"The Potter And The Clay; Have Thine Own Way, Lord" - Inspirational Weekend

For 3 or 4 days that hymn "Have Thine Own Way Lord" has been going through my mind often.  In the morning I listen to old hymns on You Tube before I begin my Bible reading and study every day, and that is one hymn I have listened to frequently.  Have you ever had a tune pop up in your mind and it won't let go?  I felt compelled to do a post here about letting God have His own way, as well as Bible verses about the Potter and the clay.   Let's begin with a 5 minute video (below) with quoted Scriptures while showing a potter molding and shaping a clay pot.  It is interesting and inspirational.

When I was a child, the artist/singer Jim Reeves was popular.  My mother, but especially my stepfather, liked Country Music which I had no choice but to listen to.   I grew to enjoy the songs by Jim Reeves.....there is something unique about his voice.   Following is his version of the hymn "Have Thine Own Way, Lord" ;

To let the Lord have His own way, we need to first know what His way - His Will - is for us individually as well as for the nations   Almighty God spoke to the prophet Jeremiah concerning the nation of Israel and likened Himself to a Potter, with Israel being the clay.  You might like to read Jeremiah 18 and 19 for some background.   

"The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, (2) Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words.  (3) Then I went down to the potter's house, and behold, he wrought a work on the wheels.  (4) And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it. (5) Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, (6) O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the LORD.  Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel." - Jeremiah 18:1-6  

Jeremiah knew that not only did this refer to Israel, but to himself and to each individual as well....that we believers are going to be molded and shaped by our Heavenly Father, to conform to His will for us.  That means He wants us to be more Christ-like.  "For whom He did foreknow, He also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn amongst many brethren."  -  Romans 8:29. "For even hereunto were ye called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps."  - 1 Peter 2:21  .   

"Surely your turning of things upside down shall be esteemed as the potter's clay: For shall the work say of him that made it, He made me not?  Or shall the thing framed say of him that framed it, He had no understanding?"  -  Isaiah 29:15

Romans 9:20-21 tells us, "(20) Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God?  Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?  (21) Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?"

Who are we puny humans to defy God?  To purposely disobey Him by being stubborn and self-willed?  God is the Sovereign of the universe and He is in control, not us.   It all boils down to surrendering all to God/Jesus and putting His will first in our lives.  There is a previous post here about how to surrender all to God .  The main thing is to simply obey Him in all matters, putting God's will first as I stated previously.  We learn to know His will by prayer and by reading His Holy Word.  The Lord shapes us and molds us so that He may use us in His service.  That especially includes witnessing about Jesus to lost souls.        1 Timothy 2:4 tells us that God's will is to "have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth."

God loves us just as we are right now, but because of His love He continuously molds and shapes us into "vessels of honor", so we can be filled with His Holy Spirit and live lives that bring Him glory and honor   This growth process is a continual, daily process of molding and changing us.  If we "mess up" take comfort in the knowledge that you are a child of God and He is disciplining you and forming you - patiently - into a godly and more Christ-like child.   

God will use other people to help mold you, and He will use His Word as well.  He is patient with you, and you need to realize His love in order to behave in a manner of gratitude, obedience,  reverence, and to love Him in return.    Surrender all to Jesus; be totally and wholeheartedly committed to Him and His will, and you will be blessed.

"One of the most arduous spiritual tasks is that of giving up control and allowing the Spirit of God to lead our lives."  -  Henri Nouwen

"We are either in the process of resisting God's truth, or in the process of being shaped and molded by His truth."  -  Charles Stanley  

Where Is Your Hope ? In Men Or In God? (In View Of America's Recent Election)

In light of the recent election in America, how does it all fit with Bible prophecy and the end times?  My mind is crammed full of so much information, that I hardly know where to begin; yet at the same time I will try to abbreviate it all somewhat.   I purposely do not delve into politics on this blog, but you have to admit this election was a bit miraculous in many ways.   Some are saying that Donald Trump is our modern day Cyrus (Ezra 1:1-2; 2 Chronicles 36:22-23) and that Trump fulfills prophecy in other ways as well .  I will not go there about Trump, but the Bible tells us that in the last days before the Rapture of the Church, (true followers of Jesus), that things will be normal in the sense that people will be marrying and carrying on business as usual when Jesus returns for His Bride, the Church.

"And as it was in the days of Noe (Noah), so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man.  They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all.  Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; but the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed."  -  Jesus speaking at Luke 17::26-30 .  See also Matthew 24:37-39.  

The Son of man in these verses is, of course, referring to Jesus Christ.  In Zechariah 12:3 it states that, regarding Israel, that all the nations of the world will be against the tiny country of Israel.   Donald Trump, however, is saying he will be friends with Israel.  That does not fit Bible prophecy.   Jan Markell has written an article titled, "So Is The Rapture Now On Hold?" which you can read here.   She states at the end of the article that the Rapture is not delayed.   However, American politics will not affect God's plans in any way whatsoever.  He may, though, use this country's politics to bring His plans to pass.    God is in charge !

The globalists are already trying to change things by taking a recount of the votes in order to make it look as if Clinton won, so they can work towards their New World Order ....One World Government, One World Economy, and One World Religion, in order to control the masses.   As you know, Trump is acting independently of the Elites and is his own man.   Unfortunately, he is terribly outnumbered.  We need to pray for him and also pray for America.  We desperately need to pray for ourselves as to what lies ahead, and also for God to intervene in order to help us gain lost souls to His kingdom before time runs out .....before the Rapture of true believers and the Tribulation period after that.

