"ARE YOU A SPIRITUAL MOURNER?" (Sermon Video By Pastor Chuck Smith) - (A.W. Tozer Devotional) - INSPIRATIONAL WEEKEND

 

                                       [Rainbow at Waimea Bay, North Shore - Oahu, Hawaii]

Rainbows are very special to me.  They remind me of God and His promises.  But not only that, if there are difficulties to face with uncertain consequences, viewing a rainbow cheers me and makes me feel that God is near.  Of course, when you are a true believer in the Savior Jesus Christ, you realize that the good Lord is always with you!   But we need to sometimes be reminded of that, and a rainbow does that for me.

"Thou art near, O LORD, and all Thy commandments are truth."  -  Psalm 119:151

"But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the LORD God, that I may declare all Thy works."  -  Psalm 73:28

So, what exactly is meant by spiritual mourning?  First, here is what Jesus had to say when He gave the Sermon on the Mount (the Beatitudes):

 "Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted."  -   Matthew 5:4

 

As stated above, it is a spiritual mourning, and not that of a melancholy disposition, nor sorrow over temporary distress, nor for destroyed hopes, and not even for the sorrow when we find ourselves in adversity of any type.  The main cause of this of this mourning Jesus spoke of is because of sin.    And for sin itself  rather than for the consequences of sin.  Even sorrow for secret sins; for sin as seen in the sight of our precious Lord Jesus.   Because as King David of old said: 

"Against Thee, Thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Thy sight: that Thou mightest be justified when Thou speakest, and be clear when Thou judgest."    - Psalm 51:4

"Hide Thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.  Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me."  -  Psalm 51:9-10

King David sinned really big time during his life.  Psalm 51 deals with his repentance over his adultery with Bathsheba and of causing the murder of her husband.  How bad is that!  Yet David had true godly sorrow over his sins, and true repentance.   And God still felt about and called David "a man after His own heart"!

" .....  He raised up unto them David to be their king to whom also He gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfill all My will."   -  Acts 13:23

Also, remember how the apostle Peter denied Christ three times in one night, and when the Lord looked intently at him after his cruel denial, Peter wept bitterly.  Godly sorrow! Repentance!

 

 [ North Shore - Oahu, Hawaii]

Christians also mourn - and deeply - the sins of others.  This is especially true of family member's sins, but also of others - even to mourn the sins of one's nation and its leaders!  Jeremiah the prophet felt that way about his nation of Israel as seen in the following verses:

"Oh that my head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night for the slain of the daughter of my people!  On that I had in the wilderness a lodging place of wayfaring men; that I might leave my people, and go from them! for they be all adulterers, an assembly of treacherous men."  -   Jeremiah 9:1,2

One Bible commentator has said:  "The mourning which will entitle a man to blessedness has these qualifications:  It is spontaneous and free: it must come as water out of a spring and not as fire from a flint.  The mourning is spiritual:  when we mourn for sin more than suffering.  We must mourn for sin as it is.  It is  (1) an act of hostility and enmity that affronts and resists the Holy Spirit. (2) sin is an ingratitude in its unkindness against God; (3)  A privation that keeps good things from us, and hinders our communion with God.

 

The same commentator tells us: "that  - with hope - believing that though our tears drop to the earth, our FAITH must reach heaven.    Our mourning must be joined with hatred of sin.  We must not only abstain from sin, but abhor it.   The dove hates the least feather of the hawk;  A true mourner hates the least motion to sin.   ....... Our mourning for sin must be constant.  ... A daily weeping, a daily mourning."

And concerning the mourner's being comforted:  "Spiritual comforts are pure:  they are not mudded with guilt, nor mixed with fear; they are the pure wine of the Spirit.  What the mourner feels is joy. The comforts God gives His mourners are sweet, for the love of God shed into the heart is said to be better than wine.  (Song of Solomon 1:2)   {The comforts from God} are Holy.  Divine comforts give the soul more acquaintance with God.  {These comforts} are satisfying as they fill the heart and make it run over; they are powerful; they strengthen for duty, and they support us under affliction.  ... The comforts of the Spirit are immortal and eternal.  Oh, how superlative are these comforts!"  (Comments from "The Biblical Illustrator")

Following is a 44 minute sermon on this subject and Matthew 5:4 by Pastor Chuck Smith, who was the founder of the Calvary Chapel Churches.  Pastor Smith passed away a few years ago.

Following is a quote from A.W. Tozer, who was an American preacher and author and he passed away in 1963.  

