Category: Parents

2025- What’s Your Word Heading into this Year?

Continuing this “Tradition” that started a few years ago (in 2022) with a group of friends via a Bible Study, I’ll add my word for 2025 and add to my prior year’s words:

2025 Word: rûaḥ, רוּחַ (Hebrew)

I love what this word represents to me: “wind,” the freedom in Christ, when a person is guided by the Holy Spirit, we truly don’t know what comes next; it is the Holy Spirit who guides us:

“The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.” John 3:8

I don’t know what lies ahead, but knowing that the Holy Spirit will guide me is a true blessing and also promises somewhat of an adventure: navigating the unknown.

I found this word studying the Old Testament, it’s found (378 times– click this for the definition and all the verses) throughout the Old Testament (From Genesis to Malachi) and is the Breath of Life, the Holy Spirit, the “wind” from God. The New Testament word corresponding to this is pneuma (Strongs G4151). The same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead can reside within us, when we surrender our will to God’s will.

This year ahead, I truly want to be led by the Holy Spirit, submitting to God’s will. And starting off this year, as it frequently seems to happen with me: “coincidences occur” – I have been praying for God (the Holy Spirit) to guide me for awhile now, since 2017 and it’s been a slow but steady “spiritually refining” process thinking about this in hindsight and knowing that there’s still more work to be done within me, but progress is happening, thankfully. My life has been changing. I chose this word for 2025 and ironically on New Year’s Eve, someone asked me: “What are your goals for 2025?” My response was “Ruah” and then I had to explain that. I think God makes these things happen! The person who asked me this question was someone I didn’t know, but he told me, he had recently given his life to Christ! Wow was my reaction to finding that out! Then another study group I joined in the Fall of 2024 chose “The Fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5) as the first study for 2025. See what I mean? God makes things happen, it’s not a coincidence and this is just the beginning, the first month of 2025!

These were my words for prior years:

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!

In hindsight: 2024 was a year of more change (which is rough): letting go of more in my life, turning it over to God and finding joy in new beginnings, evaluating what is “good” and how I need to spend my time and truly focusing on being loving towards others. “Do everything in love.“ 1 Corinthians 16:14.

In regards to Bible prophecy: current events still seem to be lining up with biblical prophecy, but maybe they have for sometime and I simply was unaware prior to 2020? Again, whatever is God’s will, will happen, so the most important part is to be led by the Holy Spirit, which maybe why I chose “Ruah” for 2025?

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.

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”).

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 because 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)

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.

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. 

I pray for all who read or share this with someone they care about: May God’s love for you be known and may you be led by the Holy Spirit this year! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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

The Gift and Power of The Holy Spirit

Here we go again: I’m not only awakened at 4:30 am with “Holy Spirit” on my mind, but wide awake. Immediately, the thought of interrupting my ongoing Bible Study podcast (which is currently covering the Book of Judges) and sharing what I’ve learned the past five years about the Holy Spirit with others. But then I thought: I have all this in my head and people will not believe what I’m saying if I don’t reference scripture. But that’s how it is with me today: it’s in my head, I know it’s in scripture, but I need to search to find the book, chapter and verse. That’s why the written form is helpful: for those who want to confirm what I’m saying; because we shouldn’t “blindly” trust anyone! This article is for EVERYONE seeking a closer relationship with God, wanting to be in God’s Kingdom.

WHY SHOULD I CARE ABOUT RECEIVING THE HOLY SPIRIT?

The most important reason to care about receiving the Holy Spirit is because Jesus/Yeshua said this is the way we enter the Kingdom of God. I’m not forgetting that Jesus/Yeshua said “I am the way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father, except through me.” John 14:6 but this is our ticket to get into God’s literal, physical and spiritual Kingdom: receiving the Holy Spirit! Jesus/Yeshua also said: “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” John 3:3, “born of the Spirit” and John the Baptist said: “As for me, I baptize you [only] with water; but One who is mightier [more powerful, more noble] than I is coming, and I am not fit to untie the strap of His sandals [even as His slave]. He will baptize you [who truly repent] with the Holy Spirit and [you who remain unrepentant] with fire.” Luke 3:16, John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. Mark 1:4 Jesus/Yeshua is the one who will ask the Father and send the Holy Spirit to us. John 14:16

GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.

7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines. 1 Corinthians 12:4-11

Jesus/Yeshua also said: 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves. 12 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. 13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. John 14:11-13

FRUIT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control.” Galatians 5:21-23 (It’s helpful to study this entire Chapter 5)

In the AMP version, it helps us comprehend this more clearly: But the fruit of the Spirit [the result of His presence within us] is love [unselfish concern for others], joy, [inner] peace, patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting], kindness, goodness, faithfulness,23 gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Evidence of the Holy Spirit: For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control]. 2 Timothy 1:7

WHEN DOES THIS HAPPEN?