We need to look to the good Lord for help and direction and safety.  Have faith and trust in God, not men.

"Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help."  -  Psalm 146:3 .   In this verse the son of man is not referring to Jesus but to men in general.

"It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.  It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes."  -  Psalm 118:8-9

I intend to do another post soon concerning the One World Government and its economy and false religion.   In the meantime, you may want to read Revelation 13 concerning this New World Order.  The one world religion is described in Revelation 17 if you would like to read that as well.   It is my opinion that this new system will not occur until during the 7 year tribulation period, when the antichrist is revealed.  However, the foundation for the NWO has already been laid and is being implemented in ways even now,  Therefore, if this new world government and other prophesied events are soon to occur, that means the Rapture of the true believers is even closer.   We will be in heaven when all hell breaks loose upon the earth during the Tribulation.   

Keep watching for the Lord !  Live godly lives so that you will be among those raptured when Jesus returns.   But it is not your works that save you, it is faith and heartfelt belief in Jesus as your Savior and the belief in the fact that He was resurrrected that seals you as a child of God, with heaven as your future home.  

"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

"And every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure."  - 1 John 3:3

"Teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ.;"  -  Titus 2: 12-13

"Thanksgiving Is The Language Of Heaven" - Inspirational Weekend

"Thanksgiving is the language of heaven....." says A.J. Gossip, a professor of Christian Ethics and Practical Theology at the University of Glasgow.   I thought that quote was rather beautiful and expresses all the praise, thanksgiving, and worship to God that the angels and the saints in heaven are continuously proclaiming.  Imagine if all mankind on earth were to do the same.....now, before they die.   It would be a healing and transforming movement.   

The Bible has much to say about giving thanks to the Lord.   When we sing hymns and give praise and thanks to God, it uplifts our spirits to grand heights,   Harry Ironside, an American preacher, has said  "We would worry less if we praised more.  Thanksgiving is the enemy of discontent and disatisfaction."

"Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High: and call upon Me in the day of trouble:  I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me."  -  Psalm 50:14-15.

"Sing unto the LORD with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God:" - Psalm 147:7

Philippians 4:6 tells us: "Be careful (anxious) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."  All Scripture is wonderful and beneficial, but Philippians 4 is special to me.  Read verses 6-8 and also verse 13, the latter verse reads, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."   That verse 13 saw me through some tough times and kept me hanging on.   But I digress a bit.  

Following is a sermon by Dr. Charles Stanley titled, "Thanksgiving In The Midst of Adversity." 

If you are not currently experiencing adversity, chances are you have in the past and will again in the future.  Not to mention the conflict and adversity in America itself in these last days we are living in.  I urge you to watch this 23 minute video, as it is quite relevant to everyone.   In this sermon, Dr. Stanley gives 9 ways we can be thankful even in the midst of adversity.   One thing he touched on and that I have learned from experience is that we need to view everything that happens to us as coming from God, or allowed by God.  When we do that, and go to the Lord in prayer and ask Him what He is trying to teach us by this adversity, it helps to alleviate the stress and sense of helplessness that can overcome us when we are stricken by hard times, heartache, pain......and the list goes on.  Just remember that you are not alone.......God is with you.  (Hebrews 13:5).  If you would spend time in prayer and Bible reading, (developing a close, personal relationship with Him) you would realize the Lord is near and waiting to direct your path.  Remember that when we are grateful, we will learn to focus on God and not on our circumstances.

"Pride slays thanksgiving, but an humble mind is the soil out of which thanks naturally grow."        -     Henry Ward Beecher 

Bottom line is :  When you have a close, personal and intimate relationship with God through Jesus Christ, you will find the faith and the strength to persevere during trials and hardships, and to wait on the Lord for direction.  Only He can give you the endurance necessary to "ride out" various adverse conditions.  

"In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."                            -  1 Thessalonians 5:18

"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him."  -  Colossians 3:17

"End-Time Events And The Last Jubilee Year (2017?) - Inspirational Weekend

Would you like a brand new start with all debts forgiven?  To be set "free"?   Sounds too good to be true, doesn't it !   Well, the ancient Israelis were told to have a "Jubilee" year every 50 years, in which that would all happen, making it a new start for everyone at that time.   We all know of the 7 day Sabbath, which is a rest for man.  Then the Jews were to have a 7 year Sabbath, which was a rest for the land.   Dan Goodwin, author and Bible prophecy speaker and evangelist, calls the Jubilee year a "Super Sabbath."  Please watch the informative video that follows.

We all remember the Israeli 6 day war of 1967.   Mr. Goodwin and others believe that might have been a Jubilee year, which would make 2017 another Jubilee year.  No one is exactly sure when the Jubilee is today because the Jews stopped celebrating it long ago around the Second Century BCE.  In the video above, Dan Goodwin believes 2017 is very significant as he believes the Lord Jesus Christ could possibly return then.....although he makes it clear he is not date setting.   Jesus in the Bible at Matthew 24:36 tells us, "But of that day and hour knoweth  no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but My Father only."

Jesus also in Matthew 24 and other Gospel books told us signs of His near return; that we would recognize it as near; that we would be aware of the season and its significance; but it is clear we would not know the exact time of His return.   If we did, His return would not be imminent, as the Bible teaches us.  

This 50th year occurs on one of God's Feast Days - the Day of Atonement.  (Leviticus 16; 23:26-32). Today it is commonly called Yom Kippur.  It typifies or points to the work of Christ, who is our High Priest (Hebrews 13:11-12).

