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JOY To The World -- the I AM Has Come!

2011-12-14T13:52:00.000-08:00

JOY To The World -- the LORD (the Great I AM) Has Come!

GOD said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM." And He said, "Say this to the people of Israel, 'I AM has sent you.'" (Exodus 3:14)

And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior who is CHRIST the LORD." (Luke 2:10-11)

The (Samaritan) woman said to Him, "I know that Messiah is coming (He who is called CHRIST). When He comes, He will tell us all things." JESUS said to her, I who speak to you AM He. (John 4:26)

I AM the Bread of life; whoever comes to Me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in Me shall never thirst. (John 6:35) I AM the living Bread that came down from Heaven (John 6:51)

I AM the Light of the world. Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the Light of life. (John 8:12)

Truly, truly, I say to you, I AM the Door of the sheep. All who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I AM the Door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have Life and have it abundantly. (John 10:7-10)

I AM the good Shepherd. The good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. I know My own and My own knows me. (John 10:11, 14)

I AM the Resurrection and the Life. Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die (John 11:25-26)

I AM the Way, and the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. (John 14:6)

I AM the true Vine, you are the branches. Whoever abides in Me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from Me, you can do nothing. (John 15:5)

JESUS proclaimed Himself to be equal and one with the Great I AM -- the I AM WHO I AM who spoke to Moses -- the I AM who is the True Living GOD -- YHWH.

Those who say CHRIST was merely a great and holy Teacher cannot mean what they say -- for a great and holy teacher cannot be a liar and still be called "great and holy." Those who say He was merely a Prophet from GOD cannot mean what they say -- for a prophet's words must be 100% accurate and the Word Himself is Truth . And those who deny CHRIST's deity deny His three years' worth of miracles which validated His claim of being one with the Father -- the Great I AM. Who but GOD Himself can perform all the miracles as written in the Holy Scriptures, as well as the numerous not recorded? Who but JESUS Himself fulfilled more than 365 Messianic prophecies from the Old Testament?

CHRIST JESUS declared Himself to be the Great I AM -- is He Liar, Lunatic...or LORD?

This CHRISTmas, will you celebrate the birth of JESUS -- our Mighty GOD, Wonderful Counselor, Everlasting Father...our Prince of Peace -- by totally trusting in The TRUTH?

PSALM 103 -- Bless The LORD, O My Soul!

2011-09-05T12:35:00.001-07:00

Bless the LORD, O my soul;
and all that is within me, bless His holy name!
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for this post on Facebook: "i'm so grateful to know GOD answering my prayers is not because of what i say, how i say it or how "spiritual" i feel or even how mature i am in Him. His answering prayer is all about His Holy SPIRIT taking my poor, pitiful prayers and using them to bring Honor and Glory to our Father in Heaven. If answered prayer was dependent on my being mature enough, saying the right words, or pleading correctly... my prayers would never be answered! It's all about Him... amen?" (Pray Without Ceasing) -- an answer to prayer and reassuring confirmation that GOD hears my poor, pitiful prayers.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for this banner from The ShoppE at Rose's which reminds me daily in my new home in Naselesele Village that indeed to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for this miracle-of-a-baby (born at one pound, nine ounces), now a grown woman who is my lovely daughter and sister in CHRIST. Bless the LORD for redeeming this life from destruction!

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for this young sister-in-law who is indeed a Proverbs 31 lady, for she has a husband, four children, a grandmother, a brother (and me) to cook for -- usually with firewood. Ana is an expert at line and net fishing; she helps to weave large floor mats, including the harvesting, trimming, cooking, drying and smoothing out the voi-voi leaves used; she does the laundry for her entire family; cooks and even brings the children's lunches to the village school; she husks coconuts, guts the fish she has caught, makes her own coconut oil and wields her machete like a man (almost). She gets up while dawn is barely breaking to put on the tea kettle... and she is a godly, Bible-reading Ephesians 5:22 wife -- a loving Herculean help-meet for her husband. GOD is teaching me through her example!

Bless the LORD for his lovingkindness and tender mercies...

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for the hospitable and compassionate folks at Bibi's Hideaway -- whom GOD, in His Providence, allowed in my life as i weathered through storms and traversed deep valleys for a time of testing in Taveuni. Our faithful Good Shepherd provided this fruit-filled haven as this near-sighted sheep stumbled and fell along the way.

Bless the LORD for He is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for providing me with shade and food from visiting missionaries as i painted this mural at Ocean View's cafeteria wall during the hot summer months of 2009. GOD bless the SPIRIT for helping me paint this project...literally.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for gifting me with friends who sharpen as iron sharpens iron, who flavor my life with their differing personalities, who fervently pray for those in need...like me.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for gifting me with this new family who believes in GOD as the Father, Son and Spirit; who prays before each meal and chides me laughingly when i forget; who lets the kidz watch only Bible Songs (sing-along), worship music with the Gaithers or Tom & Jerry videos; who allows me to choose and comment on Bible verses before our nightly masu (prayers); who forgives my personal imperfections and overlooks my idiosyncracies and kavalagi (foreign) ways.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for this simple house that is loud with much laughter and children crying-- which GOD is using as the current environment to prune and burn up selfish baggage that still clings. He affirms through daily life lessons that i am not a Filipino-American immersed in Fijian culture, but a child of GOD whose true citizenship is in Heaven. My true identity is in CHRIST.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for this house which provides shelter when i'm in this part of the world. Thank you, Father, for the lady of the house -- the mother you've given me, who is generous and kind, who allows me to live here freely as i come and go between two countries.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for these watery pets -- which give Mom much pleasure as they decorate her backyard. Thank you, Father, for creating such colorful fish!

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for the fish that you allow to be caught into Seru's and Ana's nets, so that we may feast on them fried or in bele soup vakalolo. Thank you, Father, for giving us more than enough so that we may also sell some to provide for our necessities.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for Pastor Pauliasi who shepherds the Assembly of GOD Church in Matei, Taveuni -- the barefoot preacher who is passionate about CHRIST and whose messages magnify and glorify the Person of JESUS as GOD the Son.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for Pastor Boschen -- whose passion for CHRIST is undeniably evident; whose countenance reflects brightly the Light of the Son and whose many good works mark him as righteous in the sight of GOD. Thank you, Father, for using this true shepherd to guide the many whom you've placed in his path.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for these San Diego-bought mangoes -- a welcome sight and a reminder of Taveuni that is fast becoming home. Thank you, Father, for providing this tasty blessing -- indeed, you know me to the very core... even to the minutest of details.

Bless the LORD for He satisfies with good things so that our youth is renewed like the eagle's.

Bless the LORD, O my soul! for this mango tree, just beside our house in the village. Indeed You provide every good thing -- in CHRIST, i lack nothing!

Bless the LORD, O my soul;
and all that is within me, bless His holy name!
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits:
Who forgives all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases,
Who redeems your life from destruction,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
Who satisfies your mouth with good things,
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.

(Psalm 103:1-5)

GOD Is BeautiFUL In ALL Ways, Always!

2011-08-04T14:31:00.000-07:00

"Naked i came from my mother's womb, And naked shall i return there. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." (Job 1:21)

"Shall we indeed accept good from GOD, and shall we not accept adversity?" In all this Job did not sin with his lips. (Job 2:10)

...they saw JESUS walking on the sea and drawing near the boat; and they were afraid. But He said to them, "It is I; do not be afraid." (John 6:19-20)

For You are my lamp, O LORD; The LORD shall enlighten my darkness. (2 Samuel 22:29)

He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. (Psalm 23:2)

Bless the LORD, O my soul! All that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul! And forget not all His benefits... Who redeems my life from destruction... (Psalm 103)

As a father pities his children, so the LORD pities those who fear Him. (Psalm 103:13)

And we know that GOD causes everything to work together for the good of those who love GOD and are called according to His purpose for them. (Romans 8:28)

Cast your burden on the LORD, and He shall sustain you. (Psalm 55:22)

The young lions lack and suffer hunger; but those who seek the LORD shall not lack any good thing. (Psalm 34:10)

...though i walk through the valley of the shadow of death, i will fear no evil; for You are with me... (Psalm 23:4)

Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. (John 15:2)

Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor? (Romans 9:21)

i know that You can do everything, and that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You. (Job 42:2)

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. (James 1:2-3)

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)

If i take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me. (Psalm 139:9-10)

Where can i go from Your Spirit? Or where can i flee from Your presence? (Psalm 139:7)

(GOD's creation expressed beautifully in Matei and Naselesele area -- Taveuni, FIJI)

Cyclone Tomas and THE WORD

2011-07-24T15:29:00.000-07:00

In 2010, Cyclone Tomas did its best to destroy this Assembly of GOD church, shephered by Pastor Pauliasi Nuku -- located at New Town in Matei, Taveuni (Fiji). But GOD the Holy SPIRIT caused all things to work together for good for the pastor and his congregation -- for indeed they loved much the Son... CHRIST JESUS.

The structure was razed to the ground, but it was soon re-built -- this time with timber from Lagiloa (our bush farm area) -- even better and stronger than the previous building. The Bible verses i painted on the corrugated tin roofing survived the havoc wreaked by Cyclone Tomas. The Word of GOD -- Truth that He inspired -- cannot ever be destroyed, despite man's wilfull destruction of it... and not even Nature's seasonal birth pangs will ever lessen its almighty supernatural influence.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. (Galatians 6:7)

If you confess with your mouth the LORD JESUS and believe in your heart that GOD has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9)

I AM the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6)

GOD is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we could ask or think. (Ephesians 3:20)

Those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

i can do all things through CHRIST who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)

The fruit of the SPIRIT is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23)

We know that GOD causes all things to work together for good to those who love GOD. (Romans 8:28)

This Assembly of GOD church, though humble in appearance and size, is where CHRIST is wonderfully magnified. Pastor Pauliasi's messages always point to JESUS as the only Way, the only Truth and the only Life. Pastor always magnifies our Father in Heaven as the One True GOD -- always speaks with passionate devotion to the Person of CHRIST, as emboldened by the Holy SPIRIT's supernatural annointing.

GOD bless this church!

ROMANS 8:28 -- My Personal REALITY

2011-07-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

Lagiloa GODventureZ... Vanua Sautu... then --

And now. And if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. (Mark 3:25)

Even this rLn expression, GOD has blessed to someone else...

GOD has closed this door... and opened up another.

And i know that GOD causes everything to work together for the good of those who love GOD and are called according to His purpose for them. (Romans 8:28)

The new door GOD has opened -- GODventureZ, unlimited. Our leaky second-hand boat, with Ana tugging it to its new moorings, and Miri hangin' on for a free tow.

Four new lives (Miri, Kani, Jo, Leone) from Naselesele Village to touch with the WORD -- Who is the Bread of Life, the Light of the world, the Way of peace to the Father in Heaven -- the Redeemer of sinners... like me.

GOD knew me even before He created me -- that i would enjoy mangoes as my favorite food... and here i am... watching them ripen! GOD satisfies me with good things, so that my youth is renewed like the eagle's. (Psalm 103:5, paraphrased)

The talent GOD has given me is no longer buried in useless inferiority complex, but SPIRIT has provided much opportunities to magnify our LORD's name through the art work that He allows to flow through me. He gives the inspiration, He tempers me with patience to do His work, He opens up the windows and doors of Heaven so that blessings from above rains down wherever He places me. (Matthew 25:14-30, JESUS' parable about the talents)

GOD's timing is allWays perfect. Thirty years later, after the SPIRIT planted the seed of island living in my adventurouZ soul, GOD has wrought the dream into Reality... with much segways and detours along this blessed GODventureZ JESUS had created for me. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. (Psalm 139:16)

JESUS is my Way -- He is the Path of righteousness.
JESUS is my Truth -- He is the Word infallible.
JESUS is my Life -- He is the Fountain ever flowing.
JESUS is my LORD, my Master, my GOD.

He is the Shield who protects from the devil's assaults --The Rock on which true wisdom is built.
He is the King who reigns sovereign --The Shepherd whose tender care is faithful and true.
He is the Judge who sees the inner man --The Refuge during trials to whom we run.
He is the Fortress impregnable --The Avenger of the weak and oppressed.

He is the Creator of all things from no thing --The Deliverer of those who love and obey Him.
He is the Healer of the brokenhearted --The Protector of the humble and the meek.
He is the Provider of our daily bread --The Redeemer of the wretched lost.
He is the Alpha and the Omega --The Author and Finisher of our faith.

He is the Master Potter --The Artist Divine of each masterpiece.
He is the Father who knows best --The One we call Abba, Papa, because we are His own.
JESUS is the Bread of life --The abundant Nourisher of this child.
He is the Light of the world --The perfect Guide to this darkened soul.

JESUS is the Door of the sheepfold --The narrow Gate where this penitent entered.
He is the Good Shepherd --The Owner of this prodigal sheep.
JESUS is the Resurrection and the Life --The Promise Keeper in whom absolutely i trust.
He is the true Vine -- The eternal Source in whom i cling.

JESUS is the Way, the Truth and the Life --
He is my way, my truth and my life --
In all ways, always...
Forever and ever.

TAVEUNI Skies -- GOD's Handiwork

2011-06-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

Oh, what a life! Oh, what a peace! The CHRIST who's all within me lives.

With Him i have been crucified; this glorious fact to me He gives.

Now it's no longer i that live, but CHRIST the LORD within me lives.

Oh, what a joy! Oh, what a rest! CHRIST now is being formed in me.

His very nature and life divine -- in my whole being inwrought shall be.

All that i am came to an end, and all of CHRIST is all to me.

Oh, what a thought! Oh, what a boast! CHRIST shall in me be magnified.

In nothing shall i be ashamed, for He in all shall be applied.

In woe or blessing, death or life -- through me shall CHRIST be testified.

Oh, what a prize! Oh, what a gain! CHRIST is the goal toward which i press.

Nothing i treasure, nor aught desire -- but CHRIST of all-inclusiveness.

My hope, my glory, and my crown is CHRIST, the One of peerlessness.

(by Witness Lee, The Holy Word for Morning Revival, page 36 -- Hymns #499)

Assembly of GOD -- Matei, TAVEUNI

2011-05-25T15:54:00.000-07:00

Assembly of GOD church, located in New Town (Matei area), Taveuni -- Fiji -- where i've found genuine fellowship with brothers and sisters IN CHRIST.

Pastor Pauliasi is a man of GOD who preaches the full Gospel -- the Good News of JESUS CHRIST. His impassioned sermons (partly in English so that the Indians and kavalagis like me can understand his message) touch our hearts, nourishing our souls with the True Bread -- the Word, which is JESUS Himself. Pastor Pauliasi magnifies JESUS in all his messages -- GOD's doctrines clearly preached, but always pointing to JESUS as the Author and Finisher of our faith.

The simple church building (to the right) built after Cyclone Tomas, and the pastor's house and kitchen to the left. This is indeed a very small church compared to the mega-churches in the United States, but the congregation's heart for worship is very real and very BIG. i believe JESUS of Nazareth would feel at home in this church, small and simple though it may be. The Holy SPIRIT, Him who raised JESUS from the grave, moves powerfully in us as we offer Him praise and worship in heartfelt songs and prayers.

Pastor Pauliasi's pineapples... The pastor planted, but GOD grows for the harvest.

Pastor's wife, Radini Selina, pickling homegrown chilis. Home-made vinegar to the left...

Radini Selina's floral arrangement from the flowers she plucked from her own garden.

Our simple lunch... even inside the church -- picnic style.

i feel so at home in this church because of our genuine fellowship, reminiscent of the fellowship i also enjoy at Ocean View Church in San Diego (California). The mixed congregation of Fijian and Indian descent is a blessing to me, reminding me again of OVC where all colors worship as one.

In this, GOD has answered my prayer for fellowship with brothers and sisters IN CHRIST in Fiji, as well as a church that truly magnifies and preaches JESUS as precious and above all names.

The Church is the Body of CHRIST, and each individual follower and lover of JESUS constitutes a member (part) of His Body, which He is the Head. (Ephesians 5)

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in CHRIST JESUS. (Galatians 3:28)

There is one body and one SPIRIT, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one LORD, one faith, one baptism; one GOD and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. (Ephesians 4:4-6)

A Matter of LIFE OR DEATH -- JOHN 3:16

2011-03-22T21:45:00.000-07:00

My Friend: i am asking you the most important question of life. Your joy or your sorrow for all eternity depends upon your answer. The question is: Are you saved? It is not a question of how good you are nor if you are a church member, but are you saved? Are you sure you will go to Heaven when you die?

GOD says in order to go to Heaven you must be born again. In John 3:7, JESUS said to Nicodemus, "You must be born again."

In the Bible, GOD gives us the plan of how to be born again which means to be saved. His plan is simple! You can be saved today. How?

First, my friend, you must realize you are a sinner. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD" (Romans 3:23).

Because you are a sinner, you are condemned to death. "For the wages (payment) of sin is death" (Romans 6:23). This includes eternal separation from GOD in Hell. "...it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment" (Hebrews 9:27).

But GOD loved you so much He gave His only begotten Son, JESUS, to bear your sin and die in your place. "...He has made Him (JESUS, Who knew no sin) to be sin for us...that we might be made the righteousness of GOD in Him" (2 Corinthians 5:21). JESUS had to shed His blood and die. "For the life of the flesh is in the blood" (Leviticus 17:11). "...without shedding of blood is no remission (pardon)" (Hebrews 9:22).

"...GOD commends His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us" (Romans 5:8).

Although we cannot understand how, GOD said my sins and your sins were laid upon JESUS and He died in your place. He became our Substitute. It is true. GOD cannot lie.

My friend, "GOD...commands all men everywhere to repent" (Acts 17:30). This repentance is a change of mind that agrees with GOD that one is a sinner, and also agrees with what JESUS did for us on the Cross.

In Acts 16:30-31, the Philippian jailer asked Paul and Silas: "... 'Sirs, what must i do to be saved?' And they said, 'Believe on the LORD JESUS CHRIST, and you shall be saved... .' "

Simply believe on Him as the One Who bore your sin, died in your place, was buried, and Whom GOD resurrected. His resurrection powerfully assures that the believer can claim everlasting life when JESUS is received as Savior.

"But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of GOD, even to them that believe on His name" (John 1:12).

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved" (Romans 10:13).

Whosoever includes you. Shall be saved means not maybe, nor can, but shall be saved.

Surely, you realize you are a sinner. Right now, wherever you are, repenting, lift your heart to GOD in prayer.

In Luke 18:13, the sinner prayed: "GOD be merciful to me a sinner." Just pray: Oh, GOD, i know i am a sinner. i believe JESUS was my Substitute when He died on the Cross. i believe His shed blood, death, burial, and resurrection were for me. i now receive Him as my Savior. i thank You for the forgiveness of my sins, the gift of salvation and everlasting life, because of Your merciful grace. Amen."

Just take GOD at His word and receive His salvation by faith. Believe, and you will be saved. No church, no lodge, no good works can save you. Remember, GOD does the saving. All of it!

GOD's simple plan of salvation is: You are a sinner. Therefore, unless you believe on JESUS Who died in your place, you will spend eternity in Hell. If you believe on Him as your crucified, buried, and risen Savior, you receive forgiveness for all your sins and His gift of eternal salvation by faith.

You say, "Surely, it cannot be that simple." Yes, that simple! It is scriptural. It is GOD's plan. My friend, believe on JESUS and receive Him as Savior today.

If His plan is not perfectly clear, read this over and over, until you understand it. Your soul is worth more than all the world.

"For what shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Mark 8:36). Be sure you are saved. If you lose your soul, you miss Heaven and lose all. Please! Let GOD save you this very moment.

GOD's power will save you, keep you saved, and enable you to live a victorious CHRISTian life. "There has no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but GOD is faithful, Who will not suffer you to be tempted above that you are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it" (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Do not trust your feelings. They change. Stand on GOD's promises. They never change. After you are saved, there are three things to practice daily for spiritual growth: Pray -- you talk to GOD. Read your Bible -- GOD talks to you. Witness -- you talk for GOD.

You should be baptized in obedience to the LORD JESUS CHRIST as a public testimony of your salvation, and then unite with a Bible-believing church without delay. "Be not therefore ashamed of the testimony of our LORD..." (2 Timothy 1:8)

"Whosoever therefore shall confess (testify of) Me before men him will I confess also before My Father which is in Heaven" (Matthew 10:32).

The above was copied from a Gospel tract -- GOD's Simple Plan of SALVATION -- so that if you are not experiencing the indescribable joy of having peace with GOD, you may be given heart-knowledge by the Holy SPIRIT -- John 3:16, as your life-giving Truth... that CHRIST JESUS is your freely given gift of ETERNAL LIFE forevermore.

The TRUE Prosperity GOSPEL

2011-02-18T21:50:00.000-08:00

WHAT is the plain Gospel truth, the Good News of old that is now touted by the likes of Joel Olsteen, Joyce Meyer, Benny Hinn, Kenneth Copeland, et al (of the Word-Faith Movement), as the crowd-pleasing, get-rich-through-JESUS "prosperity gospel"?

