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  1. I used to be an alcoholic. I was drinking very often (up to 3-5 times a week). The last time i was drunk was about 4 or 5 years ago. Jesus delivered me. I have no need for alcohol. No cravings. I only drink wine now in small amounts, when i take communion. Praise Jesus
    5 points
  2. Believers soon come to the realization that self is the biggest enemy. Hollywood and crime novels along with other media attempt to portray evil or your enemy as an Ogre without any redeeming value. Arriving at the realization that such wickedness also dwells within you to varying degrees could cause one to redefine the idea of enemy. If self is the biggest enemy, which features of your character have others viewing you as an Ogre? (Rhetorical question).
    5 points
  3. Shooting from the hip here, perhaps Paul is implying a righteous judgement through the understanding from the Holy Spirit and not a condemning judgement of others - a discernment of what is reality concerning the circumstances being analyzed.
    5 points
  4. So very true- with all this political correctness,woke nonsense and actually instilling " fear" of inconsequential gibberish it is literally creating a very thin skinned cowardice society imo ,here in the USA..... there's such a rampant spirit of pride that everyone is worried about what everyone else thinks of them and the " poor ME" mentality I hope and pray I never care about what the unbelieving world cares about and only what is pleasing and acceptable in God's Sight-no matter the reprocussions Matthew 10:28❤️
    4 points
  5. We know there are many who are silent believers because of their fear of family, neighbours or the authorities. Belevers in Islamic countries, in North Korea are two that come to mind. It is a testimony to the power of the gospel that in spite of the known reaction of others people do believe. Would were as brave and as trusting if our fa ILY was seeking to kill us?
    4 points
  6. The Topic: Every time I read through threads in the Prophecy/Eschatology forum, the members seem to express themselves with total authority, as if what they are saying is factual, rather than speculation. And yet they differ sharply point by point of view. The Claim: If you don't claim that your views are correct, are you admitting or maybe just comfortable with the possibility of being wrong?? Having been on numerous forums for over 2 decades, I thought everyone who posted were convinced that they were right. The Answer: Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit. (Proverbs 26:5) The topic and my address is not about Salvation. In my defense of the accusations, I practice hermeneutic hygiene, a.k.a. being a Berean. I present a view of what I think is Biblically correct. I highlight and take pains not to take my word for anything but study it for yourself (a Berean). A conviction is a personal belief, not necessarily the correct exegesis. Submit any of your convictions or things you are convinced of, and I will reply with two or more different views by godly men, theologians, scholars, and men with initials behind their names that disagree with you. I take it as you go from the milk of the word to the meat, you never learned anything that changed your view or conviction. I am not puffed up or arrogant enough to claim to be a know-it-all. Love, growth, learning, and change are continual processes.
    4 points
  7. Thomas Brooks wrote an excellent book on satan devices titled "Precious Remedies Against Satan Devices ". written in the 1600, it can be downloaded in pdf format and others from the net. An excerpt from part of the introduction of the book below. IX. By presenting to the soul the crosses, losses, sorrows and sufferings that daily attend those who walk in the ways of holiness: For remedies, consider that 1) all afflictions suffered by Christians turn to their profit 2) all such afflictions only reach their worst, not their best, part 3) all such afflictions are short and momentary 4) all such afflictions proceed from God's dearest love 5) it is our duty and glory to measure afflictions not by the smart but by the end 6) God's design in saints' afflictions is to try, not to ruin, their souls 7) the afflictions, wrath and misery consequent upon wickedness are far worse than those linked with holiness
    4 points
  8. I thought that I would use this portion of your post as a springboard to share something relevant with regard to the fiery darts of our enemy. The circumstances of our lives, and how the Lord claimed us from this world, determines the tactics employed by the enemy. Attempts at undermining the veracity of scripture has never been of any effect where I'm concerned for the Lord called me when I was ignorant of scripture. Before I was introduced to the scriptures, I came to Jesus Christ. The first arrow, then, is worthlessness. My utter worthlessness, something which accordingly makes me useless to the Lord, bites deeply. Why? We know the answer to this one, brother: left to our own devices we are indeed worthless and useless to the Lord. The arrow of the enemy is intended to bite deeply and inflict damage. When the Lord called, I witnessed the folly of my existence and despaired. I saw how I had stumbled blindly in the darkness, but the Lord's answer to sorrow left me speechless. It pleases the Almighty to call the broken... the worthless... and the ignorant of this world to Him. This is so He might make a mockery of the strong and the wise. The arrow of the enemy is extinguished. The second arrow is pride. I was a skilled public speaker, capable of persuading others by virtue of my tongue. My poetry was posted on the walls of a church (the pastor loved it); I was a broadcasting prospect (I caught the attention of a recruiter from the CSB); I started dabbling with voice acting for radio commercials; I excelled as a soldier in the Army; and I landed a lucrative media job with no experience nor education (I'm a high school dropout). Was there anything I couldn't do? All I had to do was try! The Lord's answer to this pride was to take it all away from me. I lost the ability to speak... I struggled to maintain coherent thought... and I was homeless and destitute. That arrow of the enemy is extinguished. I have no cause to glory in anything except for our Lord Jesus Christ. The third arrow is doubt. Was that what the Lord actually declared, or is it just wishful thinking? Did you twist His words or worse, insert your own? What makes you think that the Lord would have you face an armed gang with nothing in your hands? What makes you think that the Lord loves you? The Lord's answer to doubt humbles me. Whenever doubt comes, He directs me to look upon my right hand. I remember the gift of the Lord on that day when He spared me from the grave. What did the Lord declare that I will say? I will look upon my right hand and say, "The Lord delivered me with a mighty hand, for my own was broken!" My right hand was broken that day. When it healed, the fourth knuckle was completely absent, and the shape of my hand changed as a result. It's a memorial that the Lord is faithful and true, delivering me with His own hand, and so the arrow of the enemy is extinguished. Overcoming doubt is not an isolated trial to be sure. It's by far the most effective arrow our enemy uses against me, but the Lord has made it possible for me to overcome. When these arrows of the enemy come, we rely upon the whole armor of God to overcome the powers of spiritual darkness and wickedness.
