Category: FAMILY

2024- What’s Your Word Heading into this Year?

This “Tradition” started a couple years ago (in 2022) with a group of friends from a Bible Study group I unexpectedly joined in October 2021. I say “unexpectedly” because I wasn’t looking for a group to join, I only went to be supportive of a friend who wanted to check it out, at the last minute one evening. So I went and ended up joining the group. Reflecting on this and knowing who God is, this wasn’t a coincidence; I needed this in my life.

2019 Words: ”Being Called” (Making God my Priority)

2019 was the year I decided to make God my priority (my last summary post for 2019) after reading the Bible for the first time. I didn’t have “a word” for that year but looking back, it would have been: “Being Called” – this was my 3rd “faith” related post on this website: see “Being Called” link in August 2019. 

2020 Words: ”Wake Up”

2020 was a year of isolation for most of us in the world, and as a result, I had more time to explore the Bible. I had so many questions about life, I was seeking TRUTH, in January 2020, I wrote about Love, but abruptly by March 2020, I felt we were experiencing a “Wake Up Call” from God, collectively as the world, but also personally in my life, I reflected on many aspects of life this year (Posts #10-21) but what impacted me most was Bible Prophecy: facing judgement and end times/the last days prophecies.

2021 Word: Death

Even though I didn’t have a word for this year, in hindsight, this reflected reality: my 14 month old nephew suddenly died, the mother of my son’s best friend died suddenly, and my dog suddenly died within a span of 4 months. Not only that, but the closest person to me unexpectedly rejected me in a humiliating public way at the time when I needed support the most. (When it rains, it pours!) But only days later, I was asked to go with a friend to this Bible Study group (See what I mean? No coincidences, God provides.) It was a tough year. All the death made me question, what happens after death, for real? I realized I didn’t have a clear biblically based understanding- only what I had been told throughout life. I plan to write about this later because I think others might have this question too. Ironically- in hindsight, after all this “death” surrounded me, late summer when I was on my phone an email came through with something to the effect of “last notice to sign up for baptism”- I felt like it was time I committed and did this, so I signed up and was Baptized on September 12, 2021. Baptism is symbolic of the death of our sinful past and rebirth, a new life, “born again”- it was both symbolic and literal for me. I wrote (posts 22 – 38) during this year. I didn’t post about the dreams I started having the night of my Baptism, I was confused by them at the beginning, but the “name of Jesus” was featured heavily and sometimes verses from scripture and the dreams involved various people in my life: friends, family and former business colleagues. I know there is significance to these specific dreams because I would see something specific from my dream, that day, weeks or months later as I was going about the day- completely unexpected when it would occur, but I would immediately recall: I dreamt that! It still continues but I often don’t have the understanding of the symbolism until I see it happen. It’s hard to explain this to anyone, unless you experience this, you won’t understand, but it heavily contributed to the faith and belief I have in Jesus. Even though my word for 2021 would have been Death, it was changed to Life. Death is no longer permanent becauses of Jesus’ death and resurrection, death is a transition, a going to sleep because those who believe and turn away from sin will be changed and become immortal when Jesus returns. Jesus said that unless we are “born again” we will not see the kingdom of God. (John Chapter 3)

2022 Word: Joy

After the experiences of the prior years, I wanted Joy! I chose the word: ”Joy.” Looking back, God brought joy into my life through a supportive, Christ focused group of friends from this new Bible Study group that I unexpectedly joined in October of 2021. I think God may have had something to do with that too. I continued exploring God’s word through scripture and how it relates to living life (posts 39- 66). I often was inspired to write in the morning just as I wake up from a thought that didn’t seem to leave or from a prior conversation I had with someone. As much as I wanted “joy” to be my entire focus, I couldn’t ignore what I found through Bible Prophecy and it, weighed heavily on me. Too many world events were/are lining up with Bible Prophecy and many people (just like me) didn’t even have this “on the radar.” I didn’t come from a religion that focused on this, so this was all new to me, I only discovered it after reading the Bible. This is why it is so important to know what’s in the Bible: so we’re not blindsided by reality when it happens. There is nothing to fear (if we are “spiritually” prepared in advance- meaning “born again”).

2023 Words: Trust and Obey

Many things in life “don’t make sense” to us, so this is when I need to “Trust and Obey” God. Ironically this was the first faith post I made: Trust and Obey –  I struggled/still struggle with this sometimes, but it’s getting easier! I guess God is making sure I comprehend this, because those words came back to me from 2017- 6 years later! Now, I trust God always, despite the circumstances, I know how it all will ultimately end, so I have peace in knowing what life holds in the future. We just need to get through the “tests and trials” until then. Often when I choose to obey (especially when I don’t want to), some “reward” seems to happen afterwards. I thank God for that when it happens because it is encouraging.

2024 Word: Love

What gets thrown at us in life and happens in this world can make “doing everything out of love” challenging, but this is important for those who claim to be Christians. I’ll be honest, I feel like 2024 may be a rough year ahead. It would be wonderful if I’m wrong, and I hope I am! But if these bible prophecy events keep moving forward like they have been, that’s going to be the reality; we’re not going to stop what God has foretold. I also know that what we focus on becomes our reality so my focus this year is love. I wish I could fast forward and get to the end of this year right now, honestly if I could fast forward to 2026 that would be even better!