This is up to Jesus/Yeshua. He will give us the Holy Spirit without asking, by surprise either BEFORE: 44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all those who were listening to the message [confirming God’s acceptance of Gentiles]. 45 All the circumcised believers who came with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. 46 For they heard them talking in [unknown] tongues (languages) and exalting and magnifying and praising God. Then Peter said, 47 “Can anyone refuse water for these people to be baptized, since they have received the Holy Spirit just as we did?” Acts 10:44-47

or AFTER water baptism: 14 When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that [the people of] Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. 15 They came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit; 16 for He had not yet fallen on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus [as His possession]. Acts 8:14-16

But as mentioned earlier, Jesus/Yeshua told his followers: 12 I assure you and most solemnly say to you, anyone who believes in Me [as Savior] will also do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these [in extent and outreach], because I am going to the Father. 13 And I will do whatever you ask in My name [[a]as My representative], this I will do, so that the Father may be glorified and celebrated in the Son. 14 If you ask Me anything in My name [as My representative], I will do it. John 14:12-14

DO YOU HAVE THE HOLY SPIRIT? ASK JESUS/YESHUA!

All we need to do is ask Jesus/Yeshua because we know this IS according to God’s will! Remember that even Jesus/Yeshua prayed when he was in the garden before he was crucified: saying, “Father, if You are willing, remove this cup [of divine wrath] from Me; yet not My will, but [always] Yours be done.” Luke 22:42 The Holy Spirit will not be given to someone who is not fully surrendered to God. Remember the story of Simon the Sorcerer?

Simon the Sorcerer

9 Now for some time a man named Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and amazed all the people of Samaria. He boasted that he was someone great, 10 and all the people, both high and low, gave him their attention and exclaimed, “This man is rightly called the Great Power of God.” 11 They followed him because he had amazed them for a long time with his sorcery. 12 But when they believed Philip as he proclaimed the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Simon himself believed and was baptized. And he followed Philip everywhere, astonished by the great signs and miracles he saw.

14 When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to Samaria. 15 When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 because the Holy Spirit had not yet come on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.

18 When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money 19 and said, “Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”

20 Peter answered: “May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! 21 You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord in the hope that he may forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. 23 For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin.”

24 Then Simon answered, “Pray to the Lord for me so that nothing you have said may happen to me.”

25 After they had further proclaimed the word of the Lord and testified about Jesus, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel in many Samaritan villages. Acts 8: 9-25

BENEFITS OF HAVING THE HOLY SPIRIT

18 He [Jesus/Yeshua] said to them, “I watched Satan fall from heaven like [a flash of] lightning. 19 Listen carefully: I have given you authority [that you now possess] to tread on [a]serpents and scorpions, and [the ability to exercise authority] over all the power of the enemy (Satan); and nothing will [in any way] harm you. 20 Nevertheless do not rejoice at this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven.” Luke 10:18-20

RESPONSIBILITY AFTER RECEIVING THE HOLY SPIRIT

10 Now after this the Lord appointed seventy others, and sent them out ahead of Him, two by two, into every city and place where He was about to go. 2 He was saying to them, “The harvest is abundant [for there are many who need to hear the good news about salvation], but the workers [those available to proclaim the message of salvation] are few. Therefore, [prayerfully] ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest. 3 Go your way; listen carefully: I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. 4 Do not carry a money belt, a provision bag, or [extra] sandals; and do not [b]greet anyone along the way [who would delay you]. 5 Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘[c]Peace [that is, a blessing of well-being and prosperity, the favor of God] to this house.’ 6 And if anyone of peace is there [someone who is sweet-spirited and hospitable], your [blessing of] peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. 7 Stay in that house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer is worthy of his wages. Do not move from house to house. 8 Whenever you go into a city and they welcome you, eat what is set before you; 9 and heal those in it who are sick [authenticating your message], and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ 10 But whatever city you enter and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, 11 ‘Even the dust of your city which clings to our feet we wipe off in protest against you [breaking all ties]; yet understand this, that the kingdom of God has come near [and you rejected it].’ 12 I tell you, it will be more bearable in that day [of judgment] for Sodom than for that city.

13 “Woe (judgment is coming) to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented and changed their minds long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes [to show deep regret for sin]. 14 However, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon in the judgment than for you. 15 And you, Capernaum, will not be exalted to heaven, will you? You will descend to Hades (the realm of the dead).

16 “The one who listens to you listens to Me; and the one who rejects you rejects Me; and the one who rejects Me rejects Him [My heavenly Father] who sent Me.”

The Joyous Results

17 The seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.” 18 He said to them, “I watched Satan fall from heaven like [a flash of] lightning. 19 Listen carefully: I have given you authority [that you now possess] to tread on [d]serpents and scorpions, and [the ability to exercise authority] over all the power of the enemy (Satan); and nothing will [in any way] harm you. 20 Nevertheless do not rejoice at this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven.”

21 In that very hour He was overjoyed and rejoiced greatly in the Holy Spirit, and He said, “I praise You, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things [relating to salvation] from the [e]wise and intelligent, and have revealed them to infants [the childlike and untaught]. Yes, Father, for this way was [Your gracious will and choice, and was] well-pleasing in Your sight. 22 All things have been transferred and turned over to Me by My Father and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, or who the Father is except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal Him.”

23 Then turning to His disciples, Jesus said privately, “Blessed [joyful, spiritually enlightened, and favored by God] are the eyes which see what you see, 24 for I say to you that many prophets and kings longed to see what you see, and they did not see it; and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.”

