ARE YOU AN OBEDIENT CHILD? SALVATION DEMANDS OBEDIENCE! (WITH VIDEOS - ONE A SERMON ON OBEDIENCE BY A. W. TOZER) - INSPIRATIONAL WEEKEND

 

                                                   [Hen and chicks -  Kauai, Hawaii]

It may seem an odd choice for a photograph here on this blog, but to me it rather fits the subject matter of this weekend article  -  Obedience.   I took this photo on the Island of Kauai - near a famous blow-hole there by the ocean (where waves hitting the rocks spew up a high spray which can sometimes reach 50 feet into the air, from a "hole" in the rock or rocks).  The name of the blowhole is "Spouting Horn" in a beach park on Kauai's south shore near Poipu- it was several years ago when I visited there that I took the photo above.  (I have been to Kauai Island several times).   At any rate, all of the islands here (not only on Kauai, but the other Hawaiian islands as well (even more populated Oahu and Honolulu) have numerous fowl running around like they own the place.  Some are rather tame, and others are very skittish and wild.  

 

                                   [Spouting Horn Blowhole -  Kauai]  (Internet photograph)

To get to the point, the little chicks follow their momma around and do not want her out of their sight -  and the same goes for how the hen feels about her brood.  The chicks "obey" their mom well because they keep her in their sight.  This is rather how we Christians, true believers and followers of Jesus Christ the Savior, should be in regards to our Guide - our LORD !!   To follow Him and His lead, His guidance and His commandments.  To walk close beside Him and in His footsteps; to keep Jesus always in sight - and close by!  To carefully observe His ways and endeavor to imitate Him as best we can -  and in all that we do and say! Even, as well, to have the good Lord always on and in our minds and hearts. 

"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!  Behold, your house is left unto you desolate."    -  Jesus at Matthew 23:37-38

As I entered the above Scripture, it reminded me of America.  America in general for decades has ignored God and His commandments -  now we seem to be paying the price!  

Of course, there are still many sincere and active believing Christians in America and around the world,  who are true to the good LORD and who are looking for His glorious return to take us home to be with Him.  (Titus 2:13-14)

Following is a 38 minute audio sermon by A.W. Tozer titled: "As Obedient Children".  It is a wonderful and insightful sermon you do not want to miss!   It taught me something new!   Well, not new so much as it gave me more understanding.  

Tozer, in the above sermon, emphatically states a scriptural truth :  "Salvation apart from obedience is contrary to Scripture."   Many gems of spiritual truths to be found here in Tozer's sermon!

And here is a very short ten minute video reading some of Andrew Murray's writings on the subject of "With Christ in the School of Obedience".  It is a wonderful message and is accompanied by beautiful scenery in the video. It reminds us that "part of the beauty of your salvation is obedience" and gives Biblical examples of obedience by Moses, Noah, Abraham and others.

By the way, to any students of the Bible, there are many quotes (articles) by Andrew Murray on the subject of Obedience, as well as other subjects by him, at a link on the website raptureready.com.  Once at that website look for the link that says "Best of the Christian Classics."   Once there, it lists many other authors besides Murray,  such as Charles Spurgeon, D.L. Moody, John Wesley, etc.  Check it out!

Following is a partial quote by Andrew Murray from his article on "The School of Obedience":

Murray (from the preface):  ".... The Father in heaven asks and requires, and actually expects, that every child of His yield Him whole-hearted and entire obedience, day by day, and all the day!  To enable His to do this, He has made a most abundant and altogether sufficient provision in the promise of the New Covenant, and in the gift of His Son and Spirit.  This provision can alone, but can most certainly be enjoyed, and these promises fulfilled, in the soul that gives itself communion with the Three-in-One God,  so that His presence and power work in it all the day.  The very entrance into this life demands the vow of absolute obedience,  or the surrender of the whole being, to be, think, speak, do , every moment, not but what is according to the will of God, and well-pleasing to Him  ... We need the Holy Spirit to give us such a vision of their glory, and divine power, and the demand they make on our immediate and unconditional submission that there may be no rest till we accept all that God is willing to do for us.  Let us all pray that God may, by the light of His Spirit, so show His loving and almighty will concerning us, that it may be impossible for us to be disobedient to the heavenly vision." -  end of Andrew Murray's quote

  [Kilauea Lighthouse at Wildlife Refuge -  Kauai, Hawaii] 

"Christ is the key which unlocks the golden doors into the temple of Divine truth." -  A. W. Pink