2023 New Year’s Eve (12/31/23)

As I often do, even though I knew I wanted my word for 2024 to be “love” (because I need to be more loving) I wanted guidance from God. I prayed and asked God to show me something in scripture, pertinent to 2024, so I thought I would open the bible to scripture in the front, middle and back part of the bible for a more comprehensive understanding, possibly a common theme, so I could understand better. These are the pages I opened to:

Front Part of the Bible: 1 Samuel 4:4 through 1 Samuel 6:4 (1 Samuel 4, 1 Samuel 5, 1 Samuel 6)

This seemed significant to me because of what’s happening in the middle east land right now. This scripture references: Ashdod, Gaza, Ashkelon, Gath and Ekron. A battle is going on between the Israelites and the Philistines (the land of Gaza). While this is historic, not prophetic, we can learn from history: when God is with someone, they will not be defeated. God is just and will punish (in this scripture, tumors broke out on the Philistines because they stole the Ark of the Covenant and Eli died because his sons blasphemed God and no one restrained the sons). God is to be respected. He is not to be mocked. 

None of us know what will happen as a result of this current war happening, but we know from scripture that Israel will not cease to exist. I’m praying for all in the Middle East, that spiritual blindness is removed, that people turn away from sin and that many come to faith in Jesus Christ so they may truly have eternal life.

Middle Part of the Bible: Isaiah 59:5 through Isaiah 60:4 (Isaiah 59, Isaiah 60)

Isaiah 59’s summary is: Sin, Confession and Redemption- isn’t that interesting?! This is about the return of Jesus! (By the way, I do not believe Jesus is returning in 2024, but this is where our focus should be- getting prepared before he does return!)

Truth is nowhere to be found,
    and whoever shuns evil becomes a prey.

The Lord looked and was displeased
    that there was no justice.
16 He saw that there was no one,
    he was appalled that there was no one to intervene;
so his own arm achieved salvation for him,
    and his own righteousness sustained him.
17 He put on righteousness as his breastplate,
    and the helmet of salvation on his head;
he put on the garments of vengeance
    and wrapped himself in zeal as in a cloak.
18 According to what they have done,
    so will he repay
wrath to his enemies
    and retribution to his foes;
    he will repay the islands their due.
19 From the west, people will fear the name of the Lord,
    and from the rising of the sun, they will revere his glory.
For he will come like a pent-up flood
    that the breath of the Lord drives along.[a]

20 “The Redeemer will come to Zion,
    to those in Jacob who repent of their sins,”
declares the Lord.

21 “As for me, this is my covenant with them,” says the Lord. “My Spirit, who is on you, will not depart from you, and my words that I have put in your mouth will always be on your lips, on the lips of your children and on the lips of their descendants—from this time on and forever,” says the Lord.

Isaiah 59:15-21

Then Isaiah 60 talks about the Millennium Reign of Jesus Christ and what it will be like, this is only an excerpt, but the link above is the entire chapter. Isaiah the prophet foretold this to the Israelites. Does this not inspire all of us to prepare spiritually?

No longer will violence be heard in your land,
    nor ruin or destruction within your borders,
but you will call your walls Salvation
    and your gates Praise.
19 The sun will no more be your light by day,
    nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you,
for the Lord will be your everlasting light,
    and your God will be your glory.
20 Your sun will never set again,
    and your moon will wane no more;
the Lord will be your everlasting light,
    and your days of sorrow will end.
21 Then all your people will be righteous
    and they will possess the land forever.
They are the shoot I have planted,
    the work of my hands,
    for the display of my splendor.
22 The least of you will become a thousand,
    the smallest a mighty nation.
I am the Lord;
    in its time I will do this swiftly.”

Isaiah 60: 18-22

Back part of the Bible: Galatians 5:17 through Galatians 6:18 (Galatians 5 and Galatians 6)

Galatians 5 is summarized as “freedom in Christ” – does that not also suggest getting prepared?! Then it talks about living by the Spirit (this is how “born again” people live life) and to me personally, the word I chose for 2024 was “love” look at verse 22- and this is the page I opened to after prayer! I don’t believe in “coincidences” – God is in action always, sometimes we don’t understand, but later we will. God is doing something, we just need to be receptive to His plans for us, His communication with us!

16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever[c] you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Galatians 5:16-26

And Galatians 6 ties all this together from the front part of the Bible verses (God is not mocked) to the middle verses (eternal life, new creation) and back verses (How we should prepare spiritually- becoming the new creation, born of the spirit!)

Doing Good to All

6 Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. 4 Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, 5 for each one should carry their own load. 6 Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.

7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Not Circumcision but the New Creation

11 See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand!

12 Those who want to impress people by means of the flesh are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. 13 Not even those who are circumcised keep the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your circumcision in the flesh. 14 May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which[a] the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is the new creation. 16 Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule—to[b] the Israel of God.

17 From now on, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.

18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers and sisters. Amen.

