["Turtle Beach" Or Laniakea Beach, North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii]
I was very inspired this morning by sermon videos on You Tube, and felt an urgency, even, to make a new post here immediately.
If you have family members who are not saved, as is the case with me, then you realize the urgency that they come to a saving faith in the Savior, Jesus Christ - and pronto ! Because Jesus' return is imminent, folks ! Following is a short 5 minute clip on salvation by Pastor Charles Lawson titled: "There is forgiveness at the Cross." You might want to share this with unsaved family members or anyone else as well.
Pastor Lawson gave a fantastic 45 minute sermon earlier this month titled: "How To Get Right With God". He touches on many, many pertinent subjects and Scriptures. He discusses Job and his ordeal with suffering and tremendous loss, as well as king David and his sins and how he suffered because of his errors. He mentions that in both Job's and David's case, they both repented. He clarifies that repentance is MORE than just a change of mind. This sermon on getting right with God is right to the point and not "sugar-coated." Pastor Lawson says that if you have had an encounter with God, that you "will tremble."
In the above sermon, much about how the devil is after true believers is discussed, and all the suffering we endure because of the evil brought upon us by that deceiver and slanderer, satan.
A wonderful Scripture that Christians can take comfort in is found at 1 John 4:4 which follows:
"Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world."
If you are currently enduring many trials, take heart. You must be doing something right ! Otherwise, the evil one would not be after you. Remember what Jesus told His followers:
"If the world hate you, ye know that it hated Me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, therefore the world hateth you." - John 15:18-19
And, oftentimes God will let us be tried by unbearable circumstances, not only to test our faith, but also to "prune" us, "strengthen" us, and to make us more Christ-like.
We all realize, as well, that sometimes circumstances just happen out of the blue that bring suffering and trials, such as ill health, etc. And as crazy as this world has become in these prophesied end times, just about anything you can imagine could knock us off our feet.
But as believers, we should not stay down long ! We have the good Lord to look to in faith!
Did you realize that Jesus considers us His friends if we obey and keep His commandments?
"Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you." - John 15:14
This blog has often stressed that God and Jesus desire to fellowship with true believers. The following 27 minute sermon by Pastor Charles Lawson discusses that very subject. The sermon title is "To Know Him is to Fellowship with Him." Please watch. We all need this reminder.
Just a note: In this sermon, it is brought out that God "despised" the ancient Israelites for their stubbornness and rebellion and sin.
[Turtle Beach - Laniakea Beach - North Shore, Oahu]
"The Lord gives His people perpetual joy when they walk in obedience to Him." - Dwight L. Moody
"True faith rests upon the character of God and asks no further proof than the moral perfections of the One who cannot lie." - A.W. Tozer
"God never hurries. There are no deadlines against which He must work. Only to know this is to quiet our spirits and relax our nerves." - A.W. Tozer
"He who kneels before God can stand before anyone." - unknown
"If you live for people's acceptance, you'll die from their rejection." - Lecrae
"Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the one who is leading." - Oswald Chambers
"Exercise daily - Walk with the LORD." - unknown
Have a blessed and Christ centered weekend -- and life !!
As you can imagine, in Hawaii people flock to the beaches to find some happiness in that past time. There is much beauty to be found in these islands, and that in itself also brings pleasure and happiness to many.
"....for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength." - Nehemiah 8:10 b
Pastor Chuck Smith, the founder of the Calvary Chapel Churches, says in the following sermon audio video, what many others have also said: "Happiness is variable, it depends on your circumstances; joy is the experience in Spirit which is independent of your circumstances. " Especially is this true concerning "the joy of the Lord" (Nehemiah 8:10). Please listen to Pastor Chuck's excellent 38 minute sermon:
Most of you are familiar with Galatians 5:22-23 which tells of the "Fruit of the Spirit" among which is "joy".
Did you realize that we are commanded to rejoice in the Lord ?
