-depart 8, separate 3, put asunder 2; 13
Mark 10:9″What therefore God joined together let not man put asunder”
Paul makes it very clear that Christian couples should expend every effort to make their marriage work and even if they divorce they should keep the door open for restoration by avoiding remarriage. It is probably good to note at this point that there is nothing mentioned here about fornication or adultery either as the cause of divorce or as a legitimate reason to reason to remarry. Neither is there any curse mentioned for remarriage.
Paul now moves on to the case of a believer married to an unbeliever. Keep in mind that there were no believers in Corinth before Paul founded the church there so there were probably quite a few instances in which one member of an existing marriage relationship became a believer and their spouse remained unsaved. This is not talking about a believer making the decision to marry an unbeliever as so often happens nowadays. Paul covers that in his “be not unequally yoked” teaching in 1 Cor 6:14.
1 Cor 7:12 But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. 13 And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him. 14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. 15 But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace.
Paul uses the same terminology here as he does speaking of the liberty to remarry without reference to sin that comes after the death of a spouse.
Rom 7: 1 Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth? 2 For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. 3 So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man.
1 Cor 7:39 The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord.
PAUL ON REMARRIAGE
In vs 27 Paul finally gets around to the subject of remarriage after covering the various marriage and divorce scenarios in the church. His definitive command to every believer is “If you are married, don’t look for a divorce. If you are divorced, it would be better to remain single but if you remarry you have not sinned.”
1 Cor 7:27 Art thou bound unto a wife? seek not to be loosed. Art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife. 28 But and if thou marry, thou hast not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned. Nevertheless such shall have trouble in the flesh: but I spare you.
NOTE: Divorce is an awful thing, and is to be avoided at all cost. It is not however, the unforgivable sin. Nor does divorce and remarriage constitute ongoing adultery. The Blood of Christ cleanses from ALL sin and ALL unrighteousness.
—————————————————————– ————— http://www.celebratingjesus.org copyright 2003 Ray and Sharon Stark
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01.23.09
Posted in Religion & More at 9:59 pm by admin
A Christian friend came over asking that several of us pray for her. Despite doing all the “right” Christian things, she had been entertaining doubts about her faith.
In the course of our prayer, as I was reminding her of what Scripture says about how God sees her, in a gruff tone of voice, with furrowed brow, she scolded me, speaking in the third person, “She doesn’t deserve it! She doesn’t deserve it!” In a couple of hours, by the Power of the Holy Spirit, she was free from demonic bondage with a total change of countenance and has, since then, moved forward with marriage and ministry.
On an Easter Sunday morning, as I was attending a Baptist church service, a man sat praying, head bowed, as the congregation headed for the exits. I approached him and asked if I might pray. He ignored me. I laid my hand on his shoulder to pray. The moment I touched him, he bolted upright, began swaying like a cobra about to strike, and started growling as he pointed, “I hate him! I hate her! I hate this church!”
My attempts to minister were interrupted by well-meaning people asking if he needed medication or asking if they should call an ambulance. When the man became unable to open his mouth to speak, I commanded the spirit to release his tongue. Instantly, he was able to understand me then and speak intelligibly in response to me. I told him I was available for further ministry by the Holy Spirit but it was obvious there was no faith present to deliver him at that moment. I made him aware that, until he got help, this WAS his Christian life and he WOULD experience these manifestations again. I left only to be bombarded with questions throughout the week by those who were there.
The young man, it turned out, was a much-beloved seminarian.
Last week, as a group of us were praying, the Holy Spirit showed me a vision of a new attendee standing with tears in her eyes, in the middle of a Civil War battlefield, dressed in a Confederate soldier’s uniform, looking at her spouse, dressed in Union blue. As I shared this vision after our prayer time, the woman buried her face in her hands and cried. Her close friend nudged me and whispered, “You read her mail.”
