Today's post is by guest writer Joanne Beckley.

May the following help you in reaching out to the lost with the gospel.

What does mankind have that can help him gain knowledge? Only through his ability to reason and learn from what he does – experience. but it is not enough. We cannot look inside ourselves and learn the answers to questions like: Who am I? Where did I come from? Where am I going? Is there any reason for my being here? Unless there is a third source of knowledge these very important questions cannot be answered!  We can look around us and see our world and know there is an all-powerful Being who created the world and that He is eternal. (He was never born and He never died – He has always been!) Romans 1:20" For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.” 

Just looking at His power around us cannot answer our all questions, but we can know that this powerful Being(God) CAN choose to answer our necessary questions. Without God there is nothing. With God there is everything– including His words, the Bible. God is spirit – so how did He write the Bible? He told certain men what words to speak to the people and these words were written down.  2Peter 1:20 “But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is [a matter] of one's own interpretation, 21 for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.”  We have the Bible because God, the creator, loves us, his creation. In His own words, God tells us how we came into being. He tells us why we were created. He tells us what He wants us to do with our lives. He tells us what is going to happen in the future. He tells us He is not controlled by his creation. He tells us WE NEED HIM!  We learn in the Bible of THE PLAN God had in His mind before He created the heavens and the earth. His plan was made in order to keep us close to Him. Therefore, we learn of God’s justice and God’s everlasting kindness. By reading the Bible we can learn that God is our Creator and our Redeemer through Jesus Christ, His son. Hebrews 1:1 “God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, 2 in these last days has spoken to us in [His] Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world. 3 And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.” 

The Bible is not just a collection of stories, letters, and poems. They are all tied together perfectly. There is agreement between them all – even though they were written throughout 1,500 years! Most of the time each writer didn’t even know what another writer had already written.and sometimes they didn’t even understand all of what they were writing! These forty writers were kings, prophets, teachers, musicians, farmers, a tax collector, a doctor, a tent maker, two fishermen and two carpenters! Some of the writers had a lot of education, some had very little.  The book from God is a divine library that is tightly woven and it is complete.Acts 20:26 "Therefore I testify to you this day, that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27 For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God.”  Jude 1:3 “Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.” The Bible is still the same book today that it was 2000 years ago! The words have not been changed. We still have the Bible, even though evil men have tried to keep everyone from reading the Bible. Some have even burned all the Bibles they could find! Through God’s providence the Bible is forever. It is the only book that STILL has the answers to all our questions. Isaiah 40:8 “The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever.” But the Bible is a book that demands we LISTEN to it. Not only must we listen, but God’s words demands we DO what God wants us to do. It will change our lives but not by ways we might devise. Jer 10:23 “I know, O LORD, that a man's way is not in himself; Nor is it in a man who walks to direct his steps.” 

When we first read the Bible we do not learn right away all about God and his plan for mankind. God chose to reveal Himself gradually and we see truth unfolding more and more as we read and study the Bible. It is an exciting journey to discover why we existence and the mystery of how we can be saved from ourselves and walk with God.  There are many ways to study the Bible. One of the best ways to study the Bible is to prepare a foundation for future study. We want to try and understand what each section in the Bible is about and then tie the section together with other sections of the Bible. In this way we can understand why the Bible is so important to us. It will also help us to see that the Bible is the living Word of God. We want to see God in a way that will cause us to love Him, and trust Him, and OBEY Him–all that He expects from us.

The Old Testament 

LAW - The first 5 books were written by Moses, the man God chose to lead a special group of people out of bondage to become God’s chosen nation, Israel. This nation would bring all men to God.

HISTORY - The next 12 books that were written about God’s chosen nation, how they served him and how they tried to ignore God. It didn’t work, because God punished the Israelite nation by letting other countries conquer them. After 70 years God allowed them to return to their land.

POETRY - The 5 books of poetry are of a personal nature and they deal with problems of the heart.

PROPHECY - The last 12 books of the Old Testament are prophecies which were first spoken in warning to God’s special nation and to nations around them. These prophecies were then written down so that everyone could know there was hope. A perfect man (God in the flesh) was going to come from heaven to save all men and rule a kingdom that will never end.

The New Testament 

GOSPELS - Again, there is order and unity in the books of the New Testament. The first four books tell about the perfect man. These four books are the foundation for knowing Jesus Christ and how he was crucified without cause, and then resurrected for all mankind.