"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice." - Philippians 4:4
"And there ye shall eat before the LORD your God, and ye shall rejoice in all that ye put your hand unto, ye and your households, wherein the LORD thy God hath blessed thee." - Deuteronomy 12:7
Following is a partial quote by commentator Alexander MacLaren on Nehemiah 8:10:
"You may say with truth, 'my emotions of joy and sorrow are not under my control. I cannot help being glad and sad as circumstances dictate.' But yet here it lies, a commandment. It is a duty, a thing that the apostle enjoins; in which, of course is implied, that somehow or other it is to a large extent within one's own power, and that even the indulgence in this emotion, and the degree to which life shall be a cheerful life, is dependent in a large measure on our own volitions, and stands on the same footing as our obedience to God's other commandments. .... But I will tell you what you can do or refrain from doing - you can either go and stand in the Light, or you can stand in the shadow. You can either fix your attention upon and make the predominate subject of your religious contemplations a truth which shall make you glad and strong, or a half-truth, which shall make you sorrowful. and therefore weak. Your meditations may either center mainly upon your own selves, your faults and failings, and the like; or they may center mainly upon God, and His Christ and His grace, the Holy Spirit and His communion. You may either fill your soul with joyful thoughts, or though a true Christian, a real devout, God-accepted believer, you may be so misapprehending the nature of the gospel, and your relation to it, its promises and precepts, its duties and predictions, as that the prevalent tinge and cast of your religion shall be solemn and almost gloomy, and not lighted up and irradiated with the felt sense of God's presence - with the strong, healthy consciousness that you are a forgiven and justified man, and that you are going to be a glorified one."
Alexander MacLaren, in the above quote, and in his entire commentary on Nehemiah 8:10, is excellent to read for it is full of wisdom and spiritual gems which we all need to ponder. It is quite lengthy, but worth your while to read his entire commentary found on the Web.
One more quote by MacLaren: "Joy in the Lord is the natural result of Christian faith. ... The joy that is in Christ is deep and abiding. Faith in Him naturally works gladness."
[Rainbow Shower Tree]
Isaiah 61:10 tells us: "I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be be joyful in my God, for He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels."
"And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by Whom we have now received the atonement." - Romans 5:11
"And ye now therefore have sorrow, but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice and your joy no man taketh away from you." - Jesus at John 16:22
The above words by Jesus are very special! All of His words are special of course, but the above at John 16:22 ring loud and clear to believers now in this chaotic world we find ourselves living in - the last moments of the end of this dispensation; the end of the age of Grace; the last days. Jesus was speaking here to His disciples concerning mainly His soon death and resurrection and eventual return. However, His words are a comfort to us in this modern world as well. Note in the above verse that He told us "your heart shall rejoice and your joy NO man taketh from you!" Put your hope and trust in the good Lord, and not in this evil world and its philosophies.
"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." - Romans 15:13
"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:7
Are you hurting? Have you seen much sorrow and heartbreak and hard times? Consider the following quote by A. W. Tozer:
"It is doubtful whether God can bless a man greatly until He has hurt him deeply."
Remember, afflictions should, hopefully, result in us turning to God in remorse, and looking to Him for guidance and relief. We are "pruned" by Him in our afflictions.
"I was delivered from the burden that had so heavily suppressed me. The spirit of mourning was taken from me, and I knew what it was to truly rejoice in God, my Savior." - George Whitefield
"The Lord gives His people perpetual joy when they walk in obedience to Him." - Dwight L. Moody
"The only lasting and fully satisfying joys for any man lie on the other side of a cross." - Walter J. Chantry
"It is His joy that remains in us that makes us joyful." - A.B. Simpson
"Joy is not necessarily the absence of suffering, it is the presence of God." - Sam Storms
"Happiness is untested delight. Joy is delight tested." - Jack Hyles
[Lanikai Beach, Oahu, Hawaii]
Much more may be written on rejoicing in the Lord, and many additional Scriptures could be shared here. It would be beneficial for you to search the scriptures for yourself, and thereby grow in your faith and closeness to the good Lord. As mentioned frequently on this blog, God wants to fellowship with us. We do that by much Bible reading and studying, and also by frequent daily prayer. You cannot get to really know a person unless you communicate frequently with them. The same is true, of course, when it comes to communicating with the heavenly Father. You need to develop a close, intimate, personal, loving and abiding relationship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ, the Savior.
For those who are not born again, have not put their trust in Jesus and belief in Him as the Savior, please read the following Scriptures. You need to repent and ask for forgiveness and turn to the Lord while there is still time! This world is dying! Heaven is alive and glorious!