25 And a certain lawyer [an expert in Mosaic Law] stood up to test Him, saying, “Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 Jesus said to him, “What is written in the Law? How do you read it?” 27 And he replied, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” 28 Jesus said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this habitually and you will live.” 29 But he, wishing to justify and vindicate himself, asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”

Parable of the Good Samaritan

30 Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he encountered robbers, who stripped him of his clothes [and belongings], beat him, and went their way [unconcerned], leaving him half dead. 31 Now by coincidence a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 Likewise a Levite also came down to the place and saw him, and passed by on the other side [of the road]. 33 But a Samaritan (foreigner), who was traveling, came upon him; and when he saw him, he was deeply moved with compassion [for him], 34 and went to him and bandaged up his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them [to sooth and disinfect the injuries]; and he put him on his own pack-animal, and brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 On the next day he took out two denarii (two days’ wages) and gave them to the innkeeper, and said, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I return.’ 36 Which of these three do you think proved himself a neighbor to the man who encountered the robbers?” 37 He answered, “The one who showed compassion and mercy to him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and constantly do the same.” Luke 10

THE PRAYER JESUS/YESHUA TAUGHT

9 “Pray, then, in this way:

‘Our Father, who is in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
10 
‘Your kingdom come,
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
11 
‘Give us this day our daily bread.
12 
‘And forgive us our debts, as we have forgiven our debtors [letting go of both the wrong and the resentment].
13 
‘And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. [For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.]’

14 For if you forgive others their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins], your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others [nurturing your hurt and anger with the result that it interferes with your relationship with God], then your Father will not forgive your trespasses.

This is a powerful prayer, taught by the Son of God. With the Power of the Holy Spirit, we pray that God delivers us from evil, protects us. Pay attention: unforgiveness and continual sin stands in our way of receiving this power. The enemy knows this and wants to keep you from power and authority over evil! That’s why “and do not lead us into temptation” is important- protect us because we are weak. Repentance (a full surrender to God’s will) comes first, then the blessing of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 6:9-15

PROTECTION: THE SPIRITUAL AMOR OF GOD (HAVING THE HOLY SPIRIT) – PAUL EXPLAINS:

The Armor of God

10 In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [draw your strength from Him and be empowered through your union with Him] and in the power of His [boundless] might. 11 Put on the full armor of God [for His precepts are like the splendid armor of a heavily-armed soldier], so that you may be able to [successfully] stand up against all the schemes and the strategies and the deceits of the devil. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places. 13 Therefore, put on the complete armor of God, so that you will be able to [successfully] resist and stand your ground in the evil day [of danger], and having done everything [that the crisis demands], to stand firm [in your place, fully prepared, immovable, victorious]. 14 So stand firm and hold your ground, having tightened the wide band of truth (personal integrity, moral courage) around your waist and having put on the breastplate of righteousness (an upright heart), 15 and having [c]strapped on your feet the gospel of peace in preparation [to face the enemy with firm-footed stability and the readiness produced by the good news]. 16 Above all, lift up the [protective] shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.

18 With all prayer and petition pray [with specific requests] at all times [on every occasion and in every season] in the Spirit, and with this in view, stay alert with all perseverance and petition [interceding in prayer] for all God’s people. 19 And pray for me, that words may be given to me when I open my mouth, to proclaim boldly the mystery of the good news [of salvation], 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. And pray that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly and courageously, as I should.

21 Now, so that you may know how I am and what I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will tell you everything. 22 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know how we are, and that he may comfort and encourage and strengthen your hearts.

23 Peace be to the [f]brothers and sisters, and love joined with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with undying and incorruptible love. Ephesians 6:10-23

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“Once Saved Always Saved” – or Not?

Three years ago (in 2021) this question made its way to me. I guess every person seeking God comes across this question at some point when exploring beliefs.

My Early Life as a “Christian”

To be honest, as a person who called myself a Christian every since I can remember, I never even thought of this question, it wasn’t a statement in the faith community I was part of. I never personally considered that question, but also wasn’t certain about my eternal destination. I didn’t spend much time thinking about this but considered God’s judgment as something that would happen one day, when I died: I’d be in front of God and I hoped for the best, but believed it was ultimately up to God’s decision, so I’d just have to wait and see what happened. (Looking back, I honestly didn’t understand salvation completely).

Seeking God

I believe God “calls” a person. He sends questions we don’t know the answer to into our thoughts and the “search for answers” begins. (That’s what happened to me.) This involved years of me getting closer (through prayer to God), a little bit at a time, praying about the questions I had and having a desire to become a “better person” until bad things started escalating to high levels in my life and this shocked me. Thankfully I believed in God and didn’t doubt His existence when this happened, but asked Him “WHY?!” is all this happening and especially now at the time I was seeking Him more. I still hadn’t read the bible at this point, but I knew some scripture from what was read in church. I had recently bought a study bible, but it lay unopened on my nightstand. I was pretty upset about the bad things happening in my life at this point and I decided to open that book to a randomly chosen section and start reading. Guess what book it was? Job! This was the first book within the Bible that I read. If you haven’t read Job, it’s about spiritual warfare and God allowing Job to be tested by Satan. Job loses everything, but God restores it later. WOW! That was what I was experiencing (losing everything) but I didn’t understand “why” until I read this. It was a dark time of struggle for me, but reading this helped me so much. It was months later that I finally decided: I need to see what else is in this book! I had more specific questions so I began searching and read the Bible in 3 months (August through October 2019).