But first -- the bad news -- and it is that we've all eaten of that "apple" called sin that so enticed Eve... that fruit called pride which caught her eye with its delectable appearance, whetting her appetite so that she lusted to satisfy her covetous desire (deceitfully persuaded by the father of lies -- satan); and Adam in lame agreement by his silent acquiescence, both rebelling at the Owner's prohibition against picking fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil... resulting in separation from GOD, banishment from the Garden, spiritual death upon all of Adam and Eve's descendants --

Paradise lost. (Genesis 3)

That bad news is still in effect today -- we're still barred from the Garden of Eden.

Unless...

We repent and turn to GOD for His gracious gift of pardon through the only Way provided by Him -- via the Cross of CHRIST JESUS, who is Himself Truth incarnate and eternal Life manifested in the flesh. For as it is written in the Holy Scriptures, whosoever believes in the Son of GOD shall not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)

CHRIST holds the heavenly key which swings the door wide open to GOD's heart -- Owner of the Garden of Eden -- in fact, Owner of everything on earth and in the entire universe. (Job 41:11)

GOD the Father so loved the world that He commissioned GOD the Son to be the Savior for us lost sinners. The Son of GOD was the Substitutionary Sacrifice who paid for our sin-debts against a thrice-holy GOD. The Son so loved the Father that He willingly relinquished for a time the infinite riches in glory (though not His deity) that He shared with the Father and the Holy SPIRIT so that He may glorify the Father's name -- His perfect holiness and righteous justice, and His incomprehensible love and abundant mercy to us undeserving rebels.

CHRIST JESUS accomplished the inconceivable. On the Cross, the Father's holy justice and merciful love met in the Person of CHRIST. JESUS' own shed blood was the only sacrifice infinitely worthy to satisfy the Father's holy wrath against all of mankind's sin, all of which JESUS bore upon Himself. With CHRIST's death as the Propitiation (Appeasement) for our sins, GOD can then be a just Judge to the unjust because He poured out all His holy wrath on His own Son. JESUS, the perfect and righteous sacrificial Lamb, drank to the very last drop the cup of GOD's unfathomable wrath that we, sinners all, deserve. GOD's holy justice was satisfied, His name glorified by JESUS' incomparable work on Cross -- the ultimate act of supreme love and amazing grace.

The Good News -- CHRIST died an excruciating death on the Cross; and worst of all, He suffered the ultimate mind-boggling wrath of the Father -- an infinitely holy GOD who hates with a deep-seated righteous anger the wicked of the world, whose sins since the beginning of time until the end of the world, GOD has stored up for punishment -- and this WRATH He unleashed upon GOD the Son on the cross, to save condemned sinners, the whosoever of John 3:16 -- you and me and whosoever calls on the name of CHRIST. When we cry out to GOD, LORD, be merciful to me, a sinner! with a genuinely repentant heart, trusting in CHRIST as the Son of GOD who has supreme authority to forgive all our sins, believing in the historical fact of His resurrection, and receiving Him (through faith alone in GOD's unmerited grace) as Savior and LORD of our body, heart and soul -- Master of our lives -- we are made spiritually alive In CHRIST, born-again of GOD.

Receiving JESUS as the CHRIST -- Savior and LORD -- of our lives is the Truth and the Way to a prosperous Life! JESUS Himself is the Key to the eternal prosperity that begins when we confess that He is LORD. In CHRIST dwells the fullness of GOD; therefore, in CHRIST are the true riches that will never fade or rust or get moth-eaten or stolen or lose their value -- they're imperishable and priceless.

And we don't have to die the physical death to receive this prosperous eternal life! It is ours immediately -- the instant we receive redemption through our faith in CHRIST, GOD's eternal gifts are provided for those spiritually born-again into His family. The following is but a short list of the abundant blessings freely given to the children of GOD:

** the Holy SPIRIT and His almighty supernatural power, enabling us to accomplish the good works that the Father had planned for us even before He began time (John 7:38-39, 2 Corinthians 9:8)

** the new birth -- regeneration... our spirit made alive to the things of GOD... no longer stiff-necked, hard-hearted rebels, but new creatures in spirits divine -- children of GOD (2 Corinthians 5:17, John 1:12)

** justification -- all our sins forgiven... past, present and future! Redeemed -- guiltless before the holy Judge... saved from His judgment -- saved from Hell! (2 Corinthians 5:21, Romans 4:25, 5:1, 9)

** daily cleansing from sins of the flesh (forgiveness of sins directly from JESUS who is our High Priest... no need for a human mediator to mete out penance in the form of mindless repetitive prayers) (1 John 1:9, Matthew 6:14-15)

** adoption into GOD's family... we are granted the honor and privilege of calling the Almighty Creator -- Father, Abba... and JESUS -- who is Lord of lords and King of kings -- our Elder Brother, Faithful Friend, Perfect Husband (Romans 8:14-15, Galatians 3:26, Ephesians 5:25-30, John 15:13-15, John 20:17)

** a heavenly inheritance with JESUS and all the saints (Romans 8:16-17, 1 Peter 1:3-4, Colossians 3:23-24, Ephesians 1:13-14, Revelation 21:7)

** bold access to GOD's throne... bringing to Him our petitions and prayers with childlike trust and loving reverence (1 John 3:21-22, 5:14-15, Romans 8:31-32, John 14:13-14, John 15:7, Matthew 7:7-8)

** no Judgment Day... rather, we are given rewards for the good works which were done with pure motives -- for the love of JESUS, to the glory of the Father, for the advancement of His Kingdom (Jeremiah 17:10, Matthew 5:11-12, Colossians 3:23-24, Matthew 10:42, James 1:12)

** resurrection in glorified bodies (John 11:25-26; Romans 8:11; 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, 15:51-53; 2 Corinthians 5:1; Revelation 22:12)

** answered prayers... GOD's promises guaranteed to His children who are in CHRIST (John 14:13-14, 15:7; 1 John 3:21-22, 5:14-15; Matthew 18:19-20; Mark 11:22-24; 2 Corinthians 1:20)

** communion (fellowship) with the Father and Son through the indwelling SPIRIT (1 John 1:3)

** illumination of GOD's Word by the Holy SPIRIT... heart-to-heart communion, wise counsel and life-direction from GOD through His written WORD (John 16:13, John 14:17)

** no Hell... no outer darkness... no gnashing of teeth... no fire and brimstone, where the worm does not die (no 72 virgins!) (Revelation 20:11-15, 21:4; Matthew 25:30; Mark 9:43-48)

** no boredom in Heaven, no wasted time... since GOD is infinite in CHRIST, it will take all of eternity to discover all the gazillion facets of GOD's infinite perfections (Revelation 19:7-9, 20:4-6, 22:3)

** supernatural peace from JESUS that surpasses understanding, the kind the world cannot know (Philippians 4:7, 2 Corinthians 13:11)

** settled peace with GOD... no longer under the condemnation of His wrathful judgment against our sins (Romans 5:1)

** indescribable joy of JESUS... experientially -- not imagined or manufactured, but through daily grace from GOD (Nehemiah 8:10, Psalm 16:11, John 15:11, 16:24)

** reconciliation with GOD the Father (Romans 5:10, 2 Corinthians 5:18)

** fruit of the SPIRIT: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, righteousness, truth (Galatians 5:22, Ephesians 5:9)

** the perfect righteousness of JESUS in exchange for our filthy rags of self-righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:30, Philippians 1:11, Romans 3:22, 5:17)

** sanctification, positional and progressive CHRISTlikeness (1 Corinthians 6:11, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Romans 12:2)

** meaningful and purposeful life serving others for GOD's glory (John 13:35, 14:12, 15:8; Matthew 28:19)

** no more sin in Heaven -- no more tears... no more pain (Isaiah 25:8, Revelation 7:17, 21:4)

** unconditionally loved as precious and valuable (1 John 3:1, John 3:16, Ephesians 2:4)

** security... GOD will never, ever -- no, never ever leave or forsake His children (Hebrews 13:5, Deuteronomy 31:6, Joshua 1:9)

** constant Companion -- Counselor, Helper and Comforter in the Holy SPIRIT (John 14:16, 26; Matthew 28:20)

** wisdom for the asking, which our heavenly Father will give in abundance (James 1:5)

** citizenship in Heaven... we are in this world, but not of this world (Philippians 3:20, Ephesians 2:19, )

** intercessory prayers... JESUS Himself praying for His followers, and the Holy SPIRIT communing with the Father as to our deepest desires (Romans 8:26, 34)

** strength from CHRIST to endure all things (Philippians 4:13, Isaiah 40:31)

** the reality that GOD causes all things to work together for the good of those who love Him, to those who are the called, according to His purpose (Romans 8:28)

** protection from satanic forces (Psalm 91:4-6, 9-10, 14; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; Psalm 121:7-8; Matthew 6:13)

** contentment in all situations (Philippians 4:11, Matthew 6:31-33, Hebrews 13:5)

Truly born-again followers of CHRIST are the most spiritually prosperous souls on the face of the earth!

Though i'm no Bill Gates -- i am by far richer than he because i have all of the above -- extravagant blessings now, some in progress, and all that my finite mind can't even imagine waiting for me as my inheritance in Heaven as a child of the Almighty GOD, guaranteed by CHRIST JESUS for those who have put their faith in Him. But as it is written: "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which GOD has prepared for those who love Him." (1 Corinthians 2:9)

Ultimate prosperity then -- here on earth and in Heaven -- is in the Person of JESUS CHRIST. For in Him all the fullness of GOD was pleased to dwell... (Colossians 1:19)

Delight yourself in the LORD and He will give you the desires of your heart. (Psalm 37:4) Seek first the Kingdom of GOD and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33) Those who seek the LORD lack no good thing. (Psalm 34:10) The LORD is my Shepherd, in Him i shall not lack. (Psalm 23:1)

And yet, for me, to know JESUS Himself, with heavenly blessings or none, materially prosperous on earth or not -- He is enough! To know Him supremely, to see with the eyes of my heart His indescribable perfections, to delight in His Person, to exult in His Presence -- that is enough for me.

For what would heaven be without JESUS? Just another pretty place... Without JESUS' precious presence in Heaven -- a Paradise without His Life, without His Light, without His Truth, without His incomparable beauty and glorious holiness -- eternity would be dull and lifeless and boring as the infinite number of years roll on and on, forever and ever and ever...and evermore!

Eternal prosperity -- real success and true wealth -- is knowing and having JESUS Himself.

Truly SAVED -- or Truly DECEIVED?

2011-02-04T20:47:00.000-08:00

This blog entry is for those who profess to be Christians -- those who claim CHRIST JESUS as their LORD and Savior, those who say they believe in GOD the Father-Almighty Creator, those who think they are Holy SPIRIT-regenerated and indwelled, born-again children of GOD.

i myself thought i was saved in 2003. i claimed CHRIST JESUS as my heroic Savior (my Knight in shining armor) who rescued me from the evil dragons of life. i proudly labeled myself Christian, not knowing what that meant, then i proceeded to sanctify my own self with much self-effort, which was a doomed endeavor from the onset. Was i truly saved or truly deceived in 2003? i don't know. But last year i got the fullest sense that i am indeed truly saved -- the Holy SPIRIT granted me assurance of my salvation, for the SPIRIT Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of GOD. (Romans 8:16)

GOD providentially provided many sources to make me aware of the reality that false converts abound. From Ray Comfort's Hell's Best-Kept Secret and True and False Conversion, to Paul Washer's "Shocking Youth Sermon," to John Piper's Desiring GOD Resource Library and his sermons on "Christian Hedonism," John MacArthur's Study Bible and his verse by verse exposition on the First Epistle of John (Grace To You) and C. H. Spurgeon -- the "prince of preachers -- making much of CHRIST.

The following are excerpts from John MacArthur's book Saved Without a Doubt.

Jonathan Edwards concluded in A Treatise Concerning the Religious Affections that the supreme proof of true conversion is a zeal for holy things and a longing after GOD and personal holiness -- "holy affections." He wrote, "As the principle evidence of life is motion, so the principle evidence of saving grace is holy living."

The New Testament's First Epistle of John was written specifically for professing Christians: These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of GOD, so that you may know that you have eternal life. (1 John 5:13)

The Epistle is a series of tests to determine whether the professing Christian truly possesses eternal life. MacArthur, from his expositional sermons on 1 John, posed the following questions as a means to test the professing Christian so that he (or she) may examine his salvation and be assured that he is "Saved Without a Doubt." So test your spirit -- may you pass with triumphant hallelujahs!

Have you enjoyed fellowship with CHRIST and the Father?

We have seen and testify and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was manifested to us -- what we have seen and heard we proclaim to you also, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and His Son JESUS CHRIST. (1 John 1:2-3)

Are you presently enjoying communion with the living GOD and the living CHRIST? Do you sense His presence? Do you have a love for Him that draws you to His presence? Have you experienced the exhilarating joy of talking to the living GOD through prayer? Does the Holy SPIRIT continually illumine new truths to you through the reading of His Word?

Are you sensitive to sin?

GOD is light; in Him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with Him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of JESUS, His Son, purifies us from all sin. (1 John 1:5-7)

Do you realize that to have a true relationship with GOD, you have to live a holy life -- that you can't walk in darkness and claim fellowship with Him? Are you willing to confess and forsake any sin in your life as you become aware of it? Do you realize you can now choose not to sin? Like the apostle Paul (Romans 7:14-25) -- are you weary of the burden of sin in your flesh?

Do you obey GOD's Word?

By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. (1 John 2:3)

Do you desire to obey the Word out of gratitude for all CHRIST has done for you? Do you obey GOD's commandments not only out of reverence for Him as Almighty Creator, but also out of love and delight in JESUS?

Do you reject this evil world?

Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (1 John 2:15) All that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. (1 John 2:16)

The "world" is today's system encompassing false religions, errant philosophies and damning ideologies, crime, immorality, materialism, godless living, vain pursuits. Do such things repel you? Instead, do you love GOD, His truth, His kingdom, and all that He stands for?

Do you eagerly await CHRIST's return?

Dear friends, now we are children of GOD, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. (1 John 3:2-3)

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord JESUS CHRIST, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself. (Philippians 3:20-21)

Is your blessed hope and supreme joy found in seeing CHRIST JESUS face-to-face at His return and being made like Him? Does your hope of Christlikeness compel you to act more like CHRIST in reaching out to others and fulfilling all that GOD has set out for you to do? Do you find yourself longing for the return of CHRIST?

Do you see a decreasing pattern of sin in your life?

Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness. You know that He appeared in order to take away sins; and in Him there is no sin. No one who abides in Him sins; no one who sins has seen Him or knows Him.

Little children, make sure no one deceives you; the one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous; the one who practices sin is of the devil; for the devil has sinned from the beginning. The Son of GOD appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil.

No one who is born of GOD practices sin, because His seed abides in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of GOD. By this the children of GOD and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of GOD, nor the one who does not love his brother. (1 John 3:4-10)

Do you see a new pattern of holy affections (love for the things of GOD) in your life? Though you are still in the flesh and therefore not sinless, do you sin less -- do you see a decreasing pattern of sin in your life? Do you practice righteousness (even if imperfectly) -- righteous motives, righteous desires, righteous words, righteous deeds? Do you see victory over sin in your life?

Do you love other Christians?

By this the children of GOD and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of GOD, nor the one who does not love his brother. (1 John 3:10)

We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love abides in death. Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer; and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. (1 John 3:14-16)

JESUS said, By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. (John 13:35)

Do you characteristically love other believers? Do you have a desire to reach out and meet their needs? Do you sacrifice your time, treasures and talents for other believers? Do you intercede in prayer for those in need? Do you enjoy fellowshiping, studying the Word and praying with the brethren? Do you see the love of GOD in your life through your words and actions to others?

Do you experience answered prayer?

Whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do the things that are pleasing in His sight. (1 John 3:22)

This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him. (1 John 5:14-15)

You know you are a believer if GOD answers your prayers. The only way that can happen is if you keep His commandments, and the only way you can do that is if you belong to Him. Answered prayer is evidence that GOD hears you, which is evidence that you live in Him and He in you.

Have you had your prayers answered? Is that a pattern of life for you?

Do you experience the ministry of the Holy SPIRIT?

By this we know that we abide in Him and He in us, because He has given us of His SPIRIT. (1 John 4:13)

Do you experience the SPIRIT illuminating Scripture to you so that when you read the Word, its meaning is clarified to you? Does He convict you when you're sinful? Is your life manifesting the fruit of the SPIRIT (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control)? Has He enabled you to minister to others? Has the SPIRIT drawn you into fellowship with GOD through prayer and praise?

Can you discern between spiritual truth and error?

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from GOD, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the SPIRIT of GOD: every spirit that confesses that JESUS CHRIST has come in the flesh is from GOD; and every spirit that does not confess JESUS is not from GOD; this is the spirit of the antichrist, of which you have heard that it is coming, and now it is already in the world. (1 John 4:1-3)

When you are exposed to the false teachings of cults (Christian Science, Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormonism, etc.) which attack the Person of CHRIST and then postulate a substitute or addition to the Bible (Science and Health with Keys to the Scriptures, The Book of Mormons, or The Pearl of Great Price) -- can you discern their lies with the enablement of your resident truth Teacher in the Person of the Holy SPIRIT? Has the SPIRIT of GOD convinced you about salvation through faith in CHRIST alone and the veracity of the Scripture?

Have you suffered rejection because of your faith?

Do not be surprised, brethren, if the world hates you. (1 John 3:13)

Have you experienced animosity, hostility, rejection, bitterness, alienation, ostracism, prejudice, or outright persecution from representing and advocating what is right?

John MacArthur formulated the above questions from the apostle John's tests, as given in his first epistle. A true believer may receive a Biblical basis for confidence in his salvation if he can answer truthful affirmatives to the tests posed in 1 John -- so you may know that you have eternal life... (1 John 5:13) Saved without a doubt -- possessing 14-karat faith!

As for me, i can truthfully and gratefully say "YES" to the questions above, and further evidence of my salvation are the joy and delight that the Holy SPIRIT has poured out into my heart so that i am loving JESUS with more experiential abandon and heartfelt sincerity. Today, by the work of the Holy SPIRIT in magnifying the LORD in my spirit -- CHRIST is my ever precious Treasure, my ultimate Joy and everlasting Delight.

In Memory -- THELMA BOBO

2011-01-16T09:09:00.000-08:00

Friends are GOD's way of taking care of His family...

Thelma Bobo was GOD's way of befriending many to Himself. He blessed many a soul, including me, with our "Momma Bobo" -- a grand lady who generously shared her chocolates and opened up her heart to all with endearing warm hugs and quickness of wit: a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck!

Yesterday evening, on Momma's day of stepping forward into the precious Presence of GOD -- Ann, Gloria, Sarah and i celebrated her glorious entry into Paradise, by experiencing a glorious sunset at the shores of Imperial Beach. What unsurpassed joy and incomprehensible peace did our Father in Heaven impart to us as He painted the skies with fiery colors that only He can create. Our hearts exulted in jubilant unison -- Bless the LORD, oh my soul!

Thelma Bobo, daughter of GOD...forevermore! (click on her name for her candid video interview)

A poem -- in memory of Thelma Bobo,

our blessed "Momma"

BE STILL, OH MY SOUL

Be still, oh my soul, rest assured

in the satisfying peace of the LORD's embrace.

For as in the eye of this hurricane called life --

There is steadfast calm and sure safety

in the center of GOD's will.

Praise the LORD, oh my soul! Taste and see

that He is infinitely good and indescribably lovely.

Delight, oh my soul, in the LORD JESUS.

For He is the Key who unlocks

the everlasting fountain of joy

that opens to blessed eternal contentment!

Mortify, oh my soul, this prison of flesh

so that the Life of my LORD JESUS

may shine forth in radiant splendor --

that He may reign supreme

over this unredeemed body of death.

Starve this flesh by emphatically denying

this world's array of empty fast-food junk --

all unsatisfactory morsels for the new creation within.

Nourish, rather, the wholesome fruit of the SPIRIT.

Be replete and fully satiated

with the transforming Word of GOD.

Trust in the LORD in all ways always,

Lean not at all on my own understanding;

but in all my ways, i gladly surrender!

Let CHRIST be my faithful Compass

as i sojourn briefly on this earth --

leading and directing me as my Good Shepherd,

caring with all power and tenderhearted mercies

this nearsighted sheep that i am.

Bless the LORD, oh my soul!

All that is within me, bow down before Him

and reverence His holy name!

Rejoice evermore! Rejoice -- come rain or shine,

stormy skies or double rainbows.

Dance, oh my soul, in joyful abandon --

for JESUS is more than enough!

Joy in the LORD -- forevermore!

IN MEMORY OF John AKO and Patricia ("PERRY")

2011-01-04T20:00:00.000-08:00

John AKO became a good friend of mine at work -- everyone liked him! He was a hard-working young man, who also attended Grossmont College and played drums at his church (St. Luke's Episcopal Church). He was always ready to greet me with a ready smile on his face. Never did i hear a complaint from him about standing up the whole eight hours at work. He worked patiently and diligently, and he got along well with the other men working with him. Jose told me today that he misses Ako -- we all do!

i liked the foreign uniqueness of John's name, so i called him Ako -- and i felt a special kinship with him because i too lived in Africa for a few years. Because he is my brother In CHRIST, i sympathized with his family's plight -- escaping from southern Sudan, which is torn by civil war and CHRISTian persecution.