Galatians 6

This prayer to God and the resulting verses made an impact on me, that is why I shared this. If you haven’t already been “born again” (turning from sin and receiving the Holy Spirit)- what is keeping you from this? You can do this right now. If you believe that Jesus is the Son of God, was born sinless because it was through the Holy Spirit that he was conceived, he died on the cross for our sins (to break the curse of death and give us life- the one and only, final sacrifice needed to make it possible for us to be in God’s future kingdom- here on earth, not up in the sky) then resurrected, ascended to Heaven where he lives until he returns to deliver justice, wrath and then reign as our king from Jerusalem in Israel. If we believe this and turn away from sin, Jesus will give us the Holy Spirit. Jesus was baptized and told his followers to baptize in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, however the man next to him on the cross did not get baptized but Jesus told him he would be with him in paradise. Baptism is important because Jesus told his followers to do this: it’s an outward sign of belief and turning away from a sinful life, but God is mostly concerned about what’s happening inside us: Repentance (turning away from sin) and Receiving the Holy Spirit are necessary. I was baptized as an infant, but I wasn’t sure if that “counted” because that wasn’t my choice, that was my parents’ choice. So I was baptized as an adult in 2021 and I think I made the right choice because after that is when I started having spiritual dreams and seeing visions of things in the future- I have no other explanation, than this baptism must have been what made this happen. Our relationship with God is personal, our parents or no one else can force this or make it happen. It is a personal choice, and a very important one. Is 2024 your year to be “born again”?

I pray for all who read or share this with someone they care about: May God’s love for you be known! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

by Categories: bible prophecy, bible study, FAITH, FAMILY, Following Passions, FRIENDSHIP, God, HAPPINESS, Healing, Improvement, Love, Make It Count, Parents, prayer, priorities, RELATIONSHIPS, WellnessTags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

Are we Predestined by God to Eternal Life or Damnation before we are born?

Predestined and Election Doctrine: (A Refreshing Understanding)

If you’ve been following my posts, you’ll know that I first read the Bible in 2019 from cover to cover and have been studying it since then (for 4 years now). I continue learning from scripture, I’m not an expert, and what I learned was from reading scripture first, then seeking other’s explanations of aspects that weren’t immediately clear to me. I am seeking truth. I stopped trusting “religious” doctrines and churches after I read the bible and discovered contradictions to what I learned. I wanted to know: what does the Bible tell us?

It was just this past year in a Bible Study when this subject came up: Predestination and Election. When I heard the explanation, my initial reaction was: this doesn’t sound right or seem to reflect the God whom I came to know through scripture! The explanation was based on Calvinism, which states:

The principle, in Calvin’s words, is that “All are not created on equal terms, but some are preordained to eternal life, others to eternal damnation; and, accordingly, as each has been created for one or other of these ends, we say that he has been predestinated to life or to death.”

John Calvin

The reaction from the Bible Study group was: this is in the bible, you can’t force what’s in the bible to conform to your beliefs! I agree with that statement, but wondered, Why did I not comprehend this while reading scripture? So I went back to read what Paul wrote and see that scripture says what it does. But still, it didn’t seem consistent with what I learned about God’s character. A member of the group shared a paper with me supporting this theory with scripture, but of course, I had to do my own research.

So I researched this topic and found (thankfully) there are various viewpoints regarding this subject, not solely the explanation I heard. This subject is one of those debated doctrines, which made me realize, people clearly don’t understand it, if this remains debated after hundreds of years. Most people initially have a negative reaction to it, but then they say God is sovereign and we don’t understand everything. Some will question, then why share the gospel, if God has predestined? The response is often: because the Bible told us to! All valid points, but to me, this is a horrible doctrine, contradicts scripture and does not the character of the God I’ve read about: God is love (1 John 4:8), He is patient, wants everyone to come to repentance and live in His future Kingdom. (2 Peter 3:9) God does not show favoritism. (Romans 2:11) God is just (2 Thessalonians1:6) and God is merciful. (Deuteronomy 4 and Daniel 9) None of these attributes align with John Calvin’s doctrine in my opinion, so there must be a viewpoint that doesn’t contradict God’s character. Additionally, this theory was arrived from reading Paul’s letters, but I know that scripture often has multiple “witnesses” attesting to truth. Clarification is found in scripture.

I also realized that many PhDs arrive at this theory because that is what they were taught in the seminary. But the fact is there are different beliefs, however, it seems the most often taught one appears to be based on the doctrine of John Calvin. The fact that there is debate on this topic is good because it shows people are using critical thinking, questioning the understanding of a doctrine that is more of a theory or interpretation rather than absolute truth. Humans are fallible; we don’t get everything right and it takes humility to accept this. It’s very likely that what I understand today (especially end times scripture) may change based on new information or revelation found in scripture later. In fact, people were so set in their preconceived ideas of who the Messiah would be that many missed that Jesus/Yeshua was/is the Messiah! I have a feeling that what we believe about end times events will also be that way; if it doesn’t happen the way our thoughts think it might, we’ll see it clearly in hindsight.

Getting back to other opinions on this topic, this is what I found in scripture after researching the topic:

Clarification of Predestined and Election (My notes based on scripture):

Foreknow/Foreknew:  defined:  be aware of (an event) before it happens. 

For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. Romans 9:29 God foreknew ALL/EVERYONE– therefore God predestined ALL OF US TO CONFORM  TO THE IMAGE OF HIS SON- but not all mankind ACCEPTS this conformation!

And Jesus said: And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” John 12:32

And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. Romans 8:30 – God does the work after someone accepts His calling, sanctification is by God, not us.