Convicted

That’s what happened: scripture convicted me! This interesting part of this is in 2017, I prayed and “surrendered” my life to Jesus one day at church. I wanted God to take control of my life because I wasn’t happy with how my life was going. I prayed morning and evening, but still hadn’t read the bible until 2 years after this “surrender.” (2019) God is patient! But now that I knew the Truth found in scripture, it convicted my way of living and I had a choice to make, I could no longer plead “ignorance” because I knew what scripture said. I had a tough decision to make: continue my way of living or change because it doesn’t align with scripture? I chose God and I knew that decision was good, but it was hard and painful living with that decision. I had to live differently. I tried to bring others on this “journey” with me (that would have been helpful and easier for me if I had someone to join me), but I was rejected by them. I had to do this on my own if I wanted to do this. So I did, my life became more isolated and revolved around consuming a deeper understanding of the Bible and that’s when this statement “Once Saved Always Saved” came across my path.

Once Saved Always Saved

You would think that I would have celebrated when I came across this statement, right? As in, I didn’t need to worry about what I did, how I lived because I was “saved.” The work was done by Jesus on the cross, it doesn’t require anything from me! “Yay!” But that wasn’t my reaction. Just like when I read the Bible and felt that personal conviction about the way I was living, this statement “sounded alarms” to me. How could this be: Christians can do anything and still be assured of salvation? That didn’t line up with what I read in the Bible! The people who share this belief remind others of how loving God is and that grace covers it all; it’s a free gift! There is nothing to fear, God is love. (Wow! Who wouldn’t embrace this with wide open arms, am I right?! That’s exactly what I WANT to hear! What a relief!) Then this scripture pops into my mind:

“For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.” 2 Timothy 4:3

I dug into scripture. What is truth? God is love. God is patient. God is merciful. God is Forgiving. (All this is true). So all we have to do is “believe”? Well that’s easy, because I always believed, I never had a problem for some reason believing in God. Then this scripture pops into my mind:

“You believe that God is one; you do well [to believe that]. The demons also believe [that], and shudder and bristle [in awe-filled terror—they have seen His wrath]!” James 2:19 AMP version

So demons believe, they know who God is, so why do they need to shudder? How is that Christians get special treatment from God? They can get into God’s holy kingdom because Jesus died on the cross but it doesn’t require a changed life? What is a changed life? Isn’t a changed life “turning away from sin” in repentance and toward God, becoming holy? Isn’t that us doing something? What makes a Christian different from a demon who does evil besides the obvious spiritual aspect? (The surrender to God’s will, right? What does God say? “be holy because I am holy”) Doesn’t being holy mean stop sinning? Doesn’t Jesus say unless we are “born again” (John 3: we need the Holy Spirit dwelling within us) or we cannot enter the kingdom of God? How can one be “born again” and willingly continue to sin? If you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. So doesn’t that also mean, if you are not led by the Spirit, you are under the law? There is a difference between a momentary weakness, when we mess up (and as soon as we are “convicted” by the Holy Spirit, ask for forgiveness, then stay away from that sin- that’s repentance) but continuing an ongoing defiance to what we know is in God’s word but willingly choosing to do what we want rather than what we know God wants is rejecting God. Evidence of the presence of the Holy Spirit is “self-control.” (Galatians 5) Ongoing defiance is an act of rebellion and rejection of God. Think about this: does that rebellion or defiance show others that we “believe”? Are we showing others that we are “in Christ”? Do we believe God is just, powerful, holy? If we believe God is just, don’t we also believe those who live in rebellion to God will experience wrath? If we are living in rebellion, why would we be excluded from wrath? Because we believed, yet chose to disobey?! Doesn’t God require us to “be holy”? Throughout the entire Old Testament, God says “be holy because I am holy”- search that and you will see for yourself! Some may say, yeah, but that was in the Old Testament before Jesus died on the cross and people had to do that…hold up…the New Testament says it multiple times too and God established the testimony of Truth by 2 or 3 witnesses, so here it is:

Peter acknowledges this: because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy” 1 Peter 1:16

The author of Hebrews says: “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” Hebrew 12:14

And Jesus said: “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the [f]Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.”14 Blessed are those who [g]do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. 15 [h]But outside are dogs (kyon – this was a metaphor meaning a man of impure mind, an impudent man) and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.16 “I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.” Revelation 22 (Sinning is breaking the commandments, but what did Jesus say in verse 14 above?)

The Gift of the Holy Spirit and Obedience

If a person is born again, they desire to keep God’s commands because of the Holy Spirit residing within them, not of their own doing, this is a “gift” from God. “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” Luke 11:13 and Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38 (notice “repent” and understand what that means: metanoeō: click here for the meaning) “We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.” Acts 5:12 (the Spirit is given to those who choose to, surrender our will to obey Him) “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” Romans 8:14

So another question is can the Holy Spirit leave a person? Here’s what scripture says:

Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Psalm 51:11

Yet they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit. So he turned and became their enemy and he himself fought against them. Isaiah 63:10

“14 Now the Spirit of the Lord had departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord tormented him.” 1 Samuel 16:13-15

I just presented 3 witnesses found in scripture that talks about the Spirit departing from a person because they were doing evil things. God established this 2-3 witnesses establishing truth within His word. Jesus affirmed this when he said: “But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’” Matthew 18:16. If you want more verses about truth coming from 2 – 3 witnesses, here’s the link. So in my opinion, scripture establishes that the Spirit can depart (from an unrepentant person).