ACTS OF APOSTLES - The book of Acts tells the history of how the kingdom of God (the church) began and what the men did who were sent by Jesus Christ to preach the good news. They were called Apostles. This book tells us how you and I can enter the kingdom of God.

LETTERS TO CHRISTIANS - Next comes a group of letters (books) that were written by men guided by the Holy Spirit. Some of these letters were addressed to different churches and some were written to certain preachers.There are 21 letters in the New Testament.

PROPHECY - The last letter (book) in the New Testament was written by the apostle John. The Holy Spirit guided him to tell the Christians not to give up hope. God is still in control of nations and events. His hand is upon His own people. We live in hope of eternal life with Him. Colossians 1:10 “so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please [Him] in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously.”

Today's post is by guest writer Keith Ward.

"Always back in" was my mantra for all aspects of being safe when I was out in the felon's world. It covered a number of other safety tricks I employed as a Community Control (House Arrest) Officer, but was also literal. We never knew when a probationer might be drunk, on drugs, or just had a fight with his girlfriend. A hasty exit might be necessary and also not being too obvious about it could be important for "the next time." An officer I had helped train knew the news reports were wrong when they said that I was shot while I was backing out.  He knew I would have backed in and thus, pulling straight out into the street.

 

After my excitement, I had numerous opportunities to speak on officer safety, so here are a few of the rules: I switched to an analog watch because it can be read in lower light without lighting you up and taking both hands; I had the door-operated light in my vehicle disabled so I would not be silhouetted every time I got in and out after dark; I used a clicker pen because I could operate it one handed; I kept my pepper spray available to my weak hand so if the situation escalated, my gun hand would not be tied up; I stood balanced on both feet, my right elbow in my left hand so that I looked like an attentive listener while actually my vitals were covered and my hands could move quickly for defense; and several more as well.

 

Actually, Christians daily go into a more dangerous world than any street I ever entered (1 Pet 5:8).  Yet, we carelessly go forth not only unarmed but apparently unaware of the dangers. A rule often repeated for being safe in the world is "be aware of your surroundings at all times. Interviews with criminals reveal they target the unaware, not the alert." This is not true of Satan. He already owns the unaware and targets the active Christian. We cannot avoid entering his world, so what safety tips can we use to avoid becoming his prey? Spiritual safety is not a one size fits all matter as the temptation that is very strong for one may not be a blip on another's radar. The following are suggestions and cannot all be used at once.

 

Fill your heart with hymns and songs of Zion.  Maybe it is just me, but I am much more likely to recall a spiritual song when I am in spiritual trouble than a scripture citation, no matter how glibly I can quote the passage. It is very difficult for Satan to keep pornographic fantasies in your head when you are singing—aloud or silently – "Holy, Holy, Holy." Humming "Angry Words" or even "Higher Ground" while in bad traffic and running late can prevent stress and road rage. The list can go on for as many types of temptations as man faces. God did not write 150 plus psalms without reason. The aptness of the song to the temptation is of little importance; the spiritual attitude it brings is your strength. And, have you noticed that many of the new songs are not easy to memorize and leave our armory empty?

 

Always back in—if you have any reason to suspect temptation in a situation you will be in, plan your exit in advance. If work took you there, your exit may cost you a sale or a promotion. But, staying most likely will cost your soul.

 

Know your strengths and keep them up front. Do not let your "sword arm" become entangled with matters that do not profit. Proclaim your faith often so you will be obligated to live up to it. Engage in reasoned conversations about Biblical morality. As Jesus said, "Let your light shine." Satan is the Lord of darkness and you just might save someone else too.

 

Don't silhouette yourself, stand in doorways, or focus on anything other than the dangers around you. You have no safe haven other than church and often Satan attacks your mind even there. The advertisements on TV, the books, the movies, the lifestyles of co-workers, the desire to blend in and avoid being a troublemaker all work against your faith, your growth, your salvation.

 

"If we walk in the light as he is in the light…"

 

Keith Ward

 

I think there is a part in all of us that wants to show off for our parents.  Over the last several years, I have gotten into distance swimming as an exercise routine.  I swim across a cove and back on the island every couple of days, roughly 0.7 mile.  Nobody in my family had ever seen me swim it.  None of us had ever been big swimmers until I stumbled into it.  So, when Mom and Dad came to visit late last October, I drug them to the beach.  (It was my day for swimming.  I had gotten to the point that if I missed, I got antsy, but there was a big part of "Look at me, Mommy and Daddy!" in it.)  I swam a longer route than usual, nearly 0.9 mile, and Mom and Dad were appropriately impressed.  (No, they didn't give me a lollipop.) 