In the above video, Mr. Goodwin speaks of an ancient Hebrew, Judah Ben Samuel, who gave prophecies concerning the future Jubilees, including one that says 2017 would be significant.   Here is a link, and another link to the year 2012 articles about Judah Ben Samuel's prophecies, for those who are interested in pursuing this further.   Like Dan Goodwin, I do not put my hope and belief in what a certain man says, but only in what God's Word the Bible tells us....and through what the prophets in the Bible spoke by God's Holy Spirit.

However, we are definitely living in the last of the last days.   Bible prophecy is being fulfilled daily...right in front of us, and is occurring more frequently and with greater intensity than ever before.    This means we are to be watchful and looking up for the Lord's return.  And, as I have said many times previously, we need to be living a life that is pleasing to Jesus and totally surrendered to Him and His will.   This reminds me of the hymn "I Surrender All", which I have posted here before but feel the urge to post it again.

 

I am also reminded of the quote by Adrian Rogers:  "If satan can't make you bad, he'll make you busy."  

We can get so caught up in our careers and day to day cares and concerns, that we don't take the time to pray and read the Bible.  That is so sad, because that is how we can grow and mature as effective Christians and, most importantly, to have a close, personal, and intimate relationship with God through Jesus Christ.  Unless you spend quality time with someone...talking, sharing, and showing love and concern, you really never come to truly KNOW that person.  The same is true of God.   James 4:8a says, "Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you."

"Modern mankind can go anywhere, do everything and be completely curious about the universe.  But only a rare person now and then is curious enough to want to know God."  -  A. W. Tozer

"The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek Him; but His power and His wrath is against all them that forsake Him."  -  Ezra 8:22b

"Seek ye the LORD while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near."  -  Isaiah 55:6

Have a blessed weekend !  Remember, God loves you and He is near, waiting for you to turn to Him with all of your heart, mind, soul, and strength  (Mark 12:30-31).  Don't delay !  

Billy Crone On Artificial Intelligence, Super Soldiers, RFID Chips, Mark Of The Beast, And More End-Time Events

Back in the 90's Google started out not just being another search engine, but to develop and create Artificial Intelligence.   They gather information on us and then put it into a data base to "feed" the AI so it will have the total human experience.  Many of you are already aware of this fact.  IBM is also working on artificial intelligence, only lately they are calling it Augmented Intelligence.  This can become dangerous if the AI becomes self-aware and decides people need to be terminated.   This and more is touched on in the following 28 minute video featuring Billy Crone, a pastor of a Las Vegas church who also creates many various videos on topics pertaining to these end times we are living in now.  

Please take the time to watch this information packed video on subjects that will wake us up to the corruption and also the unbelievable things that are happening now that will change the way we live and the way we think; that is, if the Lord tarries.  I believe that many of these developments, which are being created and implemented now, will happen during the seven-year tribulation period, which occurs after the Rapture of the Church to heaven to be with the Lord.   I have touched on this in more than one other blog post, one of which is found here.  That post of mine, as well as what Billy Crone discusses in the above video, touches on the Mark of the Beast  (Antichrist) .....read Revelation 13:16-17.    The powers that be plan to microchip everything (trees, animals, humans) so they can keep track of everything and everybody.  This will make it possible to track humans so that they can neither buy or sell without the Mark of the antichrist on their hand or on their forehead. If it is not an RFID chip, it could possibly be a tattoo.  I have heard some scholars say that this chip may be able to alter your DNA to where you, in a sense, lose your soul..... which you will do anyway if you pledge your allegiance to the antichrist, to follow him instead of Almighty God.   

Then there is transhumanism and human hybrids....genetically modifying human beings.   In transhumanism, the thought is that you will be your own god and will be able to achieve eternal life without the One True God.    So they think.   It all goes back to Genesis 3 when the devil told Eve that if she ate of one certain tree forbidden by God, that she would not die and would be like a god herself.   (Genesis 3:1-6).... or better yet, read the entire chapter.   

You may search the Internet for more information on these topics.  What I wish to stress now is that we should be in right standing with the Lord; fully trusting in God and in Jesus as our Savior.  Not just head knowledge of Him, but true, deep-down, heartfelt belief and trust.   So many people who call themselves Christians are fooled by their so-called head knowledge only and not by a true conversion to the Lord.  That is why so many are carnally or worldly minded and do not have their focus on Jesus and pleasing Him and living totally surrendered to Him.  

Turn to the Lord now in faith and surrender to Him before it is too late !

"The Foolishness Of God" - Inspirational Weekend

I photographed this scene at the Honolulu Foster Botanical Gardens.   The man (unknown to me) is studying a guide to the plants and paths in the Garden. It was an opportunity to show the immense size of the tree compared to the height of the man.  As he is studying the guide and which path to take, it reminds me of how we need to study the Bible to direct our paths and choices.

As I was reading the Bible earlier this week, the phrase "foolishness of God" struck me and I decided then and there to do a blog post on I Corinthians 1:25.   