"What a strange paradox!  The atheistic free thinker rants and raves about the Bible being a "dangerous" book at the very same time that the Word Of God is speaking to my soul!  Strange indeed that some humans have the idea that the Word Of God can only be approached with shivering fears.  But that is true only of those who love their sin and hate their Savior.  The blessed truth is that if I hate my sin and love my Savior, the Word of God is a wonderful revelation, indeed, and a trustworthy guide.  We need to be aware always that if we do not keep the Word of God on our side, we will be miserable in our souls continually.  It is up to us.  What do we sincerely will to do with God and His revealed Word?   Years ago, the saintly George Mueller said he had read the Bible hundreds of times, and then he added, "with meditation."  Let us see to it that we read the Word.  More than that, we should actually explore it!"

 

 

[Dawn -  Ala Moana Beach Park -  Oahu, Hawaii]

Has it dawned on you that we are now living in the last moments of the end of this dispensation- the Age of Grace: The Church Age?  Look around you and you see all the signs of the beginning of the New World Order!   The signs that "the season" of Jesus' return is now upon us!   No one knows the day or the hour (but only our heavenly Father knows) when our blessed Savior will return for His true believers. (Matthew 24:36).   But the Bible and Jesus clearly gives us "signs" that His return is near.  Read Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21.  Much written there pertains to the tribulation period which follows the Rapture, true, but we see some of those signs happening NOW which means we must be in the "season" of our Lord's imminent return to take us heaven before the 7 year Tribulation begins. 

If Jesus returns today, or next week, or soon.....

Are you Rapture Ready?

  

  The main requirement is to believe that Jesus is the Savior and the only way to heaven and eternal life!    Jesus took our place on the Cross and paid our sin debt in full by shedding His precious blood (as the sacrificial Lamb of God) that we might be ransomed from our sins and forgiven by Him and God if we only have faith and believe! We are washed clean in Jesus' blood and when we are born again, and God sees us as saved from His wrath because God sees us through Jesus - we are cleansed  by the blood of Jesus!

 

Following are Scriptures that explain what Salvation entails.  If you are not a believer now in the Savior, it is urgent that you do so soon!   Eternity is a long time to spend in the wrong place : Hell !

"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

"But God commended His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  Much more then, being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.  For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.  And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by Whom we have now received the atonement."  -   Romans 5:8-11

"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 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

 

"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

 

One thing to be sure to do,  is to repent  of your sins and to sincerely pray for forgiveness in order to receive the Lord's forgiveness and blessing.

 

Matthew 4:17  tells us:  "From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say,  Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

 

 

 

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

 

PROPHECY NEWS - GOG AND MAGOG WAR - ISRAEL'S NEW GOVERNMENT (With Videos)

 High and powerful surf as in my photograph above taken on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, has always been awe inspiring to me !  For that matter, all of the good Lord's creation leaves me in awe of His power and His majesty!  Not only the beauty of creation, but just the astounding fact that He in His majesty and sovereignty and wisdom -  and the list goes on! -  that our loving heavenly Father, Who can be so tender and merciful and loving towards us finite humans also has the power to create such awesomeness as found in nature -  and the universe, for that matter.

Recently I was amazed by God's power in another way --  that the nation of Israel is changing government -  a part Jewish and part Muslim government - which will lead to the entrance of the Antichrist soon !  Which means that   Ancient Bible Prophecy about the end times is coming true right now!!  The Jews will be deceived (not realizing he is the antichrist), however it has recently  been brought to my attention that the antichrist himself who will soon take over will also be part Jewish and part Muslim.  

Isaiah 10:5-6 says: "O Assyrian, the rod of mine anger, and the staff in their hand is mine indignation. I will send him against an hypocritical nation, and against the people of my wrath will give him a charge, to take the spoil, and to take the prey, and to tread them down" like the mire of the streets."

 

  Maybe more about that later. However, according to one scholar, the recent (under President Trump) Abraham Peace Accords are part Jewish and part Muslim.

Following is a recent 51 minute video by Amir Tsarfati concerning not only the new Israeli government, but also information on how close might be the Gog and Magog war ! Amir is a Christian Jew with a thriving ministry.  You will learn much from his video below!   

 Unfortunately, for some reason I cannot paste that video here.  Please go to You tube at Behold Israel and enter "Amir Tsarfati-  Middle East Update: how close are we to to Gog and Magog?  - posted on June 3, 2021

 

Here is another recent video by prophecywatchers.com with host Gary Stearman and his guest Billy Crone as they discuss the Tribulation, the Temple, and the Antichrist.  Of interest in this 29 minute video below is a short animated clip of what the coming new temple in Jerusalem will look like!  Pastor Crone thinks that perhaps part of the covenant with the antichrist will be to have the New 3rd Temple to be built.  