On another occasion, a Christian business woman contacted me requesting prayer over one of her many facilities across Texas. This particular facility was not prospering at all and she could not help but consider closing its doors. That particular location had an openly lesbian manager which attracted openly gay employees. I went on a Thursday night with ateam. She met us there. We prayed and, within ten days, the facility’s numbers were improving already. The lesbian manager couldn’t understand it. In a memo I saw, she wrote, “We must be living right.” A week ago, the manager resigned as did several of the most blatantly gay employees.
I could write many personal encounters like these, moments when the Holy Spirit took control, flushed out an unsuspecting demon, healed, delivered, set free or came through with a vision, word of wisdom or word of knowledge. He is no respecter of persons; the gifts He has shared with me, He wants to share with you.
Question is, are you willing? Do you desire more?
WE ARE SPIRIT BEINGS HAVING AN EARTHLY EXPERIENCE. WE ARE ALIENS.
We have no permanent citizenship in this world. Though we are citizens of the United States, the reality is that, as a Christian, our citizenship is in Heaven (Phil 3:20). As the book of Hebrews says, “Here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city which is to come” (Heb. 13:14) For we are strangers before thee, and sojourners, as were all our fathers: our days on the earth are as a shadow, and there is none abiding. (1 Chron 29;15)
WE ARE ENAGED IN A SPIRITUAL WAR – a term not found in Scripture, but the concept is taught. Mankind is caught in the midst of a spiritual war with the holy God and His angels on one side and the evil Satan and his demons on the other.
(2 Cor 10:3-5) “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
(Eph 6:11-12) Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
(Rev 12:7-8) And there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down–that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.
IF WE RESIST THE DEVIL, HE WILL FLEE
(James 4: 7) Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
WE DO NOT HAVE THE POWER TO RESIST SATAN ON OUR OWN
(Jude 9) But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not dare to bring a slanderous accusation against him, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!”
TO RESIST THE DEVIL, WE MUST PUT ON THE FULL ARMOR OF GOD
(Eph 6:10-12) Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
Jesus’ own mission statement: “He hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening [of the prison] to them that are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Isa 61:1,2)
GOD ALLOWS TEMPTATIONS, BUT ALWAYS PROVIDES AN ESCAPE
(1 Cor 10:13) No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
SATAN KNOWS THE SCRIPTURES AND TRIES TO MISUSE THEM
As described in Matt 4:3-10 and Luke 4:3-12, during the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness, Satan quoted Him Scripture several times. Jesus replied each time with additional Scriptures refuting Satan’s attempts to take things out of context or only use part of a section.
(Matt 28:19-20, Lk 9:1-2 and 10:1-3).
Too many American Christians have become passive and fearful. Others are satisfied to merely acknowledge the right things and attend church services and activities. This type of lifestyle is quite different from that which Jesus requires of His followers.
We must preach and teach about the kingdom of God, focus on the doctrine of Christ, heal the sick and set the captives free.
Why is the Holy Spirit referred to as being “holy”?(HOLY: Belonging to, derived from, or associated with a divine power; sacred.) Distinguishes Him from EVIL spirits.
SAD FACTS REGARDING THE CHURCH AND THE HOLY SPIRIT
A majority (61%) agree that the Holy Spirit is a symbol of God’s presence or power but is not a living entity. (2001)
Among the segments of the population more likely than others to deny the existence of the Holy Spirit as a living entity are Catholics (73%), non-Christians (68%), and non-whites (68%). (2001)
A majority of all born again Christians reject the existence of the Holy Spirit (52%). (2001)
WHY IS THE HOLY SPIRIT IMPORTANT?
There is no subject more important in Christianity than that of the Holy Spirit. Unless this is properly understood, a large portion of the Bible, and especially the NT, remains unintelligible. On the other hand, a just view of it will do more than a knowledge of any other particular topic to give harmony, clearness, and consistency to what may be learned to all other matters presented in the Word of God.
Despite the importance of knowing the Holy Spirit and His place in the life of a Christian, there is much confusion and superstition in the minds of many people about the Holy Spirit
WHO IS THE HOLY SPIRIT?