Of course, there is no foolishness of God.  It just appears that way to ungodly men who do not appreciate or understand the Gospel and Christ crucified.   There are so many scoffers today (2 Peter 3:3-4).  They scoff not only about the supposed "delay" of the Rapture, but also about the fact that the Son of God who was crucified could save us when He did not save Himself from death on the cross. They fail to comprehend that Jesus had to shed His precious blood as a way to save all who believe in Him .....His blood washes away our sins.  On the cross, Christ was our substitute; He took the sins of the whole world upon Himself so that we might not die in our sins if we believe in Him.  The fact that Jesus was resurrected gives us believers hope of eternal life as well.  We also will be resurrected after death or caught up to Heaven in the Rapture, whichever occurs first.  Many people today are immersed in pleasure, career, selfish pursuits of all types, ambition, and the list goes on.   They live secular lives, never giving thought to Jesus and God and where they will spend eternity.   The Gospel and Christ puts a damper, so they think. on their selfish pursuits and wild lifestyles.  Even if they are not pursuing a wild life, they are still dead spiritually without faith in Jesus, and will spend eternity in Hell unless they repent and live a life totally surrendered to the Lord.  

Also, ungodly persons feel that the actual preaching itself of the Gospel is foolishness. But God can use the meekest and weakest of men to preach Christ with clarity and effectiveness.   Therefore, they can be stronger in their effectiveness than the wisest of worldly men.   The world's wisdom is foolishness.  

I Corinthians 1:25 speaks not only of the foolishness of God, but also of the weakness of God as being stronger than men.   God is not weak; it only appears so to people who are carnally minded and who do not have a spiritual understanding of the things of God.   It no doubt takes strength on the Lord's part not to just zap all the ungodly and be done with it.  .However, we are in the age of grace right now and God is long suffering.  

"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness, but is longsuffering to us ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."  - 2 Peter 3:9

After the Rapture of the Church, and during the seven-year tribulation, there will be much destruction and the wicked people will suffer and die.  Now is the time to turn to the Lord in repentance !!  To depart from evil is the wisest thing anyone can do;  that and turning to the Lord and living for Him.

When you appreciate the beauty of orchids and all of God's creation, you can see the wisdom of God in His handiwork.  Seeing all the marvels of nature should draw us close to the Lord; He is, after all, the Creator of man as well.  Just think of the miracle of a baby growing in the womb; the precision found in the heavenly planets and stars.  Also consider the tender love that wild animals (as well as our pets) show towards their offspring ....because of the instinct the loving heavenly Father put within them.  Think about the instinct of the wild birds to migrate each year....the list could continue forever!  One thing I never tire of is the beauty of sunsets and sunrises.  Below is a very short time lapse video of gorgeous sunsets:

Also consider the caterpillar that miraculously becomes a butterfly:

I used to own tropical fish, and spent much relaxing time watching them swim in the tank.  God showed love and wisdom in creating such a variety of fish and other animals for our enjoyment. Enjoy the following:

How mighty and amazing is our Creator!  How dare mankind to ignore Him and even to blaspheme Him !  The wonders of His creation testify to His great love and His awesomeness.  Yet man can be extremely proud and defiant towards Him, to their own peril.  We only have one life!  Only what's done for Christ will last !  (As the powerful poem goes).

Many people today think they are way too wise to believe the gospel of Jesus Christ.  They are very proud of their human wisdom.   Just remember that what the world considers foolishness is instead a sign of God's love and wisdom.   Open and read your Bible. By doing so you will come to intimately know God and Jesus and your love for them will grow as you study and pray and learn to comprehend their loving attributes.

"Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:"  -  I Peter 1:18-19

"And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever."  -     I John 2:17

"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

Prophecy Updates - Current World Events From A Biblical Viewpoint - Amir Tsarfati

I felt the need to post a couple of recent videos concerning world events (including America).  I know the election is on everyone's mind right now, but we must also pay attention to other news as it will also affect us one way or another.   The first video was posted on You Tube this morning and discusses what Russia is up to lately. 

  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9gLvJO1Iw8

One of the subjects discussed in the above video link is the fact that Russia has been making maps of where internet cables are located in various areas and may possibly be intending to "cut" the cables to disrupt communications for whatever reasons, maybe if war breaks out.

The next video is by Israeli Amir Tsarfati, who gave his life to Jesus when he was a high school senior.   He has a thriving ministry and travels extensively to preach about end-time events and Bible prophecy.  In August of this year he spoke at a church here in the Honolulu area.   In this video below he speaks of events in the Middle East, mentions American politics (Hillary and Trump), the Rapture, and something interesting about when the Pope recently visited Sweden.   It seems the Pope thinks we need to add six more beatitudes to the Holy Bible.   Amir quotes what they are in the following video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAsgcB9-anw

You may find Amir on You Tube at Behold Israel and also at his website http:www.beholdisrael.org 

I have mentioned before about the move for a One World Government, a Global Economy, and a One World Religion.   All the chaos we see happening is preparing us to surrender to a world dictator, the antichrist, who will seem, at first, to solve the world's problems.  He will come to power during the seven-year Tribulation period.   But Jesus followers, take heart!  We will be raptured before the antichrist appears on the scene.   If you have not yet accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord and Master, now is the time to do so !   You will avoid all of the horrors and destruction that take place in the Tribulation.   But most of all, you will be with Jesus in heaven while God's wrath is being poured out on the ungodly left on earth during that 7 year period; and you will be with God and Jesus for all eternity as well.  

We live in an amazing time when end-time Bible prophecy is being fulfilled daily.  It just increases the believers' faith to witness all that is happening now and gives us hope and faith that the Lord will return very soon.  This hope gives joy and peace to believers, by the power of the Holy Spirit.  

"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 Spirit."  -  Romans 15:13

"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, speaking of end-time events

"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."   -  Jesus speaking at John  14:1-3

"When Troubles Come Your Way" - Inspirational Weekend

Troubles, trials, and heartache come and go in our lives.  Some can be our own fault, some can be the fault of others, and still some trouble comes our way because God is disciplining or chastising us.  And then again, some troubles are really imaginary; they are only in the mind.   This reminds me of a French philosopher who made the statement, "My life is full of catastrophies, most of which never happened."   