32 Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them. Romans 1:18-32 (link in context)

Whoever remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy. Proverbs 29:10

“In repentance and rest is your salvation,
    in quietness and trust is your strength,
    but you would have none of it.” Isaiah 30:15

I will destine you for the sword,
    and all of you will fall in the slaughter;
for I called but you did not answer,
    I spoke but you did not listen.
You did evil in my sight
    and chose what displeases me.” Isaiah 65:12

“Therefore, son of man, say to your people, ‘If someone who is righteous disobeys, that person’s former righteousness will count for nothing. And if someone who is wicked repents, that person’s former wickedness will not bring condemnation. The righteous person who sins will not be allowed to live even though they were formerly righteous.’ Ezekiel 33:12

Repentance

God is patient, merciful and forgiving and wants all to come to repentance. If people believe “once saved always saved,” do they believe ongoing repentance is required? What happens if they die while they are in rebellion to God? (We can’t know the answer to this question, only God knows and decides that, but do we really want to risk being eternally separated from God?) Does one really believe that obedience to God’s commands doesn’t matter?

Jesus said: Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. Matthew 24:35

Hebrews 14 says: For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Coming out of his mouth is a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. “He will rule them with an iron scepter.” He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. Revelation 19:15 (Is this the word of God (scripture, what God’s commands) that ultimately brings about Judgment on us? But if we are “in Christ” we are protected, “in Christ” meaning God’s spirit residing in us.

Love and Grace

Doesn’t Jesus equate love with obeying God’s commands?

Jesus said: “If you love me, keep my commands.” John 14:15

Doesn’t Paul tell us that we don’t abuse His grace and keep on sinning?

6 What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? 2 By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3 Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? Romans 6:1-3

Let’s look closely, in context, about the scripture that people like to quote, but only a portion of it:  “8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2. But let’s look closely at the entire chapter!

Made Alive in Christ

2 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live (NOTICE THIS MEANS FORMERLY LIVED THIS WAY, PAST TENSE, NOT CURRENTLY) when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. (NOTICE IT IS GOD’S ENEMY/SATAN WHO IS THE ONE AT WORK IN THOSE WHO ARE DISOBEDIENT) 3 All of us also lived among them at one time (WE ALL STARTED OUT SINFUL), gratifying the cravings of our flesh[a] and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive (HOW DOES THIS HAPPEN? BY RECEIVING THE HOLY SPIRIT PERHAPS, BEING BORN AGAIN AS JESUS DESCRIBED IN JOHN 3? GOD LOVES US AND IS LOOKING FOR A COMPLETE SURRENDER TO HIM) with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works (OUR WORKS CAN’T SAVE US, ONLY JESUS CAN, BUT OUR WORKS ARE EVIDENCE OF FAITH- JAMES 2), so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (The point is our faith and what we do because of our faith will be how we are judged. We can’t separate the two just because we like to do good works/service for others, but then we don’t want to give up this one sinful thing that we know God wants us to give up- that shows us we are not surrendered, if we are not surrendered, can we have God’s Spirit residing in us? Didn’t the apostles refuse Simon the Sorcerer because he had bad intentions but wanted the power of the Holy Spirit. God knows when we are sincere and have good intentions/motivation behind our request for the Holy Spirit)

Grace and those who “keep on sinning”

The Greek word for grace is charis– defined as: the merciful kindness by which God, exerting his holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens, increases them in Christian faith, knowledge, affection, and kindles them to the exercise of the Christian virtues. We are protected when we are “in Christ”- grace doesn’t mean we can keep on sinning:

“If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God.” Hebrews 10:26-27 (doesn’t it sound like…we’re on our own if we deliberately keep on sinning- Jesus’ sacrifice isn’t applicable?)

“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.” 1 John 3:6-7

Lukewarm Christians

My concern is for “lukewarm” Christians, those who don’t fear God and believe they are saved because they said a “sinner’s prayer” or because “they believe,” but their life never changed, repentance doesn’t even cross their mind, some churches cowardly abstain from mentioning repentance and I don’t know why because it is critical to salvation, look at this in scripture:

“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. 2 Corinthians 7:10 (repentance LEADS to salvation)

The “lukewarm” Christians- those are the people that I’m concerned for, they don’t have a full understanding of God’s word and are risking their eternity with God because they may think they are saved but there is “no fruit,” no evidence of a changed life. (Galatians 5) If a person has truly surrendered, their life will change.