He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— Ephesians 1:5 God is adopting us (all who accept Jesus as Messiah)

In him (Jesus) we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, Ephesians 1:11– God’s will is for ALL to accept.  First it was offered to the Jews, but then it was offered to the Gentiles- yes, God first chose the Jews, his chosen ones, but then expanded it to ALL. Again God does the work to conform people who accept Him – through the work of the Holy Spirit.

PREDESTINED

Predestined:  God uses certain people for special purposes, not everyone is used for special purposes, some are for common purposes- “predestined” isn’t about salvation:

Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for special purposes and some for common use? Romans 9:21

For God does not show favoritism. Romans 2:11 – Opinion: to predestine one for salvation and one for destruction is contrary to what is stated here, we need to understand scripture.  Scripture interprets scripture but does not contradict, if it contradicts, it is something we haven’t comprehended yet.

Special purpose: we see this stated in Jeremiah 1:5: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”

Special purpose:  The LORD said to her, “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger.” Genesis 25:23

Special purpose: You will become pregnant and have a son whose head is never to be touched by a razor because the boy is to be a Nazirite, dedicated to God from the womb. He will take the lead in delivering Israel from the hands of the Philistines.” Judges 13:5

Special purpose:  (John the Baptist) Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. Luke 1:36

Special purpose:  But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. Acts 9:15

Special purpose:  “Then he said: ‘The God of our ancestors has chosen you (referring to Paul/Saul) to know his will and to see the Righteous One and to hear words from his mouth. Acts 22:14

Special purpose:  Ezekiel:  And he said to me, “Son of man, eat what is before you, eat this scroll; then go and speak to the people of Israel.” Ezekiel 3:1 (Ezekiel’s vision’s purpose was to speak to ISRAEL)

Special purpose:  John: I took the little scroll from the angel’s hand and ate it. It tasted as sweet as honey in my mouth, but when I had eaten it, my stomach turned sour.Then I was told, “You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, languages and kings.” Rev 10:10-11 (John’s vision’s purpose was for Gentiles or many peoples, nations, etc)

Contrary to special purposes, God also uses people to accomplish His will.  They have free will but He uses their free will and evil choices to accomplish His sovereign will. What is God’s will? 

“For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.” John 6:40 (notice Jesus doesn’t say “for the predestined”- he says for “everyone”!)

“Hardened Heart” – search “hardened” in an electronic bible, and you will see that there are times when God hardens someone’s heart, but notice this is AFTER the person has repeatedly “hardened their own heart”- as I understand, we have multiple opportunities, but at some point God may say “enough” and then harden a person’s heart. 

How is a heart “hardened” what does that mean? We find this in scripture:

But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. Hebrews 3:13 –It is the deceitfulness of sin that causes a person’s heart to be hardened.

Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done. Romans 1:28 (This appears to be consistent with other scripture, God give opportunities for repentance, reconciliation, belief but some people reject this and sometimes God turns them over to their sin- this is God’s decision, we don’t know when or if our “time is up” either while living or when our death occurs.)

ELECT- salvation isn’t imminent!

Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory. 1Peter 1:1

An additional resource and explanation is found in this video by Dr. Doug Hamp:

And here is the article in written form: www.douglashamp.com

Commonwealth of Israel Theology Summary by Dr. Doug Hamp is referenced in his video above and helpful in comprehending scripture about “the elect” which describes Israel and those grafted into Israel after becoming “born again”- born in the spirit as Jesus told Nicodemus in John Chapter 3; once this is “revealed” in scripture, it is clear regarding “the elect.”

This is important because understanding this truly gives us “hope” for all mankind having the opportunity to be in God’s kingdom because of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Comprehending this reflects the loving, merciful and just God we find throughout scripture. God also said: if you seek Him; He will be found. (Scriptural References).

by Categories: bible prophecy, bible study, Face Fear, FAITH, FAMILY, FRIENDSHIP, God, Healing, Improvement, Love, Make It Count, parenting, prayer, priorities, RELATIONSHIPSTags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Alcohol, Drugs, Addictions & Demons

I don’t write or post for the “art of writing,” I write with one purpose: to inform, after reading you can decide what you do with the information. Recently, someone wisely said: “Knowledge is NOT power” – it’s what you do after you receive the knowledge that can be powerful!

Most of us are aware that using any drug or consuming alcohol usually starts out casual and for some it remains that way, but for others, it escalates to abuse, then to addiction. By the time addiction sets in, people believe they have lost the power to change, but they haven’t. The mind is powerful, because if we believe we can’t, we don’t fight it any longer. This picture of the elephant controlled by a rope is good image to remember. At a young age the elephant is tied by this rope and unable to break free, so by the time the elephant is large enough to break free, the elephant no longer believes the rope can be broken and the elephant can be set free.

Power comes from our belief and belief is a result of what we feed our mind.

There are many reasons people turn to drugs or alcohol, but unfortunately what starts out as a “helper” for something affecting our life turns into not helping any longer, so more is needed, then this can progress into full destruction of self, if we doesn’t break free. A feeling of helplessness and hopelessness can occur and anxiety, depression and even suicide can enter our mind. This is where the brakes need to be applied before the full accident and destruction occurs because this CAN be reversed, a good life CAN return!