But for troubles and trials that are all too real and painful, what can we do?  One of the things I learned from Dr. Charles Stanley is that we should look at everything as coming from God.   He can use our afflictions to draw us to Him and to correct us and set us on the right path.   Following is a quote by E.M. Bounds:  " Trouble is God's servant, doing His will unless He is defeated in the execution of that will.  Trouble is under the control of Almighty God, and is one of His most efficient agents in fulfilling His purposes and in perfecting His saints.  God's hand is in every trouble which breaks into the lives of men.  Not that He directly and arbitrarily orders every unpleasant experience of life.  Not that He is personally responsible for every painful and afflicting thing which comes into the lives of His people.  But no trouble is ever turned loose in this world and comes into the life of saint or sinner, but comes with divine permission, and is allowed to exist and do its painful work with God's hand in it or on it, carrying out His gracious designs of redemption.   All things are under divine control."

All that being true, the best course of action to take when troubles and afflictions arise is to turn to the Lord in prayer.   "And call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me."  - Psalm 50:15 .    Prayer is the best and the most helpful thing to do in times of trouble.   Ask the good Lord what He wants you to do; ask for guidance.   Sometimes the answer is to just "wait on the Lord."  Psalm 27:14 tells us, "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD."   That verse has helped me tremendously to cope in times of distress and trouble.  

Following is a 5 minute sermon by Dr. Charles Stanley titled, "Focus on God, not your problems".

 Sometimes in an emergency we might feel like we need an answer immediately, never mind waiting on God.   This is where faith comes in.  Trust and faith.   You still need to get on your knees and pray with all your heart and pour everything out to the good Lord.   It is possible to receive an answer right away from Him.  If not, you may need to consult a pastor or a mature Christian for advice.  Better yet, have that person pray for you as well.   In my experience, however, the Lord always points the way.  But in an emergency situation, other people can be a great help.

Ultimately, it is Yahweh to whom we should look for guidance and comfort. No one can do what He can do.  He will send His Holy Spirit to help you cope and find your way in the midst of turmoil or just plain old troubles.   All of this may be things you already know, but we all need reminders from time to time.   

"Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble."  - Job 14:1

"And He spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;"  -   Luke 18:1

"Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered."   -         Romans 8:26

This song by Selah, "You Raise Me Up", seems to be a fitting way to end this post.  It is uplifting and encouraging, and quite beautiful.  When you pray, God raises you up and gives you hope.

Keep looking up !  Have a wonderful weekend !

"Thoughts On Prayer and Living For God" - Inspirational Weekend

Forget yourself!  If you truly want to live for God, you must put Him and Jesus first in your life; put God's will first above anything and everyone else.  Forget about your self-centered desires, and ask the good Lord what His will is for your life.  Our chief purpose is to glorify God !   This reminds me of Ecclesiastes 12:13 :  ":Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man."  When you have a reverent fear of God and want to do His will above all else; and when you endeavor to keep His commandments, then you are leading a life that pleases the Lord and that glorifies Him.  

The commandment spoken by Jesus at Matthew 22:37-40 says,  "(37) Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. (38) This is the first and great commandment.  (39)  And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. (40) On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."  

"God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him."  -    1 John 4:16 

With hearts full of love for God and Jesus and also love for our neighbor, we are truly living for God.

Not to forget 1 John 4:7, which tells us , "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God."

We get to know God by much prayer and by reading and studying His Holy Word.  His Word is full of His glorious attributes, and the more we read, the more we learn about Him and Jesus; which in turn teaches us to love the Lord more and more as time goes on.  As we draw closer and closer to God, we begin to think of His desires more than we do of our own.  Also, this love for the Lord will incline us to always be obedient to Him, which is another way to glorify Him.   If you are not obedient to God, then perhaps you are not truly born again.  There are many other ways that we may glorify God, but for now let us concentrate on prayer. 

I would like to quote E.M. Bounds from his book on prayer:  " Desire is not merely a simple wish; it is a deep seated craving; an intense longing, for attainment.  In the realm of spiritual affairs, it is an important adjunct to prayer.  Desire precedes prayer, accompanies it, is followed by it.  Desire goes before prayer, and by it, created and intensified.  Prayer is the oral expression of desire.  .....If prayer is asking God for something, then prayer must be expressed.  Prayer comes out into the open.  Desire is silent.  ......The deeper the desire, the stronger the prayer.  Without desire, prayer is a meaningless mumble of words.  Such perfunctory, formal praying, with no heart, no feeling, no real desire accompanying it, is to be shunned like a pestilence.  Its exercise is a waste of precious time, and from it, no real  blessing accrues."

Desire, as expressed by Mr. Bounds, is normal and necessary when it comes to prayer.  But it is selfish desires and putting our will first that is displeasing to the Lord.

E.M. Bounds continues:  "Spiritual desire, carried to a higher degree, is the evidence of the new birth. It is born in the renewed soul.  'As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.'  (I Peter 2:2).  The absence of this holy desire in the heart is presumptive proof, either of a decline in spiritual ecstasy, or that the new birth has never taken place.  ' Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.'  (Matthew 5:6).  These heaven-given appetites are the proof of a renewed heart, the evidence of a stirring spiritual life.    ...........This, then, is the basis of prayer which compels an answer -  that strong inward desire has entered into the spiritual appetite, and clamors to be satisfied.    ..........  God draws mightily near to the praying soul.  To see God, to know God, and to live for God - these form the objective of all true praying.  Thus, praying is, after all, inspired to seek after God."