1. A person with characteristics
2. NOT, merely an “influence”, or “impersonal force” that emanates from God.
3. We should regard the Holy Spirit as a “He”, not an “it”!
I. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S PERSONALITY
A. THE HOLY SPIRIT SPEAKS…
1. He “expressly says” that some will depart from the faith – 1 Tim 4:1
2. The Spirit spoke and gave directions to Philip – Acts 8:29
3. He spoke to Peter and gave him charge concerning the Gentiles – Acts 10:19-20
4. He spoke to the brethren at Antioch concerning Paul and Barnabas – Acts 13:1-4
B. THE HOLY SPIRIT TEACHES…
1. He was to teach the apostles all things – Jn 14:26
2. Please note that Jesus consistently refers to the Holy Spirit as “He”, not “it” (implying a personal being, not an impersonal force) – Jn 14:16-17
C. THE HOLY SPIRIT BEARS WITNESS…
1. He was to testify of Jesus – Jn 15:26-27
2. Just as the apostles (who were “personal beings”) would bear witness, so also the Holy Spirit
D. THE HOLY SPIRIT GUIDES, HEARS, SPEAKS, TELLS…
1. He would carry on and complete the work started by Jesus – Jn 16:12-13
2. Jesus consistently refers to the Holy Spirit as “He”
The Holy Spirit is a real person who came to reside within Jesus Christ’s true followers after Jesus rose from the dead and ascended to heaven (Acts 2). Jesus told His apostles…
“I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not behold Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you, and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” (Jn 14:16-18)
The Holy Spirit is not a vague, ethereal shadow, nor an impersonal force. He is a person equal in every way with God the Father and God the Son. He is considered to be the third member of the Godhead. Jesus said to His apostles…
“All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matt 28:18-20)
God is Father, Son and Holy Spirit. And all the divine attributes ascribed to the Father and the Son are equally ascribed to the Holy Spirit. When a person becomes born again by believing and receiving Jesus Christ (Jn 1:12-13; Jn 3:3-21), God resides in that person through the Holy Spirit (1Cor 3:16).
E. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S PRIMARY ROLE
1. He bears “witness” of Jesus Christ and tells people’s hearts about the truth of Jesus Christ. (Jn 15:26, 16:14).
2. He acts as a Christian’s teacher/guide (1Cor. 2:9-14).
3. He reveals God’s will and God’s truth to a Christian. Jesus told His disciples…
“The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.” (Jn 14:26)
“When He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.” (Jn 16:13)
4. The Holy Spirit was given to live inside those who believe in Jesus, in order to produce God’s character in the life of a believer. In a way that we cannot do on our own, the Holy Spirit will build into our lives love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Gal 5:22-23). Rather than trying to be loving, patient, kind, God asks us to rely on Him to produce these qualities in our lives. Thus Christians are told to walk in the Spirit (Gal 5:25) and be filled with the Spirit (Eph 5:18).
5. The Holy Spirit empowers Christians to perform ministerial duties that promote spiritual growth among Christians (Rom 12; 1Cor 12; Eph 4).
6. The Holy Spirit also performs a function for non-Christians as well. He convicts people’s hearts of God’s truth concerning how sinful we are — needing God’s forgiveness; how righteous Jesus is — He died in our place, for our sins; and God’s eventual judgment of the world and those who do not know Him (Jn 16:8-11). The Holy Spirit tugs on our hearts and minds, asking us to repent and turn to God for forgiveness and a new life.
F. THE HOLY SPIRIT FORBIDS…
1. He prevented Paul and his companions from going into certain areas of Asia – Acts 16:6-7 This He did by “forbidding” them, and “not permitting” them, despite their initial efforts
G. THE HOLY SPIRIT INTERCEDES…
1. The “Spirit Himself (note Paul’s use of the personal pronoun) makes intercession for us” – Rom 8:26
2. Just as Christ “also makes intercession for us” – Rom 8:34 [All these works of the Holy Spirit manifest personality]
II. THE HOLY SPIRIT POSSESSES PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS
A. HE HAS A MIND…
1. “the mind of the Spirit” – Rom 8:27 This suggests thinking on His own.