"Something is wrong when our lives make sense to unbelievers."  -  Francis Chan

"It is altogether doubtful whether any man can be saved who comes to Christ for His help with no intention to obey Him."  -   A.W. Tozer

"If you look up into His face and say, 'Yes, Lord, whatever it costs', at that moment He'll flood your life with His Presence and power."  -  Alan Redpath

"Why should I tremble at the plough of my Lord, that maketh deep furrows on my soul? I know He is no little Husbandman; He purposeth a crop."  -  Samuel Rutherford 

Here is a worship song sung by Matt Redman which many of you are no doubt familiar with.  It is called "The Heart of Worship" or "It's all about You, Jesus": 

Really, really, pay close attention to the lyrics in this song!  Part of the lyrics say:  "I'm coming back to the heart of worship; and it's all about You, Jesus.  I'm sorry Lord for the thing I've made it; when it's all about You."   Many people "attend church" but do not really worship the Lord in truth and spirit.

In today's chaotic and uncertain times, we need God's supernatural help and strength.  For guidance there, the following prayer by the Christian You Tube Channel "Grace For Purpose" helps encourage us in that regard, and it reminds us that we all will have our "valley experiences", as they serve a purpose for our benefit from God's perspective. (Scroll down to the previous post on Tuesday, July20, 2021, which also discussed valley experiences).

The above beautiful 12 minute video also reminds us "It's all about Jesus."

  Is that how you feel?  Is your life centered around Jesus?  Is Jesus/God first in your life?

Sometimes we are so boggled down with the cares of life- the struggles of life - that we lose our focus!  Our focus on spiritual things then take second place to our worries and cares, which seem to consume our minds and  which, also, leaves no room for contemplating our spiritual well-being.  It should not be that way, but we are imperfect humans.  We sometimes slip up -- and downright sin!  

The more you focus on spiritual things, the less you will "slip up."  Why?  Because if you are constantly devouring God's Holy Word - the Bible - and feasting on its truths and encouragement -  it is as if God is "speaking" to you personally through the Holy Spirit inspired words of the Holy Scriptures.  And He really is doing just that!   Your faith will grow and so will your love and closeness to the good Lord as you read and study your Bible!  And do not forget to pray often; prayer will bring you closer to God as well as Bible reading.  "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he..." -  Proverbs 23:7 a  - So keep God's Word in your mind and your heart!  Meditate on it day and night.  Think on things above, not the things of this dying world!

That is what it is all about, friends!  A close, personal, intimate, loving, living, blossoming relationship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ the Savior !   We are just traveling through on this earth; heaven is our true home!  But only if we have a faith and belief in Jesus as the Savior, without which we will never see heaven.

Jesus died and suffered a cruel death as our substitute on the cross!  His shed blood can wash us clean and make us new creatures by a spiritual birth when the Holy Spirit dwells in us at the moment of true salvation!  

Ephesians 1:13 encourages us:  "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."

One needs to realize the enormity of his sins and how they separate him from God.  If you are truly repentant and pray to God for forgiveness -  in all sincerity and remorse at heart for your sinfulness - God will answer that prayer!  Just believe with all of the very fiber of your being - your heart and soul and every breath you take-  that Jesus is the Savior, and the only way to heaven!  

Following are Scriptures for those who are not yet saved!  The times we live in are urgent!  Jesus will return very soon to take His followers to heaven in the Rapture!   Will you be rapture ready?

"Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works."  -   Titus 2:13-14

"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him."  -  John 3:36

(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time: behold, now is the day of salvation.)"  -  2 Corinthians 6:2

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me."    -     John 14:6

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  -   John 3:16

HAVE A BLESSED AND CHRIST CENTERED WEEKEND -  AND LIFE !

HE IS AT THE DOOR! BE ALERT !! WAR IN THE WORKS? SIGNS THAT GIVE US HOPE! (Videos - One a sermon by Pastor Jack Hibbs)

 

My photograph above of the Hawaiian Black-crowned Night Heron was taken at the Hamakua Marsh in Kailua, Oahu.  I used my reference photo above to complete a painting of this very common heron found in Hawaii.   I titled the painting "Alert!"       That word alert needs to be a by-word for today's world!   For everyone, but especially for Christians.   Alert to the signs of the times!  Alert to the fact that Jesus told us the signs of the last days that would manifest themselves, proving that He would return soon to rapture His true followers to heaven.  (Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21).   In other words, although no one knows the day or the hour (except God -  Matthew 24:36) ,  Jesus informed us of the signs of the "season" when His return would occur.  Be alert!  Be watchful! Be on guard!