In the above video, Pastor Crone mentions that when, eventually, the Jewish people (during the 7 Year Tribulation) realize that the antichrist has "duped"  them, the antichrist will slaughter about 2/3 of the Jewish people.   

There is more information concerning that slaughter at   https://christinprophecy.org/articles/the-jews-in-end-time-bible-prophecy/      Check out paragraphs 8 and 9 in the article above.  Scriptures are given there for reference, including Zechariah 13:8-9 and Revelation 12:13-17.

Please, while at the above link  at Christinprophecy.org  , scroll down to the heading "Prophecies Concerning the Church".  It mentions that at the end of the millennium  (after the tribulation and armageddon) then the millennium which is the 1000 year reign of Christ on Earth)  then at the end of the millennium "we will be removed from this earth to the "New Jerusalem" which the Lord has been preparing for us, and from that vantage point, we will witness the greatest fireworks display in history as God envelopes this earth in fire, burning away the pollution of satan's last revolt  (2 Peter 3:10-13)." the article goes on to say, "out of that fiery inferno will come the New Heavens and the New Earth where we will live forever in the New Jerusalem in the presence of God and Jesus."   

I just felt like I must quote that part of the article above  because so many teach that it will not be a literal fire and a literal destruction -- but instead, a cleansing of some sort.  

I apologize for the links not working properly for this article.  Long story about computer issues!  Please make an effort to check out the important links given here!  Great info !

[Waikiki Beach at Dawn - Oahu, Hawaii]

Here is another video which explains in 44 minutes a general summary of prophetic truths.  It is by prophecy expert Don Stewart.... at educatingourworld.com.  But the video was for "hope for our times" channel by Pastor Tom Hughes.  This video is especially helpful for those "new" to the idea of Bible Prophecy coming true in these last days we find ourselves in at this time.  Don Stewart in the following video also talks about the Gog of Magog war.   At the end, he reminds us that the wicked will not understand what is actually taking place or the prophetic significance of it.   A must watch!  

Here is a devotional by Charles Spurgeon that rather fits in with this article's discussion.  It concerns us being glad of heart because of how wonderful our heavenly Father is to us, and because of His wonderful attributes that should lift our spirits to think on them, and of His many blessings.  Spurgeon bases his devotional on Psalm 149:2 which reads; "Let Israel rejoice in Him."

 

Spurgeon:   "Be glad of heart, O believer, but take care that thy gladness has its spring in the LORD.  Thou has much cause for gladness in thy God, for thou canst sing with David, "God, my exceeding joy."  Be glad that the LORD reigneth, that Jehovah is King!  Rejoice that HE sits upon the throne, and ruleth all things!  Every attribute of God should become a fresh ray in the sunlight of our gladness.  That HE is mighty should cause us to rejoice who tremble at our weakness.  That HE is everlasting, should always be a theme of joy when we know that we wither as the grass.  That HE is unchanging, should perpetually yield us a song, since we change every hour.   That HE is full of grace, that HE is overflowing with it, and that this grace in covenant HE has given to us; that it is ours to cleanse us, ours to keep us, ours to sanctify us, ours to perfect us, ours to bring us to Glory.

"All this should tend to make us glad in HIM.  This gladness in God is as a deep river; we have only as yet touched its brink; we know a little of its clear sweet heavenly streams, but onward the depth is greater and the current more impetuous in its joy.  The Christian feels that he may delight himself not only in what God IS , but also in ALL that  God has DONE in the past.  The Psalms show us that God's people in olden times were won't to think MUCH of God's actions,   and to have a song concerning each of them.  So let God's people NOW rehearse the deeds of the LORD!  Let them tell of HIS mighty acts, and "Sing unto the LORD, for HE hath triumphed gloriously."   Nor let them ever cease to sing, for as new mercies flow to them day by day, so should their gladness in the LORD's  loving acts in Providence and in Grace show itself in continued thanksgiving.  Be glad ye children of Zion and rejoice in the LORD your God.!"   - end of Spurgeon's quote.

Here is a short 11 minute sermon by the wonderful Christian channel on You Tube "Grace For Purpose."  It is titled: "God isn't asking you to be Perfect, He wants you to Trust Him in your Weakness"  .   