I believe there is more to this and a significant reason why this downfall happens to people, I learned about it after reading the Bible. What affects us can be spiritual, of course we can’t blame everything on a spiritual force, and need to be accountable for taking that first step in the wrong direction- out of ignorance- more than likely. “People are destroyed from lack of knowledge” as the prophet Hosea said in scripture. If we don’t know about the spiritual realm and influence, we can be destroyed from this lack of knowledge. Scripture says:

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Ephesians 6:12 (Paul wrote this)

I won’t get too much more into this because this topic is covered in depth in several articles and podcast episodes: Spiritual Warfare article and podcast , Suicide: the Biblical Response and podcast, Spiritual Warfare: How to Defeat it and podcast.

This demonic stronghold on us will take over our life, if we let it. But we can break it. The bible tells a story of Jesus encountering a man with many demons. He became isolated from people due to his condition but Jesus broke the stronghold and the man was fully restored. Strongholds can be broken in the name of Jesus today too! This encounter with Jesus was told by three different people in the Bible: Matthew (one of Jesus’ original disciples- Chapter 8), Mark (a friend of Peter who was one of Jesus’ original disciples- Chapter 5) and Luke (who was a doctor and investigated the stories to determine if they were valid).

Once the stronghold is broken, it is extremely important for us to remain “in Christ”- meaning surrendering our will to God’s will so that we remain protected: here’s an article on Surrendering and in podcast format because of this verse found in the Bible:

“When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation.”

Jesus (Matthew 12:43-45)

Luke, who was a doctor, documented this in Luke 11:24-26 also.

It doesn’t take much effort today to find stories of people struggling with these battles. Matthew Perry was one of those who fought that battle:

When I heard about the October 7th 2023 massacre in Israel, there was no other way to comprehend what happened other than demonic influence. But did you hear what was discovered? The terrorists were under the influence of a drug. (see video below)

Drugs appear to be a “open gate” “invitation” to the demonic realm where they can then influence us and many of us are completely unaware of this sadly. Here’s another article about this: click link.

What to remember despite all of this: God loves us and wants us with Him in eternity; Satan (and his evil spiritual forces) come only to steal and kill and destroy; Jesus came that we may have life, and have it to the full. Jesus said this, documented in John 10:10

Paul tells us that it all starts in our mind, redirecting our mind, just like that elephant example in the beginning, belief causes something very significant in the physical reality of our life.

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Paul (Romans 12:2)

Jesus told us this about the will of God:

For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.”

Jesus (John 6:40)

If there are intrusive negative thoughts, we need to be reminded of God’s love for us: “Don’t give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table” by Louie Giglio is a good book to read, here’s a link to the book on Amazon.

God is waiting for each of us to turn to Him. He loves us more than anyone because He created us with a purpose in mind. Each of us has a purpose, has a reason why we are here, when we seek God, we realize our purpose.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

God (written by Jeremiah the prophet, Jeremiah 29:11)
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Tribulation vs. Wrath? (Pre-Trib, Mid-TriB, Post-Trib)

After hearing about the future return of Jesus for the first time, just four years ago, following the reading the Bible, I wanted to understand “when” this happens and “what” the signs would be because I heard different opinions from people: Pre-Tribulation, Mid-Tribulation and Post-Tribulation and wondered: which one is correct?

After researching this in scripture and looking deeper into the actual Greek words used in the New Testament, I came away with a better understanding. To some degree, I think “all” are correct – if you misunderstand what Tribulation means. An understanding of Tribulation vs. Wrath is essential; these are two different events. The only way to prove this is to identify the words and let you read scripture for yourself. (This will follow)

This is not something to argue about though, as long as people are prepared to endure: The ONLY reason this matters is a concern for the people counting on the “pre-tribulation” rapture theory because that theory prepares people for “an escape,” it doesn’t build them up to withstand, persevere when trials come and therefore may lead to a “falling away” of faith in desperation and a lacking in trust of God when tribulation comes. Believers need to persevere, maintain faith, because God is trustworthy, faithful and has a proven track record throughout History. There is life after the Tribulation and our relationship with God and love towards others is more critical than the escape! As scripture says:

my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. “Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children.

Hosea 4:6

Scripture indicates a “pre-wrath” protection of God’s children, not a “pre-tribulation” protection of God’s children. So it’s important to recognize the different words used. I see many people using “Tribulation” and “Wrath” interchangeably, but the words have different contextual meanings in scripture.

I may be wrong about all the simulataneous happening of all these following events, but my current understanding is that there will be 3.5 years of God’s wrath unfolding at the same time as the AntiChrist’s 3.5 years of great persecution of Jews and Christians with the appointed “Two Witnesses” who will be sharing the gospel during this 3.5 years also. The Two Witnesses I see as counterbalancing the persecution in an effort to save more people, until the two witnesses are finally killed by the AntiChrist’s Government. God provides protection for His children during this time. (Revelation 12:6) I believe the Woman is symbolically “Israel” (which includes those grafted in– both Jews -the 144,000 sealed by God with the Holy Spirit/the Remnant Revelation 7:2 and Gentiles- a great multitude from every nation Revelation 7:9– Believers in Jesus). After the war breaks out in Heaven, Satan and his fallen angels are cast to earth- this begins the 3.5 year period when the AntiChrist is revealed and “rules” for a short period. (Revelation 12:9 and Revelation 12:14 and Daniel 12:7) First, the AntiChrist is revealed (as Jesus told his followers– Matthew 24:15), and sometime after this Jesus gathers God’s Children to protect them during wrath (as Jesus told his followers Matthew 24:31). Jesus also said if those days of persecution hadn’t been “cut short” no one would survive, but for the “sake of the elect” (Matthew 24:22) those days will be shortened. I believe Jesus gathers God’s children during the breaking of the 6th seal in Revelation because the description found in Matthew 24:29 matches the one found in Revelation 6:12-13 and Jesus says “immediately after the distress of those days” people will see the “Son of Man” (Jesus) right before he gives the description of the sun, moon and stars. (For more detail on this see The Revelation Timeline Chart).