Following is a recent sermon by Pastor Jack Hibbs, in which he discusses the fact that the return of Israel to their homeland - after 2000 years of being dispersed throughout the world - that fact was prophesied in the Bible back in the prophet Isaiah's day.   (Isaiah 66:8-9).   That was a miracle of God, when Israel became a nation again in one day as Isaiah 66 told us in advance!  So when the Jewish people finally had their nation "born" in 1948, that also was a sign of the last days being upon us.

Pastor Hibbs discusses other pertinent scriptural truths as well in his following 29 minute sermon; truths relevant to the peculiar times in which we find ourselves now -  our mixed up world with even the leaders of governments "perplexed" and not knowing the way out!   (Luke 21:25-26)

As stated previously on this blog, the signs of the times given in Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21 were given by Jesus to the Jewish people, and pertain primarily to the 7 year Tribulation - the time of "Jacob's Trouble."   However, many of these signs Jesus warned about are also coming true today, to some extent but obviously not full force yet.  Meaning, we are in the "season" of our Savior's return to take us true believers to be with Him in heaven!   Maranatha!   Hang in there!  It will not be long now!

Please read all of Luke 21!  Here is a portion of it for you: (Jesus speaking);

"And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. "

  And, although it pertains to the Jews (and Gentiles left behind at the Rapture) and at the end of the Tribulation period, Luke 21:28 can also be applied to the Rapture of Christians prior to the Tribulation:

"And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads, for your redemption draweth nigh."

 Many prominent and true pastors apply Luke 21:28 to us Christians looking for our Savior at the time of the Rapture as well as to the Jews at the end of the Trib.  By the way, another Pastor whose messages you will enjoy is Andy Woods -  check him out on You Tube. 

 

                                                      [Nene - Hawaiian Goose - Hawaii's State Bird]

One way to endure these perilous times (2 Timothy 3:1-5)  is to pray without ceasing!  ( 1 Thessalonians 5:17) And, of course, to be often in the Word ! -- reading the Bible constantly!  If you are often in the Holy Word, you will find it "speaks" to you and encourages you and corrects you!  It is God Himself Who inspired men of old to write the Bible, through the power of His Holy Spirit!  It is a great comfort when you are often in God's Word -- and in prayer!  How else can you learn what God's will is and what is expected of you, by Him?   Both prayer and daily Bible reading will draw you closer to the Heavenly Father, and your appreciation for Him and His attributes will help you to realize all He has done for you, blessed you, and loved you!  "Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you...."   (James 4:8 a).

A big plus of doing all of the above, is the wonderful result of a growing, and vibrant, and living, and personal, intimate relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ !!  That is what it is all about!  Not a religion, but a relationship!!  But, of course, meaning Christian in nature, because Christ is our Savior, and the only way to the Father and to heaven!

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me."  -   John 14:6

 Do not give up!!   "God specializes in turning bad situations around!"  So says the following 12 minute video by the wonderful Christian You Tube Channel " Lion of Judah"!

The above video also encourages us that "When you saturate your spirit in God's Word, you can keep believing!"   and,  "In Christ there are no losers!"

"Be careful [anxious] for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.  And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.  Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."  -    Philippians 4:6-8

GOD LOVES YOU!  

HAVE A BLESSED DAY!

"It Was The Best of Times, It Was The Worst of Times" (with videos - One by Pastor Chuck Smith) - Inspirational Weekend

       

The title of this post, "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times" many of you will recognize as the opening of Charles Dickens' novel, "A Tale of Two Cities" which concerned the terrible issues in Paris and London in the late 18th Century.  I was reminded of that quote recently when I read an article that compares that time to the time in which we find ourselves now in these chaotic last days of this troubled world.  Below is a link to that article:

https://www.raptureforums.com/end-times/busily-waiting/

In the article above, it clarifies that "when seen in the proper perspective, it is a blessing to be living in the most exciting period of human history..... the conclusion of the age of the Church of Jesus Christ"  -  soon coming to an end by the Rapture of true believers to heaven.  For true followers of the Savior, Jesus, it is a blessed hope to look forward to.  (Titus 2:13). Please read the short article in the link above for more insightful thoughts.