"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
"Jesus saith 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
"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 !!
Regarding the title of this post: "Are you trying too hard to be good enough to come before the presence of God?" As Pastor Charles Lawson tells us in the following 36 minute sermon video, "You cannot do anything to merit coming before the Father." The only way you can come before holy God is through Jesus Christ, the Savior and Intercessor. Fellowship with God is not possible if you do not have Jesus. "You have no righteousness of your own to approach the heavenly Father."
"If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin." - 1 John 1:6,7
There are many gems of truth in the above sermon that we can all benefit from. Pastor Lawson discusses different kinds of angels described in the Bible as well. Please watch! One Biblical principle is to "humble yourself" in order to come before God. Even Jesus humbled Himself
before the Almighty God, the sovereign of the universe. (Philippians 2:5-9)
"Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up." - James 4:10
"Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble." - 1 Peter 5:5
[Hawaiian Stilt (Ae'o)]
Another requirement to draw close to God and Jesus is, obviously, that we must have FAITH. This is common knowledge among Christians. Much has been written on this blog concerning faith.
"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
You will gain great insight on faith by reading all of Hebrews. Actually, reading the entire Bible and spending much time with the good Lord in prayer will increase your faith; as well as your love and awe and reverence for God. When you see Him working in your life and answering your prayers, how incredibly faith building is that !!
"Every trial of suffering is an opportunity to grow in the faith." - T. A. McMahon
You will discover that by fellowshipping often with the good Lord, you will begin to have peace.... a peace with Him as well as in your soul and mind.
"Peace with God brings the peace of God. It is a peace that settles our nerves, fills our mind, floods our spirit, and in the midst of the uproar around us, gives us the assurance that everything is all right." - Bob Mumford
"These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." - Jesus at John 16:33
The above words of our Savior do NOT say that we will not have trials and hardships; it means that even in spite of adversities we will have a peace knowing that in the end, the Lord will see us through, no matter what.
"Adversity stirs us up and causes us to look at life differently. We are forced to deal with things on a deeper level. Nothing causes "self" to cave in like suffering. And once our religious facade begins to wear thin, God moves in and begins teaching us what real Christlikeness is all about." - Dr. Charles Stanley
"Afflictions are but the shadows of God's wings." - George Macdonald
"You and I cannot change or control the world around us, but we can change and control the world within us." - Warren Wiersbe
Following is a Must to watch: a video on the purpose of life by Pastor David Wilkerson :
Please take the time to watch the above 6 minute sermon clip ! It makes very clear what our focus should be as Christians.
Keep in mind always that the return of Jesus is imminent !
When He raptures the true believers to be with Him in heaven soon, you do NOT want to be left behind to face the horrors and destructions of the following 7 year tribulation period ! It will be difficult to be saved then by coming to a sincere faith and belief in Jesus Christ as the Savior. In fact, if you do put your faith in Jesus while suffering under this tribulation period governed by the antichrist, it is certain you will be put to death.... and by being beheaded.
"And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years." - Revelation 20:4
For more information on the 7 year tribulation and the Rapture of the Church and other end times signs, please refer to the "Search Box" in the upper right hand side of this page and enter such topics as "7 year tribulation, Mark of the Beast," and so on. Many posts will appear, and most will also have videos in them. Also there are various other topics such as "endurance, forgiveness, peace," etc. that you might want to view.
But what if you are an unbeliever and have not come to faith in Jesus as the Savior? Please take to heart the following Scriptures and pray to the Heavenly Father for forgiveness....and repent! If you are sincere, God will answer that prayer!
"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
"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 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
"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 loves you!
He is waiting to hear from you !
He will welcome you with His open arms full of love and forgiveness!
Put your faith in Him now, before it is too late.!
Have a blessed and Christ centered weekend - and life !!
It was not intended on my part to write today primarily concerning fear, although it needs to be addressed because it is obvious we live in a dangerous world, and fear is a "natural" reaction to that, even for true believers in Jesus. In the Bible, even strong and mighty prophets were occasionally struck with fear. The issue is to overcome the fear as much as possible and to not be crippled emotionally or spiritually by that tool of the devil to tear us down and make us ineffectual witnesses for Christ. Of course, we all realize that some things call for necessary fear, when we are in danger and our survival instincts "kick in." For example, when you are home alone and someone is trying to break into your house; or you are hiking in the woods and come face to face with a wild bear. That kind of fear calls for immediate action and is needed to save yourself... with the good Lord's help. That is obvious to everyone.