Will the gathering by Jesus occur before the “Mark of the Beast”? The Mark of the Beast is something that is forced on all people to receive the mark on their forehead or their right hand whereby ALL people are not be be able to buy or sell without the Mark. I’m not certain if people are gathered by Jesus before this mark; possibly. Some think that this Mark of the Beast is the “hour of trial/the time of testing” and those prepared in advance may not need to be tested and therefore are gathered. But it’s clear in scripture that there will be some Believers that refuse this “mark” – maybe they become Believers after they see Jesus and realize that wrath is immenient? (That’s another reason not to put this decision/commitment to God off!) John sees a great multitude in the presence of God and is told “the multitude” are the ones who came OUT of the TRIBULATION (Revelation 7:14) but it doesn’t mention here if they also REFUSED to take the Mark of the Beast, or they if they were simply removed/gathered by Jesus before this? This brings to mind the parable of the 10 Virgins (the prepared vs. the unprepared- Matthew 25) But then in Revelation 14:9-12, there is a warning given to people: anyone who takes the mark will suffer eternally. (There is no forgiveness remaining for those who take the Mark, an angel warns people before they take it.) But BEFORE THIS MARK HAPPENS, something else happens: “Babylon” is destroyed (which I understand is a symbolic representation of a spiritual influence. I don’t know who Babylon is- but it will be people under the control of that evil Spirit- definitely a possibility for anyone who does not have the Holy Spirit.) “Babylon” is also represents a major trading/merchant “city” and some people will see Babylon get destroyed from a far, in the water or seas and the people will be shocked when it happens. Since we don’t know for certain where this “city” is, it would be wise to take precautions now and get prepared because this appears to happen BEFORE (Revelation 14:8) the Mark of the Beast (The destruction could be a bomb perhaps and that means sudden destruction). Regarding the Mark of the Beast enforcement, scripture also says:

This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God who keep his commands and remain faithful to Jesus.

Revelation 14:12

Therefore, it seems to indicate there will be Believers present when the enforcement of the Mark occurs. Maybe this happens to those who are not affected by the destruction of “Babylon”? Remember the False Prophet (Religious Figure) is the one who forces all to receive the Mark, on behalf of the “Beast “( the Governing Leadership at the time, led by the AntiChrist). Revelation 14:16

Back to current events: The presence of persecution/tribulation seems to have escalated signficantly in October 2023 first with the Jews, next will be the Christians, however the AntiChrist hasn’t been revealed yet, just the spirit of the AntiChrist, which is already making itself known throughout the world. There is no other way to comprehend the terror, attrocities and the following reaction by people regarding the October 7, 2023 massacre in Israel, except that this is brought on by a deceptive spiritual demonic influence enabled by a godless deceived society (sadly). A people who will ultimately be destroyed from a lack of knowledge: the terrorists and people who don’t believe Jesus is the Messiah. By Jesus’ death on the cross and resurrection thereafter, he made it possible for ALL mankind to have the opportunity (click the link for getting prepared) to be in God’s future kingdom (also known as eternity).

Israel is actively fighting a war today. Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, as proxies to Iran and including Iran all want the same thing: death to Israel and death to America. This is a spiritual war; it’s time for people to wake up, get prepared spiritually with the Holy Spirit!

Getting back to Tribulation vs. Wrath, please read these entries and maybe this will clarify the difference between wrath and tribulation contextually?

Tribulation: Greek word: thlipsis – verses found in scripture with this word: Click Link Here.

Wrath: Greek word: orgē – Verses found in scripture with this word: Click Link Here.

The difference between those words should be clear after reading those verses: Believers will go through Tribulation, but will be protected by God from Wrath. This requires perseverence, faith, endurance of Believers – which ironically are the characteristics of people after receiving the Holy Spirit! (Galations 5:22-23)

So again, this requires all of us to prepare now: Here’s a link to the “preparation” if you haven’t done so already. Please share this with all the people you care about!

Please pray for ALL people to turn to God for salvation in the name of Jesus!

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Fear of God: The Beginning of Wisdom

Does it seem like not many people have the “fear of God” in our world to you? People are living with the belief of “my truth” – which is a deception, a lie. “Truth” is being distorted like never before, in the past, we referred to this as “delusional or insane.” People need help and Truth. But what is Truth? Truth is the Word of God. What is the Word of God? (Read these passages to comprehend what the Bible states). The Word of God is Jesus. (John 1:1) The Word of God is found in scripture. (2 Timothy 3:16) If you seek Him, you will find Him. (Deuteronomy 4:29) Jesus is “the Truth.” (John 14:6)

WHY SHOULD I TRUST THE BIBLE?