Part of my Bible study for yesterday was in Luke 21.  As most of you realize, that is where Jesus gave signs of the end times to His disciples.  My focus, however, was on verses 13, 19, and 36 of Luke 21.  

When searching for a sermon on those verses on You Tube, the following one by Pastor Chuck Smith, the founder of Calvary Chapel Churches, caught my attention.  Pastor Chuck speaks about the end times signs (and more) and then at the 24 minute mark of this 38 minute sermon, he discusses Luke 21:36, where Jesus tells us :

"Watch ye, therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man."

   

   In the above sermon, Pastor Smith reminds us that when the 7 year Tribulation starts, it is then too late to pray to escape the horrors of it.

If you have not surrendered your life to the good Lord - have not put your faith and trust and heartfelt belief in Jesus and the fact that He is the Savior and the only way to heaven and eternal life - it is imperative that you do so now while there is still time.  

Jesus' return is imminent!

Be Rapture Ready!

Following is an old hymn you will enjoy!

By Jesus' shed blood at Calvary, where He paid our sin debt in full by taking our place on the cross and by taking our sins upon Himself there, we may have eternal life if we but believe in Him as the Savior.  Remember, in the Old Testament times, the blood of lambs and other animals made atonement for the people's sins.  When Jesus, the Lamb of God, shed His blood, He made redemption possible for you and me.  For once and all time!   What love !  

If you are not saved by belief in Jesus and in His shed blood on your  behalf (the ransom sacrifice; His redemptive work on our behalf) ; then following are some Bible verses for you to take to heart and that will help you to repent and to pray for forgiveness and to surrender in faith to Jesus.

"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth upon him."  -   John 3:36

"Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ."  -  Titus 2:13

"Jesus saith unto him,  I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by Me."  -  John 14:6

"I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy:  I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.  I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth His life for the sheep."  -     John 10:9-11

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."   -  John 3:16

Have a  blessed and Christ centered weekend -  and life !!

"Maybe All The Bad Happening Now Is Actually Good" - (Prophecy Update Video by Pastor J.D. Farag)

The title of this post ("Maybe All The Bad Happening Now Is Actually Good") is similar to what Pastor J.D. Farag said in his recent Bible Prophecy Update posted on Sunday, February 23, 2020. You will see why he said that, when you watch the following 37 minute video:

Often good can come from evil.  Remember Joseph in the Old Testament and how his brothers hated him and sold him into slavery and how he eventually became a powerful figure in Egypt, second only to the Pharaoh himself.  Eventually Joseph's brothers came to Egypt to purchase food, as there was a great famine which necessitated them doing so.   When Joseph revealed himself to his brothers (because at first they did not recognize him as their brother), he said the following:

"But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive."  -   Genesis 50:20

This reminds me of what was said in my previous post on February 22, 2020  (scroll down to view it),  and, that is, "Do not lean upon your own understanding" which is taken from Proverbs 3:5,6 as follows:

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge Him,  and He shall direct thy paths."

This video above by Pastor Farag is one of his best!  He tells us that many professing Christians today don't see or don't want to see just how near we are to the end of all things as we know it.

Pastor Farag explains the way of salvation towards the end of his update above.

Jesus loves you !

Jesus is returning soon!

Be Rapture ready !


"And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh."    -    Jesus at Luke 21:28, concerning signs of the end times.  Please read all of Luke 21 !  It describes events that are occurring right now!

"Amazing Grace" - Have You Experienced It?" - (With 2 videos) -Inspirational Weekend

Grace!  Without the grace of God, we would have no hope of eternal life with the good Lord.  It has been said that the gospel message of Jesus Christ is all about God's grace.  

"But none of these move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God."  -    Acts 20:24

Jesus is the epitome of grace and truth !

"And the Word {Jesus} was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth."  -   John 1:14

The Bible calls grace a gift.

"But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ."  -  Ephesians 4:7

Most of you may be familiar with Ephesians 2:8-9 which follows:

(8) "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.  (9) Not of works, lest any man should boast."

One hymn that is well known to all is "Amazing Grace."  My favorite version of it has been posted on this blog once before, but here is another version by an adorable child.

The above hymn gives us a good understanding of what it means to be saved by grace, which is God's undeserved favor, and shows His love and forgiveness of our sins.  It is God's blessing on the unworthy.  Read the account of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-24.

The wayward and sinful son in that account typifies all unbelievers, and the father there who forgives and welcomes the prodigal son back joyfully and with love, is representative of God, who forgives us sinners.