It was very difficult not to feel a sorrowful ache at seeing the vacant emptiness of Ako's work area, for when i would look up from my sewing machine, i couldn't help but see him as he was usually in my line of vision.

Ako was a very special person to me. The t-shirt i painted for him reflected his ongoing relationship with JESUS -- All things i can do through CHRIST who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)

This was Patricia's rLn original -- she hadn't yet worn it to work...

Patricia -- though we called her "Perry" -- was also a very special woman to me as she went to my church and she was my sister In CHRIST. We were family! When she showed up at work on her first day, i thanked GOD for the blessing of sending a CHRISTian sister to me... who even goes to the same church!

Perry and i would hug every morning (real bear hugs...none of that stiff European stuff!) and share goodies. We usually lined up together to clock out, then i'd drive her and Maia to the trolley station, where she would always rush out of the car to race to her bus.

So to go to work Monday and not see her cheerful face wrung my heart -- then to discover that Ako was also gone was almost too much to bear.

But yet because Ako and Perry were my family In CHRIST, my sorrow was tempered by the Reality that they were already in Heaven with our LORD JESUS. They were in His Presence, enjoying His glory and majesty! No more 8-hour "nine-to-five" -- no more dealing with this fallen world... no more tears, no more pain -- no more sin! Hallelujah!

We are here still -- left behind to experience the pangs of missing them. And yet rejoicing, for those of us who are JESUS' own -- we know that GOD causes all things to work together for good to those who love Him, to those who are the called, according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)

As for me -- i am strengthened in the knowledge that GOD is Sovereign GOD. He is all-powerful, all-wise and in all ways always good. His thoughts and His ways are beyond man's comprehension, for how can the finite understand the Infinite? And shall the clay say to the Potter, "why did You shape me this way?" or shall the canvas say to the Master Artist, "don't paint me with those dark pigments -- i only want the rosy colors"?

i will say with Job, "Though He slay me, yet will i trust Him." (Job 13:15)

Delighting In Magnifying CHRIST JESUS

2011-01-01T13:38:00.000-08:00

Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt His name together! Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! (from Psalm 34)

Let those who delight in His righteousness shout for joy and be glad and say evermore, "Great is the LORD, who delights in the welfare of His servant!" Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart. (from Psalm 35 and 37)

Why do i delight in JESUS? Why is He most precious to me? Why is He the Treasure of my life and the Passion of my heart?

Because He died for me...while i was yet a wretched sinner.

Because He bore all my sins upon Himself and imputed to me His own righteousness. His shed blood cleansed and washed my filthy rags of pride, self-righteousness and self-sufficiency. He made me a new creature, born again of GOD.

Because He is breathtakingly beautiFUL -- His countenance indescribably attractive and altogether lovely. Because He has infinite compassion and unfathomable tenderness. Because He is almighty, utterly powerful beyond man's comprehension. Because He is faithful and true -- He cannot lie and will not break His promises. Because He made peace between the Father and me.

Because He is good...perfect in all ways always -- forever and ever more!

He sent the Holy SPIRIT to be my Comforter, Counselor, Helper. He intercedes for me. He prays those prayers i cannot utter. He orchestrates and causes all things to work together for my good. His righteous right arm guards me from harm...from the evil one. He empowers and equips me to do the work that my Father has ordained to accomplish through me. He gives me daily provision. He sustains and nourishes me in each moment, breath to breath to breath.

JESUS fully accomplished the work of saving sinners like me. i owe Him my all. He obeyed the Father's plan of salvation -- even the death on the cross. He gave up His majesty and glory with the Father by humbling Himself -- becoming human, born into poor surroundings, rejected by His own. He who had EVERY thing... He who was the apple of His Father's eye, who was in His Father's bosom in perfect oneness and holy intimacy, for whom the whole creation was made -- He gave up all to prove the Father's love for the world.

Without CHRIST's completed work on the cross, i would still be part of the walking dead -- living a pointless, meaningless, empty life! i would still be captive to this illusion of being alive, yet never quickened to true Life. Without JESUS' Good News, i cannot call GOD my Father -- only tremble in fear of His wrath in the coming Day of Judgment. Without CHRIST's gift of eternal life, i would be resurrected in a physical eternal hell.

But i rejoice and exult in CHRIST JESUS -- my Savior, my Friend, my Good Shepherd -- GOD of my life. He goes before me in all things -- even death... and grants me victory over death with His promise of bodily resurrection. For as He Himself defeated the grave, so He gives Life in the heavenlies to those who believe and joyfully obey and follow Him, even to the uttermost parts of the earth.

My delight is in JESUS, the Person. He is the ultimate Husband -- never disappointing, always faithful and true. My joy is in CHRIST -- there is no thing, no person, who can fulfill all my needs and desires. Oh, reader, delight also in the LORD JESUS, and He will make your heart rejoice in delighting in His desires.

Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt His name together!

The PERFECT Husband -- The Ultimate BELOVED

2010-12-05T16:56:00.000-08:00

Is there such a man as the perfect husband? One who loves his wife as his own body... nourishing and cherishing her, forsaking all others -- father, mother, (yes, children, too)... even his own self -- holding fast to his wife as his most precious gift from GOD above?

The perfect husband will not beat his wife (or children, nor kick the dog) when his Superbowl team doesn't win the championship game nor will he blame his wife that he lost the considerable amount of money he wagered. Rather, the perfect husband will be full of compassion and is gentle--he will not shout or raise his voice in public. He will not crush those who are weak or quench the smallest hope.

Who is this husband who is completely secure in his identity as a man created in the image of GOD -- Almighty Creator of all things seen and unseen -- that he need not be jealous or boastful or proud or rude. He does not demand his own way. He is not irritable, and he keeps no record of when he has been wronged. He is not puffed up with worldly pleasures, sporty cars, a mansion-of-a-house abode or a top-rung-of-the-ladder-of-success job.

Rather he recognizes his need for GOD, he mourns over his sins, he is gentle and lowly, he hungers and thirsts for justice, he is merciful, pure in heart and a peacemaker.

Who is the perfect husband but he who is godly -- who loves GOD and His Word, and seeks to do His will in all things? He takes seriously the GOD-given responsibility of being head of his house, providing not just material comfort, but spiritual leadership so that his wife and children may grow into the knowledge of the LORD.

The perfect husband is non-existent on earth, for all mankind is fallible -- weak in their various imperfections. All of mankind has turned aside; they have together become unprofitable; there is none who does good, no, not one.

But there are imperfect husbands being perfected -- being made whole and complete, progressively being regenerated to live the Beatitude attitudes. These husbands are the saints of GOD -- those He has separated from the influence of the world and freed from the prince of the power of the air. They are servants of GOD -- serving others before themselves. These imperfect husbands who are being made perfect serve their families as they rule over them with utmost tenderheartedness and agape love.

These husbands are the most zealous of men for they are passionately after GOD's own heart, the tallest of men because they spend much time on their knees in prayerful supplications, the meekest of men because they have surrendered their rights to their rights to the lordship of CHRIST JESUS. These being-perfected imperfect husbands are the ones fully committed to being conformed into the image of CHRIST, their Lord of lords and King of kings.

And yet -- there is a perfect Husband for all humankind. He was first Husband to Israel, and now He is Husband to all who believe and trust in His Name. He is infinitely mighty to save the lost from sure destruction. He is abounding in mercy and forgiveness, patient and kind, slow to anger, faithful and in all ways always true, for He is the embodiment of Truth. He does not lie for He cannot lie -- He always keeps all His promises. He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." His bride will never ever be abandoned.

This perfect Husband is mine to call my very own -- and yet paradoxically, He is also the perfect Husband to all who are His very own... those hopelessly lost, hungry and thirsty, sick and tired, desperate and needy, stained and muddied, humbled and broken -- those who have come to the end of their ropes, their self-sufficiency, their useless faith in their good works as satisfactory appeasement for their sins against a thrice holy GOD.

My Husband has justified me, fully and thoroughly. It is finished! In His righteous robe, i can stand unflinching before the Judge. He empowers me towards holiness by His gift of the Comforter -- the indwelling Holy SPIRIT of the Triune GOD. He Himself will perfectly make me perfect when i meet Him face to face. (Or rather, face to feet -- for i will fall on my face and kiss His beloved feet with utmost reverence and blessed joy!)

The perfect Husband is my LORD JESUS, my Savior, my GOD. In CHRIST, i submit all. i surrender all that i have, all that i am -- to Him, for Him -- all are His to will for His pleasure and good purpose.

How could this wife not submit her all to such a perfect Husband?

For you see... i've broken the laws of GOD. i deserve GOD's punishment, for He hates sin. The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD. He hates everyone who loves violence. He will not allow one single sin to go unpunished -- He is a just and righteous, and most holy GOD.

Just as in any court of law, a murderer, rapist, or even one who has but exceeded the speed limit must be judged and made to pay the penalty for having broken the law. i must pay the fine for my sins... the fine of death and eternal condemnation.

But my Husband, Who loves me even more than His own life, stood in my stead and received all the penalties i deserved for all my transgressions. He paid in full all my debts -- even my death sentence. He died for me so that i may truly live!

So now, one day at a time, alive indeed by grace through His death on the cross, and walking daily in the Reality of the surety of Heaven with the perfect Husband -- i live for JESUS... yet not i, but CHRIST Who lives in me.

May all repentant sinners be espoused to the perfect Husband -- CHRIST JESUS!

What CHILD Is This?

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What Child is this --

the Infinite who became finite?
the Invisible made visible?
the Supernatural made manifest in the natural?

GOD the Son -- Creator; Son of Man -- Savior of sinners.

What Child is this --

whom Isaiah prophesied as Wonderful Counselor, Mighty GOD, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace?
to whom the virgin Mary sang lullabies of praise?
who was filled with the Holy SPIRIT of GOD?

Immanuel -- GOD with us; Son of David -- King of the Jews.

What Child is this --

from everlasting to everlasting, is with GOD?
who is the preeminent, unique, eternal Living Word?
whose heavenly benediction is "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased"?

JESUS, the CHRIST; the Lamb of GOD who takes away the sin of the world.

What Child is this --

who is the very image of the invisible holy GOD?
who is the only Mediator between holy GOD and wretched man?
who is the sinner's Advocate and holy Judge?

Yeshua... Jisu... JesuCristo; the holy, holy, holy Lord GOD of hosts.

What Child is this --

indescribably more precious than any treasure?
infinitely more valuable than life itself?
utterly more praiseworthy, deserving all honor and worship?

The Pearl of great price, the Bread of life; the Great I AM.

What Child is this --

commissioned from above to die for your sins and mine?
crucified on a tree, rejected and abandoned?
slaughtered as the sacrificial Lamb, hated without a cause?

The Messiah, Redeemer, Savior; the Holy One of Israel.

What Child is this --

who forgives fornicators and adulterers?
who gives sight to the blind and sound to the deaf mute?
who satisfies the hungry and quenches the thirsty?

Jehovah YAHWEH; the Good Shepherd and Author of our faith.

This CHILD is the Reason for the season.
This holy, holy, holy CHILD is the Resurrection and the Life.
This CHILD is mankind's only hope to Paradise.

The Child JESUS is the fulfillment of the Gospel of GOD -- "that CHRIST died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures." (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)

And The WORD IS GOD.

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IN the beginning GOD created the heavens and the earth. (Genesis 1:1)

IN the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with GOD, and the Word was GOD. (John 1:1)

He was in the beginning with GOD. (John 1:2)

All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. (John 1:3)

In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. (John 1:4)

And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. (John 1:5)

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)

No one has ever seen GOD. But His only Son, who is Himself GOD, is near to the Father's heart; He has told us about Him. (John 1:18)

CHRIST is the One through whom GOD created everything in heaven and earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can't see--kings, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities. Everything has been created through Him and for Him. (Colossians 1:16)

He existed before everything else began, and He holds all creation together. (Colossians 1:17)

For GOD in all His fullness was pleased to live in CHRIST, and by Him GOD reconciled everything to Himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of His blood on the cross. This includes you who were once so far away from GOD. You were His enemies, separated from Him by your evil thoughts and actions,

...yet now He has brought you back as His friends. He has done this through His death on the cross in His own human body. As a result, He has brought you into the very presence of GOD, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before Him without a single fault. (Colossians 1:19-22)

The One who existed from the beginning is the One we have heard and seen. We saw Him with our own eyes and touched Him with our own hands. He is JESUS CHRIST, the Word of life. (1 John 1:1)

This One who is life from GOD was shown to us, and we have seen Him. And now we testify and announce to you that He is the One who is eternal life. He was with the Father, and then He was shown to us. (1 John 1:2)

The heavens tell of the glory of GOD. The skies display His marvelous craftsmanship. (Psalm 19:1)

Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make Him known. (Psalm 19:2)

They speak without a sound or a word; their voice is silent in the skies;

yet their message has gone out to all the earth, and their words to all the world. (Psalm 19:3-4a)

Reverence for the LORD is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the LORD are true; each one is fair. (Psalm 19:9)

For i am not ashamed of this Good News about CHRIST. It is the power of GOD at work, saving everyone who believes--Jews first and also Gentiles. (Romans 1:16)

This Good News tells us how GOD makes us right in His sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, "It is through faith that a righteous person has life."

But GOD shows His anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who push the truth away from themselves. For the truth about GOD is known to them instinctively. GOD has put this knowledge in their hearts.

From the time the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky and all that GOD made. They can clearly see His invisible qualities--His eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse whatsoever for not knowing GOD.

Yes, they knew GOD, but they wouldn't worship him as GOD or even give Him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what GOD was like. The result was that their minds became dark and confused.

Claiming to be wise, they became utter fools instead.

And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living GOD, they worshiped idols... Instead of believing what they knew was the truth about GOD, they deliberately chose to believe lies. So they worshiped the things GOD made but not the Creator Himself, who is to be praised forever. Amen. (Romans 1:17-25)

When a pair of Jehovah Witnesses come a-knocking on my door and we debate over JESUS' deity, knowing that their New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures has blinded them in how they perceive CHRIST's preeminence -- for the NWT translates John 1:1, "and the Word was a god" -- i find it a challenge not to be rude by flatly saying that their founder (Charles Taze Russell) had arrogantly changed what has been accepted for centuries by the CHRISTian fathers as GOD's inerrant, infallible Word: CHRIST JESUS is GOD.

The "altar calls" -- invitations -- of today are not Biblical. Nowhere in the Bible was any sinner "invited" with the methodologies used today. JESUS commanded, Repent and believe in the Gospel... follow Me.

It grieves me when i hear formulaic invitations to receive our most precious JESUS as Savior, without first proclaiming the full Gospel truth -- not just about His atoning sacrifice on the cross and resurrection, but how He received the full unabated wrath of the Father as propitiation (appeasement) for all of mankind's sin. All the sinner has to do is repeat a sample prayer -- no exhortation to repent (to turn from his sin and turn to GOD), no mention of the grossness of his sin against a most holy GOD -- that everyone else has to close their eyes so that the sinner can just raise his/her hand without being seen -- without being embarrassed...

JESUS died an excruciating bloody death on the cross and was abandoned by the Father, and we have the audacity to "invite" the sinner ever so gently so as not to embarrass him? GOD has commanded that we repent and believe in the Gospel. (Mark 1:15) He is Creator. He is Sovereign. He controls our very breath... and yet we hem and haw at obeying His Word -- His Son.

JESUS is LORD over all Creation -- of every created creature, whether or not that created being acknowledges Him as LORD, whether or not he accepts GOD's gift: JESUS' finished work of redemption. CHRIST is LORD... He is GOD.

Everyone wants to go to heaven, to paradise... but not everyone wants JESUS to be the Way to get there. Everyone wants to go to heaven to live in bliss forever, but many do not want GOD there... for He is holy, holy, holy -- and in Him is no darkness at all. And without holiness, no one can see GOD. (Isaiah 6:3, 1 John 1:5, Hebrews 12:14)

After seeing the few amazing photos of GOD's creation (courtesy of the Hubble telescope) -- how can one remain the unbelieving fool? How can man kowtow to an earthly king or president -- yet remain unmoved by the exhibited glories of GOD? How can one not reverence the One who created the all that we see and the all that we can't see?

How can one get a glimpse of JESUS and not see the face of GOD? How can one remain untouched by the Truth? How can one not fall in love with the Person of CHRIST?

JESUS is LOVE manifest. He died for you. He paid in full your sin-debts. When you know CHRIST, you know the Father. When you know CHRIST, you are illumined by the Holy SPIRIT. When you humbly acknowledge JESUS as Adonai -- your LORD and Master -- GOD Himself will raise you from the valley of dry bones and quicken your spirit to live forever. (Ezekiel 37)

JESUS is the Way to eternal peace with the Father... not Buddha... not Muhammad. For it was JESUS to whom the Father declared, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!" (Matthew 17:5)

Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and you perish in the way, when His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him. (Psalm 2:12)

We Are NOT Invited --

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We are commanded.

CHRIST JESUS preached the Gospel of the Kingdom of GOD -- Repent, and believe in the gospel. (Mark 1:15)

John the Baptist cried out in the wilderness -- Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand! (Matthew 3:2)

Paul the Apostle exhorted -- ...repent, turn to GOD, and do works befitting repentance. (Acts 26:20)

Peter the Apostle declared -- Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of JESUS CHRIST for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy SPIRIT.( (Acts 2:38)

The One True GOD is holy. Exalt the LORD our GOD, and worship at His holy hill; for the LORD our GOD is holy. (Psalm 99:9)

GOD hates sin.

The LORD tests the righteous, but the wicked and the one who loves violence His soul hates. (Psalm 11:5) These six things the LORD hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: a proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies,

and one who sows discord among brethren. (Proverbs 6:16-19)

...bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, evil speaking, malice... (Ephesians 4:31) ...adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries... (Galatians 5:19-21)

...evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies... (Matthew 15:19)

unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; whisperers, backbiters, haters of GOD, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful... (Romans 1:29-31) ...debased mind... vile passions (Romans 1:26-27)

Because GOD is good -- because He is a holy and righteous GOD -- He must judge and punish sin. The wrath of GOD is what each sinner has in store for all eternity.

The Good News -- Sinless GOD the Son drank the bitter cup of GOD the Father's wrath that was meant for you and me... for all sinners. JESUS was the Lamb sacrificed on the Cross at Calvary and took upon Himself the full, unabated deluge of the wrath of GOD for all of mankind's sins -- past, present and future.

All of us have broken the Ten Commandments of GOD. All of us have done those sins that GOD hates. We deserve the punishment from GOD, the Creator who is infinitely holy and just.

The Good News -- Blameless Son of GOD took our punishment and died in our stead -- the scourging, the crown of thorns, the nails hammered in His hands and feet, the abandonment of the Father -- the unabated wrath of GOD.

All of humankind are born with sin-nature. There is no one good -- NOT ONE (Psalm 53:3). All have sinned. All have broken the first and foremost commandment -- love the LORD your GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. (Matthew 22:37) All have done evil in the sight of a holy GOD.

The Good News -- CHRIST accomplished the atoning work He and the Father have ordained before the foundation of the world. It is finished! (John 19:30)

GOD is holy Judge... He must punish evil, sinful man -- you and me... all sinners. No one escapes His judgment. No one escapes His righteous wrath.

GOD is also perfect love... He provided the Substitute -- CHRIST JESUS. He paid in full all our sin-debts.

Now JESUS commands a response. He doesn't invite you to receive Him -- He commands us to repent -- to turn from our sins... to turn to Him. Repent, and believe in the gospel!

Charles Haddon Spurgeon (excerpt from Faith and Repentance Inseparable in italics) remarked "that the gospel which CHRIST preached was, very plainly, a command... though He condescended to reason, to persuade, to invite, and to beseech, still His gospel had in it all the dignity and force of a command; and if we would preach it in these days as CHRIST did, we must proclaim it as a command from GOD, attended with a divine sanction, and not to be neglected save at the infinite peril of the soul.

Repent is as much a command of GOD as You shall not steal. Believe on the LORD JESUS CHRIST has as fully a divine authority as You shall love the LORD your GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength. Think not, O men, that the gospel is a thing left to your option to choose it or not! Dream not, O sinners, that you may despise the Word from heaven and incur no guilt! Think not that you may neglect it and no ill consequences shall follow! It is just this neglect and despising of yours which shall fill up the measure of your iniquity. It is this concerning which we cry aloud, How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation! GOD commands you to repent.

It is one of the saddest proofs of man's utter depravity that he will not obey this command, but that he will despise CHRIST, and so make his doom worse than the doom of Sodom and Gomorrah.

"Repentance is to leave

the sins we loved before,
And show that we in earnest grieve, by doing so no more."