The point is, for the most part, it is better to put our trust in the good Lord, and to wait on Him to act in our behalf; indeed, to wait on Him to bring us to our real home, heaven, and to carry out His magnificent plan for His coming kingdom. We must be patient ! It will not be long before Jesus takes us home. (John 14:1-4)
"Wait on the LORD: Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: Wait, I say, on the LORD." - Psalm 27:14
We need to exercise caution in these chaotic times. The Bible prophesied that these last days would be characterized by "perilous times" (2 Timothy 3:1-5). But the most important thing to do is to look to the good Lord for protection and guidance. We do that by strong faith and much prayer and much reading of God's Holy Word, the Bible - God's Love Letter to us and His Instruction Manual for us.
Following is an excellent 8 minute clip by Dr. David Jeremiah on fear. He focuses primarily on the fear of a soon financial collapse, but bases his comments on Psalm 37. Please watch !
Just a note: some Bible Prophecy experts believe that the soon Rapture of the Church (Christ's Bride - who are true believers in the Redemptive work of Jesus at Calvary; who believe Jesus is the Savior by His shed blood for us as He took our place on the cross and paid our sin debt in full) - some scholars believe that perhaps the Rapture will be the event that ushers in the coming world financial collapse.
As for fear, if you are saved (born again, spiritually) by believing that Jesus is the Savior, and the only way to heaven and eternal life, just remember that God will fight for you no matter what battle is occurring in your life right now.
"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." - 2 Timothy 1:7
"The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace." - Exodus 14:14
"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." - Philippians 4:6-7
"These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." - Jesus at John 16:33
"And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear Him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell." - Matthew 10:28
"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." - 1 John 4:18
Here is an informative article on the subject of fear:
Please watch the following 11 minute encouraging video on how to be still and wait on God - a much needed message to help believers to endure during these troublesome times. Truly faith in God and the patience to endure unbearable trials will see us through until the good Lord takes us home to be with Him in heaven!
"Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge." - Psalm 46:10, 11
"Peace comes when there is no cloud between us and God." - Charles H. Brent
"God will not permit any troubles to come upon us, unless He has a specific plan by which a great blessing can come out of the difficulty." - Peter Marshall
"No one can pray and worry at the same time." - Max Lucado
"Faith attracts the positive. Fear attracts the negative." - unknown
"Trials are medicines which our gracious and wise Physician prescribes because we need them." - John Newton
"We would worry less if we praised more." - unknown
"Tears are often the telescope by which men see far into heaven." - Henry Ward Beecher
Here is a wonderful hymn you will enjoy that applies to our discussion here in this post. "Be still my soul". The first few words in the hymn are : "Be still my soul: the Lord is on thy side. Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain. Leave to thy God to order and provide; In every change, He faithful will remain."
As for being blessed, there is no greater blessing and miracle than the gift of salvation! What love of the heavenly Father and of Jesus that the Savior died a cruel and painful sacrificial death and by that death, paid our sin debt in full so that we might have eternal life, simply by us believing that Jesus is the Savior and the only way to heaven!
What LOVE !! And that is another blessing, the love of God and of Jesus for us. And remember, salvation is a GIFT !
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast." - Ephesians 2: 8,9
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love:" - Ephesians 1:3,4
"But He said, Yea, rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it." - Luke 11:28
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation, when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him." - James 1:12
"Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand." - Revelation 1:3
Don't think of a blessing from God as being only prosperity !! The true and lasting blessings are salvation and being saved from God's wrath. And we, when we are saved, are now a part of God's family.
Please read also the Beatitudes (The Sermon on the Mount) by Jesus at Matthew Chapter 5:1-12 where He mentions many blessings for us! Here is verse 3 of Matthew 5 for you to consider :
"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
It is highly urged that you read all of Matthew 5!
And do not forget the blessing to be with Jesus for all eternity in heaven which was mentioned above concerning eternal life. Here are the Savior's words at John 14:1-4:
"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself, that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know; and the way ye know."