Following is a short 5 minute sermon clip on the prodigal son by Pastor David Wilkerson.  The pastor talks not only about the prodigal son, but gives us assurance about how God truly loves us and rejoices over us; and how He desires of us constant faith.

God's Holy Word tells us that we cannot do anything to earn our salvation.  Isaiah 64:6 informs us that "And we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags."

2 Corinthians 5:21 tells us "For He hath made Him to be sin for us, Who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him."

In Romans 4 it speaks of ancient Abraham's great faith and how he gave glory to God (verse 20).  Romans 4:21-22 tells how Abraham's faith was accounted to him as righteousness, in that he believed and trusted God to fulfill His promises.

Romans 4:24-25 says "But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on Him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead: Who was delivered for our offenses, and was raised again for our justification."

It is evident that God is love ( 1 John 4:16), and that He gives grace to the humble and to those that come to Him with a sincere repentance and with a true faith and belief that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, the Savior.

How grateful we should be for all of His love and tender mercies, His grace!

We should glorify Him and praise Him !

We finite humans cannot even begin to comprehend such a strong love from God and Jesus.  We can only understand in part right now.  When we are in glory in heaven, no doubt we will have a fuller grasp of the depth of the good Lord's love.

"But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him."  -  1 Corinthians 2:9

"In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him."  -   1 John 4:9

This age of grace we are currently experiencing will soon end, when Jesus returns to rapture His true believers to be with Him in heaven.  After that is the 7 year Tribulation period, when the Lord will pour out His wrath upon the wicked with the horrors and plagues and destruction in the Tribulation.  You do not want to be here then!   Although the Bible does inform us that many will be saved during that 7 year period, they will do so by their death by the antichrist system; because as Christians they will not pledge allegiance to the antichrist by taking the "Mark of the beast".  They  would rather die than not be true to God.  (Revelation 13:14-18; Revelation 7:3-14; Revelation 20:4)  And when these new Christians are beheaded (Revelation 20:4), they will go to be with the Lord in heaven for their faith.

Do not wait !  

Time is running out!

Repent and pray for forgiveness and commit your life to Jesus by believing in Him as the Savior; that His shed blood at Calvary can wash away your sins as He paid your sin debt in full by the Redemption that His death and sacrifice provided for you.  This belief is not just intellectual knowledge that Jesus is the Savior.  It is a strong, living belief with all of your heart and soul.... your very being - and you will love Him and not want to do anything to grieve Him.

Romans 10:9,10,13 tells us: (9)  "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.(10) For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (13) For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by Me."  -  John 14:6

"Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."     - John 3:3

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."   -  John 3:16

Have a blessed and Christ centered weekend -  and life !!

"Trusting God Will Give You Strength To Endure" (Video by Charles Swindoll on trusting God and video by Charles Spurgeon) - Inspirational Weekend

[Waikiki, Oahu, Hawaii Beach with Diamond Head Extinct Volcano ]

You have no doubt heard it said, "Be careful what you ask God for."   Many times I have prayed to the good Lord to make me more Christ-like.  So He answered that prayer - big time - by giving me much to forgive where other people are concerned.  Being a forgiving person is imitating Christ.

Jesus had much - and many - to forgive.  But He also had much love for lost mankind and died a cruel death at Calvary so that those who would have faith and believe in Him could have everlasting life.  What love!

As believers in Jesus as the Savior, we should put Him and God first in our lives and share the Gospel with lost souls.

As Pastor Charles Lawson has said, " ....... Lift up the Lord God; exalt God and magnify His holy name;  the more we know about God, the more our faith is strengthened."

Later in this post I will share some Scriptures about strength from God,  but right now here is a 14 minute sermon by Charles Swindoll on trusting God.

In the above sermon clip, Charles Swindoll tells us that "many are much better at worrying than you are at trusting God."  As many have learned from experience, trusting God will give you strength to endure.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."  -  Psalm 46:1

"The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my strength, in Whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower."  -  Psalm 18:2

Psalm 37:39 says, "But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: He is their strength in the time of trouble."

"That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man;" -   Ephesians 3:16

"But the God of all grace, Who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you."  -  1 Peter 5:10

Following is a 47 minute sermon by Charles Spurgeon on the above verse, 1 Peter 5:10

Please listen to Spurgeon's explanation of 1 Peter 5:10 where he  speaks of Peter's words on perfection, stablish (establishment), strengthening, and settle you.