 

Dad asked something regarding my concern about getting into trouble while swimming.  I grinned and said, "I don't get into trouble in the water."  His response was, "That's a dangerous attitude."  I completely understand his point.  Cockiness in dangerous situations is stupid and leads people into serious injury and death routinely.   And, make no mistake, open water swimming has dangers.  The Gulf of Mexico is not a big pool, as several tourists find out to their dismay each year.  Even the intercoastal waterway, which is where I usually swim, has tidal currents, wind driven chop that can get dicey, and aquatic wildlife that can range from cute, to annoying to truly dangerous.  Dad, however, had misunderstood my statement.  

 

You see, people don't drown because they get out over their heads and can't swim back.  People drown because they panic, then exhaust themselves flailing about, and then begin to despair.  It is almost like giving up and allowing oneself to go under.  Almost everyone can float.  Stay calm, roll over on your back and float.  While doing so, think.  How are you going to get back?  Then implement your plan, resting occasionally as needed.  The key is to stay calm.  I routinely go out a hundred yards or so on the days in between long swims and just practice being calm in the water.  I practice several different drown-proofing techniques.  I hang out in 8-10 feet of water for 45 minutes and learn to think of that as one of my natural environments.  Which is why when, on two occasions, my left shoulder just decided it was done for the day, I didn't drown.  I shrugged (one shouldered) and sidestroked to shore.  You see?  I don't get in trouble in the water, because no matter what happens, I can stay calm and handle it.  Which kind of reminds me of Psalm 46.  

 

1-3  "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah"

 

Do you ever feel like your world is falling apart?  In either your personal life or as you look around and don't recognize the country you grew up in?  Are there days you would be ready to swear that the earth is sliding into the sea?  Stay calm, because God is your refuge and strength.

 

6-7  "The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; He utters his voice, the earth melts.  The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah"

I know there are times when it seems that everyone is against us.  When standing for even the concept of truth, much less God's truth, seems to outrage the world.  Stay calm and keep swimming, because the LORD of Hosts, who can melt the world with the sound of His voice, is with us.  

 

Just like in open water swimming, panic and despair are what kills in our spiritual life.  We start to think that we just can't handle the bullying and ridicule anymore.  We just can't keep ourselves from the ever nearer and easier to achieve temptations of the world.   We just aren't going to make it, as the waves crash over our heads.  Stay calm.  Breathe and know that you can make it, not because you are such a great swimmer, but because God is right there with you.  He is your refuge, providing rest if you will just avail yourself of it.  He is your strength, to keep you swimming.  He is with you.  Stay calm; rely on Him, keep swimming.

 

Ps. 46:10  “Be still, and know that I am God."

 

Lucas Ward

 

From guest writer Joanne Beckley:

Dear parents and grandparents, and any who love children, Do you have goals concerning your children? Are you making sure you are teaching them? I would like to suggest the following list of five scriptural goals which will give your children the foundation on which they can build their faith.   

Goal I: “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart” (Mark 12:30).       

1.    Is your child learning of the love of God through the love, tenderness, and mercy of his parents (training and admonition of the Lord)?       

2.    Is he learning to talk about the Lord, and to include Him in his thoughts and plans?       

3.    Is he learning to turn to Jesus for help whenever he is frightened or anxious or lonely?       

4.    Is he learning to read the Bible?       

5.    Is he learning to pray?       

6.    Is he learning the meaning of faith and trust?       

7.    Is he learning the joy and challenge of the Christian way of life?       

8.    Is he learning the beauty of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection?   

Goal II: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31).       

1.    Is he learning to understand and care about the feelings of others?       

2.    Is he learning not to be selfish and demanding?       

3.    Is he learning to share?       

4.    Is he learning not to gossip and criticize others?       

5.    Is he learning to accept himself?   

Goal III: Teach me to do your will; for you are my God” (Psalm 143:10).       