Truly Saved

I haven’t met a truly saved Christian who fears or doubts their salvation because they know their heart is turned to God, they know the sacrifices they make for God, to be within God’s will. God is their priority, they’ve made the hard choices to be led by the spirit rather than conforming with the world or chasing after sinful desires. They feel the Holy Spirit’s presence. “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 Do people occasionally mess up? Yes, but the difference is remorse, seeking forgiveness, repentance; a daily surrender to the will of God. No one truly saved believes they are perfect or without sin. If someone thinks that, they are not truly saved. “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.” 1 John 1:8. So this “Once Saved Always Saved” doesn’t seem to be needed encouragement for the truly saved, so who was the intended recipient? Upon searching this, I found it was for those who said the sinner’s prayer or were baptized! But what about receiving the Holy Spirit?! Scripture is clear that the Holy Spirit can be received before (Acts 10:47) or after baptism (Acts 8:16-18). John baptized with water (for repentance- Mark 1:4) , but Jesus baptized with fire (testing) and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:11). And Jesus said we must be born of the Spirit/born again to enter the Kingdom of God! (John 3)

Lukewarm Christians – not fully surrendered

But I do feel like it’s the lukewarm Christian who knows they have ongoing sin in their life but they are not remorseful about it, they are not doing anything about it, not repenting or turning to God but yet they want reassurance that they will still be in God’s kingdom, so they cling to this statement- see the itching ears scripture (2 Timothy 4:3)- seeking what they want rather than the truth. They have not fully surrendered, they are still clinging to something they know is sin, but refuse to give that sin up. But they need to know: All it takes is a willingness to give it up, turn it over to God and ask for the Holy Spirit to battle it. God is more powerful, God is sovereign, God can do the impossible. We just need to be willing and welcome God’s spirit into our lives, be willing to be changed by Him. Remember:

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Proverbs 9:10

“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

I believe the Parable of the 10 Virgins is about Lukewarm Christians, the oil is about the Holy Spirit anointing, Christians receive the Holy Spirit, but then don’t maintain the Holy Spirit and will be shocked when Jesus returns and says:  ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’ Matthew 25

If you need more encouragement from scripture to surrender to God/become obedient to God, or to repent whenever you mess up, here are some additional verses and Chapters for reading and reflection:

Luke 13: 23-24 (repent or perish, the narrow door), Luke 14:16,18,24 (don’t make excuses), John 8:34 (Everyone who sins is a slave to sin- the bondage hasn’t been broken with Satan), Romans 2 (an unrepentant heart brings on wrath at judgment day), 1 Corinthians 6 (wrongdoers do not inherit the kingdom of God), Ephesians 5 (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), Colossians 1:21-22 (it starts in the mind), Colossians 2:8 (Deceptive Philosophy), 1 Thessalonians 4 (If you reject this instruction you’re rejecting God v.8, Acts 17:30-31(In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent.) 2 Thessalonians 1:6-8 (wrath comes on the disobedient when Jesus returns), 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 (They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved.) 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12 (refusal to submit to God brings condemnation), 2 Timothy 2:25-26 (reaching those trapped by the devil), Titus 2: 11-12 (Grace teaches Christians how to say “no” to worldly desires), 1 John 2:15-17 (If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.) 1 John 5: 18-19 (We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin), Jude 1: 18-19 (Those who follow ungodly desires)

God gave us freedom to choose who/what we follow. We can be led by the Spirit or led by our own desires/controlled by God’s enemy. If we are led by the Spirit, we begin to change and desire what God desires, we do not continue to choose sin. If we are choosing sin, we need to figure out if we are truly saved, we need to repent, ask for forgiveness and ask for God to help us; He will give us the Holy Spirit if we are sincere in this request. Remember most importantly: God loves us and wants us in His Kingdom.

The Lord is full of compassion and mercy: persevere! (see James 5:11) There are many different beliefs of people who call themselves Christians, but what we want to believe doesn’t matter; the Truth matters: What does it say in the Bible? Each of us has the decision on what we believe, we will have different opinions on some topics especially where scripture is unclear, but this topic seems clear to me and most importantly relates to our relationship with God, it’s worth researching and asking God about it if you are still unsure.

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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.

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Revelation Timeline (Commentary/Subject to Change!)

I started writing about the book of Revelation in February 2022 but stopped after the first sentence, then woke up this morning thinking it’s time to complete this. If you found my podcast, on Spotify or Apple (episodes 201 – 215), you will know I just completed a chapter by chapter reading and discussion on the book of Revelation, so I won’t go chapter by chapter here. This will be a summarization of the events.

My interest in Bible Prophecy (eschatology) started in 2020 when we had that global “pandemic” event, I felt there was a greater signficance, maybe a wake up call, a warning perhaps, and I believe it was, three years later (2023) because of the continuation of global events such as lawlessness, floods, hail, earthquakes, fires, etc. While all these events have been present as long as we can remember, there has been an increase in the intensity of these events since I started paying attention to them, search for yourself. This thought aligns with “Climate Change” focus (which I believe as a focus distracts us from what this really is: a warning from God).

Why is God warning us? I believe He is warning all mankind: there is prophecy written about thousands of years ago which remains yet to be fulfilled, and I believe it’s coming sooner than most people think: the return of Jesus Christ, which will bring about judgement on mankind: believers and unbelievers. I noticed that God often repeats things 3 times, or multiple times, when He wants us to pay attention to something in scripture. I say “God” repeats because I believe that the spirit of God inspired the 40+ authors who wrote what we refer to as “the Bible” telling a consistent message over thousands of years through prophets (in dreams and visions) and through the symbolism of actual events in history giving us a preview of what is to come.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.

