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The story of Ruth takes us back over three thousand years, into a society without machinery, social security, schools or supermarkets. This is a society where there is no employment other than farming, and where a poor harvest (or the death of the family breadwinner) means that starvation is staring you in the face. In such an environment, romance takes second place to financial security. It’s also a society in which the reality of God’s existence is always assumed – and acknowledged – whatever your situation and feelings. One day Naomi is praying for her daughters-in-law; the next she is railing bitterly at the God who has bereaved her of her husband and children. Boaz greets his employees with a blessing; and they respond in a similar manner. Is this what it is like to “pray continually” (I Thessalonians 5:17)? It isn’t just talk, either (James 2:15,16). After praying for God’s blessing on Ruth, Boaz takes action to ensure that she can get enough food to live on. And when Naomi realises that Boaz is not going to make the first move, she works out a strategy to enable Ruth to propose to him! There are no miracles here – but nevertheless the reader can see that God is at work, through the choices and actions of ordinary people (which is how He does things 99.9% of the time). Ruth leaves her home and culture in order to support her impoverished mother-in-law (and if that isn’t selfless love, what is?). Boaz is required by law to leave the margins of his field unreaped, to feed the local ‘underclass’; but he actually gives away far more than the bare minimum. Both of them – eventually – receive back far more than they give, in their marriage and in their son (who turns out to have a vital place in the genealogy of the Messiah).

Ruth was the great grandmother of King David. Therefore, an ancestor to the King of Kings, Jesus...............

Hi Annette Thank you for this thread. What a wonderful book, I have always loved it. There is some wonderful, valuable commentary on the book from other members. It also pictures us following Jesus. How He looks after us and covers us. How can it be anything but amazing? I also loved all the comments agreeing with you. There is a song we used to sing, way back - a chorus: Cover me, cover me. Extend the border of thy mantle over me.. because Thou art my nearest kinsman .... cover me, cover me, cover me.

The story of Boez being Ruth's near kinsman redeemer is what is most meaningful to me. It is a type of Christ being our near kinsman Redeemer. Question: "What is a kinsman redeemer?" (Got Questions) Answer: The kinsman-redeemer is a male relative who, according to various laws of the Pentateuch, had the privilege or responsibility to act on behalf of a relative who was in trouble, danger, or need. The Hebrew term (go el) for kinsman-redeemer designates one who delivers or rescues (Genesis 48:16; Exodus 6:6) or redeems property or person (Leviticus 27:9–25, 25:47–55). The kinsman who redeems or vindicates a relative is illustrated most clearly in the book of Ruth, where the kinsman-redeemer is Boaz. The story of Ruth and Boaz begins when Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi, return to Bethlehem from Moab where they had been living. Naomi’s husband and both sons, one the husband of Ruth, had died, leaving the women penniless and without a male protector. Upon arriving in Bethlehem, Naomi sends Ruth to glean in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy relative of Naomi to whom they, through a series of divinely appointed circumstances, appeal as their go el. Boaz acquiesces, willingly takes Ruth as his wife, and together they bear a son named Obed who became the grandfather of David, the forefather of Jesus. Yahweh is Israel’s Redeemer, the one who promises to defend and vindicate them. He is both Father and Deliverer (Exodus 20:2). There are numerous Old Testament appeals to God as rescuer of the weak and needy (Psalm 82:4; Daniel 6:27; Jeremiah 20:13) and preserver of the sheep of Israel (Ezekiel 34:10–12, 22). In the New Testament, Christ is often regarded as an example of a kinsman-redeemer because, as our brother (Hebrews 2:11), He also redeems us because of our great need, one that only He can satisfy. In Ruth 3:9, we see a beautiful and poignant picture of the needy supplicant, unable to rescue herself, requesting of the kinsman-redeemer that he cover her with his protection, redeem her, and make her his wife. In the same way, the Lord Jesus Christ bought us for Himself, out of the curse, out of our destitution; made us His own beloved bride; and blessed us for all generations. He is the true kinsman-redeemer of all who call on Him in faith.

Hi guys, Hope your new week has started out okay. So. I was wondering what do you find interesting or even unique about the book of Ruth. I love the dedication that she showed to her Mother In Law, and seeing how she remained faithful to Naomi, even after her husband had died. There are so many things that come to mind or stand out. I would love to read your thoughts. God bless.

The main thing that really makes people feel like turning around isn't hearing the truth, it isn't that you try so hard to convince them or make them read the word and go to church, but it is convincing when they see Christ working in your life to know he is real. They see a difference in your life than everyone else. People pay more attention to actions than words when it comes to being a real Christian.