Take heart! Our Savior will return very soon!  Times are tough for many right now, but we true believers in the atoning shed blood of Jesus know that He has given us a hope which nothing can destroy.  We may face much difficulties of one sort or another, even have loved ones disappoint us... and the list goes on.  Not to mention the evil days in which we are now living.  I hope the above information and Scriptures encourage you to hang in there !

God loves you !  Have a blessed day!

"ARE YOU POOR IN SPIRIT?" (Videos - One a Charles Spurgeon Sermon) - Inspirational Weekend

[Pali Overlook - Oahu, Hawaii]

No, not poor in the sense of being mean-spirited, and not in the sense of one being poor in spirituality itself ! First let's read Matthew 5:3 where we find the Beatitudes of Jesus, otherwise known as "the sermon on the mount."  

"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

 One Bible Commentary (on The Biblical Illustrator) explains that poorness of spirit involves humility, contentment, submission, and gratitude. By the poor in spirit are meant those who have been convinced of their spiritual poverty.   Another commentator at the same site tells us that "You may as well expect fruit to grow without a root, as the other graces without this; till a man be poor in spirit he cannot mourn. ... Till we are poor in spirit we are not capable receiving grace.  God doth first empty a man of himself,  before He pours in the precious wine of His grace.  None but the poor in spirit are within Christ's commission.  Till we are poor in spirit, Christ is never precious!  ..  So to him that is poor in spirit - that sees his want of Christ -  how precious is the Savior! ..He that is poor in spirit is weaned from himself ! ....    He that is poor in spirit is a Christ - admirer.   .. He that is poor in spirit is much in prayer  ... and to take Christ upon His Own terms.  He blesses God for the least crumb that falls from the table of free Grace. ..  Christ begins with this [for one to be poor in spirit], and we must begin here if ever we be saved. ... Poverty of spirit paves a causeway for blessedness."

Following is a wonderful 51 minute sermon by Charles Spurgeon concerning the meaning and blessedness of "the poor in spirit" with many wonderful spiritual gems included by him.

Spurgeon, in the sermon above, tells us to live quietly for God.  He tells us "Above all other evils we have most to dread our own fullness.  The greatest unfitness for Christ is our own imaginary fitness.  When we are utterly undone we are near to being enriched with the riches of graces. Out of ourselves is next door to being in Christ.  Where we end,  mercy begins;    or has already begun.  The deeper the destitution the better."

I urge you to watch the entire sermon above -  it will bless you !

[Above Diamond Head Beach, Oahu, Hawaii]

 "For every look at self, take ten looks to Christ."  -  Robert Murray M'cheyne

"Much of our difficulty as seeking Christians stems from our unwillingness to take God as He is and adjust our lives accordingly.  We insist upon trying to modify Him and to bring Him nearer to our own image."  -  A.W. Tozer

"This book (the Bible) will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from this book." - John Bunyan

"If satan can't make you bad, he'll make you busy."  -  Adrian Rogers

"The first lesson in Christ's school is self-denial."  -  Matthew Henry

"Nothing sets a person so much out of the devil's reach as humility."  -  Jonathan Edwards

Here is a wonderful devotional song on being poor in spirit: 

 If the Lord tarries, more posts will follow here on this blog concerning the Beatitudes of Jesus.

Please remember, our strength comes from the good Lord, and that includes strength to face and endure perilous times (2 Timothy 3:1-4) such as we find ourselves experiencing in the world in these last moments of the end times. We can find that strength from our worship of the Lord -  and do not forget our personal quiet time alone with the heavenly Father, in prayer and in reading His Holy Word, the Bible.  Nothing can take the place - nor should it - of our devotional time, communing with and basking in the Presence of the Lord. Only He can give us the inward peace we need to face whatever life throws at us. 

Again, nothing can take the place of a strong, intimate, loving, personal relationship with God the Father through His Son Jesus Christ! That is what it is all about, folks !   People will fail you, but our Father in heaven and Jesus will never let you down or forsake you!  Spend much time in prayer and reading and studying the Bible.  You will grow to know the Lord better, and thereby to love Him more and more.  You will be blessed for your efforts.  You MUST spend time with someone in order to get to know them, and the good Lord deserves our time more than anyone --  He wants to fellowship with us on a personal level. 

"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."  -    Hebrews 13:5

"And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, Whom Thou hast sent."    -    John 17:3

"As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you; continue ye in My love.  If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in His love."      -  Jesus at John 15:9-10

"I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.  ... I am the good shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of mine."  -   John 10:11,14

Notice in verse 14 above:  that Jesus knows His sheep, and "Am known of mine."   You MUST know the Lord and have a close intimate relationship with Him!