One time, a few months back, I was in deep, earnest prayer and weeping as I prayed and pleading with God. A still small voice spoke to my heart and soul, saying, "Is anything too hard for Me?"   I knew it was the Lord encouraging me.   Later, I looked up Scriptures on that subject and found in Genesis 18:14 "Is anything too hard for the LORD?"  and Jeremiah 32:27 which says, "Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for Me?"    Other verses were found at Jeremiah 32:17, Matthew 19:26, and Isaiah 59:1.   I know God will answer that prayer (I am still waiting) because to me it was like a promise from Him that He would.  So I know that sincere, heartfelt prayer reaches the heart of God and that He does answer that type of prayer.  Think about it, all of our prayers should be deep, heartfelt, and prayed with faith that He hears us and will answer us in His due time.   The Lord has answered my prayers in the past and I believe He will continue to do so.

Never give up and continue to approach God with faith and hope and perseverance.  Be like the widow who sought justice from an unjust judge.  She continually confronted the judge until he grew weary of her pestering him, and he finally answered her petition.  (Luke 18:1-8)   

Let's enjoy a refreshing and soothing video showing scenes from Maui, Hawaii, with quiet music in the background.  I have visited Maui a few times so it was a delight for me to "revisit" there by viewing this video.  

It is my sincere wish that your weekend is a happy and enjoyable one, and that you remember to put Christ first in everything you do.   

"Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them."  -  Jesus at Mark 11:24

"Pray without ceasing."  -  I Thessalonians 5:17

"Be careful for nothing; but in everything 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

Videos - "The Future of War" Featuring Bob Maginnis and "The Bankruptcy of Our Nation"

               

The videos here are very recent and give a glimpse of some of the gigantic problems we face in these tumultuous end-time days we find ourselves living in right now.   The first video features LTC Bob Maginnis who not only talks about his new book "Future War", but also topics such as how our  "culture has misplaced values" and how the making of super soldiers (with brain implants that make them more effective and stronger in battles -  and less human as well)  will dramatically alter them as well as their souls.   Here is that video :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pl0hJpoB0GI

The next video, with Jerry Robinson, is about the "allusion of prosperity" we are experiencing and the one phrase he repeats is "The Titanic has hit the iceberg".  It is important to be informed about the economy.

The information here is not meant to depress you.   If you are a true believer you realize this world is not our true home and that soon Jesus will return to take us there.   There is a wonderful hope for those who put their trust in Christ and not in this world and its governments.   

"Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help."  -  Psalm 146:3

"It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man."  -  Psalm 118:8

"And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh."   Jesus speaking of the end-times at Luke 21:28

Dangers Of Halloween - With Video About Some Of The Symbols of Halloween

Here it is Fall, and almost time for Halloween.   Time to dress our children as witches, and goblins, and even devils.  Or should we put our innocent children to practice a tradition that is steeped in darkness and pagan origin ?  When our children are taught that things of darkness can be fun and supposedly harmless, it teaches them to not be wary of anything dark and satanic.  They grow older and experiment with Ouija boards and other occult things, having no fear of the danger.   Very few Christians take the time to look up things about the pagan origin of Halloween, and they also don't take to heart such Scriptures as 1 Peter 2:9 which says,  "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light:"  (KJV)

Did you know that satanists regard Halloween as a high holy day and offer human sacrifices to the devil at this time?   How much into darkness is that !!  Children who think witches and devils are fun play as at Halloween, can be easily influenced by satan.  They grow up thinking it is all harmless and that makes it easier for them to accept occultic practices.   Sadly, even our churches have Halloween parties.  

Think about how all this must make The Lord God Almighty feel when He sees His children, whether adults or little ones, getting involved in the works of darkness when His desire is for us to be children of light .   

"For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.   And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them."  -     Ephesians 5:8-11

You may Google "Origin of Halloween"  for more information on this subject.

Following is a video by Skywatchtv.com featuring Derek Gilbert who gives information about popular symbols of Halloween such as vampires, werewolves, and the like (all from a biblical viewpoint).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8T3UBFnR_VM

It is my intention to start posting topics such as this and ones on current events in these perilous end times at the beginning of each week.   My Inspirational Weekend posts, which are more biblical and contain positive affirmations of Scripture and Bible topics, will continue to be found here on Thursdays or Fridays to start your weekend with a more soothing and pleasant type of experience.  

"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 4:8   

"There Is Always Hope" - Inspirational Weekend

There will be no negative headlines in this inspirational post....just calming and assuring Scriptures that are full of hope and better things to come.  Also there is a sermon here on hope by Adrian Rogers.   

Hope from a biblical viewpoint is not "wishful thinking" but a "confident expectation".  Hebrews 11:1 tells us, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."  In a sense, hope is also wrapped up in faith.   Without hope, there seems to be no meaning to life. I have mentioned previously how a few years ago (1998) I literally lost everything and my life seemed hopeless.  I know what it means to do without many necessities.  But that is not what I want to dwell on here, except to say that through reading God's Word and prayer and strength from the Lord, He helped me to hang on and gave me a sense of direction and purpose.   A hope.  Meaning. A close relationship with the Lord.

A favorite verse of mine is found at Hebrews 6:19:  "Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the vail;" .  