1.    Is he learning to obey his parents as preparation for later obedience to God?       

2.    Is he learning to behave properly wherever he is?       

3.    Is he learning a healthy appreciation for both aspects of God’s nature: love and justice?       

4.    Is he learning that there are many forms of authority to which he must submit?       

5.    Is he learning the meaning of sin and its consequences?   

Goal IV: “Fear God and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecclesiastes 12:13).       

1.    Is he learning to be truthful and honest?        

2.    Is he learning to faithfully worship God on the Lord’s Day (and any day)?       

3.    Is he learning that life does not center on money?       

4.    Is he learning the meaning of the importance and value of family?       

5.    Is he learning to obey his conscience – which has been wisely trained?   

Goal V: “but the fruit of the Spirit is . . . self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23).       

1.    Is he learning to give to God, whether money he has earned, or in helping others?       

2.    Is he learning to control getting what he wants and to control his anger?       

3.    Is he learning to work and carry responsibility?       

4.    Is he learning the big difference between self-worth and pride?       

5.    Is he learning to bow in reverence before his Creator, the God of the universe?               

– Adapted from Straight Talk to Men and Their Wives by James Dobson

 

Today's post is by guest writer Keith Ward.

Some of you know that I served the state of Florida as a Felony Probation Officer for 7 years. Much of the training was similar to that of a police officer. However, we were Certified LEO's; our arrest powers were limited and usually involved back-up by a Sworn LEO. Since we did not go into places to enforce new law violations but to contact our probationers, we had a measure of safety when entering bad neighborhoods. Neighbors were more helpful than to cops, since they knew the probationer could get in serious trouble if we did not locate him. Over the years, I developed a number of safety rules that on reflection (and under the gun because Dene had major RIGHT hand surgery) I thought these also matched some of the warnings in the N.T. and can serve as practical ways to keep our walk "as he walked" (1 Jn 1:6).

Some Christians go into the world as unprepared as a friend who answered my question with, "I carry my gun when I think I might need it." I replied, "If I thought I would need it, I wouldn't go there." Actually, there is no place of absolute safety for a Christian, not even in church. "Your adversary the devil as a roaring lion walks about seeking whom he may devour" (1 Pet 5:8). At all times we must be armed and ready to defend, not our worthless lives, but our eternal souls.

The "whole armor of God" is pretty much useless to a Christian who is too weak spiritually to hold up the shield or wield the sword. I practiced daily, handling and aiming, or shooting my gun so that I would be confident I could hit the criminal and not the bystander. Sadly, some on membership directories are not exercising much even during church services. Hosea said, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" (Hos 4:6). The Holy Spirit said, "You have need again that someone teach you the rudiments of the first principles of the oracles of God" (Heb 5:12). By being audience rather than workers, they had retrogressed to babes. We must be, "Fullgrown men, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern good and evil."

Many members(?) know more exercises for maintaining their bodies than they do to build up their souls. I benefitted from firearm instructors who reproved me for incorrect techniques and sometimes even got a bit loud. Members fuss because they were offended or, "He didn't do it the right way.' Or, "His manner and tone of voice upset me." Notice, the truth of what was said is never questioned. Spiritual exercise must be done correctly or you will miss the target. Such is not hard, in fact, it is boringly simple, "Adding on your part all diligence in your faith supply virtue; and in virtue knowledge; and in knowledge self-control; and in self-control patience; and in patience godliness; and in godliness brotherly kindness; and in brotherly kindness love." Physical exercise done sporadically just makes you sore and is no benefit. "All diligence." I knew my life might (and did) depend on my skill so I practiced regularly. Peter knew that our souls depend on these exercises, "For if these things are yours and abound, they make you to be not idle nor unfruitful unto the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." And we know unfruitful branches are cut off and burned (Jn 15). He who fails to diligently follow this exercise routine just as well have never been baptized, "For he that lacks these things is blind, seeing only what is near, having forgotten the cleansing from his old sins." He who follows this inspired exercise plan for strengthening the soul, "shall never stumble: but shall be richly supplied unto you the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2Pet 1:5-11).

Unfortunately, those who read these devotionals are those who routinely exercise their spiritual being. The ones who truly need these reminders seldom bother.  Perhaps, you could share this to someone you love who needs to hear it.

 

"And exercise yourself unto godliness: for bodily exercise is profitable for a little; but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life which now is, and of that which is to come" (1Tim 4:7-8).

 

Keith Ward

Todays post is a class outline by guest writer Lucas Ward.  Please feel free to use it.