It's on my bid app watch list for KJV. I don't want it to enter my first bid too early.

'Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power: Thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy. .. And in the greatness of Thine excellency .... Thou hast overthrown them that rose up against Thee: ...... Thou sentest forth Thy wrath, ........ which consumed them as stubble. And with the blast of thy nostrils the waters were gathered together, .. the floods stood upright as an heap, .... and the depths were congealed in the heart of the sea. The enemy said," I will pursue, I will overtake, .. I will divide the spoil; my lust shall be satisfied upon them; .... I will draw my sword, my hand shall destroy them." Thou didst blow with thy wind, the sea covered them: they sank as lead in the mighty waters. .. Who is like unto Thee, O LORD, among the gods? .... Who is like Thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders? ...... Thou stretchedst out Thy right hand, the earth swallowed them. ........ Thou in Thy mercy hast led forth the people which Thou hast redeemed: .......... Thou hast guided them in Thy strength unto Thy holy habitation.' (Exodus 15:6-13) Praise God!

Hi Annette, Great topic and hope all`s well with you and your family. RUTH I would like to write a few line from C.J.Rolls, a great teacher from last century. All scripture is to reveal Christ. The first section from Genesis to Deuteronomy concern Christ in prefiguration - the seed, the lamb, the priest, etc This reveals His moral character. Then in the next section from Joshua to Esther, we see Christ in prevision. It concerns Christ`s governmental authority. In Joshua the authority was virtue of right, `The Prince of the Lord`s host.` In Judges the authority was representation, `The Angel of the Lord.` Then in Ruth we see the authority of Christ is based on relationship and resource, for Boaz was a near kinsman and. `A mighty man of wealth.` The great essential of redemption is to be near of kin to the needy soul. Thus Christ took on Him the seed of Abraham and was found in fashion as a man. As Son of Man He gave Himself a ransom. The right relationship having been established, the second requirement was resource, to pay the demand. The price was paid in all willingness, which implies resoluteness of will. Christ secured the right to become redeemer by incarnation. He had the resource in His full and unforfeited life. He resolved to redeem and voluntarily offered Himself without spot to God. Boaz said: “Ye are witnesses….I have bought all.” (Ruth 4: 9) Of Christ it is written, “sold all that he had and bought that field.” The field is the world. (Matt. 13: 44 7 48) Marilyn.

OH my dear sisters , I rushed here tonight hoping to see good encouragments . You all are loved . This tiny place does much good . And you sisters and not me , are loved . Hands up and praise the LORD . Swidl and all , praise the Lord .

In Greek mythology Dionysus is the god of wild abandon and hedonistic pleasure. He is the god of wine and therefore the god of drunkenness. He is the god who he himself lives a life of fleshly pleasure. Apollo is a much harsher god. He is the god of law and sometimes the god of brutal justice. He is the other side of the coin. Just as Dionysus is dedicated to pleasure, so Apollo is dedicated to legalistic authority. The two of them represent the eternal question of how life ought to be lived. Do I, like Dionysus, go for the gusto and live only for the moment. Or do I, like Apollo, discipline myself to a harsh and structured life that has very little room for pleasure. The eternal question "What is the purpose of man - to experience life - or to discipline himself in the midst of life." That's why the gospel of Jesus Christ answers this question with a third way. It rejects this false dichotomy that life must be either hedonistic or legalistic. Instead it says that true life is found in the pleasure of serving something higher than yourself. It gives a purpose that goes beyond this world in time. As the Westminster Catechism asks and then answers: 1. What is the chief end of man --- "it is to glorify God and enjoy him forever." This is the combination of the two lesser and false paths - it speaks of a pleasure (or at least joy) found in the high purpose and discipline of following God.

Some people hit rock bottom and call out to God because they are without all hope. They know that they are going to hell. So they give God all of their lives because only God can straighten out the mess and bring any good out of it. Other people do so piece by piece. They give God the biggest problem area of their lives and ask Him to take over. Then they apply all pertaining Scriptures without question or argument. They have stopped wrestling with God but have quieted themselves praying "Nevertheless, not my will be done, but thine." When they see how wonderful it is to have God in control of that part of their life they surrender the rest to God as well. They want to do things God's way.

The point of borders is something that is Biblical -- even in the millennial reign of Jesus. Read Ezekiel 48 when the Lord returns ... amazingly the tribes all have specific borders mentioned. So how does on establish a border? This is really the issue. Personally, this is a no brainer issue. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to realize the reason people know another persons property clearly defined borders.