B. HE HAS KNOWLEDGE…
1. He “knows the things of God” – 1 Cor 2:11 just as the “spirit of man” (a personal being) knows certain things. He has intellect.
C. HE POSSESSES AFFECTION…
1. Paul speaks of “the love of the Spirit” – Rom 15:30 When have you known of an “impersonal force” that could love? He has emotion.
D. HE HAS A WILL…
1. “the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills” – 1 Cor 12:11 It was the Holy Spirit Who decided what person received which gift. Again, these are all characteristics of a being possessing intelligence and personality.
III. THE HOLY SPIRIT SUFFERS PERSONAL SLIGHTS AND INJURIES
A. HE CAN BE GRIEVED…
1. “do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God” – Eph 4:30 He can be made sorrowful through our willful neglect
B. HE CAN BE BLASPHEMED…
1. That is, to be spoken evil of, as in attributing His deeds to the works of Satan, the “unpardonable sin” – Matt 12:31-32
C. HE CAN BE INSULTED…
1. One who has “trampled the Son of God underfoot” has also “insulted the Spirit of grace” – Heb 10:29 This is done by sinning “willfully” – Heb 10:26
D. HE CAN BE LIED TO…
1. As Ananias and his wife Sapphira were guilty of doing. Acts 5:3: “…why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit…?”
E. HE CAN BE RESISTED…
1. As Stephen charged the Jewish leaders of doing – Acts 7:51 This they did by resisting the message and persecuting the messengers who were inspired by the Holy Spirit. Acts 7: 52-53
In my opinion, much too great an emphasis has been placed on the gift of tongues – so much so that an ungodly caste system of the haves and have-not’s has developed in some groups – despite the promise of Scripture that you shall receive POWER (NOT tongues) when the Spirit comes upon you; power to be a witness (literally, a martyr). Request my study entitled “Speaking of speaking in tongues.”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Pastor Michael is founder of t.e.a.m. ministries (team1min@aol.com). His eMail broadcasts, known as “Your Town for Jesus” (SEARCH it!) are reaching tens of thousands WEEKLY. He ministers by way of email and Instant Message, too. Write him at team1min@aol.com if you’d like to SUBSCRIBE to receive his messages directly.
Michael’s mission is to bring Discipleship and Encouragement to the Body of Christ. Michael is the author of numerous booklets on a variey of subjects that will interest the thinking Christian. Since 1999, he has written and broadcast hundreds of inspirational articles and a dozen booklets, all designed to accelerate the process of spiritual development in God’s people.
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Posted in Religion & More at 12:54 am by admin
In the United States, the month of December is the Christmas Season, not the Holiday Season. To the best of my knowledge there is only one holiday in December recognized by our government. December 25 was made a legal holiday in order to celebrate the birth of Christ. There are no other legal holidays during the month of December. Chanukah, Hannukah, or Hanukah is a celebration and, some say, a Jewish Holiday but it is not a legal holiday. Kwanza is a celebration and not a legal holiday. Christmas Eve is not a day and New Years Eve is not a day. We don’t call the month of May, the Holiday Season, even though that’s when Memorial Day is celebrated. On Martin Luther King Day we don’t have holiday parades, we have Martin Luther King Day parades. We don’t say happy holiday on the Fourth Of July, we say Happy Independence day or Happy Fourth Of July. Why then, do some people insist that we say happy holiday and holiday season when we are celebrating Christmas?
I’ll tell you why. It is because the organized religion of atheism (Yes atheism, is an organized religion, it is a religion of non belief.) is waging war against Christianity as the first battle in a war against all other religions. If they can defeat Christianity in this country of Christians, then they can defeat all religions that believe in a God or higher power.