I.  Know Your Scriptures (2 Tim. 2:15; Eph. 3:4)

A.  Know what it says.

1) Examine vocabulary, grammar. Use of good commentaries/concordances. 

2)  Knowing what it says leads naturally to what it means.

B.  Good points based on misused scripture = lost credibility/lost audience.

II.  Inspiration of Scripture/Speaking as the Oracle of God.  (2 Tim. 3:16-17; 1 Pet. 4:11)

A.  God's Word!  Preach what it says, not what you wish it said.

B.  You are teaching others what God's Word says.

1)  In effect, you are speaking for God.

2)  All too many won't look up passages, but just accept what you say.

3)  James 3:1.

III.  Three Qualities of a Good Sermon/Talk.

A. Have a clear purpose:  speak with a reason.

B.  Have a central idea:  speak with a point.

C.  Have a well-organized message:  Speak without rambling.

IV.  Two Kinds of Sermons/Talks.

A.  Topical:  You present what the Bible teaches on a particular subject.

1)  Take care not to use passages out of context to support you thesis. 

2)  Don't leave out passages because they disagree with what you want to say. 

3)  Read and examine all the passages in the Bible on a particular subject to learn what the Bible teaches on that subject and then teach that, regardless of your long-held belief or personal feelings.

B.  Expository:  Explaining or analyzing a particular passage and teaching that passage.  

1)  Know the passage backwards and forwards.

2)  Understand how your passage fits in the context of the book it is in, and the Bible as a whole.

V.  Organizing your Message.

A.  Introduction:  Tell the audience what you will be speaking about and engage their interest.  Perhaps utilize humor or an anecdote.

B.  The body of message. Must have a logical structure.

1)  The three point sermon, with supporting subpoints, is common.

2)  Each point and subpoint must support the thesis and lead to a conclusion.

C.  Conclusion:  Bring the plane in for a safe landing.

1)  State your conclusion and reiterate the points that lead to that conclusion.

2)  Have a planned segue into your invitation.

VI. Your Speaking Should Support Your Message, Not Distract From it.

A.  Speak clearly, slowly and enunciate.  Be heard.

B.  Avoid "um" and "like" and other space fillers.  No need to fill every silence.

C.  Use proper grammar.

1)  Bad grammar can be distracting.

2)  Bad grammar can cause doubt as to the validity of your message/conclusions

3)  Good grammar automatically makes you seem professional/credible.

4)  If you choose to use colloquialisms, do so on purpose and with a  reason.

D.  Practice out loud before you speak in front of an audience.  Will help smooth out the space-fillers and poor grammar.

VII.  Be Ready for Criticism.

A.  Most will just say, "Good job."

B.  Some will ask, "Why didn't you use this passage?"

C.  Some (who really care enough to put themselves out) will offer pointers on better speaking and preparation. 

D.  Be prepared to use all of this to grow in confidence, Biblical knowledge, and skill, rather than being hurt that someone said other than "Good job."

 

Lucas Ward

Today's post is by Guest Writer Joanne Beckley

We have all read our Old and New Testament condemnation of idolatry in all its forms. But

right now I would ask you to read of man’s worship of idols in today’s time throughout the

world. Idolatry is not dead! It is next door and yes, in our politics, often disguised or blatant in

our face. Is America, her people of all races and creeds, really “One Nation Under (one) God”?

1Sa 15:23 "For rebellion is as the sin of divination, And insubordination is as iniquity and

idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has also rejected you from

[being] king."

The following paragraphs are internet AI overviews.

Idolatry, in a religious context, refers to the act of worshiping or giving undue reverence to

an object, person, or idea as a god or something divine, rather than to the true God or divine

being. Examples include the worship of celestial bodies like the sun and moon, statues, or even

inanimate objects, physical items to represent who or what they worship. In modern times,

idolatry can also manifest as excessive focus on material possessions, fame, or pleasure, where

these things become the primary source of value and happiness.

Polytheism is the belief in many gods and is characteristic of most religions except for

Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, which are monotheistic. In polytheistic religions, gods can

have various roles and attributes, and sometimes a supreme creator or a dominant god exists,

such as Zeus in Greek religion. Polytheism can coexist with other beliefs and often includes

belief in demonic and ghostly forces, and gods may represent natural forces, social functions,

or abstract concepts.