Isnt it also amazing how josephs wife was gentile . So was at one time she a gentile ., Shows a foreshadow of gentiles being grafted into the vine by the husband . JESUS the savoir , husband , of all who do believe . Gentiles grafted in through the bridegroom . Just tiny nuggets . I mean some folks say jews never married a gentile . One of the twelve , joseph did . And apparently this girl had been married to a jew too . then later after his death , married boaz. From which sprang King david, and according to that tribe and lineage , came forth THE TRUE KING . Put those hands up dear sister , and lets turn this place into a PRAISE THE LORD FEST .

@Annette The book of Ruth is one of my favorites, too. It has an interesting combination of characters. Ruth is devoted and selfless. Unlike many so young, she chooses to put her mother-in-law's happiness over her own. She could've stayed behind and remarried. She even turns away from worshiping the idol of her land and embraces the true God of Israel. In v 3:5 she is shown to be obedient to Naomi. "And she said to her, “All that you say to me I will do.” Naomi is clever. She senses Boaz is drawn to Ruth by the way he keeps seeing to it she is eating well and protecting her. Boaz gives her special treatment and tells her he wants her to stay nearby in his personal fields. In 2:8 Naomi explains to Ruth: "Now Boaz, whose young women you were with, is he not our relative? In fact, he is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor. Therefore wash yourself and anoint yourself, put on your best garment and go down to the threshing floor..." Ruth 3:2-3 For Naomi knows Jewish law obligates wealthy, kind Boaz to marry her. Boaz is bighearted. He treats his servants fairly and is especially generous with Ruth and Naomi...looking after these two widows. Best of all, Boaz can be seen as a Messianic foreshadow! He is a type of Christ in several ways. Boaz is from the tribe of Judah and of the town of Bethlehem which points ahead to Jesus. ( Boaz, David and finally Jesus, fulfilling the Micah 5:2 prophecy.) He is the redeemer...the one who can rescue Ruth from her plight as an outcast (heathen) in Israel. She will find safety under his covering "Take your maidservant under your wing, for you are a close relative.” Or "Spread the corner of your garment over your maidservant" (3:9) All of us were outcasts lost in our desperate spiritual condition. Like Ruth, we found hope in the Savior who mercifully received us as His own. The Church is His beloved Bride. Another parallel of Jesus and believers with Boaz and Ruth. Praise God.

Hi, There is a short book titled "not even a hint", by Joshua Harris that may be of help as you also read pray and think over the word of God your Bible. Extrabiblical resources like his short book can be of great benefit in helping to motivate any person into reading the Bible with better understanding. The short book deals directly with lust especially as it pertains to the younger but physically mature male or female- for both males and females deal with lust expressed in sexual activities. May I give a personal thought here; you can't be a good person, not good enough, you can't be the perfect person which is what God requires. Just can't do it. You can be seen as perfect though in the eyes of God, perfect for your flaws are covered in the shed blood of Jesus if you accept and wear that covering. The price of your personal sin, even the sin of lust, has already been taken care of, covered, paid for,- by Jesus at the cross at Calvary by His shed blood. Start there, do not let satan, nor satan's demons, nor his minions the naysayers and rules makers, cause you grief nor scare you into thinking you are not a good enough person therefore you are not seen as perfect in the sight of God the Father. Don't buy satan's lie. Always remember and count on the willing sacrifice made by Jesus who is Lord God and the personal savior of all that are saved. He has already has fully covered my sin, your sin, and the sin of all that have been called to hear of the sacrifce made by Jesus. All sin, past, present, and future, - it is covered. Start there, then learn through your Bible with prayer and thinking upon its words of the ways you may do all things that you do to glorify God. Not to meet His standard, for you can't no one can, but to glorify Him, which every Christian can do. Do not let satan nor demons nor any man nor woman steal your joy an dyour certain hope which is th eperfection that God sees when he sees you washed white as snow by the shed blood of Jesus. There is a simple song with a profound truth. written by Lewis E Jones; Would you be free from the burden of sin? There’s pow’r in the blood, pow’r in the blood; Would you o’er evil a victory win? There’s wonderful pow’r in the blood. Refrain: There is pow’r, pow’r, wonder-working pow’r In the blood of the Lamb; There is pow’r, pow’r, wonder-working pow’r In the precious blood of the Lamb. Would you be free from your passion and pride? There’s pow’r in the blood, pow’r in the blood; Come for a cleansing to Calvary’s tide; There’s wonderful pow’r in the blood. (refrain repeated) Would you be whiter, much whiter than snow? There’s pow’r in the blood, pow’r in the blood; Sin-stains are lost in its life-giving flow; There’s wonderful pow’r in the blood. ( refrain repeated) Would you do service for Jesus your King? There’s pow’r in the blood, pow’r in the blood; Would you live daily His praises to sing? There’s wonderful pow’r in the blood. May the words and the well known tune help provide to you additional energy with strong impetuous to read the word of God learn of the power in the blood of the precious lamb of God our Lord Jesus. Victory is yours by Jesus God who came in the flesh lived - died - descended - rose and ascended to heaven-, and there makes a place for you.