To repent does mean a change of mind; but then it is a thorough change of the understanding and all that is in the mind, so that it includes an illumination, an illumination of the Holy SPIRIT; and I think it includes a discovery of iniquity and a hatred of it, without which there can hardly be a genuine repentance. We must not, I think, undervalue repentance. It is a blessed grace of GOD the Holy SPIRIT, and it is absolutely necessary unto salvation.

...a repentance which makes me weep and abhor my past life because of the love of CHRIST which has pardoned it, is the right repentance.

...the repentance which makes us avoid present sin because of the love of GOD who died for us, this also is saving repentance.

...when I avoid it and seek to lead a holy life because CHRIST loved me and gave Himself up for me, and because I am not my own, but am bought with a price, this is the work of the SPIRIT of GOD.

The repentance which is here commanded is the result of faith; it is born at the same time with faith—they are twins... It is a great mystery... the fact being that they come into the soul together.

Believe the gospel. Faith means trust in CHRIST.

No faith can be genuine but such as is perfectly consistent with repentance for past sin... no faith is true but that which is linked with a hearty and sincere repentance on account of past sin.

Why, dear friends, do you expect to be saved while you are in your sins? Are you to be allowed to love your iniquities, and yet go to heaven? What, you think to have poison in your veins, and yet be healthy? What, man, keep the thief in doors, and yet be acquitted of dishonesty? Be stained, and yet be thought spotless? Harbour the disease and yet be in health? Ridiculous! Absurd! The demand for a change of heart is absolutely necessary; it is but a reasonable service.

This is a command which demands immediate obedience.

"Today," the gospel always cries, for if it tolerated sin a single day, it were an unholy gospel. If the gospel told men to repent of sin tomorrow, it would give them an allowance to continue in it today, and that would indeed be to pander to men's lusts. But the gospel makes a clean sweep of sin, and demands of man that he should throw down the weapons of his rebellion now.

Sinner, it is your time. This is the only time you can call your own. Tomorrow! Is there such a thing? In what calendar is it written save in the almanack of the fool?

...on the great white throne the Judge shall sit, there will be not a man, or woman, or child, able to make excuse and say, "I did not hear the gospel; I did not know what I must do to be saved!" You have heard it: Repent, and believe the gospel. That is, trust CHRIST; believe that He is able and willing to save you." (Words of C. H. Spurgeon -- updated English and emphasis mine.)

The Gospel of CHRIST JESUS is not an invitation -- it is a command from GOD that demands a response today.

WHAT Will You Do About JESUS?

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We are all born to die -- it's guaranteed fact. It's not an if, but a when.

JESUS came down from the heavenlies -- born to die as sin-bearing GODman. It's historical fact that He existed and died on the Cross. Whether or not we believe that He is GOD Who died for our sins will decide our personal destiny -- for every soul is resurrected to everlasting life: to Hell or to Heaven. (John 5:28-29)

When we are asked, "Do you know JESUS CHRIST?" -- do we really know the facts about Him?

JESUS alone fulfilled 365 messianic prophecies.

JESUS alone performed countless miracles -- supernatural acts only GOD can do -- for the whole three years of His earthly ministry. (John 21:25)

JESUS appeared in bodily form to His disciples and to over 500 others after He rose from the tomb. (1 Corinthians 15:6)

If a court of law were to judge JESUS' veracity, His credentials as noted above would far exceed the needed evidence to validate His claim -- He is GOD incarnate... the Great I AM... Sovereign LORD!

From His own mouth, JESUS said:

"No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven." (John 3:13)

The (Samaritan) woman said to Him, "I know that Messiah is coming" (who is called CHRIST). "When He comes, He will tell us all things." "I who speak to you am He." (John 4:25-26)

"My Father has been working until now, and I have been working." Therefore the Jews (the religious leaders) sought all the more to kill Him, because He not only broke the Sabbath, but also said that GOD was His Father, making Himself equal with GOD. (John 5:17-18)

"For as the Father raises the dead and gives life to them, even so the Son gives life to whom He will." (John 5:21)

"But I have a greater witness than John's (the Baptist); for the works which the Father has given Me to finish—the very works that I do—bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me. (John 5:36)

"You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me." (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Ruth, 1-2 Samuel, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, Job, Psalms 2, 22, 23, 24, 27, 30, 31, 34, 35, 38, 40, 41, 45, 49, 55, 68, 69, 72, 78, 89, 90, 91, 97, 100, 102, 109, 110, 112, 118, 132, 138, 147, Proverbs 8, Song of Solomon, Isaiah 2, 25:8, 26, 28:16, 29, 32, 33, 35, 40, 42, 43, 44, 45, 48, 49, 50, 52, 53, 55, 59, 60-63, 65, 66, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Micah, Haggai, Amos, Habakkuk, Zechariah, Malachi.)

"Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." (John 2:19) Speaking of His body as a temple, JESUS prophesied His own death and resurrection.

"He who has seen Me has seen the Father..." (John 14:9)

"No one comes to the Father except through Me." (John 14:6)

"I AM the Bread of Life." (John 6:35, 41, 48, 51)
"I AM the Light of the world." (John 8:12)
"I AM the Door of the sheep." (John 10:7, 9)
"I AM the Good Shepherd." (John 10:11, 14)
"I AM the Resurrection and the Life." (John 11:25)
"I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life." (John 14:6)
"I AM the true Vine." (John 15:1, 5)

After JESUS' resurrection -- He said to Thomas, "Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing." And Thomas answered and said to Him, "My LORD and my GOD!" "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." (John 20:27-29)

In the Gospel according to John, it is written: And there are also many other things that JESUS did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen. (John 21:25)

JESUS' ministry lasted three years -- He fulfilled over 300 Old Testament prophecies about the coming Messiah and performed countless miracles of healing (the blind, sick, lame, demon-possessed); feeding thousands; forgiving many; raising the dead.

Although John documented only seven miracles to represent the countless many that he saw JESUS perform, these seven supernatural signs give infallible proof of the deity of JESUS as GOD the Son and Messiah.

John MacArthur of Grace to You, explains John's written account of these seven particular miracles of JESUS that point to His deity (John MacArthur's Study Bible, p 1579):

"Turns water into wine -- JESUS is the Source of life. (John 2:1-12)
Heals a nobleman's son -- JESUS is master over distance. (John 4:46-54)
Heals a lame man at the pool of Bethesda -- JESUS is master over time. (John 5:1-17)
Feeds 5,000 -- JESUS is the Bread of life. (John 6:1-14)
Walks on water, stills a storm -- JESUS is master over nature. (John 6:15-21)
Heals a man blind from birth -- JESUS is the Light of the world. (John 9:1-41)
Raises Lazarus from the dead -- JESUS has power over death. (John 11:17-45)"

Only JESUS has defeated death -- His resurrection is a fact. Only JESUS has fulfilled the prophecies of the coming Messiah. Only JESUS has claimed and proven that He is I AM.

Those who praise Him as the greatest teacher who ever lived, or as a prophet sent from GOD, or as a holy one are on the side of error, for that would make JESUS a liar... the greatest liar who ever lived. And the apostles, the martyred disciples, the church -- all liars... or lunatics.

JESUS claimed to be GOD. Is He a liar, lunatic or LORD?

The verdict came in 2,000 years ago -- the overwhelming evidence of fulfilled prophecies and countless miracles attest to it. JESUS is The Holy One. He is the Messiah. CHRIST JESUS is GOD.

But JESUS is not the one on trial -- we are. When we are presented with the Gospel of Peace, the truth about CHRIST JESUS, we must respond. Our very lives depend on our response.

What will you do about JESUS?

DEATH of self -- COUNT the COST

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All things i can do through CHRIST Who strengthens me.

(Philippians 4:13)

FACTS:

The persecution of Christians is religious persecution that CHRISTians sometimes undergo as a consequence of professing their faith, both historically and in the current era. In the two thousand years of the CHRISTian faith, about 70 million believers have been killed for their faith, of whom 45.5 million or 65% were in the twentieth century according to "The New Persecuted" ("I Nuovi Perseguitati"). 200 million CHRISTians are persecuted in the world, especially in Arabia and parts of Asia. (You will be hated by all nations for My name's sake...many will be offended. Matthew 24:9-10a)

Christian Solidarity International. Global reports indicate that over 150,000 CHRISTians were martyred last year, chiefly outside of the United States.

More CHRISTians are in prison or under detention in China than in any other country. House churches (unregistered churches), which make up approximately 90 percent of China’s CHRISTians, endure unimaginable persecution. But they stand by their commitment to preach the gospel, no matter the cost. In Tibet, most of the persecution against CHRISTians comes from militant Tibetan Buddhists.

North Korea is the worst perpetrator of persecution against CHRISTians in the world. CHRISTians must practice their faith in deep secrecy and are in constant danger, but many continue to stand strong under relentless persecution. The government considers CHRISTians to be a stability threat, and they are hunted all over the country. Being a CHRISTian carries a more severe punishment than espionage.

The largest number of CHRISTian worshipers in North Korea exists in concentration camps. In addition, one out of four CHRISTian prisoners are sent to political prison camps where prisoners almost never leave. Experts estimate that of the 200,000 people incarcerated in political prison camps, at least 40,000 are CHRISTians.

Many North Korean CHRISTians have fled to China, where there are an estimated 200,000 to 300,000 North Koreans. The Chinese government offers a bounty for North Korean refugees equal to one year’s salary. When refugees are caught, they are returned to North Korea, where they face torture, imprisonment and often death. This year the UN’s Human Rights Council passed a resolution expressing concern at “ongoing grave, widespread and systematic human rights violations” in North Korea.

Despite this horrific oppression, some CHRISTians have returned to North Korea to share the Gospel. As many as 100,000 are thought to worship secretly. In 2009, the authorities are said to have stepped up their surveillance of CHRISTians, and house searches are said to be more rigorous than in the past. Across North Korea, CHRISTians continue to pray privately for evangelism and unity.

Saudi Arabia is the second most repressive nation in the world for CHRISTians. Converts from Islam to CHRISTianity are rare in this nation. Barriers to spreading the Gospel are intense. Leaving Islam is punishable by death. Anyone who does mission work or converts a Muslim faces jail, expulsion, lashing, torture or execution. Public non-Muslim worship, even for foreign CHRISTians, is prohibited. CHRISTians are regularly imprisoned or deported, and CHRISTian churches are banned.

In Sudan, thirty years of persecution has not stopped the growth of the Sudanese church. Most expatriate missionaries have left, but national leaders remain committed to evangelism. Life continues to be difficult as the country struggles for stability, but pastors are begging for Bibles and CHRISTian training items rather than material aid. Today the great needs in southern Sudan are to build up the faith of new CHRISTians, to help young and old recover from traumatic experiences and to provide a strong CHRISTian foundation for believers.

TESTIMONIES:

When teenager Cassie Bernall left home for another day of classes at Columbine High School, she had no idea that she wouldn’t be coming home. Later that day, when an armed schoolmate asked if she believed in GOD, this recently redeemed girl said, “Yes”. That one word, a testament and defense of her faith in the face of grave danger, was the last word that Cassie spoke before being shot to death.

The young brown-eyed girl looked up at her mother. What would she decide? Earlier that morning, the young girl's mother, their pastor, and twenty-six others in her North Korean village of GokSan were bound and taken before a screaming crowd of Communists. One of the guards ordered Pastor Kim and the other CHRISTians, "Deny CHRIST, or you will die." The words chilled her. How could they ask her to deny JESUS? She knew in her heart He was real. They all quietly refused.

Then the Communist guard shouted directly at the adult CHRISTians, "Deny CHRIST, or we will hang your children." The young girl looked up at her mother. She gripped her and knowing how much her mom loved her. Her mother then leaned down. With confidence and peace she whispered, "Today, my love, I will see you in heaven."

All of the children were hanged.

The remaining believers were then brought out onto the pavement and forced to lie down in front of a huge steamroller. The Communists gave them one last chance. "Deny this JESUS or you will be crushed." The CHRISTians had already given up their children; there was no turning back. As the driver started the heavy piece of equipment, the singing from the villagers started softly...

"More love, O CHRIST to Thee, more love to Thee."

The man who was born blind whom JESUS healed was cast out -- unsynagogued -- by the Pharisees (the rulers of traditional Jewish laws). Because the man who was given sight by JESUS believed and worshipped Him as LORD, he was reviled by the Pharisees and no longer permitted to worship in the synagogue or have any part in that society's traditional lifestyle. (John 9, John MacArthur sermon)

Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented... (Hebrews 11:35-37)

Foxe's Book of Martyrs documents the persecution of CHRISTians from the time of the Apostles up to 1819. Many were crucified...many were burned at the stake.

Richard Wurmbrand, the youngest of four boys in a Jewish family, was imprisoned and tortured for 14 years for preaching the Gospel of JESUS CHRIST. Today, The Voice of Martyrs, which he founded in 1967, continues to make people (especially those of the Western countries) aware of the continued persecution of CHRISTians worldwide.

The point of this post is found in Luke 14:28 -- "...don't begin until you count the cost."

GOD the Son fully knew the cost He would pay to be propitiation for our sins. He, through Whom all things were made, Who was in the beginning with GOD the Father, Who is Light and Truth manifest, became lowly flesh, yet remained sinless and perfect. (John 1:1-3)

CHRIST JESUS paid for all our sin-debts. He was scourged that we may be healed. He wore the crown of thorns that we may also be glorified with Him in Heaven. He shed His blood so that we may be covered in His righteousness. He experienced the Father's indescribable wrath against sin poured out onto Him so that we may have peace with our Creator. JESUS died a horrific crucifixion that we may live eternally with Him.

CHRIST gave all that we may be made new creatures, born again, adopted into the family of the One True Living GOD.

Isn't it reasonable then that we also give our all as CHRIST JESUS gave His all? All over the world, then and now, followers of CHRIST have been persecuted for their faith in JESUS as the CHRIST, as Savior of the world and the only path to peace with GOD.

Yet, better to count the cost than to start and not finish. (Luke 14:28-32)

JESUS said, "If you want to be My follower you must love Me more than your own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters--yes, more than your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be My disciple. And you cannot be My disciple if you do not carry your own cross and follow Me... no one can become My disciple without giving up everything for Me." (Luke 14:26, 27, 33)

Count the cost -- before you commit to JESUS as the Pearl of great price, selling everything you have so you may have the Most Precious One (Matthew 13:46); before you acknowledge that He is your Good Shepherd and that you are mere nearsighted sheep (John 10); before you accept Him as your Passover Lamb so that the Angel of Death -- the Destroyer -- may pass over your sinful soul (Exodus 12:13, 23).

Count the cost -- deny your self...even to the death -- for CHRIST alone is worthy of your all.

FAITH TEST: 14 KARAT or FOOL's Gold?

2010-09-02T18:01:00.000-07:00

Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from GOD... This is how you can recognize the SPIRIT of GOD: Every spirit that acknowledges that JESUS CHRIST has come in the flesh is from GOD, but every spirit that does not acknowledge JESUS is not from GOD. (I John 4:1, 2, 3)

Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? ...faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do." As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead. (James 1:16, 22; 2:14, 17-18, 26)

The man who says, "I know GOD," but does not do what He commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But if anyone obeys His Word, GOD's love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in Him: Whoever claims to live in Him must walk as JESUS did. (I John 2:4-6)

Who is the liar? It is the man who denies that JESUS is the CHRIST. Such a man is an anti-CHRIST who denies the Father and the Son. No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also. (1 John 2:22-23)

No one who lives in Him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen Him or known Him. He who does what is right is righteous, just as He is righteous. No one who is born of GOD will continue to sin, because GOD's Seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of GOD. (1 John 3:6, 7, 9).

This is how we know who the children of GOD are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of GOD; nor is anyone who does not love his brother. This is how we know what love is: JESUS CHRIST laid down His life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers...let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. (1 John 3:10, 16, 18)

And this is GOD's command: to believe in the name of His Son, JESUS CHRIST, and to love one another as He commanded us. Those who obey His commands live in Him, and He in them. And this is how we know that He lives in us: We know it by the SPIRIT He gave us. (1 John 3:23-24)

Anyone who believes in the Son of GOD has this testimony in his heart...And this is the testimony: GOD has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of GOD does not have life. (1 John 5:10, 11, 12)

I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of GOD so that you may know that you have eternal life. (1 John 5:13)

Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves... (2 Corinthians 13:5)

The Character of GENUINE SAVING FAITH (John MacArthur's Study Bible)

I. EVIDENCES that NEITHER PROVE NOR DISPROVE ONE'S FAITH

A. Visible morality
B. Intellectual knowledge
C. Religious involvement
D. Active ministry
E. Conviction of sin
F. Assurance
G. Time of decision

II. The FRUIT/PROOFS of AUTHENTIC/TRUE CHRISTIANITY

A. Love for GOD
B. Repentance from sin
C. Genuine humility
D. Devotion to GOD's glory
E. Continual prayer
F. Selfless love
G. Separation from the world
H. Spiritual growth
I. Obedient living
J. Hunger for GOD's Word
K. Transformation of life

If LIST I is true of a person and List II is false, there is cause to question the validity of one's profession of faith. Yet if LIST II is true, then the top list will be also. (John MacArthur)

Therefore, if anyone is in CHRIST, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17)

The one truly born of GOD is characterized by FAITH, LOVE, OBEDIENCE. Not that the follower of CHRIST has been perfected in the flesh -- body, mind, will, emotions -- (for sanctification is a lifetime process), but that his new nature has a different bent : a bent towards righteousness and holiness. He no longer sins habitually or persistently. He is not sinless, but he sins less.

And I trust that you will discover that we have not failed the test. (2 Corinthians 13:6)

Liar, Lunatic or LORD -- The Right Name

2010-08-07T14:18:00.000-07:00

Liar -- a pathological liar is an individual who habitually tells lies so exaggerated or bizarre that they are suggestive of mental disorder.

Can the Holy One who in all ways always walked the perfect Walk and lived the truthful Talk bear false witness? Can the Master Teacher teach untruths and lead His followers to hell? Can the Prophet of GOD prophecy 99.99% of actual events and still be called a prophet sent from GOD?

Was JESUS a liar?

Lunatic -- insane, crazy, demented, madman, maniac... wildly or giddily foolish.

Can a lunatic make a born paralytic walk then leap for joy? or a blind man see through tears of amazement? or a deaf-mute hear then sing praises to the Healer? Can a lunatic cast out multiple demons from one devil-possessed? Can a lunatic miraculously feed 5,000 men (with women and children, the figure could be 20,000-25,000 or more) with but five bread and two fish? Can a lunatic raise a stinking four-day decaying corpse from the grave?

Was JESUS a lunatic?

LORD -- Person having all power and sovereign authority, Master, Most High, Father, Creator, Ruler, King of kings... GOD.

What do you call a Man who lived every single moment of His life without sin? What do you call a Man who can forgive sinners -- even those who conspired to kill Him and those who hammered the nails into His hands and feet? What do you call a Man who suffered excruciating agony during His crucifixion, yet uttered not one blasphemous word?

What do you call a Man who performed countless miracles and healings throughout the three years of His ministry? What do you call a Man who fulfilled all the Old Testament prophecies about the coming Messiah? What do you call a Man who rose from the dead, who went through walls, who was seen by hundreds ascending into heaven?

Was (and is) JESUS... LORD?

Honest, sane men would call this Man LORD... LORD JESUS.

And i, forgiven wretch that i am, call JESUS my LORD, my GOD, my Master.

JESUS is my Way -- He is the Path of righteousness.
JESUS is my Truth -- He is the Word infallible.
JESUS is my Life -- He is the Fountain ever flowing.
JESUS is my LORD, my Master, my GOD.

He is the Shield who protects from the devil's assaults --
The Rock on which true wisdom is built.
He is the King who reigns sovereign --
The Shepherd whose tender care is faithful and true.

He is the Judge who sees the inner man --
The Refuge during trials to whom we run.
He is the Fortress impregnable --
The Avenger of the weak and oppressed.

He is the Creator of all things from no thing --
The Deliverer of those who love and obey Him.
He is the Healer of the brokenhearted --
The Protector of the humble and the meek.

He is the Provider of our daily bread --
The Redeemer of the wretched lost.
He is the Alpha and the Omega --
The Author and Finisher of our faith.

He is the Master Potter --
The Artist Divine of each masterpiece.
He is the Father who knows best --
The One we call Abba, Papa, because we are His own.

JESUS is the Bread of life --
The abundant Nourisher of this child.
He is the Light of the world --
The perfect Guide to this darkened soul.

JESUS is the Door of the sheepfold --
The narrow Gate where this penitent entered.
He is the Good Shepherd --
The Owner of this prodigal sheep.

JESUS is the Resurrection and the Life --
The Promise Keeper in whom absolutely i trust.
He is the true Vine --
The eternal Source in whom i cling.

JESUS is the Way, the Truth and the Life --
He is my way, my truth and my life --
Forever and ever.