Psalm 111:10

The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.

Proverbs 4:7

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Proverbs 9:10

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 1:7

In 2020 when I started seeking to understand, it was so confusing, and I found so many opinions on the sequence, the timing of these events. While, I’m still not certain about the timing of events, I’ve prepared a “Timeline” based on what I found in scripture, but what I think is most important, is our preparation, becoming “Born Again,” (click this link to read more on what this means), I didn’t make a podcast of this post, but plan to soon. Jesus said:

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

The “preparation” is the most important part and once we are prepared, “Born Again,” we will have no fear of the future events because we will have made an alliance, promise, commitment, covenant with God and He sees us as “His Children” whom He protects, shelters and works all things for the good of those who love Him and keep His commands.

Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments.

Deuteronomy 7:9 (written by Moses)

Then I said: “LORD, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments,

Nehemiah 1:5 (written by Nehemiah the prophet)

I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed: “Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments,

Daniel 9:4 (written by Daniel the prophet)

And before anyone claims, the commandments no longer apply , that was the Old Testament, please remember these quotes from the New Testament:

“If you love me, keep my commands.

John 14:15 (the words of Jesus as documented by John)

Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.

John 14:23 (the words of Jesus as documented by John)

Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.

John 14: 24 (the words of Jesus as documented by John)

He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

Luke 11:28 (the words of Jesus as documented by Luke)

Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness?

Romans 6:16 (Paul’s words: we are either obedient to evil spiritual forces or obedient to God)

For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

1 Peter 4:17 (Peter’s words)

So because of all this written above, especially for those who want to “wait until the last minute” to prepare- we may be “at the last minute”- seriously, take a look at what prophecy indicates, then compare this to world events. Knowing prophecy is for our benefit, it will happen, Jesus explains the sequence of events in the chapters of Matthew 24 (the signs) and Matthew 25 (preparation and judgement)

After studying the Book of Revelation, I put together this “End Time Timeline” dated 10/2023- no dates, just what I discovered while reading scripture and this is slightly different from what I’ve heard from other people, the events may not be in this order, but this is the best I could put together from my current understanding of scripture. (It will change, if scripture provides clear evidence that this order of events is not correct.) This is a timeline based on what I found in scripture only, not what others teach. I am seeking the truth, only found in scripture. When we have differing opinions, it’s because we are not fully understanding the word of God. So I welcome anyone who has scripture to support a variation of this timeline because I only want to know the truth, to understand. I’m providing a link to the PDF timeline document for you to reference, download, mark up as you read scripture. Please share any clarifications (with scripture references) that you find relative to the timeline after reviewing, if you find evidence for something different and I will update the document. Hopefully this document will be helpful in recognizing where we are today using this timeline as we watch and experience world events.

endtime-timeline-2023-10Download

As I read the Bible, I found many references to “End Times” throughout scripture, and while many scholars often quote from various places in the Bible, I didn’t have a consolidated reference, so I’m going to do that for you: reference various parts of scripture that you will want to familiarize yourself with if you want more detail. Scripture interprets scripture, gives clarity, and provides detail. There is something that scholars also know: while some events occurred in the past, they were not a complete fulfillment of scripture, but they were a “preview” or a “foreshadowing” of future events, please keep this in mind and pray, asking God for wisdom, discernment and clarification if it is not clear and I believe He will give it to “His Children” who ask for this.

PLEASE SCROLL PAST THESE REFERENCE LINKS FOR AN IMPORTANT FINAL SUMMARY/ACTION PLAN

REFERENCES (with links for further reading):

  • MESSAGE TO THOSE WHO ARE DISTANT FROM GOD
  • Isaiah 30
  • SPECIFIC MESSAGES RE: ISLANDS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN
  • Isaiah 11:11,

ACTION PLAN

The only preparation we need is to be “born again” as Jesus said in John Chapter 3. The normal reaction after hearing of the events described in the Book of Revelation is fear, but the spirit of fear this isn’t the spirit God wants us to keep, this is what we have when we DON’T have God’s spirit. If we have the Holy Spirit (we are born again, born of the spirit, a new creation), then we have nothing to fear because God provides EVERYTHING we will need- have faith and trust in Him. Faith comes from reading scripture (the Bible) seeing the repeated history of God’s character, His personality, who He is. Then when we KNOW God personally, from what is written in the bible and from our communication with Him, talking to Him through our prayers. Receiving the Holy Spirit isn’t some long drawn out process, the moment we are sincere in belief, wanting to change our ungodly ways, asking God for forgiveness, with a sincere “surrender” of my will to God’s will (obedience to God), asking Jesus for the Holy Spirit, we will receive the Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit will begin to work in our life, we will begin to change (this part is a slower, more gradual process) but when we are sincere and our “hearts turn towards God”- God is merciful, loving, forgiving and restores us.

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7
by Categories: bible prophecy, bible study, Face Fear, FAITH, God, Healing, Improvement, Love, Make It Count, MUSIC, parenting, Parents, prayer, priorities, RELATIONSHIPS, spiritual warfare, WellnessTags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

What is so Bad about Sex?!