I am a Christian. I don’t, however, know for sure, if Christ is the son of God or if he was a teacher or what. I do know, that I believe in the teachings ascribed to him. I do know, that even though we are humans and therefore can not and do not always follow all of those teachings, that if we all tried to live by those teachings of love and kindness, the whole world would be a better place. I also know that, I want Christ to be the Son of God because then it would mean that God did and does care about us and that there may very well be a Heaven.
I disagree with the director of special projects for the American Family Association when he says, “Christmas is not a holiday” and that calling Christmas a holiday “devalues our nation’s most holy day.” Christmas is a holiday. In fact, I consider Christmas and the Fourth Of July to be this country’s two most important and happiest holidays. The Fourth Of July celebrates the birth of our nation and Christmas celebrates the birth of Christ. Workers are given Christmas Day off with pay, school children are given several days off for Christmas vacation. Offices hold Christmas parties. Families get together, listen to Christmas music, stuff themselves with food and give each other gifts. Marines collect “Toys For Tots”. The Salvation Army puts out it’s kettles and collects money which is used to help needy people all year long. Many family members who have been feuding all year round get together and forgive each other. Christmas is a holiday of love and forgiveness.
Christmas is a holiday that everyone, not just Christians, should celebrate. Almost no one denies that Christ did exist at one time. The controversy is, whether or not he is the son of God. Putting that controversy aside, Christ preached or taught “peace on earth and goodwill towards men”. If people bemoan the fact that John Lennon died because he was a fighter for peace, how can they not celebrate the fact that Christ was born? Christ was arguably the original teacher of peace, forgiveness and goodness. He lived and died promoting peace. He not only promoted peace, he lived peace. He not only taught forgiveness, he lived forgiveness. Christ set an example that has lived for over two thousand years. If Martin Luther King can have a holiday, if Presidents, Veterans, labor and others can have their own holidays, why shouldn’t Christ have a holiday.
A note to other religions: You should support Christmas. If you allow the atheists to kill off Christmas, it could be your religion that they go after next. There is a war being fought today. I’m not talking about the war in Iraq. I’m talking about the war against religion being brought by atheists and certain hard line fanatics on the far left. Right now, they are winning the war because religious groups are not fighting back in a cohesive manner. If religious groups don’t help each other, someday they will all cease to exist and the United States will become another Soviet Union. Taking away our right to participate in religion and to celebrate our religion is a first step in taking away our other freedoms.
One of the main reasons that the United States was able to become so great is that, contrary to what the atheists and some others tell you, we are not a secular country. Our whole method of government and our laws come in large part from our forefathers religious beliefs.
It may not seem so, but I am not agaisnt all atheists. They have a right to believe in non belief and I support that right. I am just against the activists that are trying to force their non beliefs down my throat. I am willing to leave them alone if they are willing to leave me and mine alone. The problem is that they won’t leave us alone. They don’t want to allow us to believe as we wish. They want us to believe as they do. They don’t believe in Christmas so they want to take Christmas away from us.
One final note to all you major retailers who want to sell me gifts for me to give as Christmas presents, if you won’t acknowledge the Christmas Season in your advertising and in your stores, then don’t expect me to shop in your stores. If you insist in saying holiday season and happy holidays instead of Christmas Season and Merry Christmas, then I will insist in not dealing with you. For the time being, at least, you are free to do as you wish and I’m free do as I wish. My wish is to boycott you, not only during the Christmas Season but for a long time to come. Heck, I’m still boycotting everything French and I’ve been boycotting Jane Fonda and Shirley MacLaine since the Vietnam War.
David G. Hallstrom, Sr. is a retired private investigator and currently publishes several internet directories including www.resourcesforattorneys.com a legal and lifestyle resources directory for attorneys, lawyers and the internet public. For more lifestyle information see lifestyle.resourcesforattorneys.com, the Lifestyle directory from Resources For Attorneys.