One verse that I memorized many years ago and that is extremely  encouraging is  Philippians 4:13 which says, 

"I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me."

As Pastor David Wilkerson has said, "Listen to God!  God wants  quiet, quality time with you!"

This blog has shared much information on how we are now living in the last moments of the end days as prophesied in the Bible.  Go to the search box in the above right hand side of this page and type in such things as Gog Magog War, the Rapture, last days, 7 year tribulation and so on and several articles will appear for you to read about eschatology.  

Time is short!

Jesus will return soon to take His Bride (true believers) to heaven with Him in the Rapture.  

Are you Rapture ready?

You can only go to heaven if you have been born again from above.  To be born again is to repent and turn to Jesus in faith and believe that He is the Savior and that His shed blood at Calvary can wash away your sins.  To be born again is a spiritual "rebirth."

"Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."  -  John 3:3

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him  should not perish, but have everlasting life."  -  John 3:16

This believing in Jesus is not talking about intellectual knowledge.  It is referring to a heart-felt and soul stirring knowing that Jesus is the Savior and that the only way to heaven is through true and sincere and soul changing faith in Him.   FAITH !  BELIEF !

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me."  -  John 14:6

Jesus loves you!

He is waiting for you and His arms are open wide to embrace you with love and forgiveness!

The more you read your Bible and pray, the more you will learn just how much the good Lord loves you!   And you will come to love Him with all of  your heart and soul and very being!

Romans 10:9,10,13 tells us: (9) "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (10)For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (13) For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

Have a blessed and Christ centered weekend..... and life !!

"Wake Up And Shine For Jesus" (With A Video on Prayer And A Video on Faith) - Inspirational Weekend

As Amir Tsarfati has said,  "We are here for a greater cause, to share the Gospel and to help the church to wake up."

"But seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."   - Jesus at Matthew 6:33

"Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."   -  Matthew 7:14

Much has been written on this blog concerning prayer, and following is a powerful sermon by Pastor Charles Lawson on prayer.  It will bless you.   

"If you find your life of prayer to be always so short, and so easy, and so spiritual, as to be without cost and strain and sweat to you, you may depend on it, you have not yet begun to pray."   -    Alexander Whyte

"Be careful [anxious] for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."  -  Philippians 4:6

"And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive."    -  Jesus at Matthew 21:22

"Rest in what God says.  Do not live by your feelings."  -  David Wilkerson

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart: And lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy path." -   Proverbs 3:5-6

Following is another sermon by Pastor Charles Lawson, this time on the subject of faith.  I pray you will take the time to watch this 31 minute video.

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."  -  Hebrews 11:1

"But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him."  -  Hebrews 11:6

"Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man shall draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him." - Hebrews 10:38

The title of this post is "wake up and shine for Jesus".  We need to be awake to the signs of the times; how Bible prophecy is being fulfilled today like never before, proving we are in the last moments of this current dispensation.  Go to the search box in the upper right hand side of this page and enter things like "end times", or "the Rapture" and so on for more information on eschatology.

To wake up and shine for Jesus is to put Him first in our life, and to obey Him, and to follow in His footsteps as closely as we are able.  We should share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with lost souls, and endeavor to live a life that is becoming to a Christian; a life that reflects Jesus.

Remember what the poem in my previous post said?  "Only one life, 'twill soon be past; only what's done for Christ will last."

Romans 10: 9,10,13 tells us:  (9) "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (10)For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.  (13) For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"  -  Romans 3:23

"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal  life through Jesus Christ our Lord."  -  Romans 6:23

"For God so loved  the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."   -    Jesus at John 3:16

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me."    -  John 14:6

Have a blessed and Christ centered weekend.... and life !!

"You MUST Stop And Watch These Two Phenomenal Recent Video Updates On Current Events And Bible Prophecy Happening Now!" (Amir Tsarfati Update and Pastor J.D. Farag)

The following videos impress upon us that we ARE in the last moments of the end times.  Since I was around 15 years old, the subject of the last days and how long the world would be here and what was true has intrigued me.   My Sunday School teacher back then mentioned something about the year 2000 and one thing led to another and  the result was that the Sunday School teacher began to teach on Bible prophecy after that.  

Having said all that and also that I have ever since been interested in eschatology ---  although I got distracted from it for awhile; it was on my mind often even at the young age of 15 and thereafter,  and in High School I wrote short essays about it for my English Class.  The good Lord knew back then that I would, in my old age, write about Bible prophecy.