It contains documented historical accounts from multiple eye witnesses (40 authors) over a significant span of time, all with a consistent story and message. It contains prophecies told by 17 different prophets, which came true later in history, yet some remain to be fulfilled to this day! (Read it and you will discover this for yourself!) The oldest book, Job, reflects the cultural and historical settings found in Genesis Chapters 12-50 (written ~1446 – 1406 BC); therefore it is believed to have been written in the second millenium BC (~2000 BC) around the time of Abraham (~2166 – 1991 BC). The last book of the Bible (Revelation) was written by the apostle/disciple, John (~90-96 AD). So in total, the scripture spans approximately 2,100 years with virtually no change as proven when the Dead Sea Scrolls were found.

The Dead Sea Scrolls are ancient manuscripts that were discovered between 1947 and 1956 in eleven caves near Khirbet Qumran, on the northwestern shores of the Dead Sea. They are approximately two thousand years old, dating from the third century BCE to the first century CE.

The Israel Museum

Lack of the “fear of God” isn’t something new though, it has been present throughout the history of the Bible. However, the lack of “fear of God” had deadly consequences as given by example from the authors of the books of the Bible. We can learn from other’s experiences and if we take action, we won’t suffer the same consequences they did. This is how Paul described people who don’t fear God (Romans 3:11-18):

  • As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one;
  • there is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God.
  • All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.”
  • “Their throats are open graves; their tongues practice deceit.” “The poison of vipers is on their lips.”
  • “Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness.”
  • “Their feet are swift to shed blood;
  • ruin and misery mark their ways,
  • and the way of peace they do not know.”
  • “There is no fear of God before their eyes.”

When I first read the Bible in 2019, there were verses that put the “Fear of God” in me. I believed, after reading the Bible, and knew I needed to change my way of living life because of the future consequences that would affect me, if I did not change. These are the verses that still come to mind, when I think of “Why fear God?” four years later:

WHY FEAR GOD?

for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God

Romans 3:23

Some people make up their own version of God and lie to themselves claiming they are good, but Jesus said (and this is affirmed by other authors throughout scripture):

“Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone.

Mark 10:18

WHO WILL NOT BE IN GOD’S KINGDOM?

There are repetitive verses describing those who WILL NOT be in the kingdom of God, as follows:

Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men, nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.

1 Corinthians 6:9-10 (Paul)

For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them.

Ephesians 5: 5-7 (Paul)

The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Galatians 5:19-21 (Paul)

But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”

Revelation 21:8 (Jesus)

Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.

Revelation 22:5 (Jesus)

SOME WHO CALL THEMSELVES “CHRISTIANS” WILL BE SUPRISED:

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’

Matthew 7:21-23 (Jesus)

IT’S IMPORTANT TO COMPREHEND WHAT “BELIEVE” MEANS (We know demons will not be in God’s kingdom yet they “believe”):

You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless?

James 2:18-20

AT A CERTAIN POINT OF CONTINUAL REJECTION, GOD ALLOWS PEOPLE TO HAVE THEIR WAY:

Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done.

Romans 1:28 (Paul)

DOES GOD BLOT OUT NAMES FROM THE BOOK OF LIFE?

It appears so, check out this link, searching “blot” in scripture: (Blot)

The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels.

Revelation 3:5 (Jesus)

So who is the “victorius”? From that chapter, it appears to be “Christians” who have NOT “backslid,” “transgressed” or gone back into a sinful lifestyle. When a white robe is given, symbolically this is the covering of Jesus, but if a person “soils” their white robe, they are NOT part of the “victorious.” Jesus says: “Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.” he says: “I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead.” and he also says: “Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God.” He gives a warning if they don’t repent, they are about to die! This scripture is why I personally don’t believe the doctrine of “once saved, always saved”- we need to remain “in Christ”- Jesus warns so many times about “falling asleep,” being “unprepared.” “What you have received” seems to reference “the Holy Spirit” and “heard” seems to reference the gospel message. In the Parable of the Ten Virgins Jesus emphasizes “being prepared”, oil is symbolic of annointing, of having the Holy Spirit. Remember that Jesus said unless we are “born again” (a new creation, born of the Spirit) we will not see God’s kingdom. This is important to know for those who claim to be “Christians,” but truly aren’t- there’s curently time to “wake up” and get right with God.

THE RETURN OF JESUS

The return of Jesus is referred to as “the day of the Lord”; there are many references to it throughout muliple authors of the Bible, click here to read the verses/references. It will be filled with God’s just wrath against all who choose evil and have rejected God.

WHAT’S THE SOLUTION ?

Repent (Reject Sin/Ask for forgiveness), show your Belief by your actions/how you live, receive the Holy Spirit from God through Jesus (the Holy Spirit transforms/changes us to become obedient to God). Repentance is required for the forgiveness of sins, Jesus did the rest. Repentance is what we do to prepare, and Jesus will give us the Holy Spirit when we are sincere, because we need to be “born of the spirit” to enter the kingdom of God. (John 3)

and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

Luke 24:47 (Jesus)

EVIDENCE OF BEING SAVED- “A NEW CREATION”

Many people “identify as Christians” but may not be saved, or true Christians. Unfortunately these people turn others away from Christianity by how they live, because they are not a living example, their life has not changed and they may not understand what it truly means to be a Christian. If a person is truly saved/in Christ, these are characteristics that others will see:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

Galatians 5: 22-24 (Paul)

If a person is NOT SAVED, these are characteristics that others will see:

The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery, idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Galatians 5:19-21 (Paul)

THE BENEFITS OF REPENTANCE/RECONCILIATION WITH GOD:

WE HAVE GOD’S PROTECTION:

We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them.