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01.19.09
Posted in Religion & More at 8:27 pm by admin
God’s goodness and mercy in your life will always be part of a larger picture.
When Jesus used Peter and John to heal the crippled beggar in Acts 3, it had several powerful effects.
The first of which, obviously, was a man received freedom from an incredibly painful, life-long ordeal. This is just another portrait of the compassionate nature of our God, to touch us and heal us where we hurt the most.
But secondly, this miracle had a residual effect for the kingdom of God. Others were touched by God’s kindness and mercy in this man’s life.
When all the people saw him walking and praising God, they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him (Acts 3:9).
We don’t know precisely how long this man had sat crippled outside the temple gate, but the word does tell us he was there every day. That means many people knew of this man’s condition and former way of life.
We may not have walked out of a wheelchair, or been healed of a life-long sickness or ordeal, but there is not one of us who hasn’t been greatly touched by him in some way. In itself, the fact he has saved us from our lost, sinful state is a miracle.
I know we are all immensely grateful for God’s love, mercy and goodness in our lives. Where would we be without it? But God wants that goodness to not only flow to us, but through us as well.
I don’t know about you, but when people look at my life, I want them to clearly see his hand moving there. Just like in the case of this crippled man, I want them to say, “There is something different about him today.” I want his touch in my life to bring glory and praise to Jesus.
Isn’t that what we all should aspire to?
After God performed this miracle, Peter announced to the onlookers:
Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus (Act 3: 12b-13).
The truth is, everything God does for us is part of a larger plan. God’s ultimate goal in everything is to exalt his son and touch others through us. Paul wrote to the Corinthians that God “comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God” (2 Cor. 1:4)
Did he heal you of a broken heart? Be on the lookout for the broken heart he wants you to help heal.
Did he bring you through a painful sickness or a season of doubt? Keep an eye open for the sick and doubting around you.
Did he save you, wipe away your sins and set your feet on solid ground? You are literally surrounded with people to reach out to.
This week, I encourage each of us to examine how God’s touch in our life should touch others.
That is my desire today, and I hope it is yours. Let’s concentrate on letting others know about his goodness and mercy in our lives, and always give the credit where credit is due.
That is the only way this Christian life will appear appealing to those who haven’t met him yet. And, spreading his goodness and love around is why we are here.
About the Author
John Tyler is a Houston-based writer and public relations professional who publishes an online column on Christian living. Be Transformed! Vist http://www.JohnTylerMinistries.com
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Posted in Religion & More at 3:52 am by admin
Employment: Blood, Sweat, and Tears!
Mel Brooks, the movie producer, said it best, “Life stinks!”
If you have spent any time in the workplace, you will have observed many different kinds of attitudes, personalities, and ways of approaching the job there. We all have different personalities, habits, desires, experiences, and expectations, all converging and conflicting, and the water cooler area becomes a gathering place for hearing the latest gossip, a hotbed of conflict and chaos. Somehow, in the midst of all this, we, as Christians, are called to distinction. This rubs us against the grain of our coworkers and employers, who have conflicting ideas. The Christian enters into a struggle with identity, values, attitudes, and feelings, all producing stress and fatigue.
We are Christians, yet we are also human, and we work with Christians as well as non-Christians. We are material beings who need a livelihood to provide for the daily substance of life. >From food and shelter to leisure and entertainment, work becomes a necessary means for us to live and function in society. Work can also be a potential for so much more. A call, a vocation, or a job, whatever you call what you do in between your day of worship and church, whether it be a priest or a fry cook, we all have a purpose. We all have a job. Sometimes, it is the same, sometimes not, as we may be in the wrong place and job. Nevertheless, we have a call to be employed, to function in society, and to behave in that call.
We are also social beings, not just tools or devices, slaves or machines. We are spiritual beings who have been saved by our God and Creator and given the call to be virtuous and righteous. All our experiences, expectations, aptitudes, and attitudes come together in the workplace. And, all of these distinctions converge into our mindset and attitudes at work. So, what is the right attitude and approach with which to do our work? How do we get along with coworkers, bosses, and our God?