Southwestern tribal religions are generally characterized by animism (the attribution of a

soul to plants, inanimate objects, and natural phenomena) and shamanism (a person regarded

as having access to, and influence in, the world of good and evil spirits). Many tribes believe in

spirits inhabiting natural elements and relying on shamans as intermediaries between the human

and spiritual realms. Ceremonies played a vital role, with some tribes like the Pueblo

performing them to ensure the continuation of the world and appeal to powerful being. Kachina

figures represent the spiritual beings who help the Pueblo cultures survive.

Satanism, as a religion, encompasses a range of beliefs and practices, primarily revolving

around the figure of Satan, a figure linked to rebellion and enlightenment emphasizing

self-indulgence, individual freedom, and a rejection of traditional religious morality. It's important to note that Satanism isn't a monolithic religion, and different groups hold diverse

views on Satan's nature and the purpose of their faith.

Hinduism is a multifaceted religion with origins in the Indian subcontinent, characterized by a

diverse array of philosophies, practices, and beliefs. It is often described as a "way of life"

rather than a rigid set of doctrines, encompassing a vast range of traditions and rituals that

revolve around specific idols. Key concepts include Brahman, the ultimate reality or universal

soul; karma, the principle of cause and effect; and samsara, the cycle of reincarnation. Hindus

also strive for moksha, liberation from this cycle, often through practices like yoga and

meditation. Hindus believe in the doctrines of samsara (the continuous cycle of life, death, and

reincarnation) and karma (the universal law of cause and effect). One of the key thoughts of

Hinduism is “atman,” or the belief in soul. This philosophy holds that living creatures have a

soul, and they're all part of the supreme soul.

Polynesian religions were diverse and involved beliefs in pantheons of gods represented in

various forms, local and family spirits, and the concept of "mana," a sacred supernatural

power. Christianity, particularly Protestantism and Catholicism, was adopted by many

Polynesian cultures following missionary efforts, often blending with pre-existing traditions.

Taoism holds that humans and animals should live in balance with the Tao, or the universe.

Taoists believe in spiritual immortality, where the spirit of the body joins the universe after

death. For example, trees are to be worshiped as equal as god within man.

African traditional religions are diverse belief systems with roots in indigenous African

cultures, characterized by animism, ancestor worship, and the belief in both a supreme creator

and lesser deities. These religions often emphasize the interconnectedness of the natural and

spiritual realms, with practitioners seeking to maintain harmony with the spirit world through

rituals, offerings, and spirits in nature.

There is evidence of idolatry within the Catholic faith, whether seen in the need to replace the

toe of Saint Peter’s statue, or a picture on the wall.

-----------

Each of these religions are practiced here in America and are evidence of man’s need for

someone to be viewed higher than self. Each one seeks for something better than what is

experienced here on earth. Sadly, unknowingly, many Americans have been swallowing parts

of others’ religion! And yes, be aware of what we hear in the news on TV for religion may

explain why the increase in evil.

How thankful you and I can be for our faith in Almighty Eternal God. He has provided direct

communication with us and we have direct access to Him through prayer. He is our creator and

rules with righteous justice, requiring responsibilities toward Him in our worship to Him. He

has provided a way of peace while we live in this world. How sad it is that the world does not

know Him despite the fact that all mankind now has access to the Bible.

Ro 16:25 Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of

Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept secret for long

ages past, 26 but now is manifested, and by the Scriptures of the prophets, according to the

commandment of the eternal God, has been made known to all the nations, [leading] to

obedience of faith; 27 to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be the glory forever. Amen.

Today's post is by guest writer Keith Ward

Sometimes children are afraid for no discernable reason.  It can be difficult to reassure them since the parents often have no idea what the problem may be.  I cannot recall the exact steps in its evolution, but at such times, we would tell our sons the “I love you story”. It did not even matter if their request, “Tell me the 'I love you story,'” was merely a bedtime delaying tactic, as it is short and powerful and comforting.  All children should hear it often:

                       

                        “God loves you and Jesus loves you and the Holy Spirit loves you and

Grandma loves you and Papa loves you and Aunt Donna loves you and Uncle Dennis loves you and Aunt Linda loves you and Uncle Mike loves you…[and down the list of every relative they know]….and Mama loves you and I love you too.”

 

We told it in both directions as we often started with “I love you and Mama loves you” and ended with “and best of all, God loves you too.”

            It never failed to calm their worries and leave a smile on their faces and made, “Now, go on to sleep” a comfortable ending.