C. S. Lewis wrote in Mere CHRISTianity:

I am trying to prevent anyone saying the really foolish thing that people often say about Him: "I'm ready to accept JESUS as a great moral teacher, but I don't accept His claim to be GOD." That is the one thing we must not say. A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things JESUS said would either be a lunatic -- on the level with the man who says he is a poached egg -- or else he would be the devil from hell.

You must make your choice. Either this Man was and is, the Son of GOD -- or else a madman or something worse. You can shut Him up for a fool; you can spit at Him and kill Him as a demon; or you can fall at His feet and call Him LORD and GOD. But let us not come with any patronizing nonsense about His being a great moral teacher. He has not left that open to us.

We are faced, then, with a frightening alternative. This Man we are talking about either was (and is) just what He said or else a lunatic, or something worse. Now it seems to me obvious that He was neither a lunatic nor a fiend; and consequently, however strange or terrifying or unlikely it may seem, I have to accept the view that He was and is GOD.

Liar, lunatic or LORD? Who is JESUS to you?

FILLED with the SPIRIT

2010-07-18T19:54:00.000-07:00

(The following are the gifts which delighted my spirit as the SPIRIT led me on a rambling GODventureZ bike ride to Coronado.)

Having read A. W. Tozer's Life in the SPIRIT -- i felt confirmation that i was indeed being "filled" by the SPIRIT. As a follower of CHRIST JESUS, i know that i am no longer under any eternal condemnation for the sins i've committed (and continue to commit in this flesh which my born-again spirit is housed -- the "flesh" is anything to do with the body: its material substance, heart/mind, thoughts, will, habits, actions, words, personality, ambitions). The LORD JESUS redeemed me (paid for all my sin-debts) with His own precious blood that was shed on the Cross at Calvary. All my sins -- past, present and future -- were cancelled out when i repented and turned to GOD for forgiveness and asked CHRIST JESUS to be LORD and Master of my life.

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in CHRIST JESUS, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the SPIRIT. For the Law of the SPIRIT of life in CHRIST JESUS has made me free from the Law of sin and death. (Romans 8:1-2)

Such matchless gift is from the grace of GOD, which i received with utter gratefulness, knowing that i did not deserve GOD's merciful pardon; nor could i ever repay even one iota of the indescribable gift of salvation -- freed from the slavery of my sin nature -- born again of the Holy SPIRIT... a new creature in CHRIST, indwelt by the living SPIRIT.

In the past, i've prayed to be filled by the Holy SPIRIT -- having made a conscious and willful commitment of surrendering all to CHRIST. As Oswald Chambers has written, true surrender is "giving up my rights to my rights." To me, true surrender is acknowledging that "my" all is not really mine at all, but the all that i've been given were all from GOD. My very life...each breath i breathe... the very body in which my soul moves -- all are His gifts. For the world is Mine, and all its fullness. (Psalm 50:12b)

What does it mean to be "filled" by the Holy SPIRIT? It's like being a doulos to a kurios -- a slave to his master. Since CHRIST bought me with His own shed blood, redeeming me from a literal eternal Hell -- therefore, He owns me. i am His to do as He purposes. i am as clay to the Master Potter. i am as the brush to the Master Artist.

So to be filled by indwelling GOD the Holy SPIRIT is to be controlled, dominated, mastered in everything and all that i am. The SPIRIT has all the keys to all the rooms of my house -- He also owns the deed! i am His possession.

The SPIRIT is GOD... is CHRIST JESUS -- He is my Sovereign LORD. i am His child, obedient to the authority of the heavenly Father. i am His student, following the teachings of the Master Teacher. i am His slave, serving to please only Him. A student is not greater than the teacher. A servant is not greater than the master. (Matthew 10:24)

But to me -- being controlled and mastered by GOD the Holy SPIRIT is a privilege -- a priceless gift indeed.

To be owned by the Divine Designer who created the cosmos is "status" indeed.

To be instructed by the greatest Teacher and Counselor Who ever lived (and now sits at the right hand of GOD the Father) is blessing indeed. For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty GOD, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

To be provided for and nourished by the infinitely abundant Provider and Giver of all good things is security indeed. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. (James 1:17)

To be empowered to overcome my human frailties by the same power that raised JESUS from the grave is supernatural strength indeed. The SPIRIT of GOD, who raised JESUS from the dead, lives in you. And just as He raised CHRIST from the dead, He will give life to your mortal body by this same SPIRIT living within you. (Romans 8:11)

To be comforted by the most tenderhearted and compassionate Comforter is peace and solace indeed. But You, O LORD, are a GOD full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth. (Psalm 86:15)

To be loved by the indescribable Lover Himself, who gave up His own Son, Who gave up His very life to save such a wretch as myself (and all others who would entrust their lives to Him and follow Him wherever He leads) -- to rest in this unfathomable love is contentment indeed. For GOD so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)

It is no longer difficult to surrender my all to such GOD who is Love manifest in CHRIST JESUS. This is real love. It is not that we loved GOD, but that He loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. (1 John 4:10)

On this Saturday, as blogged in GODventureZ -- i asked to be filled with the SPIRIT, who is the SPIRIT of JESUS, who is in GOD the Father... to lead me wherever He desires. Rather than attending a Zumba master-class, i was happily persuaded to spend the day with Him -- my Constant Companion -- to just be being led, one step at a time... pedaling leisurely with no clock or agenda to follow.

The SPIRIT answered my prayer with this experience of consciously and knowingly being filled with His presence during the GODventureZome bike ride to Coronado.

The pictures above documented the real gifts that the SPIRIT generously bestowed as i joyfully obeyed His gentle leading -- the vibrant flowers that He made me see not only with my physical eyes, but also with the eyes of my heart; the bird calls that He attuned for my ears to hear, but also as music for my soul; the songs that journeyed from my heart and spilled from my lips; the constant smile that was the evidence of the joy that He shed abroad in my spirit. If you can remember your lightness of being when you first fell in love, you can identify with this fullness of joy.

And the gift that made "my cup runneth over" -- the hat to replace the one i gave away in Taveuni. The LORD is my Shepherd; i shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though i walk through the valley of the shadow of death, i will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and i will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. (Psalm 23)

SEVEN LAST WORDS And 29 Tomatoes

2010-07-10T19:35:00.000-07:00

Most of us display our sin nature -- the far-from-perfect "old man" -- when we are not at our best (or not getting our own way). When someone on the freeway is driving at 53mph, we impatiently call him "#@%Sunday Driver!" Or when a cyclist splatters road-side mud all over our just-coiffed French poodle, we might point that very expressive finger. Or when we smash the not-so-funny funny-bone of our elbow, we might yelp out some four-letter word. Or when we are reeling with a migraine, and we just can't be bothered with putting on our social manners.

When we are hurting, whether physically, emotionally or mentally, we are challenged to exhibit our better nature... and almost always, we fail. Because we are focused on our own pain -- our mouth will usually express our "old man" nature -- with thoughtless expletives... with unkind, ungentle, unworthy words. (For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. Luke 6:45b)

JESUS -- during His excruciating agony on the Cross -- did not sin. Not one word of unkindness or unworthiness came out of His mouth. Because JESUS was sinless, righteous through and through, Who was not tainted with man's "old man" nature, but characterized with His Father's own nature -- perfect holiness -- everything that came out of His mouth during his ultimate suffering was perfect and good.

JESUS -- as He experienced unbelievable pain -- the crown of thorns digging into His head, the gaping lacerations from the cruel scourging screaming intolerable agony as His body dragged on the rugged beam when He raised Himself up to gasp for breath, the bloody pierced hands and feet afire with indescribable pain...

JESUS -- Son of Man -- never uttered blasphemy. He did not curse His killers. He never complained. He did not blame GOD. He never sinned. CHRIST, GOD the Son, died sinless -- leaving us an example in His dying to follow in our living.

CHRIST left us seven sayings before He died on the Cross. With these seven last words of JESUS, we can follow His example of dying so that we may live, pleasing GOD, our Father in Heaven. (Below is a summary of John MacArthur's sermon on JESUS' Death Shows Us How To Live... illustrated with My Backyard tomatoes.)

The first saying of JESUS was, "Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34) JESUS forgave those who rejected Him, who insulted Him, who did not believe Him (despite the countless miracles He did which testified to His authenticity as GOD the Son), who plotted His death, who cast their vote to kill Him, who spat on Him, who pulled the hair off His beard, who beat Him with their fists, who scourged Him to the point where He was unrecognizable, who hammered the nails in His hands and feet...He forgave His killers. He forgave -- and still forgives all who have fallen off the True Vine.

And as followers of CHRIST, we must also forgive all who have personally hurt us, however great or small the pain inflicted upon us -- 70 x 7 (Matthew 18:21-22)... for if the Master, Kurios, forgave even those who murdered Him, so must His doulos -- His slaves -- also forgive all.

The second saying of JESUS was, "Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise." (Luke 23:43) Even in His unbearable agony, JESUS kept true to His mission -- to save the lost. The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost. (Luke 19:10) The thief on the cross next to JESUS believed in JESUS as the Messiah, the CHRIST.

It was no accident that there were two sinners crucified with JESUS -- one to enter into paradise, the other into hell. The repentant thief recognized JESUS as sinless and undeserving the verdict of death. The unrepentant sinner continued to blaspheme JESUS. The repentant sinner acknowledged that JESUS was King and that He will rule in His Kingdom, for he said, "Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom." (Luke 23:42) The penitent believed that JESUS will be resurrected, for a dead king cannot come into his kingdom -- but a resurrected King can.

And CHRIST, ever set on His mission to save the lost, even in His dying, was mindful to include this lost man... the repentant thief. Those who are CHRIST's own must also be zealous about reaching the lost -- no matter if rejected, mocked, or even persecuted. If JESUS is our LORD, we must do as He exemplified -- showing others the Door to eternal paradise.

The third saying of JESUS were the words, "Woman, behold your son!" "Behold your mother!" (John 19:26, 27) During this point in His physical agony, JESUS showed compassion for someone else. Even in His most intense pain, He was able to see beyond His own suffering. JESUS knew His mother Mary needed someone to comfort her when He left the physical world to ascend to Heaven, back to His Father. He didn't want to leave Mary with the yet unbelieving half-brothers and -sisters. So He gave the responsibility of taking care of His widowed mother to John, the apostle whom JESUS loved.

That's our example when we are going through our own trials and life's challenges. To not be so inwardly focused on our own problems, on our own personal needs, that we forget to help those who may be in worse shape. And even if they are not in a place of suffering as much as we believe we are -- helping others, focusing on others' needs is the Way that has been set for us to follow. If we are truly GOD's children, then we will love our brothers and sisters In CHRIST as much as we love ourselves.

The fourth saying of JESUS was, "My GOD, My GOD, why have You forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46) This was the climax of JESUS' agonizing ordeal: separation from the Father. This was the worst of the worst. This was the moment He didn't want to drink from that bitter cup at the garden in Gethsemane. As Son of Man in the flesh, He dreaded the unleashing of GOD's wrath resulting in the separation from His Father -- more than the physical torture of the Cross. JESUS knew the implication of sin -- separation from GOD.

John MacArthur aptly puts it, "Sin could do what nothing else in the universe could do. Men could not separate the Father from the Son...demons could not separate the Father from the Son...satan could not separate the Father from the Son...but sin separated the Father from the Son. It is the most devastating reality in the universe for it separates from GOD. And He experienced it... He who was in the Father and the Father in Him, He who was one with the Father and the Father one with Him, He who had enjoyed eternally uninterrupted perfect communion within the trinity is now forsaken by GOD. Why? Because He's bearing sin and sin separates. GOD is too holy to look on sin, to pure to behold iniquity, says the prophet Habakkuk. Sin alienates from GOD."

GOD's abandonment of JESUS teaches us that our sin separates us from intimate fellowship with GOD.

The fifth saying of JESUS was, "I am thirsty." (John 19:28) JESUS expressed His humanity... His need for someone to give Him a drink. This saying of CHRIST teaches us that we too must live dependently... humbly showing our human weaknesses -- to live, accepting help from others.

The sixth saying of JESUS was, "It is finished." (John 19:30) This was a triumphant declaration that the mission the Father had sent Him to do, He had accomplished. And so, we live, following this example of CHRIST. We aren't here just to run the race of life willy-nilly -- to start and fall on the wayside, or take a short-cut, or take a wrong turn -- or to just "up and die." It's not enough to say, "i ran part of the way" --or -- "i almost finished." We are here to finish the work GOD has purposed for us to do through the empowerment of the indwelling Holy SPIRIT.

The seventh and last saying of JESUS was, "Father, into Thy hands I commit My spirit." (Luke 23:46) JESUS, even at the point of death, continued to trust the Father, depending on His promise of resurrection. And that's how we must also live -- trusting our Father for everything, casting all our cares on Him. We must entrust and commit all parts of our lives -- even our death... and resurrection to Him. "But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him." (Luke 12:5)

The life JESUS lived was exemplary -- He was the Master at living, and we are His students. But even in His death, JESUS gave us an example on how to live. At His most excruciating agony, He exemplified the Way to live -- to live forgiving others; to live sharing the Truth that leads to Heaven; to live doing more for others' well-being than one's own; to live knowing the destructive consequence of sin; to live humbly accepting our human frailties; to live with the single-minded focus of finishing the work GOD has purposed for us to do; and to live fully trusting and committing our lives in the hands of our almighty and ever-faithful Father -- GOD in Heaven.

Live as JESUS died...

The PARABLE of the TEN Tomatoes

2010-07-03T12:21:00.000-07:00

Pastor Jim Baize of Ocean View Church told a parable about ten apples during one of his Sunday sermons. i don't have ten apples to illustrate the parable, but i do have ten, just-picked, fresh tomatoes from the backyard. (This is my take on the parable.)

As a Bible-believing follower of CHRIST JESUS, i believe that everything was created by the one true sovereign GOD -- our Father in Heaven. Therefore, since He is Creator of everything (including me...though He used the physical birth process through my earthly parents to bring me into the world -- Psalm 139:13-16), it makes perfect sense to me that GOD owns everything, including me -- my life, all that i am, and all that i have today. All are gifts from GOD.

The tomatoes in the backyard were planted by my uncle Ricardo and tended by my mom Rose...but GOD gave the increase. I have planted, Apollos watered; but GOD gave the increase. (1 Corinthians 3:6)

These are the early summer bounty of tomatoes, ready for eating...GOD's gifts. (These illustrate but a portion of all the many blessings received each new day.)

These biggest three, i'll use for my grilled cheese sandwich... nothing like a hot off-the-grill cheese and tomato sandwich when famished! (These represent top priorities -- family, health, time.)

These other three, i will use for salsa...with chopped cilantro, onion, jalapeno pepper and ripe avocado. Scooped up with tortilla chips, it's fun food for the 4th of July Independence Day celebration. (These three illustrate what are also very important -- friends, art, personal goals.)

These other three beauties will be healthy snacks -- just sliced and lightly salted. (And these represent lifestyle, money, material necessities.)

Hmmm...this one is certainly not the best. Perhaps i'll give it to my next-door neighbor. It's still usable -- the spoiled part can be cut out and and the rest diced... it'll be perfect for an omelet. (The Holy SPIRIT uses the Conscience to convict: This does not put into practice JESUS' command to love one's neighbor as oneself. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. Matthew 22:39)

The story above is about giving back just a portion of what GOD has given. GOD doesn't demand our little bit, nor does He need any of it. He does deserve utmost honor and heartfelt worship, for He is the Giver of all life and all good things. And the part we offer to honor and worship Him must be the best part -- the firstfruits of our time, our talents, our money, our good works -- our very soul. Fear the LORD your GOD, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the LORD your GOD with all your heart and with all your soul... (Deuteronomy 10:12)

And as soon as the commandment came abroad, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of corn, wine, and oil, and honey, and of all the increase of the field; and the tithe of all things brought they in abundantly. (2 Chronicles 31:5)

Giving back to GOD is worship... it is thanksgiving... it is obedience for the child of GOD.

To me, GOD owns everything -- GOD controls everything. It is satan's lie that tells me i deserve to take the best for me, myself and i. He has pulled the wool over my eyes if i believe that the money i have is mine to use just for me, myself and i because i made it. And i would be a fool to believe that i have control over my body, my life, my destiny. Indeed, You have made my days as handbreadths, and my age is as nothing before You; certainly every man at his best state is but vapor. (Psalm 39:5)

Everything i have -- my body, my daily bread, my very life -- are all from GOD. Even my salvation -- my eternal destiny -- is my most precious gift from Him. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. (James 1:17) By the grace of GOD, i am.

As a child of the Father, as a doulos to the Master, as clay to the Potter -- i "tithe"... i give back to GOD what He owns anyway.

Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house, and try Me now in this, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it. (Malachi 3:10)

Through offerings, i give back a portion of the money He allows me to use. Through church ministries and fellowship, i give back the time He permits me to live out. Through sharing His Word (rLn art, blogs, OFF the WALL), i declare -- out of utter gratefulness and love -- that CHRIST alone is Savior and Giver of everlasting Life.

i give back to GOD what He has always owned -- my life. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for GOD loves a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9:7) After what CHRIST JESUS has done -- suffered intolerable agony on the Cross as atoning sacrifice so that sinners like me may be saved from eternal Hell -- it is but my reasonable service to offer my body, my life... a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to GOD... (Romans 12:1)

NO One Is GOOD But ONE

2010-06-03T21:02:00.001-07:00

Now behold, one came and said to Him (JESUS), "Good Teacher, what good thing shall i do that i may have eternal life?" So He said to him, "Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, GOD. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments." (Matthew 19:16-17)

The TEN COMMANDMENTS:

1 You shall have no other gods before Me.
2 You shall not make to yourself any graven image.
3 You shall not take the name of the LORD your GOD in vain.
4 Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.
5 Honor your father and mother.
6 You shall not kill.
7 You shall not commit adultery.
8 You shall not steal.
9 You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
10 You shall not covet. (Exodus 20:1-17)

If your GOD is not the One True GOD as revealed in His Word, the Holy Scriptures; or if you've loved money, your job, your self (or any other person or thing) more than GOD -- you've broken the First Commandment of GOD, Sovereign Creator of all the heavens and all the earth.

If you've prayed to a statue of Buddha, the Virgin Mary, a "sacred cow" or your "good luck" charm on your gold bracelet -- or "bowed down" to your Corvette or Hummer -- you've broken the Second Commandment of GOD. (Any idol or even just a concept of GOD that is inaccurate is an idol, a violation of the second commandment.)

If you've cussed using GOD's name, spoken the name of the LORD JESUS CHRIST as an expletive -- you've broken the Third Commandment of GOD.

If you've not honored GOD on the one day of the week He declared as your day of rest and worship (whether Saturday or Sunday, depending on your religious affiliation) -- you've broken the Fourth Commandment of GOD.

If you've disrespected or mistreated your parents in any way -- you've broken the fifth Commandment of GOD.

If you've gotten angry at someone without just cause (road rage anyone?) -- you've broken the sixth Commandment of GOD. (JESUS said, "But I say, if you are angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the high council. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell." Matthew 5:22, NLT)

If you've lusted after a woman (or man) who's not your spouse, even without committing the actual physical sexual act; or if you're into pornography -- you've broken the seventh Commandment of GOD. (JESUS said, "Whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart." Matthew 5:28)

If you've "borrowed" someone's property without permission or stolen anything, even if it's only a pen from the office or a pack of gum from the store: you're a thief -- you've broken the eighth Commandment of GOD.

If you've gossiped or lied, even if it's a "white" lie or 99.9% truth, you're a liar -- you've broken the ninth Commandment of GOD.

If you've ever coveted something that didn't belong to you (covet = to long inordinately or unlawfully, to hanker after something forbidden, to wish, long or crave for something, especially the property of another person) -- you've broken the tenth Commandment of GOD.

If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. (1 John 1:8)

If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. (1 John 1:10)

As it is written: "There is none righteous, no, not one." (Romans 3:10; Psalm 14:3)

The Day of Judgment is when GOD's longsuffering and love are perfectly manifested with His holy righteousness and justice. "That Day of Judgment will come," says the Sovereign LORD. "Everything will happen just as I have declared it." (Ezekiel 39:8)

JESUS said, "But all who reject Me and My message will be judged at the Day of Judgment by the truth I have spoken." (John 12:48)

But no, you won't listen. So you are storing up terrible punishment for yourself because of your stubbornness in refusing to turn from your sin. For there is going to come a Day of Judgment when GOD, the just Judge of all the world, will judge all people according to what they have done. (Romans 2:5-6)

The day will surely come when GOD, by JESUS CHRIST, will judge everyone's secret life. (Romans 2:16)

The Day of Judgment is like the Law of Gravity -- you can't see "gravity" itself with the naked eye, but its effects are 100% guaranteed -- whether you believe it or not. If you step off a 250-story skyscraper because you don't believe in the Law of Gravity -- you will be scraped off the sidewalk that caught your free-flight downwards.