Work, Job or vocation is a word we use to start to describe what we do in life, vocation has its root from the Latin verb “to call;” thus, our vocation and job is actually a call, similar to a minister. So we need to understand its role and significance in our life and how we are to be in our vocation as well as what it means in our walk with our Lord. Let us venture into God’s Word and see what He has to say about what we do during the week. What and why we have work and what we are to do in that vocation and how we respond to others around us. The following passages are arranged so you can spend some time in the Word, which will help you to develop a Biblical attitude of work. Also, several thoughts based on Scriptural insights are provided for you to pray about to nudge yourself into being a better person at work. You may discover what we do is not as important as how we do it!
God’s Call For the Employee: Ephesians 6:5-8
You may feel like a slave at work. Or, perhaps you treat others in that way thinking, I am in command. They work for me, and they have to do what I say! But, the key to this passage is the attitude we are to have, that of looking to Christ as our employer so we do our work for Him. Therefore, we are to be our best for His glory, regardless of our circumstances (Rom. 8:17; Phil. 2:1-11). We may have a paycheck from McDonald’s and a boss who may need some acne treatments, but our ultimate authority and manager is Christ Himself! We show our value–that Christ paid a price for us–so, we in turn can respond with a good work ethic (1 Cor. 7:23). We must adjust our mindset to see work as an opportunity to please Him, and in so doing, be a blessing to those around us. As an employee we are called to Diligence! This allows us to operate with our best for Christ’s highest with excitement and passion in order to complete our work and call from the Lord. It is practical obedience, which is the loving of our call and the pursuing of our work so we are doing our best for His glory. (Prov. 10:4; Rom. 12:11; Colossians 3:23)
Here are some more Scriptures about being an employee: Exodus 23:12; 35:2; Proverbs 10:26; 25:13; Ecclesiastes 2:4; 5:12; Colossians 3:17,22-25; 2 Thessalonians 3:10; 1 Timothy 6:2; Titus 2:9,10; 1 Peter 2: 18-20
God’s Call For the Employer
God honors diligence and fairness. As an employer you are called to Diligence and to Fairness! These are the two characteristics we are to have in the workplace, and are especially essential for the manager. God hates the exploitation of people and will judge with severity those who do exploit others. So, why bother with the rotten characters of dishonesty and exploitation when we can have a much more efficient and happy workplace, where the workers are cared for and encouraged to produce instead of being forced and made to condescend.
Here are some more Scriptures about being an employer: Leviticus 19: 13; Deuteronomy 24:4,14; Proverbs 27: 18; Malachi 3:5; Luke 10:7; 1 Corinthians 9: 6-12; Ephesians 6:8; Colossians 3:17; 4:1; 1 Timothy 5:17,18
After reading the above selected Scriptures, ask yourself these questions:
Q: What attitudes, desires, and habits do you have that need to be changed?
Q: How can you be encouraged by God’s truths and encourage those who are in the workplace?
Q: What warning is God giving you?
Q: How can you lead a distinctive lifestyle in the workplace?
Q: Have you considered the eternal results of a healthy work attitude, even in the face of strife and chaos?
God’s Call For the Workplace As a worker, or an employer, God has a lot to say to us regarding our virtue at work.
We are called to work with respect and honor to God and others: Genesis 2: 15; 3: 15; Proverbs 6:6-8; 10:4,5,26; 12:9; 13:4; 14:23; 18:9; 22:29; 31:11-31; Ecclesiastes 3:22; 5:12; Ephesians 4:28; 1 Timothy 5: 8!
We are called to work with integrity: Proverbs 10:2; 15:27; Jeremiah 22: 13; Ephesians 4:28!
We are warned about laziness: Exodus 20:9-11; 23:12; 34:21; Proverbs 16:27; 18:9; 19: 15; 22:13; 24:30-34; 1 Thessalonians 4: 11,12; 2 Thessalonians 3:7-15!