 

            In his first epistle, the apostle John addresses Christians as, “My little children.” Are we not often surrounded by undefined fears, worried by things we cannot control, concerned about the great darkness and questions no one can answer?  Our problems may not have a solution; we may not even know ourselves what it is that disturbs us so.  At such times, we need to hear the “I love you story.”  We are never too grown-up to be told that God loves us.  I am afraid of the dark (death). There ARE monsters under the bed (Satan), and uncontrollable events plague our lives.  I tell the story to others so I can hear it too.

Don’t ever be too bashful, too reserved to comfort someone, “God loves you and Jesus loves you and the Holy Spirit loves you…..and I love you too.”

 

“For God so loved the world…”  John 3:16.

 

For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him, Psa 103:11.

 

Keith Ward

 

Today's post is by guest writer Lucas Ward

I recently taught a Bible class that in turn taught me something very important.    

My view of the David and Bathsheba story, the class in question, is that it is a cautionary tale against hubris and that it shows that even forgiven, sins can have many earthly consequences. I always try to keep in mind that these are real people with real motivations and emotions. People who live in a different culture than mine, with a different viewpoint that sometimes makes it hard for me to understand, but people. Thinking along those lines about David, I find it hard to believe this was an isolated incident where his passions got out of control. If seeing a beautiful, naked young woman aroused him, then he had many--many!!--legitimate ways to deal with that. His wives and concubines that we know of number in the high teens. He was also cold blooded enough about the whole incident to make sure that Bathsheba was clean according to the law. It seems that if she wasn't clean, David would have waited for her. So this wasn't one moment of passion, but the culmination of years of legitimately having his way.

He was king, and as such was accorded certain privileges. He wanted security for his people, the earthly nation of God, and he went out and took it at the edge of the sword. He wanted a new capital city, and took it.  I wonder if he wasn't arrogant about being David, King of the Hebrews, scourge of the land of Canaan. Then he saw a woman he wanted, and took her, despite the fact that she was the wife of another. So, the story can be taken as a warning against hubris.

Then chapter 12 (2 Samuel) lists the consequences of David's acts, records David's repentance, and declares God's forgiveness of David's sins. Yet though forgiven, David had to face the multiple consequences the rest of his life. That teaches us that our sins, too, can have major, long lasting consequences, regardless of God's forgiveness. This gives us extra incentive to remain pure before God.  None of us want to face anything like the last 20 years of David's life. So that was my view of the point of the David and Bathsheba story.

Then a woman I respect said she agreed with most of what I thought, especially about the consequences of sin, but denied that it was the major point of the story. She sees the major point as being the wonderful grace of God and his extraordinary forgiveness. To her it is a story showing that, no matter how far one falls from God, he will accept you back if you show "a broken and contrite heart." (Psalm 51). David made some major mistakes, and was far from God at the end of chapter 11, but with the strong rebuke of Nathan he came to himself and returned to Jehovah, acknowledging his sin and repenting. God forgave him, he remained king, and spent most of the rest of his life preparing for the temple and the national worship of Jehovah. This paints the picture of God's redeeming grace. 

My father made the point in my class that you can see from David's writing in the 51st Psalm the surprising depth of his spiritual understanding. Almost every sin had a specific sacrifice that had to be performed for the forgiveness of that sin under the old Law, but adultery was punished by death. So was murder. There was no sacrifice for the forgiveness of these sins. God had forgiven David. So there had to be more to forgiveness than just animal sacrifices. This incident forced David to understand something spiritually that many of us still fail at today. There is nothing we can do to win forgiveness. It is the gift of God. What he requires is the "broken and contrite heart." I don't know that this is the major point of this incident to Dad, but it is something he saw that I didn't. Sometimes our biggest failures cause us to grow in the biggest ways.

It is interesting to me that three people looked at the same incident recorded in scripture and learned three different lessons from it. All of the lessons are valid and supported by the scriptures. We each came at the same material from different starting points of personal experience, personal Bible knowledge and different points of spiritual growth. While we may good-naturedly argue about which is the "main" point, I doubt that there would be much disagreement between us that all of these points are valid and can help others to grow. 

Wow, someone can read the same passage I did and come to a different conclusion than I did and it not be wrong? I wonder what other issues of greater import this might be true of.  Maybe I shouldn't be so quick to condemn my brethren.  Maybe I should try to view them through love instead of the narrow lens of immediate judgment.