Hallelujah !!
Maranatha !!
We should constantly be praising and thanking and glorifying God for His love and tender mercies.
Be often in prayer, and pray for the good Lord to show you His will for you in all matters. Pray for Him to guide you in ways to help others.
If someone is reading this who is not saved; who has not surrendered to Jesus in faith and belief in His ransom sacrifice, following are some Scriptures for you to take seriously. More so, for you to repent and pray for forgiveness ! Do this with all heartfelt sincerity and with a desire to always do the heavenly Father's will in the future.
"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
"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
"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
"For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death." - 2 Corinthians 7:10
"And Jesus answering saith unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." - Luke 5:31,32
It had rained earlier the day I took the above photograph. It is the one photo I have taken that comes close to depicting a "storm", which is the subject of this post. We are referring to the storms of life that come upon us from time to time. All of us are now suffering the effects of Covid-19 in one way or another; and the same goes for the current world events otherwise; the chaotic and lawless effects of a world gone mad!
The following excellent 29 minute sermon by Dr. David Jeremiah deals with the subject "A Shelter in the Storms of Life". Dr. Jeremiah tells us what we can do when storms invade our lives.
"Peace is not the absence of stress, peace is the presence of the Savior." - Dr. David Jeremiah
"The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and He knoweth them that trust in Him." - Nahum 1:7
Many of us tend to not read Nahum often. But the above verse is so beautiful and comforting. God will deliver those who are His in their day of trouble and danger; and by "a stronghold" it refers to how God is a defense and is our strength and "fortress" by His love and protection of us, His children.
Nahum 1:7 is mentioned in the following 13 minute video below titled : "The Guardian of the World - God is Watching and He is in Control." Towards the end of the following video, Pastor Chuck Smith (the founder of the Calvary Chapel Churches) is also one of the narrators of this encouraging message.
The message above reminds us that we are never alone! And, also, to not focus on the problem, but instead to focus on God and Jesus, and He will help you and fight your battles !
"The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace." - Exodus 14:14
"No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of Me, saith the LORD." - Isaiah 54:17
[Boats and Rainbow Bridge, Haleiwa, North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii]
One Scripture quoted before on this blog, which rather ties in with the subject matter today, is Psalm 27:14, which follows:
"Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: Wait, I say, on the Lord."
Psalm 28:7 tells us: "The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped."
"I sought the LORD, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears." - Psalm 34:4
On the above verse at Psalm 34:4, Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary explains, in part : "David found Him [Yahweh] a prayer-hearing God. "I sought the Lord' in my distress, entreated His favor, and begged His help 'and He heard me' , answered my request immediately and 'delivered me from all my fears.'....God by His providence....and grace...works in us to silence our fears and still the tumult of the spirit. This latter is the greater mercy of the two. ...... When we look to the world we are darkened, we are perplexed, and at a loss; but when we look to God, from Him we have the light of both of direction and joy, and our way is made both plain and pleasant."
[Rainbow Shower Tree Blossoms]
Remember always, if you are a true follower of Jesus, and have been born again (a spiritual rebirth from above) then Jesus makes you a conqueror and makes you victorious!
Romans 8:37 tells us: "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us."
"But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." - 1 Corinthians 15:57
"For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." - 1 John 5:4
Most of you are familiar with the fact that "storms of life" will make you turn more to prayer and reliance on the good Lord. It will increase your faith, and make you stronger when you see God working in your behalf and helping you in whatever circumstances are troubling you. And, as you know, sometimes God Himself will send storms to test your faith, and to help mold you into a faith filled servant of His, by teaching you to rely on Him, and Him only.
Hebrews 12:6 explains, "Whom the Lord loves He chastens."
"Afflictions are but the shadows of God's Wings." - George Macdonald
If you have not yet put your faith in Jesus as the Savior, and believe that it is only by Jesus' shed blood at Calvary we can find salvation..... that Jesus' redemptive work on the cross made a way for us to have eternal life because He was our substitute and took our sins upon Himself to pay our sin debt in full ! Now is the time to call upon Him and repent and surrender your life to Him. Pray for forgiveness! Following are Scriptures to help you :
"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
"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 !!