Why Pretrib Logic Fails Miserably on the Daniel’s Seventy-Weeks Prophecy by Alan E. Kurschner Here is the pretrib logic: Pretribs reason that since the Seventy-Weeks prophecy in Daniel 9:24–27 was given to Israel,the Church cannot “exist” on earth during any of its fulfillment. Here is why this common pretrib argument fails: First, pretribs such as Crone would have to deny that the Church exists during the New Covenant fulfillment, since Jeremiah prophesied specifically to “the people of Israel and Judah.” (See Jeremiah 31:31–34). I am sure that Billy Crone would admit that he is a New Covenantbeliever. Pretribs cannot have their cake and eat it too. This obvious logical inconsistency seems to escape their minds. The New Covenant was not made with the Church, but the Church is governed under this covenant as the New Testament teaches that the New Covenant was extended to the Gentiles. We have to look to the New Testament for its progressive revelation to learn these matters. Why can the New Covenant that was made to Israel be applied additionally to Gentiles, but the 70 weeks prophecy made to Israel cannot also include God working with the Church at the same time? We are never told. Billy Crone and other pretribs are myopic and do not allow the New Testament progressive revelation to give us more information about the particulars of the 70th week of Daniel. Many more examples could be given from the Old Testament. Here is another one: Peter in Acts 2:16-21 is citing from a prophecy from Joel that was given to Israel and applying it also to the new Church situation. You cannot have a more explicit OT prophecy made to Israel while also including an application of its fulfillment to the Church. Second, pretrib logic on this issue simply does not follow. It makes a category error by confusing what with when. They argue that since the Church did not exist during the first 69 sets of seven years (483 years), therefore the Church cannot be there for the last seven years. That is a non sequitur. It fails logically. The fact that the Church did not exist at the time of the first part of this prophecy (69 sets of seven years, 483 years), who is to say that God is not going to work with both the Church and Israel during the last part of this prophecy? The Church does exist now. So logically it can be here for the last seven years. When you allow for New Testament progressive revelation, you can learn more than what the Old Testament reveals. Imagine that! And just to clarify these prophecies to Israel are not being replaced by the Church. The New Testament is simply telling us that God is expanding his redemptive program to the Gentiles, while he keeps his promises to Israel. The Danielic passage is addressing Israel. Pretribs is trying to say more than it does by making it say that no other redemptive group can exist at that time. Third, God has worked with both Israel and the Church at the same time in the past and he does in the present. In the past: Jesus made a prophecy to Israel about God’s judgment upon them (Matt 24:1–2; Luke 19:43–44). When was this prophecy to Israel fulfilled? It happened in AD 70—during the Church age! Do you know where I am going with this? Once again, why are we told that the prophecy to Israel about the 70 weeks excludes any fulfillment during the Church age, but a prophecy to Israel about its judgment is not? When you have a theological system such as pretribulationism built on a web of assumptions, you will inevitably face internal inconsistencies. In the present: God also works with Israel and the Church at the same time, not just in the past, but the present: “(19) But again I ask, didn’t Israel understand? First Moses says, “I will make you jealous by those who are not a nation; with a senseless nation I will provoke you to anger.” (20) And Isaiah is even bold enough to say, “I was found by those who did not seek me; I became well known to those who did not ask for me.” (Rom 10:19–20) “I ask then, they did not stumble into an irrevocable fall, did they? Absolutely not! But by their transgression salvation has come to the Gentiles, to make Israel jealous.” (Rom 11:11) “For I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: A partial hardening has happened to Israel until the full number of the Gentiles has come in.” (Rom 11:25) These passages teach that God in this present Church age is working with Israel to make them “jealous.” These reasons are sufficient to show that pretrib logic fails miserably when they claim that the Church “cannot be here” for the last part of Daniel’s prophecy.