Likewise, the Day of Judgment -- whether you believe in it or not -- will come. GOD said so. It is written in His Holy Book. GOD's Word is Truth. It is Revelation already fulfilled and about to be fulfilled -- The LORD Almighty says, "The day of judgment is coming, burning like a furnace. The arrogant and the wicked will be burned up like straw on that day. They will be consumed like a tree--roots and all." (Malachi 4:1)

Get real. Recognize that GOD is a holy and just GOD. You have broken His Ten Commandments -- the Standard by which all mankind will be judged on the coming Day of Judgment -- and you and i will be judged (the unbeliever at the Great White Throne Judgment -- Revelation 20:11-14; the believer at the Bema Judgment).

Repent. See your naked heart the way a holy and righteous GOD sees it -- there are no secrets from GOD. Turn from your sins -- stop being your own god -- and turn to the One True GOD for forgiveness and grace.

For GOD is also Love. He has already provided the means of payment for your sins -- His own blood has redeemed you. He gave His only begotten Son -- CHRIST JESUS -- to be sacrificed on the Cross so that you may be justified in His sight. (John 3:16-18)

Believe in the resurrection of JESUS CHRIST -- it is historical truth -- it is fact. Confess with your mouth that JESUS is LORD, Sovereign King -- GOD the Son. Commit your self to Him... trust Him with your life -- and the Holy SPIRIT will come to live in your body and soul the life of CHRIST. You will become a new creature -- born again in SPIRIT, alive in CHRIST JESUS.

Time is short -- the prophetic signs described in the Bible abound all around us -- just examine world wide events. The latest prophecies concerning Israel were fulfilled in this generation.

Don't sue this messenger or anyone else who comes to you sharing GOD's Word -- the Truth that cannot be denied (though people have tried since Creation). We share only what GOD says in the Bible -- the Truth. We share the Good News out of love for the CHRIST -- JESUS, GOD the Son -- not out of condemnation (for we ourselves were under condemnation), but because we desire that none should perish to eternal condemnation.

For me, it's like this: i see someone lollygagging in the street, with a truck speeding towards him/her. Will i politely ask him to get out of the way...will i take the time to build a relationship with him first before telling him that a truck is about to mow him down? Or will i warn him loudly, "GET OUT OF THE WAY -- A TRUCK IS COMING!"

So i declare and write loudly, "THE HOLY JUDGE IS COMING!"

But just remember that they will have to face GOD, Who will judge everyone, both the living and the dead. (1 Peter 4:5)

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His commandments have good understanding. (Psalm 111:10)

JEANNETTE Langmaack -- PROVERBS 31 Lady

2010-05-28T14:05:00.001-07:00

Jeannette Langmaack...December 11, 1936 -- May 21, 2010.

Our sister in CHRIST, Jeannette, has graduated upwards -- where like Martha's sister, Mary -- she may even now be sitting at the LORD's feet, thoroughly enjoying His company.

Behind Pastor Baize is 1 John 4:16, "GOD is love, and he who abides in love abides in GOD, and GOD in Him." Jeannette certainly abided in CHRIST and the Holy SPIRIT powerfully abided in her. The love of GOD flowed through her and bore good fruit in all the loving deeds He accomplished richly through her humble willingness. Jeannette's joy and love for JESUS touched everyone, including myself. Jeannette's abundant life bore much good fruit!

Jeannette was not just a ship passing in the night...she was a sailboat with sails fully unfurled to all of life, taking in many wanderers from all walks of life, nourishing their bodies and souls with bread from her kitchen and the True Bread from above.

PROVERBS 31 Woman...Jeannette is!

10 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
11 Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.
12 She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
13 She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls.
16 She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.
18 She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night.
19 In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
20 She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.
21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
22 She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
26 She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
27 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
29 "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

31 Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Thank you, Father in Heaven, for gifting us with Jeannette -- for giving us richness of grace through her loving, joyful, GODly presence in our lives.

AGAPE Love -- 1 Corinthians 13

2010-05-07T22:28:00.000-07:00

"To love or not to love...that is the question" -- NOT!

To love as CHRIST loves or not to love as CHRIST loves...THAT is the question. (The word love is in the present tense for JESUS lives.)

How does JESUS love? How does JESUS exemplify true love?

i am a painter of GOD-words (http://ad-for-god.blogspot.com). If i were to paint a portrait of JESUS, using words like brush strokes to describe Him and how He loves, i would find fitting words in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a -- the greatest description of true love ever penned.

The Holy SPIRIT of GOD was the inspiration behind the Apostle Paul's beautiful definition of agape -- unselfish, sacrificial love. GOD the SPIRIT painted a portrait of CHRIST in 1 Corinthians 13 -- the "love" chapter of the New Testament.

JESUS, the CHRIST, is GOD's perfect love manifested in sinless flesh. JESUS is perfect love personified. JESUS is 1 Corinthians 13.

JESUS is patient (with people) and is kind (gracious to people with generosity). JESUS does not envy; JESUS does not parade (brag about) Himself; He is not puffed up (arrogant); JESUS does not behave rudely (or is overbearing); He does not seek His own (but selflessly serves others), He is not provoked (or irritated or angered in personal offense), He thinks no evil -- keeps no record of wrongs; JESUS does not rejoice in iniquity (He finds no pleasure in someone else's sin, even the sin of an enemy), but He rejoices in the truth (He is devoted to the truth).

JESUS bears (protects) all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things (within GOD's righteous and gracious will). JESUS never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a in red; per John MacArthur in blue)

Back to the question, "To love or not to love" -- as CHRIST JESUS loves.

Love is the fulfillment of the Law and Prophets. Love is of GOD -- it is divine. Love is what makes life worth living. To NOT love is to miss out on the real and abundant life.

Love is a verb -- love is action. It's like faith -- good works is the result of faith in action. Sacrificial, unselfish deeds for others is the result of love in action. So how does one live out agape love?

One must honestly examine oneself. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a, replace the word "love" with your name (as i did above, replacing "love" with JESUS). Can one truly and consistently live out all the above qualities of true Love -- agape love? Can one be Love as JESUS was the perfect portrait of Love...even to the death?

You can't and i can't...no one can -- except CHRIST JESUS.

But the Holy SPIRIT -- Omnipotent GOD -- can empower self-seeking mortals to love as JESUS loves. When a repentant sinner believes and trusts in JESUS as LORD and Savior, he receives the Holy SPIRIT to dwell within, empowering the believer to live out the Life of JESUS, which is love in action.

(Receiving the gift of the Holy SPIRIT is as simple as repenting -- changing one's mind about sin, truly seeing one's sin as GOD sees it, and turning to GOD for forgiveness, asking JESUS to come into his heart to be LORD and Master of his life. Or redemption may NOT be so simple if one's pride or self-righteousness blinds oneself to the need of the Redeemer.)

True love, agape, is from above -- from GOD the Father Who gave the Son, Who gave His life to redeem whosoever is willing to trust Him as LORD, Who sent the Holy SPIRIT to empower the believer to live out in actuality the new life of true Love.

To love JESUS or not to love JESUS, THAT is the question.

A EULOGY -- Last GAZILLION Words

2010-04-20T20:38:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone! i hope you are not crying for me! WHY? WHAT for?

i am with JESUS -- my faithful Beloved, my heart's Passion, my ultimate Hero, my best Friend, my indescribable Creator and holy Master, my loving Redeemer.

As you hear (or read) these words, know that i am in bliss -- in heavenly rapture -- wrapped in inexpressible joy that is constant, enveloping this glorified body which i now inhabit, to the deepest recesses of my soul.

Don't weep, let go all sorrow -- rejoice, kick up your heels, clap your hands and dance a jig. Let out a resounding whoop of gladness -- make some noise... no need to be so somber... no need to sing the blues!

i am alive! More alive than i ever was on earth. Everyone here is vibrant -- glowing with unsuppressed energy that is effervescent and invigorating, yet so calm and restful in its awakedness. It's a glorious aliveness that fills my very being -- that radiates from my inner core.

Take off the long faces, put on your smiles. i am more than just fine. i am perfected at last -- a child of GOD who is a "chip off the old Block" -- reflecting the light of CHRIST, my beloved JESUS.

Don't miss me, don't lament my physical absence. Rather, look forward with eager gladness when we'll meet again... those of you who are my brothers and sisters in CHRIST.

Now i know -- my time on earth was but Life 101. It was the life-long process of preparation for eternity. And physical death -- cessation of my earthly existence -- was but the physical entrance to eternal life.

Dearest family and friends -- those of you hearing (or reading) this eulogy -- you only live once in that vulnerable body you now occupy. You only have this brief lifetime to choose which way to go. You only have this one chance to decide your eternal destiny.

It really is black and white. There is no middle grey. Your immediate life after this one depends on how you choose your "colors" -- black or white.

Black is utter darkness and depravity. Black is the total absence of Love and Light. Try to imagine a hellish place, then multiply it a gazillion times...that is "Black."

White is blazing Light and utter Truth. White is the total absence of evil and darkness. Imagine a heavenly paradise, then multiply it a gazillion times -- and it still won't even come close to the Reality of Heaven... that is "White."

And Heaven -- GOD's Kingdom -- is the most wonderFUL, indescribable, amaZZZing, utterly fanTASTIC existence -- it's THE Place to experience eternity... it's the ultimate meaning of being In CHRIST.

HALLELUJAH! i'm here! Once a sinner of old, but now a perfected new creature -- NO words in the human language can describe being in the Presence of GOD! The hosts of angelic beings utter amazing sounds that perfectly honor the One True GOD. But how can i put into earthly words the music of their heavenly worship? You have to be here to hear such wondrous utterances.

It's a good thing i have this glorified body... otherwise i'd burst into a gazillion pieces of joy! If i could return to earth and tell you all that is here -- you'd no longer even remotely desire any of that measly stuff that masquerade as the world's treasures... delectable temptations -- fleeting pleasures that are like the empty calories of fluffy cotton candy. Everything here in Heaven is a gazillion times better in every way -- it's too wonderFUL for earthly language.

Remember when the Holy SPIRIT raised JESUS from the dead and CHRIST walked about in His glorified body? That's how everyone is here! Everyone has boundless energy and overflowing love, barely contained joy, and unfathomable peace of GOD that was but a hint on earth compared to its Reality here in heaven.

And best of all is this unsurpassed delight of being with JESUS -- face to face -- in His Presence all the time. His glorious Presence would overwhelm me with its omnipotence were it not clothed with His unspeakable kindness and gentleness. My whole being sings angelic harmonies -- in utmost reverence and childlike wonder... in awestruck amazement, in utmost gratefulness for the privilege of sharing Heaven with GOD Himself.

So don't cry -- don't shed one more tear. Rejoice and be utterly glad for me. i am free at last!

Freed from decay. Freed from the cursed earth. Freed from hell... forever!

If you haven't yet chosen which way to go, which master to serve, which color to choose -- please choose "white." Pure white is the color of The Word. Pure white is the color of His shed blood. Pure blinding white is the radiant color of our most holy GOD, In CHRIST JESUS.

"Doulos" of CHRIST JESUS -- Slave of GOD

2010-04-11T16:15:00.000-07:00

i was a fully devoted follower of CHRIST JESUS. Today i am a fully devoted slave of JESUS CHRIST.

After listening to John MacArthur's message "Slaves for JESUS CHRIST" -- i discovered that i am a slave of JESUS CHRIST.

GOD's amazing wisdom and unfathomable patience is such that He did not allow this revelation until i had fallen so deeply in love with JESUS that i was able to receive this truth with joyful acceptance.

When i was but a "baby" CHRISTian, i balked at the Bible passages that commanded submission to the husband, meekness in dealing with people, turning the other cheek when attacked, going two miles when forced to do the one, forgiving 70 x 7 that same person, giving to every one who asks or borrows (and not hoping for anything in return), praying for and loving my enemy, even "washing feet."

But in GOD's perfect timing, i heard MacArthur's message with a hallelujah! bursting forth from my heart. It made perfect sense to me.

i "grew up" feeding on the New King James Version (John MacArthur's Study Bible), the New International Version -- and today, the New Living Translation. All the years of my thus far, brief CHRISTian life, i digested "Well done, good and faithful servant." i lived as best as i could to please GOD with a servant heart. My understanding as a fully devoted follower of CHRIST JESUS was that of a devoted servant -- not as devoted slave.

John MacArthur's exposition was exceptional -- it was Truth clarified in words that my mind could grasp and my heart could receive with joy. It was an Aha! moment for me.

In the original language of the Scriptures (Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek), the New Testament was written in Greek. The Greek word doulos appears 130 times -- yet in the NKJV, it appears but once in the true English translation: doulos of CHRIST -- slave of CHRIST (1 Corinthians 7:22). The word doulos is translated in English to "slave" when actual slaves are mentioned, or when it describes a slave of someone or to something (i.e., slave of Philemon, slave to sin) -- but not as a personal relationship to JESUS CHRIST (i.e., slave of JESUS CHRIST). The original Greek word doulos when translated to English (in the 20 authorized Bible translations) is changed to "servant" (or "bondservant" -- someone bound to labor without wages -- still a "slave," though not seemingly as abrasive). MacArthur contends that there are six words in Greek for "servant" -- none of them doulos, and yet doulos (slave) is translated as "servant" in almost all the English Bible translations.

The only Bible translation where doulos is consistently translated in English as slave is by E. J. Goodspeed (he's a scholar of the Greek New Testament, who for 15 years studied and translated the original manuscripts to English). The American Standard Bible translates doulos as "slave" (in the context of a personal relationship to JESUS CHRIST) when there was no getting around it (per MacArthur), as does the New Living Translation. (Compare English translations of doulos in Romans 1:1, Philippians 1:1, Galatians 1:10, Colossians 1:7, Titus 1:1, James 1:1, Jude 1:1, 2 Peter 1:1)

The word slave is such a distasteful word, with all its evil connotations and dark historical attachments. Slavery means oppression, subjugation, evil done to others. To be called a slave of someone or to something could mean nothing good -- talk to any African-American or Israeli Jew (or anyone who was ever enslaved by someone or by something). It is totally vile... like an unmitigated hurt, with its associated scars that may still be tender and oozing with bitterness and unforgiveness.

What is a doulos -- a slave?

A slave is exclusively owned by one master -- bought with a price.
A slave is in complete and constant availability and obedience to that one master.
A slave is subject to one alien will -- the will of that master.
A slave is to live only for the singular purpose of pleasing that master.
A slave is completely dependent on that master for absolutely everything.
A slave is disciplined and rewarded at that master's discretion.

In other words, a slave has no independence, no freedom, no rights of any kind! He is owned, controlled, subjected -- made to serve -- to do anything required, whether he likes it or not. Slaves (in Roman times) had no rights, no legal recourse, didn't own anything, had no citizenship, couldn't give testimony in a court case, no choice about anything -- they were totally dependent on the master who owned them. And if a slave ran away, he was flogged or even crucified.

All that said, why do i delight in being a doulos, a slave of JESUS CHRIST? Why is this not a repugnant word to me? Why does it ring true in my heart of hearts -- my soul? Why does it ascertain Oswald Chambers' "It matters not what GOD does -- it matters only Who He is"?

Because of Who the Master is -- GOD the Son, CHRIST JESUS -- Faithful and True, Prince of Peace, Lamb of GOD, Lion of Judah, Light of the world...omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, eternal and righteous Judge. The I AM WHO I AM is my LORD. He is the Creator and Owner of all things seen and unseen. This Master is infinitely kind and benevolent, utterly gracious and compassionate. He is Love incarnate. My Master is the GOD Who loved the world so much (you and me) that He gave His only begotten Son (LORD JESUS) to atone for the sin of all humanity. (John 3:16) And because He is a holy GOD, every thing He wills is ALLways perfect and good.

Wasn't i bought with His own blood? His precious blood was shed in agony on the cross that i may be washed clean by it... my sins blotted out by it... and my place in the Kingdom of GOD guaranteed by it.

JESUS' sacrificial, substitutionary death on the cross bought my freedom. i am owned by CHRIST. i am His doulos -- i am a slave of JESUS CHRIST.

When i received JESUS as my CHRIST... as my Savior and LORD -- did i realize the full extent of His LORDship in my life? No. Did i know that i would be His doulos for eternity, not a servant who can choose to quit? No. Did it occur to me that when i confessed Him as LORD, that i was also confessing myself as slave of GOD? No.

Today, i fully understand the true meaning of "LORD." When JESUS is LORD and Master of me -- i am under His absolute ownership and control (through the Holy SPIRIT); totally subject and obedient to His will; loyal and devoted only to Him; and totally dependent on Him for absolutely everything -- all my material, emotional and spiritual needs. He is the Provider, the Protector, the Comforter of this doulos. Rather than being an oppressed slave, i am a lovingly cared for possession of the most glorious Master of the heavens and earth.

JESUS, as my Master, has made me a daughter of GOD and joint-heirs with Himself; adopted me into His family; will take me to Heaven, and now pours out all the lavish riches in His possession for my joy and for His glory. i was a slave to death, hell and sin -- under satan's authority -- but today, i am slave to GOD, Creator and Master of the Universe!

Hallelujah! i am no longer slave to god -- i am a fully devoted slave of JESUS CHRIST!

Paul, Peter, Timothy, Jude, James (even the brother of JESUS) called themselves doulos of GOD and of JESUS CHRIST. They were called to be more than servants -- they were called by CHRIST to be His doulos -- His very own.

He (JESUS) made Himself nothing; He took the humble position of a slave and appeared in human form. (Philippians 2:7)

And all who have received JESUS as their LORD and Master, have been bought, redeemed, purchased by GOD Himself. What a privilege to be owned by the GOD of the Universe!

But a most awesome and most amazing truth is this -- that JESUS no longer calls us slaves -- doulos -- but friends! Saved sinners, once fit only for the dung heap -- bound for hell -- are now friends with GOD. This is the unbelievable, unfathomable, indescribable Love of GOD... manifested in CHRIST.

"No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you." (John 15:15)

The MINISTRY of the Holy SPIRIT in Believers

2010-04-06T13:40:00.000-07:00

When i received JESUS as the CHRIST of my life in 2003, i was ignorant of the awesome ministry of the Holy SPIRIT in my life, in my person. i remained clueless for some time because although i was saved from eternal hell, i remained but a baby CHRISTian, barely crawling on my hands and knees, still operating from the flesh -- the old "ME.rl.I.n" nature -- not able to discern the small, still voice of the SPIRIT, for my own self-seeking voice was yet too dominant and too loud.

GOD's grace is such that He did not allow me to remain a baby CHRISTian, but through His merciful orchestration, He gave me the necessary tools so that i may be better equipped for the growth process. In 2009, upon my return to San Diego from Fiji, He provided the Bible study at Ocean View Church which gave me insight to the powerful ministry of the Holy SPIRIT in the lives of followers of CHRIST.

And recently, through Charles Stanley (In Touch Ministries), Zola Levitt (Zola Levitt Ministries), John Yates (Faith Bible Institute, Willmington's Guide to the Bible), fellowship with other CHRISTians, daily Bible reading and study, and SPIRIT-engineered circumstances -- i came to know the Person of the Holy SPIRIT Who was GOD's gift to me (and to all believers in CHRIST) at the moment of redemption.

The following are excerpts from Willmington's Guide to the Bible which clearly define the fantastic ministry of the Holy SPIRIT in the believer's life. Dr Harold Willmington describes the GODhead with this illustration:

"Consider an important executive who determines to build a spacious and expensive home. He thus employs an architect to design the necessary plans for this home. The architect thereupon secures a competent contractor to follow his blueprints. In this illustration, the Executive is the FATHER, the Architect is the SON, and the Divine Contractor is the Holy SPIRIT." (Willmington's Guide to the Bible, page 645.)

The SPIRIT has eleven ministries concerning the universe, the Scriptures, the nation of Israel, the devil, the Savior, the sinner, the church, the day of Pentecost, the believer, the spiritual gifts and the fruit of the SPIRIT (for those in CHRIST).

As a believing child of GOD, a follower of JESUS, when i learned about the powerful ministry of the SPIRIT working within me, the Person of the Holy SPIRIT became real to me. No longer was He just a doctrine to internalize and share with others, He became a real Presence in my life. His titles of Helper, Comforter, Teacher of all truth became Reality to me... no longer confined to my finite mind as mere head-knowledge, but real in a physical sense. Though i don't see Him with my physical eyes, i know by experience His Presence in my daily life.

So for those who may still be somewhat confused (as i was) about the all-powerful hand of GOD in the Person of the Holy SPIRIT, it's my prayer that these excerpts from Dr Willmington's Doctrine of the Holy SPIRIT (in blue italics) will further clarify the amazing gracious gift of GOD's SPIRIT to those who have put their faith in CHRIST JESUS.

The instant an unsaved person prays "GOD be merciful to me, a sinner," (truly repents, asks for forgiveness and sincerely receives in his heart JESUS as LORD and Savior) -- the Holy SPIRIT immediately effects a five-fold work in him.