According to the analysis, by age 44, 99% of respondents had had sex, and 95% had done so before marriage. Even among those who abstained from sex until age 20 or older, 81% had had premarital sex by age 44. “This is reality-check research.

2006- Guttmacher Institute

Many people justify sex without marriage by saying: as long as it’s two consenting adults, it’s a “committed relationship,” everyone does it, it’s not hurting anyone, we’re adults, we’re going to get married, so that’s okay, right? The “committed relationship” theory- really? You’re so committed, so ask: why are you not married? Apparently there is a reason you aren’t and that involves one, or both, NOT being committed enough for marriage!

Then there is the other side, religious people who condemn sex outside of marriage. But what’s the basis for this? Where did this “rule” come from? Why are religious people so strict about this rule? Most people who know about this religious rule will not be able to tell anyone why, but just know that’s what they’ve been taught, that’s what religion teaches. It becomes a weak reason for the rebellious who say I don’t agree with the religion about this! They may say this because they believe this teaching is “old-fashioned,” “out of date,” no longer relevant today because they were never told “WHY!” but only told DO NOT DO THIS! Most people don’t seek the answer to the “WHY” because they honestly don’t want to know, don’t care to know, don’t want to follow the rule anyway- so why bother?

The “Why” is the most important behind any “decision” or “rule”- people could list the physical risks involved, but read this and let me know what you think after you read this:

  • We lose our inheritance rights (eternity):“See that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights as the oldest son.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • We are cast outside of God’s kingdom: “Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.” ‭‭Revelation‬ ‭22‬:‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • Inside a Marriage is the only place for sex: “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • We lose our inheritance (eternity with God): “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.” Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • People who call themselves Christians/Believers: “But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • We lose our inheritance (eternity with God): “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” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭6‬:‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • We will be cast into “the fiery lake of burning sulfur”- the second death, following our physical death: “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 ‭NIV‬‬
  • It affects us personally, it affects our destination, no one (except Jesus/repentance) can change this destination for us: “Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.” ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭6‬:‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • True Christians/Saved Christians don’t keep doing this: “But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • FEELINGS mislead us-seek the truth: Jesus said: “For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.” Matthew‬ ‭15‬:‭19‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • By participating we are setting ourselves up for the punishment of eternal fire: “In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire.” Jude‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • Take action: ask for forgiveness, help from the Holy Spirit, then resist temptation and be a “new creation” in Christ/become saved:“Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.” James‬ ‭1‬:‭21‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • Christians/Saved People: “For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life.” 1 Thessalonians‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • Call to repent if we want to be in God’s Kingdom- it’s time for change: “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.” Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • Wake up, NO, “grace” doesn’t allow believers to keep on sinning! “For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.” Jude‬ ‭1‬:‭4‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • Paul, the one who emphasizes grace, also reminds people that repentance (turning away from sin) is required: “I am afraid that when I come again my God will humble me before you, and I will be grieved over many who have sinned earlier and have not repented of the impurity, sexual sin and debauchery in which they have indulged.” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭21‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • We will not inherit the kingdom of God (if we don’t stop): “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 ‭NIV‬‬
  • The day of Jesus’ return is getting close: “Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭13‬:‭13‬-‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • Repentance (asking forgiveness from God, the Holy Spirit’s help, and stopping the sin) is required-this is describing those who survive the plague (God giving more time) but still: “Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts.” Revelation‬ ‭9‬:‭21‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • We need the Holy Spirit, we can’t do it on our own: Jesus said: “For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder,” Mark‬ ‭7‬:‭21‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • When we have the Holy Spirit (once we truly surrender “our will” to “God’s will”), our lives will change: “As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to human standards in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit. The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.” ‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭2‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality;” 1 Thessalonians‬ ‭4‬:‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬
  • God receives us with love and happiness when we truly repent (change, turn to God in obedience): “But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’” Luke‬ ‭15‬:‭30‬ ‭NIV‬‬

But never put a person to death on the testimony of only one witness. There must always be two or three witnesses.

Deuteronomy 17:6

We are warned by more than three witnesses: Jesus, Paul, James, Jude, Peter, John in the scripture references above showing us the Truth (“The Why”). All people need to know WHY, because it may make a difference to some, but it won’t to all (we also know that from scripture) and there are even more witnesses to this truth found in the Bible than are shown above.

This is meant for the 95% of people having sex outside of marriage- pretty much the majority of people. This is one of the greatest threats for people who are currently deceived by the world’s permissive culture. Everyone needs to know this and make a decision before it’s too late. Share this with others you care about.

This summary is meant to save people from condemnation at Judgement Day. Anyone reading this has time (right now) to Repent, which means: ask God for forgiveness of the past, ask Jesus to give the Holy Spirit, so that we can receive the help of the Holy Spirit to remain in Christ (ie. obedient to God’s commands), choose to do what is right (God’s will) heading into the future, next time- with the help of the Holy Spirit, in Jesus’ name. Jesus has provided us the opportunity to enter the Kingdom of God when he died on the cross for us (breaking the curse of death) for all who have sinned and rose from the dead. If you believe this and repent, as explained above, you will be saved and can be certain that you will be in God’s kingdom!

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