Lucas Ward

 

Today's post is by guest writer Joanne Beckley.

Ephesians 6:11-18 Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual [forces] of wickedness in the heavenly [places.]  Therefore, take up the full armor of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.  Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS,  and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE;  in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming missiles of the evil [one.]  And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.   With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints.

 

Whatever task we face will require the armor of God, Ephesians 6:10-19, (perhaps prompted from Isaiah 59:17) for we face Satan every day as he tries to destroy every good thought and deed. Even the apostle Paul felt compelled to ask for prayer on his behalf as he faced the wiles of the devil while carrying the gospel to the lost. The book of Ephesians was one of Paul’s letters written from prison. During Paul’s time in prison he obviously became well acquainted with the armor worn and carried by his captors in the Roman army. Following Isaiah’s lead (Isaiah 59:17), Paul drew a powerful comparison between a soldier’s armor and the spiritual armor of God.

 

For us, our own temptations may only be the day-to-day variety in facing the challenge of a new day, or we may be dealing with increased pain or grief. God provides these six areas, including prayer, in living the life of a Christian, to strengthen and protect us and help us triumph over Satan in our spiritual battles. Each piece of the armor of God is essential, and the Bible tells us how to put them on and use them effectively.

 

Paul emphasized that with God’s help we are “to stand”. We will be able to hold the line, to not retreat, to not give up an inch of God’s territory. If God’s army is fighting for us in heaven than by all means we should be ever diligent concerning the spirit of faith within us and for those that are fighting for us! (see 2Kings 6:14-17) 2Ki 6:17 Then Elisha prayed and said, "O LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see." And the LORD opened the servant's eyes, and he saw; and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. Notice the invisible guard of angels that encompass and defend us, Psalm 34:7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, And rescues them.

 

THE BELT: A belt was a critical piece of equipment to be put on, and it secures all the other pieces of our armor. Wearing the belt showed that the soldier was ready for action, since he would only loosen his belt when he went off duty. Truth should surround us like a belt. Knowing God’s truth is the ONLY source that will fight Satan’s lies and deception. And to be truly ready for the battle, we must be completely truthful ourselves in our inner being. As Jesus said, “Thy word is truth” (John 17:17). Paul exhorted us to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).

 

BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS: The breastplate protects the most vulnerable area of the body. To be righteous is first of all to believe, repent, be baptized, to be forgiven of our sins (Acts 2:38) through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ that justifies us and makes us right with God (Romans 5:9). In gratitude we should strive to do what is right in God’s eyes. Psalm 119:172 tells us that God’s commandments are righteousness. Obeying God is beneficial, not burdensome (Deuteronomy 10:13; 1 John 5:3).

 

SHOES WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE: Not barefoot, but shod, just as Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar realized the benefit in traveling over rough terrain, held firm with spikes on the soles. The word “preparation,” denoting being prepared and ready, reminds us that we are to be eager to preach the gospel of peace. Romans 10:15 And how shall they preach unless they are sent? Just as it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring glad tidings of good things!” (Isa 52:7).

 

SHIELD OF FAITH: When our faith in God and His love is strong, it is impossible for Satan to break through our shield and land a blow. If you notice how a long-ago army fought, the presence of a wall of shields required many soldiers working together. Together we too will be able to take on any challenge, strengthening each other with our faith, building up and serving together as we are able.

 

HELMET OF SALVATION: The heart of our hope. We can receive tremendous comfort by focusing on the incredible sacrifice Jesus Christ gave to save us and the wonderful Kingdom in which we now serve, looking for the hope of our salvation.

 

THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT: The sword of the Spirit, like the Roman gladius, their offensive weapon, can also help us to conquer all our enemies, including that most difficult one, our human weaknesses. Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” We must continually sharpen it with regular and focused Bible study. By studying the Word of God daily, we can have God’s wisdom in the forefront of our minds, ready to help us make wise choices to fight off Satan’s attacks.

 

WITH ALL PRAYER AND SUPPLICATION: Praying reminds us we are in the battle of our lives, and it reminds us of the source of our strength and defense. How often do we fail to talk to God or are our prayers without depth? Surely not. Watch out for “me” trouble and don’t forget to give thanks.

 

Eph. 6:13 Therefore, take up the full armor of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.

 

Taken from various resources

Joanne Beckley