A short time ago, I asked for help to find a particular scripture, to which Selah and others replied, for which I'm blessed and grateful. This morning in one of my daily devotionals was this very scripture. 2 Samuel 5:24. When thou hearest a sound of the going in the tops of the mulberry trees...then shall thou bestir thyself. The devotional is "Morning by Morning" by Charles Haddon Spurgeon. ( May you all be inspired as you read) The members of Christ's church should be very prayerful, always seeking the anointing of the Holy One to rest on their hearts, that the kingdom of Christ may come, and that His "will be done in earth, as it is in heaven" (Matt6:10). But there are times when God seems especially to favour Zion; such seasons ought to be to them like " the sound of the going in the tops of the mulberry trees." We ought, then, to be doubly prayerful, doubly earnest, wrestling more at the throne than we have been inclined to do. Action should then be prompt and vigorous. The tide is flowing; let's pull manfully to the shore. Oh, for Pentecostal outpourings and Pentecostal labours! Christian, in yourself there are times when you hear the sound of marching in the mulberry trees. You have a special power in prayer; the Spirit of God gives you joy and gladness; the Scripture is open to you; the promises are applied; you walk in the light of God's countenance; you have wonderful freedom and liberty in devotion and more closeness of communion with Christ than was your custom. Now, at such joyous periods when you hear : the sound of a going in the tops of the mulberry trees," is the time to rouse yourself. Now is the time to get rid of any evil habits, while God the Spirit is helping your weaknesses. Spread your sail; but remember what you sometimes sing-" I can only spread the sail; Thou! Thou! must breathe the auspicious gale." However, be sure you have the sail up. Do not miss the gale by not being unprepared by it. Seek God's help, so that you may be more earnest in duty when you are made more strong in faith; that you may be more constant in prayer when you have more liberty at the throne; that you may be more holy in your conversation while you live more closely to Christ. I am of the opinion that we are living in "the last days" and as such we as christians need to "gird our loins" and be about The Master's business." As the world grows darker and darker around us and seems to be "hemming us in" we need to look Up and not around us at the circumstances, Trust and obey, for there's no other way, to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey. Amen, even so, come Lord Jesus.

Sorry I can't help. Quality ones are a challenge to find. I've got a leather bound one with good quality printing that my wife found for me about 30 years ago at a small Christian bookstore. It was my main Bible for many years. It's still my favorite English version for the OT.

Weep for the lost and keep them close to your heart as you live each day from now on, which is the move He has been making for some time now. Each of His children will feel this at different times in their lives as His Holy Spirit draws us near to Him. Allow Him to live through you so the lost will see Christ in you as seek His salvation. The time is closer than most realize.

It seems to me that the greater danger of witchcraft is not the magic or superstition that goes along with it. The great problem is that it, as so many other things in the world, makes me the center of my life. It seeks to empower me. It is a supernatural world that puts me at the center of the web pulling all of the strings. It is a religion of my spells, cast for me, for my life, for my purpose. This is the opposite of Christianity. Christianity is the pursuit of the upper way (i.e. God's way for me instead of my way for me). In Isaiah 55:9 the Lord says, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." How can witchcraft ever rise above self because it is self. Christianity, on the other hand, has no ceiling, no limit for it rises upward in pursuit of the eternal, unlimited God.

Rapture is the wise virgins taken by the Bride, Tribulation is foolish Virgins left for the antichrist.

Hi all thanks, yes I use Bible Gateway most every day. I have had Accordance Bible Software for years, but really desire an updated issue. I do have numerous paper Bibles in different versions. I use my American Standard Version 1901 and am seeking one from older editions perhaps with a better quality type print than mine is all. It is quite difficult to find an ASV 1901, just figured maybe someone has one is all. Though fortunate to have fast internet provider service, a nice selection of Mac computers, Ipads and Iphones I do enjoy sitting upright and reading a hard copy printed book under incadescent lighting. Nothing like a real book with markers and the warm 3200K lighting of an incadescent bulb and tiffany lampshade.

My Sword for android tablets has a version of the KJV with Strong's numbers and definitions which is really handy.

I also have the e-sword one but it doesn't have helps like a concordance or references.

I have a NASB from the early 1970's, but I rarely use a hard copy Bible.... I have access to it on my tablet but use the ESV mainly for it has audio attached to it so I can listen when I'm doing other things. It is an app from Bible Gateway.... Actually it has 51 different translations.

i most probly do

my thoughts are that maybe you watch too much CNN.

I have it on e-Sword, plus many others versions and numerous commentaries also, it's free on line and you can make a donation if so lead.