Following is commentary by Albert Barnes on Hebrews 6:19:    "Hope accomplishes for the soul the same thing which an anchor does for a ship.  It makes it fast and secure.  An anchor preserves a ship when the wind blows, and as long as the anchor holds, so long the ship is safe, and the mariner apprehends no danger.  So with the soul of the Christian.  In the tempests and trials of life, his mind is calm as long as his hope of heaven is firm.  If that gives way, he feels that all is lost."  Regarding the phrase "And which entereth into that within the vail", Barnes continues :  "The allusion to the "anchor" is dropped, and the apostle speaks simply of hope.  The "veil" here refers to what in the temple divided the holy from the most holy place.  The place "within the veil" - the most holy place - was regarded as God's special abode - where He dwelt by the visible symbol of His presence.  That holy place was emblematic of heaven, and the idea here is, that the hope of the Christian enters into heaven itself; it takes hold on the throne of God; it is made firm by being fastened there.  It is not the hope of future riches, honors, or pleasures in this life - for such a hope would not keep the soul steady; it is the hope of immortal blessedness and purity in the world beyond."

Following is a sermon by Adrian Rogers on how to have a steadfast hope in a shaky world.

The most important thing we can do to hang on during trials and hardships is to keep our eyes on the things above and not on earthly, worldly things and the chaos in our troubled world.   As  Colossians 3:1-2 tells us:  "(1) If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. (2) Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."

Also we need to keep looking in expectation for the return of our Lord.   That gives hope.  It also inclines believers to purify themselves, to live a godly life now so as to be found "blameless" when Jesus comes again to take us to heaven.   ( 1 John 3:3)

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

Truly it is a blessed hope and we should always be looking for Jesus' return. And to tell lost souls about it and the Gospel of Christ.  

So when the world is falling apart, turn to the Lord for hope and encouragement.  The power of the Holy Spirit will produce joy and peace within you

Enjoy the following nature video and have a Christ-centered weekend.

"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 Spirit."  -  Romans 15:13

Two News Articles - The Economy Is On the Brink of Collapse & Possible Catastrophic Space Event

In the above photograph of mine taken at Waikiki Beach, this Black-Crowned Night Heron looks as if he is contemplating what the warning sign is all about.   At least he is alert and (my fantasizing) attempting to take in the information.  In these troublesome times in which we live, we need to stay informed and alert ourselves.  Here is a recent article about the economy we need to be aware of.  In this article are 5 urgent warnings from Big Banks that the economy "has gone suicidal."

Did you hear about the new Obama Executive order about space weather?  In particular perhaps a CME striking earth as it almost did in 2012?   Check out this article. 

In August of this year I wrote a blog post here about the CME  almost hitting the earth in 2012.   A CME is a very large plasma like gas explosion from the sun.  In the August blog post it has a video featuring Brent Miller who is an expert on these type occurrences  and how it relates to Bible Prophecy, in particular part of the trumpet judgments in Revelation 8.  See this fascinating information.

I mention these 2 articles not to be "doom and gloom" and not to put fear in your hearts.   We need to be informed !  Some people would rather not hear all this type current events; they would rather pretend life goes on as normal.   These are not normal times.   It is not the "Happy Days" of the 1950's.    

As stated in my blog numerous times,  you need not fear if you have a close, personal, intimate relationship with God through Jesus Christ.   Things may be worse for true believers before the Rapture occurs, that is true.  Or we may be raptured before much damage is done.   We will

 not go through the 7 year tribulation period, however.  

Romans 15:4 tells us, "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope."

Read the Bible often, pray without ceasing, and God's Holy Spirit will give you hope and keep you from being overly fearful.  The Scriptures truly are a comfort in these perilous times.   

"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 Spirit."  -  Romans 15:13

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."   Jesus at John 14:27

News Alert - Possible War Soon With Russia !

The mainstream media has not reported much if any about the possibility of a soon nuclear war with Russia... and with China as well.   I have known about this threat for a few days and I should have made a post on this blog about it sooner.  This world we live in now is chaotic and unpredictable and you cannot believe everything you hear or read, to be sure.   But this situation now with Russia bears some serious thought as to it being a very real threat.  Here is a link to a commentary on the situation that you should watch.

Following is a video discussing a nuclear war with Russia as well as other prophetic events happening now:

I have written previously about Russia and the Gog of Magog war.  You may read about it here.  I am not saying the Gog of Magog war is the same thing as Russia coming against the U.S.A.   The Gog of Magog war concerns the middle east countries (with Russia and Iran and others) coming against Israel.   That war is also on the horizon.  

Another post I made last year was dealing with current events and not giving way to fear and anxiety.  It also mentions the Psalm 83 war, the Gog of Magog War, and the situation in Syria and how Damascus will be totally destroyed.  You may read about it here.

Be prepared!  And by that I don't mean just stocking up on food and water.  We need to be prepared spiritually.   If you have never accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, now is the time.  Don't delay! No matter what happens, if you believe in and accept Christ you have a wonderful hope for the future.  Eternity with the Lord !   