Following are scriptures to help unsaved and lost souls to come to faith in Jesus, the Savior.  

"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

Remember to pray sincerely and in earnest for forgiveness, and to truly repent of your past sins -- have a vivid sense of remorse for your past sins.  

"From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say,  Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."  -   Matthew 4:17

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

 

"HOW TO SPEND THE DAY WITH GOD!'' - (Matthew Henry Sermon Video) & Christian Quotes - INSPIRATIONAL WEEKEND

 

                                                       [Diamond Head Beach and Lighthouse - Oahu, Hawaii]

Since a lighthouse to Christians can be a symbol for the Lord Jesus, and likewise of God, I chose to use my photograph above to compliment the title of this post :"How To Spend The Day With God."  Actually, this post's title is also the title of a 35 minute sermon by Matthew Henry which follows:

Matthew Henry was a Puritan (or "non-conformist" - which was any English Protestant who did not conform to the doctrines or practices of the established Church of England during the 1600's).  Henry lived from 1662-1714.  He was in poor health physically and intellectually; but spiritually he was gifted.  As a child prodigy he was able to read out loud a chapter of the Bible when he was only 3 years old.   Just a note, many persons- including myself - refer to his Bible Commentaries for reference.

The main point to consider is the  content of the above sermon video.  It is very encouraging to all of us in today's stormy times. One point he made is: "Though a stormy day... yet we must hope and have patience.  Be joyful because Christ is in the ship and also at the helm."    And ...." To wait on God is to live a life of desire towards God, to wait on Him in faith and expectation.....Be entirely conformed to God's will.  ......Only the ones willing to do as they are taught by God will God continue to teach His ways. "    There are many more gems of insightful and of helpful nature for us in the above video!

Following is an almost 3 minute video trailer about Matthew Henry's life and times:

When Matthew Henry was about 13 years old, he wrote a short biography concerning the saving of his soul.  Quite insightful and impressive as to the knowledge and spiritual understanding of one so young!  For those who are interested, here is the link to that:   look for the portion titled " A Catalog of Mercies".       http://www.sounddoctrine.net/LIBRARY/Bible%20Studies/MHenry-biography.htm

In considering our troublesome times during these last days of the Church Age,  as well as the concerns and hardships and fears of many persons today as to what might lie ahead, here is a helpful quote - a short devotional by Charles Spurgeon, titled "Rain Without Clouds? Never!"   Spurgeon bases his comments on Ecclesiastes 11:3 : "If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth."

Spurgeon comments: "Why, then, do we dread the clouds which now darken our sky?  True, for a while they hide the sun, but the sun is not quenched; he will shine out again before long.  Meanwhile, those black clouds are filled with rain; and the blacker they are, the more likely they are to yield plentiful showers!  How can we have rain, without clouds?  Our troubles have always brought us blessings, and they always will.  They are the black chariots of bright grace.  These clouds will empty themselves before long, and every tender herb will be the gladder for the shower.  Our God may drench us with grief, but He will not drown us with wrath; nay, He will refresh us with mercy.  Our LORD's Love Letters often come to us in black-edged envelopes.    His wagons rumble but they are loaded with benefits.  His rod blossoms with sweet flowers and nourishing fruits.  Let us not worry about the clouds but sing because May flowers are brought to us through the April clouds and showers.

"O, LORD, the clouds are the dust of Thy feet!   How near Thou art in the cloudy and dark day!  Love beholds Thee and is glad.  Faith sees the clouds emptying themselves and making the little hills rejoice on every side."   -  end of quote

"The LORD is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked.  The LORD hath His way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of His feet."      -    Nahum 1:3

"Men do not reject the Bible because it contradicts itself, but because it contradicts them." - unknown

"Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength."           -   Charles Spurgeon

"Tears clean the windows of your soul." -  Nick Vujicic (Life without Limbs.org)

"Thou art still the God of my salvation and Thou wilt bear me up, and carry me through, and lighten all my pressure, until Thou shalt bring me home to behold Thy glory and to dwell with Thee forever."     -  Hawker's Poor Man's Commentary.

"When in the hands of God, our regrets of yesterday turn to beautiful re-designs of tomorrow."      -   Janet Perez Eckles

"Christians, see your position, debtors to grace; show your gratitude by earnest, Christ-like lives, and as God has bidden you live, see to it that you live in earnest."  -  Charles Spurgeon

If Jesus were to return today or next week (no one knows the day or the hour - Matthew 24:36)  -  would you be Rapture Ready?