Islam is not a religion.... it is a complete theocracy with it's own government and laws.... and none of it is compatible with the constitution.... the people who printed that article that you posted just does not have an understanding of Islam and Islamic law. During the investigation of the Holyland trial, information was discovered and put into the court records stating that they had found Muslim Brotherhood documents planning the overthrow of our government.... and so far they are going by those documents and within ten to fifteen years they will reach the point of having enough leverage to start the violent overthrow. If you are not aware of that you should be for I've posted it here for at least 5 years.

just a few........... https://nypost.com/2018/08/16/disturbing-momo-suicide-game-has-taken-over-minecraft/ https://hitechchronicle.com/2018/08/the-momo-challenge-has-appeared-in-minecraft/

Are you a Christian? Mistake number one. It is a sin to live with a man before you are married. I am thinking you know that.

Exactly-"islam" should fall very neatly into all the categories that would constitute being" banned"according to Law(414) passed in 1952. Does anyone understand what islam is?They keeping singing that song about "religion"to slip through the cracks when in fact it is a political,social,judicial system,more to the tune of geo-political"invade & conquer" All one has to do is read the koran,it is very clear to see this is much more than "religion"-my 2 cents God Bless America,let us pray With love-in Christ,Kwik

Hi, Nor was I until just a day of so ago when I guess I was led to it. My bride knew of it, she knew of his ministry and was a "fan" as well long before I became a "groupie" too. Going to see his concert at Columbus S. C. was part of our own courtship. We manage to get to at least one of his public concerts each year and more when they are open events. He blessed us greatly this past Christmas season at The Cove. N. C. For 2019 there are three dates we are considering.

Sometimes live is humdrum, boreing, dull and anything looks better than what we've got. This applies to the Christian life just as much to ones everyday work life. The everyday routine contines, one reads a bible that doesn't speak to you, one prays to the ceiling so it seems and one seeks not to sin. God is with us when life is like that, he cares, he hears us, he is speaking to us. Christianity is not just for when it is fun and exciting, it is for when every part of it is really hard work. Keep going, what other option do you have? Plod on Jesus wants you to keep going, so keep going.

We are told to keep on being filled with the Holy Spirit. He gives the power and boldness that Jesus promised us to enable us to do His will. So surrender to Jesus and give up your will and rights in exchange for the power and love of the Holy Spirit guiding your life and you will never regret it. He also explains Scriptures to us.

Thank you so much for this insight! At this age it is super easy to feel vulnerable and lost. After taking in this response I went out and took your advice and applied for a student government position at my university! I am also working with my roommates to put God first and let the rest follow according to his plan. I appreciate a male realistic perspective on this issue and a clear lense to see my situation through. And yes! THANK GOD I AM SINGLE!!

I can't begin to tell you the relief that I washed over me once I saw this response. A wave of comfort and peace was placed upon me by the Lord through the actions of your response and for that I thank you! I know that this journey will be long and hard, but I am definitely trying to become the person that God has planned for me to be and sinning is not within that. When you mentioned your testimony that was very similar to my issue I was delighted to know that I was not alone!But instead taken in and understood and listened to. I've been ashamed for so long but I now feel the strength to move on another day and fight the demons that are pulling me away from my primary focus...God. I believe that God called me to open my laptop this evening just as temptation usually arises for me to see this message and become convicted to not participating in my usual sinful ways. Thank you for praying for me:) I feel your love and support in my spirit and will keep it with me always through this tough journey. Have a blessed day! From your fellow soldier:)