I can honestly say that I have never heard anything to excite me and touch my heart and soul about Jesus' return as much as the following video by Amir Tsarfati.  (Except, of course, the Bible itself!) The Rapture of the Church seems even more real to me now than ever before. I never doubted  the Rapture all those previous years, but the Holy Spirit impressed upon me even more while watching this video that Jesus is now at the very door! Amir just posted  this video yesterday.  It is only 36 minutes in length.  Don't miss watching it, please!

Just a note to those who are not familiar with this blog, Amir is a Messianic Jew and lives in Israel.  He has a thriving ministry and travels the world  preaching and teaching about the Gospel and end time prophecy.

Following is a prophecy update by J.D. Farag, a well-known pastor in Hawaii.  People all over the world (his online church family) look forward to his Bible Prophecy Update every Sunday. His update was posted on You Tube yesterday as well.

Some Christians are in denial that the Rapture will happen soon, but current events and Bible prophecies being fulfilled at a fast pace today (at warp speed), proclaim loud and clear that Jesus will return any day now.  No one knows the day or the hour, but only God the heavenly Father.

Be ready always!

Read your Bible daily and pray daily.  That way you will draw close to the good Lord and you will begin to realize a close, intimate, personal, loving and ongoing relationship with God through Jesus Christ, His Son.

Jesus loves you and wants to see you come to a living and vibrant and strong faith and belief in Him as the Savior.

Romans 10:9,10, 13, tells us: (9) "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (10) For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.   (13) For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."   -  John 3:16

"Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die.  Believest thou this?"    -  John 11:25, 26

The Soon Rapture Of True Believers- Is Anyone Interested Anymore? (With Important Bible Prophecy Video)

In the above photograph of mine, taken from Makapu'u Beach on Oahu, with Rabbit Island in the background, the two persons enjoying the beach and the beauty of Hawaii seem happy and totally oblivious to the fact that I was photographing them.

Many people today go about their everyday lives, consumed with their own problems and just everyday affairs of life, and never give a thought much about God or eternal issues.  They are wrapped up in themselves and stay so busy that spiritual things are the least of their concerns.

I have tried a few times to include a link here to an interesting article titled "Think Not Generation" at www.raptureready.com , but my computer is not cooperating.  I hope you go there and find this recent article by Todd Strandberg.

In the article, Mr. Strandberg writes that most believers today are totally apathetic about how close we get to the Tribulation hour.  Satan, the father of lies, used to use forecasts of the Lord's return to create confusion but, now that we are approaching the end of the age, he is trying to prevent people from being mindful that time is running out.....so says Mr. Strandberg.

By the way, raptureready.com is a good website to visit often and they update daily with many articles.   Another excellent site is raptureforums.com.   Check them out.

There are still many believers who want to know more and more about Bible Prophecy, especially as it is so evident how much the Bible prophesied is now coming true in these last moments of the end times. Bible Prophecy conferences still draw many hundreds and thousands of interested persons each year.   One such yearly conference is the one Jan Markell hosts each year.   The latest one was on September 21 of this year.  You can go to You Tube and find it by entering 2019 Understanding the times conference Olive Tree ministries.   Even just entering Jan Markell's name on You Tube you will find it.You may also find all of the speakers' sermons there, which include J.D. Farag, Amir Tsarfati, Jack Hibbs, Dr. Robert Jeffress, and Jan Markell gave a talk this year as well.

They talk frequently of the nation of Israel, as Israel is God's prophetic time clock, and His chosen people.  God did not abolish His ancient covenant with His chosen people, as many churches teach the false doctrine today of Replacement Theology.....  that the Christian Church has replaced Israel.   The heavenly Father has a plan; He is in control.   

I am giving you here a 55 minute video of Jan Markell's discourse at the conference this year.  Great information here !

Granted, the main issue for each of us is salvation by belief and faith in the Savior Jesus Christ.   We need to make sure we are putting the good Lord first in our lives.   Some professing Christians are not really saved; and many of them don't realize it.

One test to know if you are born again from above is whether you put God and Jesus FIRST in your life.  Do you spend time often in prayer and do you read the Bible daily?  Do you have a hunger to draw ever closer to God? Are you sharing the Gospel with other lost souls?

"For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit."   -  Romans 8:5

"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."  -  Romans 8:14

"The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God."  -  Romans 8:16

Time is short!