Perhaps, because of the turmoil and upheaval in the world today, maybe more people are considering their future and what might lie ahead.  But how many of them are concerned with their eternity?  That is the most important decision anyone can make!   Meaning, of course, salvation that is found only in belief in Jesus Christ as the Savior - that He is the only way to heaven and to eternal life!

Following are some salvation Scriptures for you to take to heart and to lead you to a vibrant faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus !   As you read these verses, if you are not yet saved and born again, think about the cruel and painful death Jesus suffered on the cross -  and He did it out of love for you!  He took your place and your sins upon Himself at Calvary; shed His precious blood (as the sacrificial Lamb of God); He paid your sin debt in full - a debt so enormous that none of us could pay it on our own (by our works).  

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

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

"Jesus 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

"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 !!

LET'S TALK ABOUT HOLINESS AND DEVOTION TO CHRIST! (3 Videos by A.W. Tozer and Christian Quotes) - Inspirational Weekend

 

The shady path in my photograph above is, in one way, like a refreshing cool spot on a hot day.  In another way, it is like the path of life which is sometimes shady and shadowy and uncertain; even dark and gloomy at times.  It all depends on how you want to look at it.  

Granted, life's hardships and trials and uncertainties are real, like the current pandemic and other drastic changes in our lives and in our world today.  It is discouraging if you only look at the present circumstances, true.  But Christians realize all that is occuring today is proof positive of our Jesus' soon return!  As promised!  What a blessed hope!  

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

This blog has previously shared sermons and quotes by A.W. Tozer, and will now share 3 videos of his writings, narrated by others.  He was an American preacher and author, and he died in 1963.  His epithat reads "A.W. Tozer - A Man of God."  In one of the  audio videos of his writings which follows, there is a short biography about him.  Please listen with much attention!  It is a valuable and insightful message from his book "How To Be Filled With the Holy Spirit" (64 minutes).  If you do not have time to listen to it in its entirety now, then begin at the 34:51 minute mark on Chapter 3 :

Chapter 1 above:  Who is the Holy Spirit?

Chapter 2:  The Promise of the Father

Chapter 3 above concerns "how to be filled with the Holy Spirit" and "How to receive Him.'

Chapter 4 -  How to cultivate the Spirit's companionship

The above video is so relevant today as never before!  Many professing Christians think of Christianity as being primarily a "social"  thing -  go to church and fellowship and have potlucks , etc.  All that is good and fine -  Hebrews 10:25 tells us to fellowship with one another and to not neglect our gathering together.   But true Christianity is meant to have - First and Foremost - a strong personal relationship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior!  We do that through much time spent with the good Lord in prayer and in reading the Holy Word, the Bible.  

Following is a 29 minute audio video of another of Tozer's works, titled "Total Commitment to Christ" in which there is a brief biography about Tozer at the end .  

The video above explains how to follow Christ with your whole heart.  Please watch!  It will bless you!

The last video from one of Tozer's writings, at least on this post today, is Chapter One of "The Knowledge of the Holy" by A.W. Tozer, which is 13 minutes in length.  

On the above, this person's you tube channel has up to 23 chapters of this particular work by Tozer.  She has a wonderful and perfect voice for this work!  I, personally, have not yet listened to all 23 chapters, but I intend to do so, if time permits and the Lord tarries awhile.

[Cereus - Night Blooming Cactus]

"No man who merely skims the book of God can profit thereby; we must dig and mine until we obtain the hid treasure."  -  Charles Spurgeon

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

"A Bible that is falling apart usually belongs to someone who isn't." -  Charles Spurgeon

"Everyone thinks  of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself." -  Leo Tolstoy

"Heaven goes by favour (grace). If it went by merit, you would stay out and your dog would go in."   -  Mark Twain

"Excuses are the cradle that satan rocks men off to sleep in."  -  unknown

[Bird of Paradise]

It is my prayer that the above videos and quotes will open your eyes to what is truly important today! Which is a living, vibrant, loving, close and beautiful relationship with the heavenly Father through His Son, Jesus Christ !  The Savior ! The only way to the Father and to heaven!  

If you are not born again -  have not put your faith in the shed blood of Jesus Christ, when on the Cross, He paid our sin debt in full by taking our place (taking our sins upon Himself as the Lamb of God and shedding His blood as atonement), so that we, if we but have faith and belief in Him as the Savior, His shed blood will wash away our sins - wipe the slate clean, so to speak - and we may then have the hope of eternal life.   