1. The Holy SPIRIT regenerates the believing sinner. He literally recreates him and gives him the nature of GOD. (Titus 3:5, John 3:3-7, 1 Peter 1:23, 2 Corinthians 5:17)

2. The Holy SPIRIT baptizes the believing sinner. (This is not water baptism, but spiritual placement.) He places the believer into the body of CHRIST --the church. (1 Corinthians 12:13, Galatians 3:27, Ephesians 4:4-5, Colossians 2:12)

3. The Holy SPIRIT indwells the believing sinner. He not only joins us to the Savior (through the baptism -- #2 above), but He joins Himself to us. He literally lives on the inside of each believer. (John 14:20, 7:37-39; 1 Corinthians 2:12, 3:16; Romans 8:9; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 5:16-18; Ephesians 3:16)

4. The Holy SPIRIT seals the believing sinner. The presence of the Holy SPIRIT Himself is the Seal, Who is given by the Father to assure the believer of his eternal salvation. The Seal is also referred to as the Earnest or Guarantee, or Deposit. (2 Corinthians 1:22, 5:5; Ephesians 1:13, 4:30)

5. The Holy SPIRIT fills the believing sinner. (Acts 2:4) The Holy SPIRIT controls and reigns over the surrendered believer.

It was at the First Step Life Group Bible study at Ocean View Church that i first learned the difference between the indwelling and the filling of the Holy SPIRIT. Dr Willmington's illustration further clarifies the difference:

A guest is invited into a home. But upon entering that home he is immediately confined to a small room somewhere near the front door. For a while, he may even be forgotten by his host. Finally, however, the owner of the house is convicted concerning his shabby treatment of the house guest. He thereupon gives his guest free access to every room in the house.

The Holy SPIRIT is the invited Guest. The host is the believing sinner, and the house stands for his life. The difference then between the indwellling and the filling is the difference between being confined in a small room somewhere and being given free access to all the rooms.

The filling, therefore, does not mean the believer gets more of the Holy SPIRIT, but rather the Holy SPIRIT gets more of the believer.

All five of these ministries happen instantaneously to the believing sinner. They all occur by faith (not by any sum of good works) and are not in the least dependent upon one's personal emotional feelings at the time.

The first four ministries can never be lost, and therefore need not be and should not be asked for again... If a man has accepted CHRIST, he has for all eternity been regenerated, indwelled, baptized, and sealed by the Holy SPIRIT.

The fifth ministry, however, can be lost (by disobedience -- by sin) and therefore should be asked for as many times as needed. (Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:16; Acts 2:4, 4:8, 6:3, 7:55, 9:17, 11:24, 13:9, 52)

The first four ministries give us peace with GOD (Romans 5:1). But the fifth ministry assures us the peace of GOD. (Philippians 4:7) Thus, all CHRISTians, regardless of how backslidden they might be, enjoy peace with GOD, but only SPIRIT-controlled believers can know that blessed peace of GOD.

Being filled by the Holy SPIRIT is being controlled by Him -- being surrendered to His guidance, to His leading, to His protection, to His empowerment, to His wisdom...to His sovereign rule in every aspect of the believer's life, inner and outer. As a young child trusts and obeys his/her earthly father, so a child of GOD trusts and obeys his/her heavenly Father.

The fifth ministry is lost whenever disobedience is found in the life of the believer. Disobedience is the sin of quenching the Holy SPIRIT -- which involves not doing that which the Holy SPIRIT would have us do (1 Thessalonians 5:19); and the sin of grieving the Holy SPIRIT -- which involves doing that which the Holy SPIRIT would not have us do (Ephesians 4:30).

The fifth ministry may (and should be) instantly regained by:

-- By knowing GOD's means of forgiveness and cleansing -- the blood of CHRIST. (1 John 1:7)

-- By knowing GOD's method of forgiveness and cleansing -- the confession of the CHRISTian. (1 John 1:9) The confession is absolutely vital, for while CHRIST's blood will cleanse us from all sin, it will not cleanse us from a single excuse.

GOD does not demand golden vessels, nor does He require silver ones, but He must have clean ones. Thus the union with the SPIRIT is so strong that nothing can break it, but the communion with the SPIRIT is so fragile that the smallest sin can shatter it.

The fifth ministry assures the believer of the following blessings:

The Holy SPIRIT will pray for him. (Romans 8:26)
The Holy SPIRIT will guide him. (John 16:13, Romans 8:14)
The Holy SPIRIT will teach him. (1 John 2:27)
The Holy SPIRIT will empower him for witnessing. (Acts 1:8)
The Holy SPIRIT will impart the love of CHRIST to him and through him. (Romans 5:5)
The Holy SPIRIT will conform him to the image of CHRIST. (2 Corinthians 3:18) The ultimate goal and stated intention of the Father is to conform the believer throughout eternity into the image of CHRIST. (Philippians 3:21, 1 John 3:2) But GOD the SPIRIT desires to start this glorious work in each child of GOD at the moment of salvation. (Philippians 3:10)
The Holy SPIRIT will strengthen his new nature. (Ephesians 3:16) This He does through Bible study (1 Peter 2:2) and prayer (Jude 1:20)
The Holy SPIRIT will reveal Biblical truth to him. (1 Corinthians 2:10)
The Holy SPIRIT will assure him concerning salvation and service. (Romans 8:16, 1 John 3:24)
The Holy SPIRIT will give him liberty. (Romans 8:2, 2 Corinthians 3:17)
The Holy SPIRIT will fill his mouth with appropriate things. (Mark 13:11; Acts 4:8-22, 5:29-33, 7:55) "...take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate; but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy SPIRIT." (Mark 13:11)

The privilege of being adopted into GOD's family comes only through the shed blood of CHRIST JESUS -- by faith alone -- believing in the Fact that GOD the Son died on the cross as the Substitutionary Sacrificial Lamb to atone for my sin-debt, the penalty which is death... eternal separation from GOD and all the supreme good that He is.

The indescribable gift of the Holy SPIRIT -- His ministries, His fruit, His blessings -- are mine now and for all eternity as a child of GOD, for i have trusted in the saving work of JESUS CHRIST on the Cross. The incomprehensible love of GOD the Father in sacrificing GOD His Son as payment for my sins is still beyond my comprehension.

So i simply and humbly received GOD's gift of Amazing Grace in the Person of JESUS CHRIST, fully knowing that i'm unworthy and undeserving -- but utterly grateful for GOD's grace. i received the gift of the Holy SPIRIT and all that He is. He is all that that my Father Creator is. He is all that that my Savior JESUS is. Since He is GOD... and GOD of all of me -- "It matters not what He does, it matters only Who He is!" (Oswald Chambers)

So to add to Willmington's illustration -- the Holy SPIRIT of GOD has free access to all the rooms of this house -- my body, heart, mind and soul...all my rights, all my desires are His to use for whatever my heavenly Father purposes. He has the keys to the front and back doors and closets. In fact, He has the deed to the whole house!

JOHN 3:16 -- The LIGHT of the World

2010-03-28T16:44:00.000-07:00

For GOD so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

For GOD did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of GOD.

And this is the condemnation, that the Light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.

For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed.

But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in GOD. (John 3:16-21, NKJV)

Yes, they knew GOD, but they wouldn't worship Him as GOD or even give Him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what GOD was like. The result was that their minds became dark and confused.

Claiming to be wise, they became utter fools instead. (Romans 1:20-22, NLT)

JESUS said, Believe in the Light while there is still time; then you will become children of the Light. (John 12:36, NLT)

CHRIST JESUS is The Light.

GOD The Son, through Whom all things were made, Who sustains the universe, Who holds our very lives in His hands -- was ridiculed, mocked, arrested and tied up; spat upon, struck on the face for telling the truth; stripped, flogged with a lead-tipped whip; forced to wear a crown of long, sharp thorns; hit by His captors with their fists; beat on the head with a stick -- with the crown of thorns on His head; unjustly accused, tried and found guilty without proof of any guilt; made to carry His cross, already much weakened after the loss of blood from the scourging...

crucified -- nails hammered into His flesh, through tendons and muscles and bones of His hands and feet...

JESUS was made to be sin for all the sins of humankind (past, present and future)... CHRIST, the Lamb of GOD... unblemished, sinless, perfect -- He was the necessary substitutionary Sacrifice who took upon Himself what was due us sinners. And as He hung on the cross, in indescribable agony -- GOD, The Father, unleashed upon JESUS His intense hatred for sin. Wave upon wave upon wave of The Father's ultimate wrath was poured out upon His own Son.

The Father and The Son, who have never been separated from time eternal, were divided -- separated by humanity's sin laid upon JESUS' perfect holiness.

Is it any wonder that JESUS asked His Father in Gethsemane, "My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want Your will, not Mine." (Matthew 26:36) JESUS was indeed willing to suffer the excruciating torture on the cross, but to do so without the unfathomable spiritual agony of separation from The Father. (Commentary from Pastor Charles Stanley)

"Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani? My GOD, My GOD, why have you forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46) GOD, JESUS' Father -- Righteous and Holy -- turned His back on His Only Begotten Son.

JESUS' last words, "It is finished!" (John 19:30)

The sin-debt for your sins and mine have been paid -- in full -- by CHRIST's atoning death on the cross. His blood was literally shed for you and me. By His shed blood, you and i are redeemed... set free from the death penalty of sin.

Death -- physical and spiritual -- is the penalty of sin. Eternal separation from GOD... that place where there is not even a hint of any presence of the Light, but of utter darkness -- an eternal place of total depravity and utmost suffering -- that is the hellish sentence from which we have been set free.

What it cost The Father and The Son is unfathomable to us -- mere finite humans. Yet we don't have to fully understand the indescribable Infinite to be saved from sin's penalty of death. We just have to humbly admit that we are wretched sinners -- repent -- and receive the only Way of redemption -- the substitutionary death of CHRIST JESUS on the cross at Calvary.

Peace or continued enmity with GOD depends on our acceptance or rejection of His Son whom He sent to die for our sins. Believe in The Light -- JESUS, The CHRIST -- while there is still time (for tomorrow may not arrive); then you will become children of The Light (children of the One True GOD -- Creator of Heaven and Earth, Maker of all things seen and not seen).

The ROOM -- by Joshua HARRIS

2010-03-18T16:36:00.001-07:00

i was forwarded this wonderful essay, The Room, by my good friend, "Super Senior Seal -- Seasonal Frank" -- and the story touched my heart.

In that place between wakefulness and dreams, I found myself in The Room. There were no distinguishing features except for the one wall covered with small index card files. They were like the ones in libraries that list titles by author or subject in alphabetical order. But these files, which stretched from floor to ceiling and seemingly endless in either direction, had very different headings.

As I drew near the wall of files, the first to catch my attention was one that read "Girls I have liked." I opened it and began flipping through the cards... I quickly shut it, shocked to realize that I recognized the names written on each one. And then without being told, I knew exactly where I was. This lifeless room with its small files was a crude catalog system for my life. Here were written the actions of my every moment, big and small, in a detail my memory couldn't match. A sense of wonder and curiosity, coupled with horror, stirred within me as I began randomly opening files and exploring their content. Some brought joy and sweet memories; others a sense of shame and regret so intense that I would look over my shoulder to see if anyone was watching.

A file named "Friends" was next to one marked "Friends I have betrayed." The titles ranged from the mundane to the outright weird. "Books I Have Read," "Lies I Have Told," "Comfort I have Given," "Jokes I Have Laughed at."

Some were almost hilarious in their exactness: "Things I've yelled at my brothers." Others I couldn't laugh at: "Things I Have Done in My Anger," "Things I Have Muttered Under My Breath at My Parents." I never ceased to be surprised by the contents. Often there were many more cards than expected. Sometimes fewer than I hoped. I was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of the life I had lived... Could it be possible that I had the time in my years to fill each of these thousands or even millions of cards? But each card confirmed this truth. Each was written in my own handwriting... Each signed with my signature.

When I pulled out the file marked "TV Shows I have watched," I realized the files grew to contain their contents. The cards were packed tightly, and yet after two or three yards, I hadn't found the end of the file. I shut it, shamed, not so much by the quality of shows but more by the vast time I knew that file represented.

When I came to a file marked "Lustful Thoughts," I felt a chill run through my body. I pulled the file out only an inch, not willing to test its size, and drew out a card. I shuddered at its detailed content. I felt sick to think that such a moment had been recorded. An almost animal rage broke on me.

One thought dominated my mind: "No one must ever see these cards! No one must ever see this room! I have to destroy them!" In insane frenzy I yanked the file out. Its size didn't matter now. I had to empty it and burn the cards.

But as I took it at one end and began pounding it on the floor, I could not dislodge a single card. I became desperate and pulled out a card, only to find it as strong as steel when I tried to tear it. Defeated and utterly helpless, I returned the file to its slot. Leaning my forehead against the wall, I let out a long, self-pitying sigh.

And then I saw it. The title bore "People I Have Shared the Gospel With." The handle was brighter than those around it, newer, almost unused... I pulled on its handle and a small box not more than three inches long fell into my hands. I could count the cards it contained on one hand...

And then the tears came. I began to weep. Sobs so deep that they hurt. They started in my stomach and shook through me. I fell on my knees and cried. I cried out of shame, from the overwhelming shame of it all. The rows of file shelves swirled in my tear-filled eyes. No one must ever, ever know of this room. I must lock it up and hide the key. But then as I pushed away the tears, I saw Him... No, please not Him... Not here. Oh, anyone but JESUS. I watched helplessly as He began to open the files and read the cards. I couldn't bear to watch His response... And in the moments I could bring myself to look at His face, I saw a sorrow deeper than my own. He seemed to intuitively go to the worst boxes.

Why did He have to read every one? Finally He turned and looked at me from across the room. He looked at me with pity in His eyes. But this was a pity that didn't anger me. I dropped my head, covered my face with my hands and began to cry again. He walked over and put His arm around me. He could have said so many things. But He didn't say a word. He just cried with me.

Then He got up and walked back to the wall of files. Starting at one end of the room, He took out a file and, one by one, began to sign His name over mine on each card. "No!" I shouted rushing to Him. All I could find to say was "No, no," as I pulled the card from Him. His name shouldn't be on these cards. But there it was, written in red so rich, so dark, and so alive.

The name of JESUS covered mine. It was written with His blood. He gently took the card back He smiled a sad smile and began to sign the cards. I don't think I'll ever understand how He did it so quickly, but the next instant it seemed I heard Him close the last file and walk back to my side. He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, "It is finished."

I stood up, and He led me out of the room. There was no lock on its door. There were still cards to be written.

The interesting story behind this story is that this essay was plagiarized by a 17-year old boy, Brian Moore, whose wrong-doing was discovered after his death. The essay was believed by his parents and friends to have been written by him. It was read at his funeral. When it was later published by the local newspaper, it was discovered that Joshua Harris was the author, not Brian Moore.

Did Brian meet JESUS in The Room? And was there an index card testifying to his lie?

If Brian had received JESUS as LORD and Savior before his death, then the scenario for him would have been like that happy ending in the essay. JESUS' shed blood would have covered all of Brian's sins. CHRIST's death on the cross at Calvary would have paid the penalty for all of Brian's sins.

"For GOD so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)

The Son of GOD -- CHRIST JESUS -- is GOD's ultimate amazing grace! GOD's grace is His kindness and graciousness towards humanity without regard to the worth or merit of those who receive it...in spite of the fact that NO one deserves it! GOD's grace can't be earned, can't be bought, can't be manipulated. GOD's grace is total unmerited and undeserved favor. (Charles Stanley)

The only way to have this wonderful amazing grace is to receive it -- with a repentant heart...a change in one's mind about sin -- then a humble plea for forgiveness, and a heartfelt prayer for JESUS to be Sovereign KING and LORD in your life.

Don't wait until you've cleaned up your act or done more good works or given up this or that destructive behavior -- the time to act is now...wherever you're at. So simple, yet so difficult to throw in the towel and wave that white flag of surrender. But that's what it takes -- humble surrender to the GOD Who created the heavens and earth.

The fruit of surrender is peace...joy...love...wonderful fellowship with GOD -- now and forever!

The POOR In SPIRIT And The 7 Deadly SINS

2010-03-10T18:37:00.000-08:00

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew 5:3)

WRATH

Murderers, adulterers, thieves, whoremongers, prostitutes, liars, cheaters...all who have ever committed any of the seven deadly sins -- wrath, avarice, sloth, pride, lust, envy, and gluttony -- are all sinners. We are all sinners.

AVARICE

But all sinners who have come to the realization of their sinfulness, their utter worthlessness -- and have truly repented, have asked for forgiveness, and have received and trusted JESUS as their CHRIST and Savior -- are freely forgiven and set free from GOD's condemnation and wrath for their sins. They are assured peace with GOD -- and their rightful place in the Kingdom of Heaven.

This amazing grace from GOD anger those who protest, "What about the good and moral people who have not believed in JESUS CHRIST? How about Mahatma Gandhi...an icon of non-violence and goodness? Or the Dalai Lama of Tibet -- His Holiness Tenzin Gyatso? Will they go to Hell because they did not put their faith in JESUS -- did not believe that CHRIST is the Son of GOD, sent by Him to die for sinners?"

Gandhi, the Dalai Lama...and all those who seem righteous in the eyes of men (or in their own eyes) and believe that their righteousness is truly righteous in GOD's sight, do not realize that their righteousness are but filthy rags compared to GOD's blinding holiness. But we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousness are like filthy rags; we all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. (Isaiah 64:6)

SLOTH

Pride blinds a man to his true condition -- the condition of his heart -- that no matter the many good works he has done or the great accomplishments he has contributed to the "advancement" of mankind -- his good (or even great) works will not get him into Heaven. For who will judge man's good works to be good enough in GOD's sight? What is the standard for good works "good enough" to get into Heaven? Faith in GOD is the standard by which we will be judged by the giver of faith Himself -- GOD, Creator of Heaven and Earth...and Hell.

Jesus told them, "This is what GOD wants you to do: Believe in the One He has sent." (John 6:29) Without faith in Him, it is impossible to please GOD. (Hebrews 11:6)

Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)

Faith is the substance, and it is a reality. GOD wants to bring us to the fact of it. He wants us to know that we have something greater than we can see or handle, because everything we can see and handle is going to pass away. (Smith Wigglesworth, Faith, p. 19)

Faith is believing in Love so great, so unfathomable, and so incomprehensible that a person who has committed the most heinous crime can be forgiven by GOD. Faith is standing firm on GOD's Word that the most religious, most upstanding person will not be forgiven for wilfully rejecting the Son whom GOD sent to die for all mankind -- whether a Mother Teresa or a man on death row, whether Jew or Gentile, man or woman, heterosexual or homosexual.

PRIDE

Moses killed a man, Rahab was a harlot, David committed adultery, Paul murdered many CHRISTians, Mary Magdalene had seven demons, the Treasurer of Ethiopia was a eunuch -- all divested themselves of pride and self-righteousness...all came to repentance...all were forgiven their sins. The Father, and all the angels in Heaven, are overjoyed for each repentant sinner, for each prodigal son (or daughter) who returns to GOD.

Peace with GOD does not come from faith in one's own goodness: "GOD will accept me for i've done many good works in His name. i have not committed adultery -- or killed or cheated or stole. i am a good provider for my family, i go to church, i tithe, i serve my community -- all my good works will get me into Heaven. i am good...i am righteous." (Matthew 18:10-14)

No one but GOD is good. No one but GOD is holy. No one but GOD is righteous.

When a person righteous in his own eyes stand before GOD in His blinding holiness, and the person's righteousness is put to the exceedingly piercing light of GOD's scrutiny -- will he outshine GOD's purity and holiness? Never.

LUST

In man's inner heart are sins not seen on the outside. But GOD who sees clearly to the innermost core of a man's soul sees all -- to the farthest nook and cranny of a man's heart -- his lusts, motives, self-aggrandisement, and pride.

Only by the shed blood of JESUS is one made righteous in GOD's sight. Covered by His blood, pure and holy -- GOD sees the righteousness of JESUS in the believer -- for CHRIST, by the indwelling Holy SPIRIT, is on the inside. He is the One GOD sees, the personal Advocate who will stand in front of the Judge on the Day of Judgment. He will say, "This person goes free. I have already paid his debt in full."

By faith, believers receive JESUS as their Savior and Advocate. By faith they stand boldly in front of Almighty GOD who sees all their dirtiest deeds -- past, present and future. And He judges the believers righteous because JESUS has imparted to them His righteousness... for our form of righteousness is but filthy rags and will not stand up to GOD's standard of holy righteousness, no matter the good works we've done.

i know i have no good thing in me. i know that whatever good that comes out of me is not my own doing, but of the SPIRIT who does the work of the Father through me. i know i am nothing but filthy rags without CHRIST.

ENVY

Pride in man is when he believes (despite all the evidence before his very eyes) that GOD does not have the power or intelligence to create man. Pride in man makes him believe that he is good enough to stand and be counted righteous in front of the most righteous and holy GOD. Pride in man is one who continues in his sin, knowing GOD hates sin.

GOD loves the sinner -- you and me. He sent JESUS to die for all sinners. (John 3:16)

GLUTTONY

But GOD hates sin...in every shape and form.

GOD hates pride...the pride that puts oneself above the Creator...pride that puts the student above the Teacher...pride that puts the servant above the Master.