Do you try and try to be obedient to the good Lord and to do His will, but you fail time and time again? What is the cure for this? First of all, the following Scriptures will be of great help in explaining part of this dilemma.
Many of you, if not most believers, are familiar with Romans 7, and following are a few verses from that chapter concerning the struggle against sin:
(14) For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. (15) For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. (17) Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. (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."
Please read all of Romans 7. It was written by the saintly apostle Paul! Even he struggled to stay pure! In the following verses of Romans 7, he tells us the "antidote" to overcome this difficulty:
Romans 7, verses 24 and 25 tells us: O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin."
Following is a wonderful 37 minute audio sermon by Andrew Murray on this subject, and he speaks of Philippians 2 as well. It helped me tremendously and it will you as well. He speaks of the stages of the Christian life, and how believers MUST put God's will first in their lives. The reason we fail so many times and have no victory is because we need Jesus and the Holy Spirit and we need to put our entire dependence upon God -- we have no power on our own to be victorious in our Christian walk and life!
"The future is as bright as the promises of God." - William Carey
"Life's trials are not easy. But in God's will, each has a purpose." - Warren Wiersbe
"Our first duty is not to understand but to believe what God has said." - A. W. Pink
"I am not what I hope to be. But still, I am not what I used to be. And by the grace of God, I am what I am." - John Newton
"Let God have your life; He can do more with it than you can." - Dwight L. Moody
"For thus saith the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not." - Isaiah 30:15
"All that the Father giveth Me shall come to Me; and him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out." - Jesus at John 6:37
Below is a wonderful 11 minute video which explains five ways that God guides you to heaven - a must watch!
Following is a recent 12 minute video titled : "These Four Things Stop Your Prayer From Being Answered":
It is imperative for all to watch the above excellent video, but especially for any who struggle with prayer and wonder why their prayers are not answered.
Prayer is the way we can fellowship with the Heavenly Father, and thereby learn to love Him more and more. By frequent prayer, we will learn to "listen" to Him in our spirit and to feel His presence and to know His guidance concerning us -- and to better understand His will and His purpose for our lives.
The same is true when we diligently and frequently pour over God's Holy Word - the Bible. As has been said many times on this blog, the Bible is God's Love Letter to us, as well as His Instruction Manual for us to follow.
We live in urgent times!
Soon the 7 year Tribulation will begin! You do not want to be on this earth to suffer God's wrath which will be poured out then on the unbelievers left behind --- after the Rapture to heaven of true believers occurs, that is. The Tribulation will be an unprecedented time of horror and destruction - a "shaking" and an upheaval of such magnitude that we cannot even begin to imagine the enormity of it!
(Read Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21 for the signs Jesus gave concerning the time of His return in these last days !! Also go to the search box at the top right hand side of this page and enter such things as "end time signs, Bible prophecy converging now, the Rapture, the 7 Year Tribulation." Articles will appear on these subjects and some include videos with prominent scholars and pastors.)
The question is, are you Rapture Ready?
If you are a true believer and have put your faith and trust and belief in Jesus Christ as the Savior and the only way to heaven; and believe that His shed blood at the cross will wash away your sins because He took our place at Calvary and paid our sin debt in full by His sacrificial death....became our Redeemer; then you have the hope of eternal life !
" 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
Following are Bible verses concerning the way to salvation:
"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
"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 !!
[Hamakua Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary, Oahu, Hawaii]
I have spent many different days at the above marsh in Kailua, Oahu; taking numerous photographs of the wildlife and flowers in the area. Several of those photos have been posted to this blog previously. It is always a pleasant time spent there. I am reminded of a quote by Martin Luther : "I would not give one moment of heaven for all the joy and riches of the world."
Great attitude of Luther! Actually, all true believers should feel this way, since we know the main focus of our life should be on Jesus and God.
"Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth." - Colossians 3:2
We believers know that this world is not our home. What a better place awaits us in heaven!
"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know; and the way ye know." - Jesus at John 14:1-4
What wonderful words of hope and encouragement !! As mentioned several times on this blog, we are living now in the end times! The end of the age Grace and the end of the Church age........is almost here !
Read Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21, for the signs of the season of Jesus' soon return in the air to take His Bride (the Church - true, devout believers) to be with Him in heaven.