We are definitely living in the end of the end times, and speaking of the end times Jesus tells us, at Luke 21:34-36: "(34) And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.  (35) For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.  (36)  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. "

"What To Do When God Is Silent" - Inspirational Weekend

In my previous post about "Listening To God",  I wrote that silence from God is often because we have sin in our lives that needs to be confessed and repented of in order to have fellowship with God and to "hear" Him speak to us.  And that is very true.   But there are other reasons why the Lord may remain silent for a time.   Tuesday of this week I read a daily devotion by Oswald Chambers about God's remaining quiet for a season.  Following is a quote from a portion of Chambers' "My Utmost For His Highest" devotion:

"Has God trusted you with a silence - a silence that is big with meaning?  God's silences are His answers.   .............His silence is the sign that He is bringing you into a marvelous understanding of Himself.  Are you mourning before God because you have not had an audible response?  You will find that God has trusted you in the most intimate way possible, with an absolute silence, not of despair, but of pleasure, because He saw that you could stand a bigger revelation.  If God has given you a silence, praise Him; He is bringing you into the great run of His purposes.  The manifestation of the answer in time is a matter of God's sovereignty.    ........If Jesus Christ is bringing you into the understanding that prayer is for the glorifying of His Father, He will give you the first sign of His intimacy - silence."

The LORD is teaching us many things by His silence.  Also, His silence can create in us a hunger for Him.   Between the end of the Old Testament and the beginning of the New Testament of the Bible there was approximately 400 years of silence.....there was no prophet of God in that time.  Something to think about when you are concerned about God's temporary silence with you.   As Dr. Charles Stanley says, "Silent times are often God's preparation for something else."   

Following is a sermon by Dr. Stanley on the subject of when God is silent:

In this excellent sermon, Dr. Charles Stanley mentions seven reasons for God's silence; eight reasons for the various ways we often respond  (discouragement and doubt, to mention two); and then he gives seven reasons of how we should respond, one of which is that we should "respect the right of God to be silent."   Dr. Stanley says, "What God is after is love and intimacy and obedience."

Just a reminder, we cannot complain about God being silent if our Bibles are always closed.  As mentioned previously, God speaks to us through His Holy Word by the Holy Spirit.  It is our spiritual food without which we cannot grow to maturity in our Christian walk. Read and memorize Scripture and let the words sink deep within you, down deep in your heart and very soul.  Scripture can be like seeds that grow into deep faith and commitment to the Lord.  Faith is also believing God is present when all we hear is silence.

"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a worker that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth."  -  2 Timothy 2:15

"Keep not Thou silence, O God: Hold not Thy peace, and be not still, O God."  -  Psalm 83:1

"The door of the Word only opens to the key of diligence.  The Scriptures claim searching."  -

Charles H. Spurgeon 

Don't let God's silence make you believe that He has totally forsaken you, maybe even forever.  If you are a true believer, He will never forsake you as Hebrews 13:5b tells us: "For He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."   

I hope this information will help you when God is quiet and not speaking to you.   But if you will open your Bible and read, and pray, and continue with perseverance, there will be a breakthrough eventually where you will once more hear from the heavenly Father.  

Below is a soothing video to brighten your happy weekend.  

Silence speaks when words can't.  

"And when He had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. "  -  Revelation 8:1

"Listening To God" - Inspirational Weekend

First of all, to hear God speaking to us, we have to be willing to listen to Him.  We need to set aside a special time everyday to read the Bible and pray to Him.   The primary way the Lord speaks to us today is through His holy Word, the Bible.   That is how we learn to know God and His will and purposes.  He guides us by means of His Word, and teaches us what we need to know in order to live a full and victorious life, a godly life.   Through His Word and by prayer. we grow close to the Lord and learn to love Him with all of our heart.   And of course, God speaks to us through prayer as well.  But we need to spend time in prayer listening for Him to speak, instead of us doing all the talking.  "Be still and know that I am God"  -  Psalm 46:10a .   It is best to set aside a specific time and place everyday to fellowship with and pray to the Lord.  King David, in Psalm 143:8 prayed :  "Cause me to hear thy loving kindness in the morning; for in Thee do I trust:  Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto Thee."   King David spent time with the Lord in the morning, before the day began.  I personally have my quiet time with God in the early morning, before I face the "battles" of the day.   It starts the day off right, and gives you a sense of direction for whatever may lie ahead.  Find a quiet spot in your home, or sit on your patio.  My grandfather used to sit on the front porch in his rocking chair when he read the Bible.   I rarely do deep studying when I sit on my patio, because there are distractions outside.  The point is, study where you are least distracted and can focus entirely on the Lord and His Word.  Journal key Scriptures and insights that you may gain at this quiet time.  The gazebo below looks inviting; a good place to study God's Word if the birds and other things don't distract you overmuch.   

God can also speak through other people and through circumstances.  He knows how to get your attention.   Following is a sermon by Dr. Charles Stanley titled "Listening to God."

We also need to have a right attitude in order to hear God speaking to us.  First of all, we must want to do His will.   God pays attention to a heart that is totally surrendered to Him.  We need to desire God's will first, before anything else or our own selfish desires.  Matthew Henry has said, "The first lesson in Christ's school is self-denial."

Psalm 40:8 :  "I delight to do Thy will, O my God: yea, Thy law is within my heart."

Sometimes God does not answer our prayers right away, and sometimes He is silent.  The silence can be deafening, and causes you to wonder if you have displeased God in some way.....and maybe you have, or maybe not.  Do not let that stop you from praying to Him or stop you from listening for His "voice" through His Word.  Someone once said, "God has not promised to give us answers, but He will give us grace."    Make sure there is no unconfessed sin in your life that is hindering you from hearing from the Lord.  If there is, repent and confess the sin to God and make the necessary changes to stay in fellowship with Him.

Following is a beautiful nature video to grace your happy weekend.   Nature teaches us a lot about God if we will just pay attention.

Psalm 32:8,  "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My loving eye on you."

"It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not.  They are new every morning: great is Thy faithfulness."  -  Lamentations 3:22-23