I'd think maybe you're more "on track" than it feels like to you right now When I read your post I was so struck by remembering a time when I was exactly where you are right now. I'd given myself to sinning for so long I too had some very persistent sins I just couldn't seem to get free from no matter how badly I wanted to. First let me show you something I hope you'll find encouraging. You have boldly done something you may not even fully understand. Your courage and vulnerability in being so open with things that you are struggling with is a kind of risk taking and transparency ...HONESTY... that He can work with. He loves us TOO much to leave us the way we are But what you've done is, at risk of being judged, is open up and ask brothers and sisters in the Lord for help. And He made provision for those willing to do that in His Word. If you'll notice, it is the one struggling who must initiate this encounter, and whether you consciously understood what you were doing or not, by confessing your struggles you set this in motion. Whether you knew or not the Spirit did :). Do you think it's possible He's already leading you into doing the things that will bring change and you're just not quite aware of it yet? I certainly do :). Dear Friend I promise you He has captivated me, drawn me to your situation and I WILL pray for you. I perceive it as a commission from Him. Maybe that's because I can so closely identify with your situation. I REMEMBER how horrible it felt and I now know we don't have to feel that way in Him. I can pray fervently because I'm praying from both an experiential connection to what you're feeling and it inspires a compassion accompanied by a sure knowledge He'll move you beyond this Bet me I want to share two things to open our conversation. One is a part of my story of how He delivered me out of that place you're now standing in. The second is a basic, simple bit of the Word that He might use to help you get your feelings (they're lying to you right now....real enough....tough to deal with....but lying) more in line with His truth...reality. First, my testimony. Pull up a chair this will take a minute I was fortunate enough to be raised in a family that introduced me to the things of God early. My mother and father were born again and placed importance on raising their kids with knowledge of Him. My dad made the effort to get me to memorize two passages of Scripture at two years of age. They were Psalm 37:4 and Proverbs 3:5-6. They've stuck with me all my life and it was during this massive and frustrating struggle against sin I experienced He trotted one of those passages out and changed my whole perspective on the fight. During this season I was truly grieved over my continual return to the sin I hated and ashamed to even try to pray. Somehow He gave me the strength to approach Him in prayer one more time and this time something happened. He brought this passage my father had made me memorize at the age of two to mind. I promise you that if you will simply not quit, He is just as eager and willing to manifest Himself in you just as powerfully as He did for my sake, as I am about to describe. I responded to His prompting by opening my Bible to Psalm 37:4 to read it again. I read it very slowly and when I hit the word "also" He ARRESTED me on that word. By now He had made His presence with me felt. I could literally feel the atmosphere had changed and He was there WITH me. And it was comforting and relaxing, in no way condemning. I have experienced Him this way several times in my life now and I honestly believe you can expect Him to do the same for you. Moving on, without words I knew He was asking me to really stop and think about what I was reading when He pulled me to an abrupt stop on the word "also". So I did. Delight yourself ALSO...."What is significant about that word?" I thought. Delight yourself ALSO, in the Lord.....ALSO. That means "in addition to". As soon as I thought "in addition to" for the second time in my life He spoke to my mind in words. It was not literal sound but words formed in my head that were just as real as if He was sitting across the table from me. I thought "In addition to what, Lord?" and He said "In addition to that sin you're delighting in." ??!! What??! As He continued to explain, number one He was NOT excusing the sin. He will never do that. But His meaning was pointing to the fact that my focus on that sin, had brought me to a place of feeling such shame that I couldn't read my Bible, couldn't pray and couldn't face Him. He made it clear that I needed to focus on and delight in Him in SPITE of those feelings. The feelings were lying. Now, He also opened up a "layer" of meaning from that verse I had never seen before. As a child and up to this point I had understood that passage: ...to mean that if I would delight myself in Him, He would fulfill my heart's desires. And it's true! He DELIGHTS in fulfilling every holy heart's desire any of His kids can come up with But there is a deeper layer of meaning contained there and it was this one He now opened for me for the first time. I was given to understand that if I would FOCUS on delighting in Him to the fullest extent I was able, He promised me He would work in that to GIVE ME the desires of the heart that were pleasing to Him. In other words, He wasn't ignoring the sin, He was saying that my focusing ON the sin more than on Him was actually empowering its hold on me and if I would focus on Him more instead He would take away the unholy DESIRE to sin and replace it with His desires for me so that I'd WANT the same things He wanted for me. He promised to transform my heart and not just fulfill the desires of my own but actually begin taking away the unholy desires that were plaguing me and replace them with desires He longed to fulfill for my sake He's no respecter of persons. There is not one single thing He'll do for me that He won't do for any one of His other children. This encounter with Him has been applied by me over and over when I'm confronted with unholy desires and He has been faithful to His promise. That's my testimony on that part....I hope He speaks to you through it. He is faithful. This dynamic is powerful and I came to understand this is why satan will inspire feelings of deep shame and desire to hide when he's managed to get us to give ourselves to sinning. If he can keep us from delighting in Him because of the shame and deep desire to "hide" from Him then we'll keep ourselves locked up in a prison of our own making. Notice that's one of the first things that hit Adam after he fell. He hid. Satan got him to hide from the ANSWER to his problem. The other thing I wanted to bring to bear is really simple, but difficult to apply. It takes some work, and in fact it is the ONLY work He assigned to US. EVERYTHING else is HIS work which we are to engage with, and when He says to, to such a degree that it's not us "working" at all but Him working through us. And the "work" He assigned us isn't even a physical act We are to enter into REST....ceasing from physical "doing" of ANYTHING that comes from our own inspiration. Another topic Maybe we can get into that later ....dunno...we'll see where He goes with this. But this is the "work" He assigned to us: The 'work' He assigned us is simply believing. Lets back up a verse and get the context for proof. Someone in the crowd had asked a genuine question and I believe Jesus genuinely answered with exactly the right answer. I'm assuming the question came from a real desire to serve and please God and Jesus genuinely responded. It's your BELIEF that your current emotions of guilt and shame are designed to attack. And there lies your "work". 1. It is HIS grace, which HE extended, apart from any "works" we can do 2. That has MADE us (past tense!....done deal!) 3. ACCEPTED. PERIOD. As we are, RIGHT NOW.....in all our faults and remaining sins. Any feeling that says otherwise is lying and deserves resistance I'll stop here. I love you and I am praying for you And I KNOW He'll hear me not because of who I am but because He SAID He would and He is faithful. Hang on soldier the ride gets wild and a lot more enjoyable from here