Jesus loves you!

If you have not been saved yet, Jesus is waiting for you with open arms full of love and forgiveness!

Romans 10:9,10,13 tells us: (9) "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (10) For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.  (13) For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

"Guard Your Heart" (With Video on End Times and Salvation) - Inspirational Weekend

[Turtle Island Seen From Kailua Beach, Oahu, Hawaii]

Not every desire of your heart is from God !

"The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked:  who can know it?"  -  Jeremiah 17:9

We all know what deceitful means, but I looked it up just the same in Websters 1828 dictionary where it tells us:  "Deceitful means to  tend to mislead, deceive, or ensnare;  full of deceit, trickish, fraudulent or cheating."

We cannot trust our own hearts, for it tends to lie to us or sugar-coat a forbidden practice or a forbidden love.   We tend to let our desires dictate to us what our actions are.   Sometimes our motives are not even clear to ourselves.   That is why we need to go to the good Lord in faith and trust and pray about every situation where our hearts seem to be contrary to His will.   We actually need to pray to God about everything.

If we are constantly in prayer and in God's Holy Word, we will develop a close, personal, intimate love relationship with the Creator, and that in turn will keep our heart focused on spiritual things and we therefore will be less likely to be deceived by the devil's wiles and trickery.  We will find that we are strong when we rely on God and Jesus.

"I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me."   -    Philippians 4:13

"With God all things are possible" -   Matthew 19:26 b

Many years ago, when I was experiencing extreme hardship and even trauma, the above two Scriptures gave me hope and endurance.

Another problem is that our hearts tend to listen to people's opinions and we go by that instead of listening for and seeking God's guidance. 

Jeremiah 17:5 tells us:  "Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD."  

Notice in Jeremiah 17:9 it also says that the heart is "desperately wicked".   In other words, the heart is wretched, or feeble; distressed beyond all things, in consequence of the wickedness that is in it.  One commentator has this to say:  "I am quite of Mr. Parkhust's opinion that this word  (wicked) is here badly  translated -  as anash is never used in Scripture to denote wickedness of any kind.  My old MS Bible translates thus:  "Schrewid is the herte of a man: and unserchable: who schal knoweth it."

[Hawaiian Moorhens at Hamakua Marsh, Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii]

We all have this problem called sin.  It is our nature to sin.  Please read Romans 7:18-20.  Actually, I will quote those verses here:

(18)  "For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.  (19)  For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.  (20) Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me."   

What to do then?  We Christians know the answer to that question:  turn to the good Lord in repentance and prayer and ask for forgiveness.  Be humble and consult the Holy Word, which is the lamp of God which will give us Light in searching the Scriptures.  His word will settle into the recesses of the heart, with the good Lord's assistance.

The cure of sin is twofold; its guilt is washed away in the blood of Christ, and its power is broken down by the Holy Spirit.  

You must learn to hate your own sin, as well as those sins of others.

Too often we are quick to point an accusing finger at the mistakes of others, but cannot or will not acknowledge that we are just as guilty in our own "pet" sins.   John Newton, who wrote the hymn "Amazing Grace" , had this to say: "Thus I judge of my heart that it is very deep and dark, and full of envy; but as to particulars, I know not one of a thousand."

Satan the devil knows his time left is very short.  He is trying as hard as he can to deceive and trick us into sin.  But we have Jesus to save us and guide us.   Remember, we are living in the last moments of the end times.   Bible prophecy and its precursors are happening right now.   We live in the shadows cast by the soon to occur prophesied 7 year Tribulation period, the beginning stages of which are already happening now.......   If the Tribulation is that close, guess how close the Rapture of the Church must be, when Jesus Christ comes to take true believers to heaven so they do not suffer the wrath of God during the Trib. period.  

Following is a video which discusses these end times, and also the importance of salvation NOW before it is too late and you are left behind during the Tribulation period.   It is a 26 minute video that is very enlightening and I pray that you watch it all. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XIxCSTTOBSg  

In the above video, he tells us that it is not about religion.  Religion says "do".... it is all about works.   Salvation is about a relationship with Jesus.  Jesus' death at Calvary says all is "done".  Just have faith and belief in Him as the Messiah and believe in His resurrection and you are saved.... sealed as a child of God forever.

Romans 10: 9,10,13 tells us (9) "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (10) For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.  (13) For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

Keep looking up!

Keep watching!

We fly soon!

Have a blessed and Christ centered weekend..... and life !!