[Lanikai Beach, Oahu, Hawaii]
"May the horrible trinity of the world, the flesh, and the devil never overcome us." - Charles Spurgeon
And the world will not corrupt you if you are a true believer in the Savior, Jesus Christ. Yes, we are all imperfect in this fallen world, and even Christians sometimes sin and fall short. But true believers will repent and pray to God for forgiveness (in sincerity)! Jesus' followers will not deliberately and willfully make a habitual practice of sin.
"Prayer is a shield to the soul." - John Bunyan
"Be careful [anxious] for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." - Philippians 4:6
"But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word." - Acts 6:4
"Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation [afflictions]; continuing instant in prayer;" - Romans 12:12
As stated numerous times on this blog, it is very important to pray often and, as well, to be reading the Bible daily. Why? Because that is the only way you can establish a relationship with the good Lord. By reading God's Word, you will learn to see and appreciate His attributes, His love, His tender mercies, and much more! It will thereby increase your love for God/Jesus, as you learn to appreciate all that has been done for you from the Lord. And by prayer and trust in Him, you will draw closer to Him; and He will draw close to you. You cannot build a relationship with anyone unless you communicate frequently with them; and it follows that the same is true of God. When you establish (by the Lord's help) a living and loving relationship with God through His Son Jesus, it will blossom into something beautiful that will last for all eternity!
Revelation 1:3 tells us: "Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand."
Although the verse directly above is referring specifically to the book of Revelation, the same is also true of the rest of the Scriptures; in the sense that we benefit from all of God's Holy Word. It is important to immerse yourself in ALL of the Bible. Revelation is special, and tells us much concerning the Tribulation period and the end of things. God wins !! (Just especially so is the book of Revelation a blessing. No other book in the Bible makes the claim of a special blessing as does Revelation.)
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works." - 2 Timothy 3:16,17
Following are some Scriptures for those of you who may not be saved by a heartfelt and soul-felt true belief in Jesus as the Savior; that only by belief in Him, and His redemptive work at Calvary... His shed blood... His paying our sin debt in full by dying in our place that we may obtain eternal life.
Romans 10:9,10,13 informs 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
"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 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 !!
This article will focus on help from the Scriptures to endure to the end. To endure until Jesus takes us to be home with Him in heaven.
First, two encouraging videos by Don Moen. The first one is titled "We Wait" which only runs for 6 minutes.
In his video above, Don shares a fantastic quote: "If you really want to get to know God, make a friend of silence."
I had a relative who had to have some kind of background noise (usually from the TV) going constantly throughout the entire day. Many people are the same; silence is a rarity for them. But when you are silent, you will be able to worship God without distraction and you will be more likely to hear His "voice" speaking to you through His Holy Word, the Bible. However, some say to read out loud when you read your Bible. Whatever works for you.
We can even pray silently and God and Jesus will still "hear" us in our thoughts and our spirit.
The following 11 minute video by Don Moen is really relevant to the turbulent times we find ourselves experiencing now. It is titled "Let's Turn Our Fear Into Faith. "
He sings my favorite song of his in the above video which is: "God Will Make A Way"
God, through His Word, can lift you up above all opposition, regrets, depression, anxiety, and fears ! This is mainly true when you are putting your faith and trust in the good Lord already. However, even if you are not a believer and you begin to read the Bible, it will encourage you if your heart is right.
Everyone should also memorize as many Bible verses as possible!
Here is a wonderful and beautiful message from Dr. Charles Stanley published on June 16, 2020. Since it is not a sermon, it may not be deleted from this blog. But if it is deleted, just go to You Tube and enter : "A Comforting Message in Fearful Times - Dr. Charles Stanley." It is 12 minutes in length.
In the above video, Charles Stanley quotes many Bible verses from the book of Psalms. He tells us to live by the Word of God and not by this world's corrupt standards; for us to trust God and Jesus at all times and for us to not be afraid.
God uses the Book of Psalms to help us to worship Him and to help us in our prayers. All of the Bible is beneficial for that, really, but Psalms especially.
A quote on You Tube says it well : "He came to pay a debt He didn't owe and because we have a debt we cannot pay."