I missed you all . Keep up the good work . All hands in the air and let the praises to the LORD be sang . We who are His , have all hope no matter what is to come against us . Hands up , armour on , AND march around sounding the praises of the LORD .

14:21-25 King James Version (KJV) 21 And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided. 22 And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry ground: and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left. 23 And the Egyptians pursued, and went in after them to the midst of the sea, even all Pharaoh's horses, his chariots, and his horsemen. 24 And it came to pass, that in the morning watch the Lord looked unto the host of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and of the cloud, and troubled the host of the Egyptians, 25 And took off their chariot wheels, that they drave them heavily: so that the Egyptians said, Let us flee from the face of Israel; for the Lord fighteth for them against the Egyptians.

29But the children of Israel walked upon dry land in the midst of the sea; and the waterswere a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left. 30Thus the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians; and Israel saw the Egyptians dead upon the sea shore. 31And Israel saw that great work which the LORD did upon the Egyptians: and the people feared the LORD, and believed the LORD, and his servant Moses. (Exodus 14:29-31)

26And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand over the sea, that the waters may come again upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and upon their horsemen. 27And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to his strength when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it; and the LORD overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea. 28And the waters returned, and covered the chariots, and the horsemen, and all the host of Pharaoh that came into the sea after them; there remained not so much as one of them. (Exodus 14:26-28)

24And it came to pass, that in the morning watch the LORD looked unto the host of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and of the cloud, and troubled the host of the Egyptians, 25And took off their chariot wheels, that they drave them heavily: so that the Egyptians said, Let us flee from the face of Israel; for the LORD fighteth for them against the Egyptians. (Exodus 14:24-25)

21And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided. 22And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry ground: and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left. 23And the Egyptians pursued, and went in after them to the midst of the sea, even all Pharaoh's horses, his chariots, and his horsemen. (Exodus 14:21-23)

I would suggest you start with the four gospels, and one very important thing to do before reading your bible is pray and ask God for understanding. Don't overdo it, I would recommend a chapter at most so you get the context of the passage. In regards to the issue of pornography, what you are experiencing there is personal conviction, regarding a sin you are committing. What you need to do is remove this from your life, by any means necessary. There are software options available that will block these type of sites, and if you find that doesn't work, then perhaps staying off the internet altogether is necessary. If it is through television, there are ways to block these types of programs there as well, and if that doesn't work, get rid of cable altogether. The bottom line is, you are ashamed of your actions, and this is why you feel God is mad at you. He isn't mad at you by the way, you are precious to Him, but He does hate sin, and your body is the temple in which He resides, so treat it appropriately. Ephesians 4:30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. God bless

Wise virgins shall be taken, foolish Virgins shall be left

10 And when Pharaoh drew nigh, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes, and, behold, the Egyptians marched after them; and they were sore afraid: and the children of Israel cried out unto the Lord. 11 And they said unto Moses, Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness? wherefore hast thou dealt thus with us, to carry us forth out of Egypt? 12 Is not this the word that we did tell thee in Egypt, saying, Let us alone, that we may serve the Egyptians? For it had been better for us to serve the Egyptians, than that we should die in the wilderness. Exodus 14: 10-12

No compromising on ESSENTIALS of the faith at all! You can't disagree on the fact that the Bible is the Word of God for example. Or that Jesus is the way the truth and the life! Our Essentials are basically our Statement of Faith -- in essence salvational issues. There may be a few items that are non salvational issues in the SoF, but simply its a core fundamental set of beliefs that the body of Messiah realize covers the essentials of the faith. The compromise or as the Moravians would say -- Liberty -- is given on such doctrines such as -- is it okay to have a glass of wine? Do you believe in a Pre, Mid, Post, Pre-wrath, no rapture position?

But, isnt the earthy Ark was just the shadow of things in heaven, like the whole tabernacle ?