GOD blesses those who recognize their bankruptcy of spirit. GOD blesses those who acknowledge that apart from the True Vine, they are nothing and can do nothing. GOD blesses those who come to Him broken and repentant, devoid of self-righteousness and pride.

Abraham was, humanly speaking, the founder of our Jewish nation. What were his experiences concerning this question of being saved by faith? Was it because of his good deeds that GOD accepted him? If so, he would have had something to boast about. But from GOD's point of view Abraham had no basis at all for pride. For the Scriptures tell us, "Abraham believed GOD, so GOD declared him to be righteous." (Romans 4:1-3)

The DO's and DON'Ts of BELIEVERs In CHRIST

2010-03-06T11:57:00.000-08:00

The Torah has 613 Laws and Regulations for the Jews. There are 127 New Testament commands for the Believer, as compiled by Dr Harold Willmington (Willmington's Guide to the Bible, pp 878-879).

The Jews of old were under the 613 Mosaic Laws (the Torah), which represented an ethical code given by GOD to Israel to govern the nation until the coming of Messiah YESHUA. All believers in CHRIST today (whether Jews or Gentiles) are under grace...AMAZING GRACE...the unearned, unmerited favor of GOD.

JESUS said, Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30)

JESUS summed up all the Law and Prophets, even the 127 Do's and Don'ts of Believers -- 'You shall love the LORD your GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,' and 'your neighbor as yourself.' (Luke 10:27)

The 127 DO's and DON'Ts of Believers In CHRIST JESUS:

1. Abstain from all appearances of evil. (1 Thessalonians 5:22)

2. Abstain from all fleshly lusts. (1 Peter 2:11)

3. Avoid troublemakers. (Romans 16:17)

4. Avoid profane and vain babblings. (1 Timothy 6:20)

5. Avoid false science. (1 Timothy 6:20)

6. Avoid foolish questions. (Titus 3:9)

7. Avoid arguments about the law (Titus 3:9)

8. Be reconciled to a brother. (Matthew 5:24)

9. Be wise as serpents. (Matthew 10:16)

10. Be harmless as doves. (Matthew 10:16)

11. Be thankful. (Colossians 3:15)

12. Be patient toward all men. (1 Thess 5:14; 2 Timothy 2:24)

13. Be ready to give an answer of the hope that is in you.

(1 Peter 3:15)

14. Be transformed. (Romans 12:2)

15. Be patient in tribulation. (Romans 12:12)

16. Be children in (avoiding) malice. (1 Corinthians 14:20)

17. Be men in understanding. (1 Corinthians 14:20)

18. Be steadfast. (1 Corinthians 15:58)

19. Be unmovable. (1 Corinthians 15:58)

20. Be always abounding in GOD's work. (1 Corinthians 15:58)

21. Be of one mind. (Romans 12:16)

22. Be separate from the unclean. (2 Corinthians 6:17)

23. Be angry and sin not. (Ephesians 4:26)

24. Be filled with the SPIRIT. (Ephesians 5:18)

25. Be anxious for nothing. (Philippians 4:6)

26. Be an example to other believers. (1 Timothy 4:12)

27. Be gentle to all men. (2 Timothy 2:24)

28. Be ready to teach. (2 Timothy 2:24)

29. Be content with what you have. (Hebrews 13:5)

30. Be vigilant. (1 Peters 5:8)

31. Do not be like the hypocrites in prayer. (Matthew 6:5)

32. Do not be afraid of men. (Luke 12:4)

33. Do not be conformed to this world. (Romans 12:2)

34. Do not be children in understanding. (1 Corinthians 14:20)

35. Do not be deceived by evil companions. (1 Corinthians 15:33)

36. Do not be unequally yoked by unbelievers. (2 Corinthians 6:14-18)

37. Do not be drunk with wine. (Ephesians 5:18)

38. Do not be weary in well-doing. (2 Thessalonians 3:13)

39. Do not be slothful. (Hebrews 6:12)

40. Do not be influenced by strange doctrines. (Hebrews 13:9)

41. Beware of false prophets. (Matthew 7:15; Philippians 3:2)

42. Beware of evil men. (Matthew 10:17)

43. Beware of covetousness. (Luke 12:15)

44. Beware of backsliding. (2 Peter 3:17)

45. Do not bid false teachers GODspeed. (2 John 10, 11)

46. Bring up children in the LORD. (Ephesians 6:4)

47. Cast your cares upon GOD. (1 Peter 5:7)

48. Have confidence in GOD. (Hebrews 10:35)

49. Come out from among the world. (2 Corinthians 6:17)

50. Count it joy when you are tempted (tested). (James 1:2)

51. Treat others as you expect to be treated. (Matthew 7:12)

52. Desire the milk of the Word. (1 Peter 2:2)

53. Do all the GOD's glory. (1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17, 23)

54. Do all things without murmuring or disputing. (Philippians 2:14)

55. Earnestly contend for the faith. (Jude 3)

56. Give no place to satan. (Ephesians 4:27)

57. Give thanks. (Ephesians 5:20; Philippians 4:6)

58. Give time to reading. (1 Timothy 4:13)

59. Give no offence. (1 Corinthians 10:32)

60. Give freely. (2 Corinthians 9:6, 7)

61. Give as GOD has prospered. (1 Corinthians 16:2)

62. Give willingly. (2 Corinthians 8:12)

63. Give purposely. (2 Corinthians 9:7)

64. Do not grieve the Holy SPIRIT. (Ephesians 4:30)

65. Grow in grace. (2 Peter 3:18)

66. Have no fellowship in darkness. (Ephesians 5:11)

67. Have compassion. (Jude 23)

68. Have a good conscience. (1 Peter 3:16)

69. Hold forth the Word of life. (Philippians 2:16)

70. Hold fast sound words. (2 Timothy 1:13)

71. Honor fathers. (Ephesians 6:2)

72. Honor mothers. (Matthew 19:19)

73. Honor widows. (1 Timothy 5:3)

74. Honor rulers. (1 Peter 2:17)

75. Lay aside all envy. (1 Peter 2:1)

76. Lay aside all evil speaking. (1 Peter 2:1)

77. Do not lay up treasures on earth. (Matthew 6:19)

78. Let your light shine. (Matthew 5:16)

79. Let everyone deny himself. (Matthew 16:24)

80. Let him share with the needy. (Luke 3:11)

81. Let everyone obey civil laws. (Romans 13:1)

82. Let no man deceive himself. (1 Corinthians 3:18)

83. Let everyone examine himself at communion. (1 Cor 11:28)

84. Let your requests be made known to GOD. (Philippians 4:6)

85. Let your speech be with grace. (Colossians 4:6)

86. Do all things in decent order.

87. Let those who are taught support the teacher. (Galatians 6:6)

88. Let wives submit to their husbands. (Eph 5:22; Colossians 3:18)

89. Let husbands love their wives. (Ephesians 5:25)

90. Let wives reverence their husbands. (Ephesians 5:33)

91. Let everyone be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath. (James 1:19)

92. Let the afflicted pray. (James 5:13)

93. Let the adorning of women be more inward than outward.

(1 Peter 3:3, 4)

94. Don't let the left hand know what the right hand is doing. (Matthew 6:3)

95. Do not let sin reign in the body. (Romans 6:12)

96. Do not let the sun go down on your wrath. (Ephesians 4:26)

97. Follow things that edify. (Romans 14:19)

98. Walk in the SPIRIT. (Galatians 5:25)

99. Do not provoke one another. (Galatians 5:26)

100. Do not be weary in well doing. (Galatians 6:9)

101. Come boldly to the throne of grace. (Hebrew 4:16; 10:19-23)

102. Do not forsake assembling together in worship. (Hebrews 10:25)

103. Exhort one another. (Hebrews 10:25)

104. Lay aside every weight. (Hebrews 12:1)

105. Run with patience the race before us. (Hebrews 12:1)

106. Look to JESUS. (Hebrews 12:2)

107. Offer the sacrifice of praise to GOD continually. (Hebrews 13:15)

108. Do not judge one another in doubtful things. (Romans 14:1)

109. Do not cause others to stumble. (Romans 14:13)

110. Mark troublemakers. (Romans 16:17; Philippians 3:17)

111. Pray for your persecutors. (Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:28)

112. Pray for laborers. (Matthew 9:38; Luke 10:2)

113. Present your body to GOD. (Romans 12:1)

114. Put on the new man. (Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10)

115. Put on the whole armor of GOD. (Ephesians 6:11, 13)

116. Do not quench the SPIRIT. (1 Thessalonians 5:19)

117. Consider yourself dead to sin. (Romans 6:11)

118. Redeem the time. (Ephesians 5:16)

119. Resist the devil. (James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9)

120. Restore backsliders in meekness. (Galatians 6:1)

121. Strengthen feeble knees. (Hebrews 12:12)

122. Study to show yourself approved to GOD. (2 Timothy 2:15)

123. Take no anxious thought of tomorrow. (Matthew 6:34)

124. Take the LORD's supper. (1 Corinthians 11:24-26)

125. Be careful not to despise little ones. (Matthew 18:10)

126. Be aware of yourself and your doctrine. (1 Timothy 4:16)

127. Withdraw from disorderly people. (2 Thessalonians 3:6, 14)

Those not In CHRIST, though they examine these sayings as written in the Bible, will not truly understand the depth, yet utter simplicity, of these teachings. One must have the indwelling presence of the SPIRIT of GOD in his heart, for He teaches the believer into all truth regarding the Word of GOD.

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. (Hebrews 4:12)

If you've just read this and feel the SPIRIT of GOD speaking to your conscience -- stop and listen, for our Father in Heaven is drawing you to Himself, to His Son. JESUS CHRIST, even now, is knocking at the door of your heart. Through JESUS, you may have forgiveness of all your sins and peace between you and GOD. By receiving CHRIST as Savior and LORD of your life, you are given the Holy SPIRIT, Who then imparts to you the righteousness and Truth of JESUS and empowers you to do the above, one day at a time.

Then the priceless wisdom of the Word of GOD, the Bible, will be unlocked for you. JESUS Himself is the key -- for He is the True Way to the knowledge of GOD, to regeneration, and to the door to eternal Life!

In WHOM (or WHAT) Do You TRUST?

2010-02-28T21:19:00.000-08:00

What IS trust?

Definition: Firm reliance on the integrity, ability, or character of a person or thing. (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/)

The Biblical definition: to have faith in someone or something; believe that someone (usually GOD) will be good to you; to believe that someone is good, and speaks good words; to follow something that you think is true; to follow something/someone as if it/they were true; when we believe in a person.

Trust is both an emotional and logical act. Emotionally, it is where you expose your vulnerabilities to people, but believing they will not take advantage of your openness. Logically, it is where you have assessed the probabilities of gain and loss, calculating expected utility based on hard performance data, and concluded that the person in question will behave in a predictable manner. In practice, trust is a bit of both. I trust you because I have experienced your trustworthiness and because I have faith in human nature. We feel trust. Emotions associated with trust include companionship, friendship, love, agreement, relaxation, comfort. (Changing Minds)

What does the Word of GOD say about TRUST?

Do not put your trust in idols....I, the LORD, am your GOD. (Leviticus 19:4)

i trust in GOD, so why should i be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me? (Psalm 56:11)

See, GOD has come to save me. i will trust in Him and not be afraid. The LORD GOD is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation. (Isaiah 12:2)

Tell those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which will soon be gone. But their trust should be in the living GOD, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. (I Timothy 6:17)

We are made right in GOD's sight when we trust in JESUS CHRIST to take away our sins. And we all can be saved in this same way, no matter who we are or what we have done. (Romans 3:22)

i no longer count on my own goodness or my ability to obey GOD's law, but i trust CHRIST to save me. For GOD's way of making us right with Himself depends on faith. (Philippians 3:9)

We know how much GOD loves us, and we have put our trust in Him. GOD is love, and all who live in love live in GOD, and GOD lives in them. (I John 4:16)

And yet many put their trust in horoscopes, the I-Ching, runes, tea leaves, crystal balls, Jeanne Dixon, Feng-shui, voodoo, Nostradamus, fortune cookies, Edgar Cayce, palm readers, ouija boards, spiritists, mediums, soothsayers, witchcraft. All these in all their disguises are occult practices. GOD has specific laws against the occult (Deuteronomy 18:9-13).

GOD is the Creator of all things...He is Sovereign...He is in control. So why do people put their trust in daily horoscopes, on how the I-Ching lands, or the way the tea leaves float around in hot water, or the "prophecies" of Jeanne Dixon, or Edgar Cayce or Nostradamus? These are counterfeits of GOD's power and have as their root a system of beliefs totally opposed to GOD. "Anyone who does these things is an object of horror and disgust to the LORD." (Deuteronomy18:12)

The acid test for identifying a prophet of GOD is recorded by Moses in Deuteronomy 18:21-22. According to this Bible passage (and others), GOD's prophets, as distinct from satan's spokesmen, are 100 percent accurate in their predictions. There is no room for error. (reason.org)

If Dixon, Cayce or Nostradamus lived in Moses' time, they would have been put to death for making false prophecies!

If anyone wants to foretell the future, if anyone wants to put his trust in something that's 100% reliable, if anyone wants true peace of mind knowing that his daily forecast is Truth and Best -- the Bible is 100% trustworthy. No ifs...no buts...no second guessing. The Word of GOD (THE GOD of the Universe) is totally reliable. It's true wisdom.

Unique among all books ever written, the Bible accurately foretells specific events-in detail-many years, sometimes centuries, before they occur. Approximately 2500 prophecies appear in the pages of the Bible, about 2000 of which already have been fulfilled to the letter—no errors. (The remaining 500 or so reach into the future and may be seen unfolding as days go by.) Since the probability for any one of these prophecies having been fulfilled by chance averages less than one in ten (figured very conservatively) and since the prophecies are for the most part independent of one another, the odds for all these prophecies having been fulfilled by chance without error is less than one in 102000 (that is 1 with 2000 zeros written after it)! (Dr. Hugh Ross)

So a person looking for answers, for daily advice, for direction, for signs of the end times -- the best place to look because it's 100% accurate is GOD's Word -- the Living Bible.

3:16 in the WORD of GOD

2010-02-24T19:53:00.000-08:00

When He had been baptized, JESUS came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the SPIRIT of GOD descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. (Matthew 3:16)

Simon, to whom He gave the name Peter; (Mark 3:16)

John answered, saying to all, "I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy SPIRIT and fire. (Luke 3:16)

For GOD so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)

And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong, whom you see and know. Yes, the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all. (Acts 3:16)

Destruction and misery are in their ways; (Romans 3:16)

Do you not know that you are the temple of GOD and that the SPIRIT of GOD dwells in you? (I Corinthians 3:16)

Nevertheless when one turns to the LORD, the veil is taken away. (II Corinthians 3:16)

Now to Abraham and his Seed were the promises made. He does not say, "And to seeds," as of many, but as of one, "And to your Seed," Who is CHRIST. (Galatians 3:16)

that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, (Ephesians 3:16)

Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us be of the same mind. (Philippians 3:16)

Let the word of CHRIST dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the LORD. (Colossians 3:16)

Now may the LORD of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The LORD be with you all. (II Thessalonians 3:16)

And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: GOD was manifested in the flesh, justified in the SPIRIT, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up in glory. (I Timothy 3:16)

All Scripture is given by inspiration of GOD, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness... (II Timothy 3:16)

For who, having heard, rebelled? Indeed, was it not all who came out of Egypt, led by Moses? (Hebrews 3:16)

For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. (James 3:16)

having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in CHRIST may be ashamed. (I Peter 3:16)

as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures. (II Peter 3:16)

By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. (I John 3:16)

So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. (Revelation 3:16)

The Scriptures above are like pearls, strung together to create a necklace of wisdom to be worn close to the true believer's heart. To the genuine follower of CHRIST, the indwelling Holy SPIRIT of GOD causes the believer to understand the Word of GOD to a deeper level that is beyond the intellect. The Word of GOD is sharper than a two-edged sword, cutting through the believer's worldly muck of ingrained programming.

The Word of GOD is foolishness to those who don't believe in the Bible -- yet countless men of integrity and intelligence, with pedigrees to the yin-yang (scientists, university professors, physicists) join the faithful but ordinary man in believing GOD's Word as Truth. Genuine believers consider the Bible the highest form of learning -- true wisdom -- not just intellectual head candy, but as meat and potatoes for living life in the real world.

But to discern the supernatural wisdom contained in the Bible, the Word of the One True GOD, one must be supernaturally born again by spirit -- through repentance of sin, through believing in JESUS as the risen CHRIST who died for sinful mankind, and through receiving His forgiveness and LORDship of one's body, soul and spirit. Then the SPIRIT of GOD comes to live on the inside of the believer, regenerating him (or her) into that child of GOD He has always intended.

Without the Holy SPIRIT living on the inside, GOD's Word is indeed foolishness to those who don't believe in the divine Author.

Location, Location, LOCATION -- ETERNAL Real Estate

2010-02-16T14:40:00.000-08:00

Every life conceived will follow its natural cycle. Every person born WILL die. As soon as life -- a human being -- is formed in the mother's womb, the process of life to death begins. (Though there are those countless millions of lives that were terminated through abortion -- legalized murder -- their right to live out that natural process violated... their choice nullified. They were the silent ones -- like lambs to the slaughter.)

Dr. Harold L. Willmington states:

"In the Bible there are two kinds of death and both can be defined by a single word. The word is separation. The two kinds of death are physical and spiritual. When a person dies physically, his soul is separated from his body. The body is put in the ground (or cremated, as Jazmyn was -- and placed in this painted box), but the soul lives on. It can never die. The more serious kind of death, however, is spiritual death. This will occur when the unsaved sinner will someday be forever separated from GOD. This is called the second death." (Willmington's Guide to the Bible, page 23)

i saw the dead, both great and small, standing before GOD's throne. And the books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to the things written in the books, according to what they had done. The sea gave up the dead in it, and death and the grave gave up the dead in them. They were all judged according to their deeds. (Revelation 20:12-13)

And death and the grave were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death--the lake of fire. And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:14-15)

Every person will live on in Eternity, for all human beings have a soul, which never dies. The body dies physically, but the soul will be assigned his (or her) eternal real estate -- Heaven or Hell.

Either blissful and priceless, or horrific and fearsome, is that location where each person will spend his (or her) eternity.

In HEAVEN -- He will remove all of their sorrows, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. For the old world and its evils are gone forever. (Revelation 21:4)

In HELL -- In that location, there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 24:51b)

In HEAVEN -- is the Presence of GOD, with CHRIST JESUS! The home of GOD is now among His people! He will live with them, and they will be His people. GOD Himself will be with them. (Revelation 21:3) When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with Me where I AM. (John 14:3)

In HELL -- is the outer darkness, where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 22:13)

In HEAVEN -- is the believer's personal home, created for the follower by our LORD Himself.

There are many rooms in My Father's home, and I AM going to prepare a place for you. If this were not so, I would tell you plainly. (John 14:2)

In HELL -- is `where the worm never dies and the fire never goes out.' (Mark 9:48)

In HEAVEN -- is where all believers in CHRIST will gather for the marriage feast of the Lamb, where we will unite with our saved loved ones, and all the saints, prophets and apostles -- Abraham, Moses, Paul, John, David, Peter, Daniel, Joseph, Isaiah, Job, Rahab, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Noah, Jacob, Nehemiah, Jonah... all the Marys... mother Theresa... the boy with the five loaves of bread and two fish... all the saved -- great and small, rich and poor, Jew and Gentile, men and women.

For if we believe that JESUS died and rose again, even so GOD will bring with Him those who sleep in JESUS. (I Thessalonians 4:14)

In HELL -- will reside the unforgiven, the unrepentant, those who rejected GOD's Word... His Son... those who wilfully rejected the calling of the Holy SPIRIT to GOD's plan of Salvation -- CHRIST JESUS... GOD from Heaven clothed in human flesh.

Outside the city are the dogs--the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idol worshipers, and all who love to live a lie. (Revelation 22:15)

Location, location, LOCATION! In the real estate market, location is the key to the value of the property. For all those who have put their trust in CHRIST JESUS, their guaranteed eternal real estate is the Kingdom of GOD in heaven... face to face with JESUS in all His glory.

A person can't buy into that priceless eternal real estate -- it's free! It cost GOD the Father His Son's life -- but to all sinners (and we are all sinners... NO one, NOT one is good -- only GOD is truly good) who truly repent and ask for forgiveness and receive GOD's gift of redemption -- he is freely given the most valuable piece of real estate -- an indescribable, incomprehensible, unimaginable Garden of Eden... true paradise.

Location, Location, LOCATION!

Where have you invested your tomorrow? For tomorrow may be your last breath. Choose -- this very moment, where you will live your eternal life -- with GOD in His eternal heaven with His loving Presence...

Or in Hell -- totally separated from GOD's mercy and grace and love, totally devoid of the Presence of GOD...and without GOD's Presence is total darkness, total depravity, total evil... unimaginable suffering to the nth degree.

Location...Location...LOCATION...prime Reality is through The Way, The TRUTH and the Life -- the Word Himself -- JESUS, the CHRIST...the Messiah.