Following are salvation scriptures for those who may not yet have put their trust and belief in Jesus Christ.  Those who are already true believers might want to memorize or at least share the following verses with unsaved family members and acquaintances.

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

"Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord."        -   Hebrews 12:14

"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

"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

"From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." -   Matthew 4:17

From Jesus's words above at Matthew 4:17, unsaved persons need to also repent of their sins and have a complete change of heart and a sincere desire to live surrended to the Lord and His will.  That means to obey as best we finite humans are able, and- after we are saved - to repent of any sins then, as well.   Repent means a change of mind and heart, to obey and conform to the good Lord's will and commands.

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

WAKE UP VIDEOS !! END TIMES ARE UPON US !! (Pastor Tom Hughes and Don Perkins - and More)

 

                                                             [North Shore Farm - Oahu, Hawaii]

Regarding the recent developments in Israel, in one of the following videos there is a discussion concerning it from a Biblical point of view.  It has often been mentioned on this blog that Israel is God's prophetic time clock.  God has NOT abandoned Israel and Israel has not been "replaced" by the Christian church, as the false teaching of "Replacement Theology" wants us to believe!  Read the book of Revelation (and the entire Bible) and you will realize that even in the coming 7 year Tribulation the Jewish people are very much in the heavenly Father's thoughts and plans!  That is why the Tribulation is known as "Jacob's Trouble."  The Tribulation events will, indeed, cause many of the Jews to accept Jesus as their true Messiah!

The first video is by Hope for our times (.com), by Pastor Tom Hughes and his guest Don Perkins.  It is part 1 of 2 pertaining to future events: the Rapture; what Don Perkins believes about Babylon the Great (he does not believe it is America, as some do, and as has been written about on this blog previously); and this first video also touches on the Millennial Kingdom of Christ (which occurs after the 7 year Tribulation.  Don't miss this fascinating and informative 1 hour video discussion !

The discussion about the 1000 year reign of Christ continues in the hour long (plus 15 minutes) video below of Part 2 from Hope for our times, with Pastor Tom Huges and Don Perkins.  But at the beginning of the discussion is pertinent and insightful information on the current conflict in Israel.  Many are wondering if "this is it" , so to speak, as a final occurrance - a precursor to the soon Rapture - and much more !  You don't want to miss this video!  I learned much from it!  Particularly where the Millennial Kingdom is concerned.  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=msw_EA-7LfU

And from the wonderful Christian channel, Grace for Purpose, here follows a recent 30 minute video on current happenings pertaining to Biblical prophecy.  

Lion of Judah, a channel on You Tube, is also an excellent Christian source!  The 17 minute video that follows is titled:  "The Book Of Revelation Is Unfolding Before Our Eyes!"

The above videos should wake up everyone to the fact that Jesus' return must be very soon!  Pastor Tom Hughes and Don Perkins discuss that fact in their videos above.

"And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.  And I John saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.  And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God.  And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain:  for the former things are passed away.  And He that sat upon the said, Behold, I make all things new.  And He said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful."   -   Revelation 21:1-5

All of the above verses are wonderful and encouraging -- and TRUE!  It makes you want to be there and be with the good Lord!  But please note the following verses:

"And He said unto me, It is done.  I am the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end.  I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.  He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be My son.  But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all LIARS shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death."  -   Revelation 21:6-8  

I stressed and capitalized the word "Liars" in the above verse 8 for a reason.  It is appalling how easily and often and without a second thought the way people today lie, and lie, and lie some more without any remorse or even a prick of their conscience !! Meaning they have no guilt or regret whatsoever! This is true even among "professed" Christians -  meaning they may not be truly saved.  Just saying!

                                            [Hamakua Marsh - Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii]

"Behold, I come quickly; blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of this prophecy of this book."   -   Jesus at Revelation 22:7

"And, behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be.  I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last."    -  Jesus at Revelation 22:10-11

Please note that in verse 11 above, Jesus calls Himself  the Alpha and Omega.   Other passages in the Bible have God Himself addressing the fact that He - The Almighty God - is the Alpha and Omega !  Which proves the deity of Jesus Christ !  

In view of the fact that we are in the last moments of the last days, now is the time to get right with the Lord before it is too late !   Give your heart, and life, and soul -- surrendered to Jesus, in true belief that He is the Savior, and the only way to heaven and to life eternal!  He died a cruel and painful death for you and shed His precious blood for you - as the Lamb of God - His was a sacrificial death so that you could gain eternal life by faith and belief in Him !  He paid our sin debt for us!  