We are called to honor just remuneration: Proverbs 3:27,28; 27:18; Luke 10:7; 1 Timothy 5: 18; James 5:1-5!
Here are some thoughts for your consideration. Remember what God calls us to do:
Our work is not to define us! Even though this may be the first question we ask someone new to us, or is asked of us, our work is what we do, not who we are! Work is not our identity or our worth!
Our worth as a Christian is who we are in Christ!
Work, in society, is center stage for our social classification and the search for identity, and can even be an addiction to fulfill our deeper needs!
Our worth as a Christian is who we are in Christ!
Ecclesiastes 2:4; 4:7-8 asks, What benefit do we gain? This passage gives us the impression that our toil and work are merely temporary. We may find work necessary in order to live, but it is not permanent or eternal.
It is not what we do that matters, but how we are!
Colossians 3:22-25. Our work may not define us, but it will either mature or devalue us. How we respond and model character will be the eternal value—our true selves. Work can even be a means through which to worship our Lord!
People will see Christ through us in the workplace–either as a God to come to, or, one from whom to be repelled. How do people at work see Christ through you?
The Dangers and Concerns In the Workplace.
How do you handle Anger? Anger is one of the biggest enemies for the employee as well as the employer! We are to be known by our love; yet, it is anger that most often communicates who we are. Thus, we must beware of its vicious and destructive ways!
Our inner feelings of inadequacy can be the fuel to the negative reaction to anger from a boss or coworker. Thus, we have to see ourselves as God sees us, redeemed, and as His child. Then we can have a healthier self-image that gives us confidence but does not allow pride.
Do not try to just ignore your anger. Walking away from, or stopping the anger, will not solve the problem, and often, even prolongs it. Put an end to the anger by seeking to solve the root of the conflict. Let the anger give you the fuel to react quickly and confidently, but do not let it control you!
Gossiping, name-calling, and/or trying to get even will only escalate the problem and give others a very wrong impression of our Lord! Remember, our essential self worth is not our job; it is who we are in Him!
Do not take anger personally! View your work as a service to Christ, not a personal, esteem-building venture!
Do not be defensive. Rather, let integrity be your guide. Virtue will build actions, even if you are under attack by an angry employer or fellow-employee. Show Christ-like character, and, in the long run, you will win out. If not, shake the dust off your feet and move on, because in God’s eyes, you are the winner!
If the employer or fellow-employee is angry, do not let it influence you! Do not acknowledge the anger, and refuse to accept the tone, because that gives it more fuel and you will lose control.
Separate the emotion of the anger from the words and content of what a person is saying. Do not respond to their anger with your own! Let them vent, then get to the root of the problem. Listen, and ask, How do you want me to resolve this? Find a solution, especially if it is your fault. And, if that be the case, take responsibility; do not blame others; deal and act!
Restate the content of their complaint in your own words without the emotion. Use phrases such as, I didn’t know you disagreed with that policy. Or, I’m glad to know how you feel. Let us find a solution about that.
Let the person know you are glad they came to you (even if they acted inappropriately, because, we all do so at some point). When you are positive and looking to help them, you will be able to defuse the anger faster than anything else you could do. Also, be in prayer, asking God to give you the strength and the appropriate words. Remember, He is there too!
Remember Christ-like attitude, and the “Fruits of the Spirit,” as well as sensibleness, self-control, and cooperation. (Romans 12:1-2; 2 Peter 1:4) Seek to emulate His character and you will excel.
Q: Do a word study on excellence by looking it up in a concordance, and see what you find. Notice how these principles affected not only the people in the Bible, but also how they could affect you. Then take those precepts and attitudes and ask yourself, How can I apply them in my workplace?
We will continue with “How To Deal With Co-workers” in Part II
Richard J. Krejcir Into Thy Word © 2003 www.intothyword.org
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