But the Bible says it better:
"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." - 2 Corinthians 5:21
"And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath He quickened together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to the cross; " - Colossians 2:13, 14
"Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by Whose stripes ye were healed." - 1 Peter 2:24
About 3 years ago the following song was posted on this blog. It is beneficial and encouraging to include it here again. It is beautiful and uplifting. It is titled " A Prisoner Of Hope":
Following is a quote (I don't remember the source) that cautions us to trust God and Jesus and for us to not try to "fix" things and circumstances ourselves, but to look to the good Lord for guidance.
Step 1: You can't.
Step 2: Know that He can.
Step 3: Let Him ! Get out of His way !
The above quote reminds me of what Proverbs 3:5,6 tells us:
"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."
Romans 10:9,10,13 assures 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
"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 blessed and Christ centered weekend - and life !!
Where to begin? Perhaps I had best let the following videos speak concerning current events as they pertain to Bible Prophecy. First is Pastor J.D. Farag's recent video of May 31, 2020 in which he asks the question : "What on earth is happening?" It is an hour and 2 minutes long.
In the above video, Pastor Farag discusses the recent riots over the death of George Floyd; he discusses how America is currently divided as never before, as well as information on the Covid-19 vaccine and the technology that is now available for The Mark of the Beast and much more. Some of this information you may already be aware of, but Pastor Farag brings out new information and provides Scriptures, which some news sources do not. Some information on the coronavirus vaccine presented in the above video many of you might already know about,as stated above. You do NOT want anything that will alter your DNA, which this (Bill Gates) vaccine will do. Do some research on your own. It is alarming how evil it all is ! I urge you to watch the entire video. Pastor Farag gives the way to Salvation in his closing portion of his video.
Concerning the fires in New York City at the present time, pastor
David Wilkerson prophesied that several years ago. (He died in a tragic car accident in 2011). Here is a short 2 minute audio video clip on that prophesy:
Often on this blog, there have been sermons posted by Pastor Wilkerson. He was the founder of a non-denominational church in New York City, but is best known for his book " The Cross And The Switchblade."
On doing research today concerning Pastor Wilkerson, I found a website where one of his articles was posted on the very day he died (April 27,2011). I felt compelled to include it here now. The article is titled: "When all means fail."
"To believe when all means fail is exceedingly pleasing to God and is most acceptable. Jesus said to Thomas, "You have believed because you have seen, but blessed are those that do believe and have not seen." (John 20:29) Blessed are those who believe when there is no evidence of an answer to prayer - who trust beyond hope when all means have failed. Someone has come to the place of hopelessness - the end of hope - the end of all means.
"A loved one is facing death and doctors give no hope. Death seems inevitable. Hope is gone. The miracle prayed for is not happening. That is when satan's hordes come to attack your mind with fear, anger, overwhelming questions. ' Where is your God now? You prayed until you had no tears left. You fasted. You stood on promises. You trusted.' Blasphemous thoughts will be injected into your mind : ' Prayer failed. Faith failed. Don't quit on God - just do not trust Him anymore. It doesn't pay.' Even questioning God's existence will be injected into your mind.
"These have been the devices of satan for centuries. Some of the godliest men and women whoever lived were under such demonic attacks.
"To those going through the valley and shadow of death, hear this word:
"Weeping will last through some dark, awful nights - and in that darkness you will soon hear the Father whisper: "I am with you. I cannot tell you why now, but one day it will all make sense.You will see it was all part of My plan. It was no accident. It was no failure on your part. Hold fast. Let me embrace you in your hour of pain'.
"Beloved, God has never failed to act but in goodness and love. When all means fail - His love prevails. Hold fast to your faith. Stand fast in His Word. There is no other hope in this world."
End of Pastor Wilkerson's article. Not only were his sermons powerful and spirit filled, but so were his written words! It was felt that you might draw encouragement from his article during these turbulent end times we are experiencing right now.
The above article by Wilkerson is found
here I am not familiar with that site, but wanted to share that article by Pastor Wilkerson with you.
[Beach at Haleiwa, Oahu, Hawaii]
"Happy moments, praise God
Difficult moments, seek God
Quiet moments, worship God
Painful moments, trust God
Every moment, thank God."
(Comment above found on You Tube)
"Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ." - Titus 2:13