Following are salvation Scriptures for those who are not yet born again -  not yet believers in Jesus Christ as the Savior.  

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

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

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

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

Remember, however, that we must also repent of our sins in order to be saved!

"From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."  -  Matthew 4:17

God loves you!  Have a blessed day!

"THAT'S IT! HERE IT COMES!" (videos on THE SEALS OF REVELATION; THE REAL REASON YOU ARE GOING TO HEAVEN; WHAT WILL GOD SAY TO YOU ON JUDGMENT DAY?) - Inspirational Weekend

 

The title above of this article : "That's it! Here it comes!" is from a quote by Pastor Billy Crone during his discussion with Gary Stearman of Prophecywatchers.com, concerning the seals of the Bible book of Revelation.  As always, Pastor Crone is very clear and informative and rather unique in his presentations of Biblical topics !  A must watch 29 minute video follows:

Many persons, in their self-righteousness, believe they will go to heaven because of their many good works, or charitable donations, and the like.  Some believe that since their family were all Christians and they  were born into a home where both mother and father were Christians, that that is their "ticket" to heaven.  But those true believers who have developed a close relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ, know the real reason why some will go to heaven!  Please watch the following recent 11 minute video titled:"The Real Reason you are going to Heaven  (This May Surprise You)"

Many people today are caught up in everyday affairs of making a living and providing for their family; and many are just plain trying desparately to survive!  They do not take time to consider what lies beyond this secular and godless world.  Big Mistake!!  One day we will all die (or, in the case of followers of Jesus Christ, will be raptured to Heaven before  death!)  The point is, WAKE UP and consider eternity!   Eternity is a long time to spend in the wrong place:  HELL!

The following recent 14 minute video is titled: "What Will God Say To You on the Day Of Judgment?"

The video above brings out the fact that every evil word, evil act, and evil thought will be made manifest on Judgment Day!  It also tells us two main things required of us: "to pursue peace and holiness" now while we dwell on earth.

"Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord."              -   Hebrews 12:14

Obviously, however, we need to believe in the Savior, Jesus Christ, in order to be saved in the first place.  Only the shed blood of Jesus - the sacrificial Lamb of God - can cleanse us of our sins; wipe the slate clean, so to speak, as He alone - Him only !! - could pay our sin debt in full  (He ransomed us) at His death at Calvary!  It was and is a debt we could never pay ourselves, because of its enormity!  We cannot work our way to heaven!  Good works do NOT save us. (Ephesians 2:8-9.  Only belief in the power of Jesus' shed blood will save us: meaning to believe in HIM as the Savior with all of our very being; our very essence! Our very soul!  This obviously means true FAITH !    You need to realize the seriousness and the enormity of your sins, and be truly repentant.    Pray for forgiveness in all sincerity and contriteness.  

Following are salvation Scriptures as a guide for those who are not yet believers in the Savior, Jesus Christ.   They are also good verses for Christians to memorize and then to share with unsaved acquaintances and family members.

"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son will 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 answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."  -   John 3:3

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

Bible prophecy, as said many, many times previously on this blog, is coming true now at warp speed!  The times are urgent, chaotic, and fearful!  More will be written here later concerning recent events and how they are fulfilling Bible prophecy. (If I live so long; or if the Rapture does not occur before then - before I am able to write any more articles !)  I strongly suggest that you do some research right now on your own on You Tube or on websites that give information on the end times and Bible prophecy, (such as Raptureready.com, and Raptureforums.com, and many others).

[Along the Strand, Manhatten Beach, California]

"The prayer of faith is the only power in the universe to which the great Jehovah yields.  Prayer is the sovereign remedy."  -   Robert Hall

"Be sure you look to your secret duty; keep that up whatever you do.  The soul cannot prosper in the neglect of it.  Apostacy generally begins at the [prayer] closet door.  Be much in secret fellowship with God.  It is secret trading that enriches the Christian.  Pray alone.  Let prayer be the key of the morning and the bolt at night.  The best way to fight against sin is to fight it on our knees." -  Philip Henry

"It is Christ's will that [man] should be thus isolated, and that he should fix his eyes solely on HIM."    - Dietrich Bonhoeffer (in "The Cost of Discipleship.")

"Let God have your life, He can do more with it than you can!"  -  unknown

"If the LORD be with us, we have no cause of fear.  His eye is upon us, His arm over us, His ear open to our prayer -  His grace sufficient, His promises unchangeable."  -  John Newton

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