1 John 5:18 (John)

WE (WHO ARE NOT JEWISH) WILL HAVE A SHARED INHERITANCE WITH THE REMNANT OF THE JEWS

And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.

Ephesians 1:13-14 (Paul)

and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.

Colossians 1:12 (Paul)

since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Colossians 3:24 (Paul)

Next you might ask “as a reward for what?” the answer is in the verses prior to this quote: living in a Christian household (wives, husbands, children)

For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.

Hebrews 9:15

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you,who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

1 Peter 1:3-5

WE BECOME CHILDREN OF GOD

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

Matthew 5:9

Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—

John 1:12

For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.

Romans 8:14 (Paul)

For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed.

Romans 8:19 (Paul)

So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith,

Galatians 3:26 (Paul)

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.”Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.

Phillippians 2: 12-16

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears,[fn] we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure. Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him. Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. 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 God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.

1 John 3:1-10

Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well. This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome,for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.

1 John 5:1-5

We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them.We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.

1 John 5:18-19

GOD HEARS OUR PRAYERS AND ANSWERS THEM IF THEY ARE IN ACCORDANCE WITH HIS WILL

Then he continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them.

Daniel 10:12

So when God destroyed the cities of the plain, he remembered Abraham, and he brought Lot out of the catastrophe that overthrew the cities where Lot had lived.

Genesis 19:29

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.

1 John 5:14

WE WILL RECEIVE BLESSINGS : ( CLICK HERE: BLESSED IS) and (CLICK HERE: BLESSED ARE)

“Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll.”

Revelation 22:7 (Jesus)

If you find this helpful, please share this with someone else. I know these verses are hard to handle, but they are truth so if someone is not right with God or prepared but decides to change that, that’s one more person living in God’s kingdom, one more eternal friend or brother/sister. It’s not too late if someone is reading or hearing this today; do it today- don’t delay. This is meant to be received in love, for the good of those who read this and take action.

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Avoiding Deception and Manipulation

Valuable information is found in scripture and if we learn and apply this, it will keep us from being deceived or manipulated. The tool to know if a person is a deceiver or manipulator is found in Galatians 5, a letter Paul wrote to the Galatians around 50 AD (about 20 years after Jesus was crucified to put this in historical context).

Pay attention to the descriptive qualities of a person to know if they are truly guided by the Holy Spirit or as scripture states still under the bondage of the evil one who opposes God. There are some who may call themselves Christians but when we look at the description of a person’s character of one who is “in Christ,” a true “Believer”- these traits will be seen if the person is guided by the Holy Spirit. If none of these traits are seen in a person, that person is a liar about being a Christian (so stay away from them, do not trust them), if some of the traits are seen that person may be a new Christian in process a “baby Christian,” so still be cautious, but a mature Christian will show these traits consistently, more often than not, with occasional “mistakes,” this person is more trustworthy, but not still not perfect, because no one will be perfected until Jesus returns. The fruit of the Spirit is what can be seen in someone truly being guided by the Holy Spirit. Here are the verses:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Galatians 5:22-23

There are definitions of the 9 characteristics:

  1. Love: agapē (ἀγάπη– Greek word): Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails…1 Corinthians 13:4-8
  2. Joy: chara (χαρά– Greek word): cheerfulness, i.e. calm delight
  3. Peace: eirēnē (εἰρήνη – Greek word): by implication, prosperity:—one, peace, quietness, rest,
  4. Patience: makrothymia (μακροθυμία – Greek word): forbearance or (subjectively) fortitude:—longsuffering, patience.
  5. Kindness: chrēstotēs (χρηστότης– Greek word): usefulness, i.e. morally, excellence (in character or demeanor):—gentleness, good(-ness), kindness.
  6. Goodness: agathōsynē (ἀγαθωσύνη – Greek word): i.e. virtue or beneficence
  7. Faithfulness: pistis (πίστις– Greek word): persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself:—assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity.
  8. Gentleness: prautēs (πραΰτης– Greek word): gentleness, by implication, humility:—meekness.
  9. Self-Control: egkrateia (ἐγκράτεια – Greek word): (the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, especially his sensual appetites)

Not only is this a good checklist when encountering others and determining how trusting we should be with them, but this is equally as important as a checklist for us. Do we exhibit these qualities? Do we need more help from the Holy Spirit in certain areas? Jesus said to his disciples:

Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.

John 14:12-14

“If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

John 14:15-17

Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.

John 3:5

And Paul warns us:

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Ephesians 6:12

We are told we live in a spiritual world, where the unseen is present and influencing events in our daily lives and we may even interact with angels unknowingly:

Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.

Hebrews 13:2

And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.

2 Kings 6:17

Knowing what to look for (the traits of a person guided by the Holy Spirit) helps us avoid deception and manipulation. Don’t be swayed by emotion, use scriptural knowledge and overcome.

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