    4 points
  9. I'm glad you brought the difference between human and spiritual enemies as I was just about to say it. We can love a human enemy and hate the spiritual enemy. I don't believe the context " Love your enemies" applies to the unseen ones. The first stage in the recognition of these enemies is to recognize how they work. The next thing is to recognize the arrows which often will attack your faith. - I am close to God, why is this happening to me. Arrow> God must not care about me, how do I even know He exists? why doesn't He intervene? Shield- God has promised to help me though everything. He lives inside of me and comforts me. Draw the sword - Arrow>There are errors in the bible. How do I know any of this is true? Shield > All inconsistency is minor translation that never affected meanings. Draw the sword. - Arrow> I won't have any fun as a believer. Shield > I have had many great times, in fact more fun than when I was an unbeliever. Reality- I signed up to be on a side which means I will sometimes be in a battle. Unrealistic to think otherwise.AND YET, I can have perfect peace through all of it.Draw the sword. - Arrow> Why Do I see those who don't follow God doing well? Shield- Keep in mind this is all they will ever have. We will all answer for our actions and be held accountable. No exceptions.Draw the sword. -Arrow> Look at that person who calls themself a brother or sister. Look at what they did. If that's a Christian I want no parts of it. Shield- How do you know they are a believer? If they are a believer, I should approach them in love. If I can't do that I leave them to clear their lane and I will clear my lane. God sees all. Draw the sword. - Arrow> I am tired and don't believe I can continue in this walk. I need a break. Shield> I am the vine you are the branch, you can do nothing without Me. Abide in me. I will give you rest. Draw the sword, if only to polish it this time.
    4 points
  10. I think there are spiritual enemies and physical enemies, and I don't think we are required to love the spiritual ones. I would suggest we show them some respect for what they are capable of doing in this world until Jesus returns. But physical enemies I think would be those people who want to hurt you or bring you down in many ways. For instance, I got into studying Islam after 9/11 and with a friend got to going to Islamic websites and using translation programs, seeing the difference in what they put in English and Arabic. Really eye-opening. Being the general put your nose into everything kind of person, I did some interfacing with them and hinted at some Christian education for them. They made it clear that when they do come over here to take over, they would enjoy taking my head. I really didn't pay any mind to it until Biden opened up the borders. Those people are my enemies, but I would do most anything to see them saved, even though I still get death threat in my email. While I would defend myself and family if they do come here, I could not ask God to harm them, but to change their minds.
    4 points
  11. End times in scripture is like walking in a maze, TO ME! I defer to the best authority God as he reveals to me. Seems I remember something about getting my house in order as the day approaches. Storing up riches that perishes not. The Bema seat will reveal my/our prideful foolishness. I remember in scripture some warnings I think about wanting to know what even Jesus didn't know. I don't speculate on what is revealed about the past or future, unknown clearly. God knows, and can handle it. Today is the day of the Lord. I enter into another opportunity to serve, our savior, or world flesh devil. I really prefer to know more about walking in the spirit, abiding in Christ, dealing with spiritual warfare etc. It's a neat feeling talking to a stranger about how God has changed my life, and can change theirs. Doesn't everyone feel that? I think it is important to be a good steward of what I already know. The purpose of hearing is to direct my doing, my walk. Today. Thanks Mr. M....
    4 points
  12. I had no hidden message in what I posted, but just pointing out that even though I may never post a new thread here, you are likely to stumble on one of mine. Perhaps in a forum you rarely visit. My point is that because of the volume of content, as M37 pointed out, I will be "haunting" the forum for awhile. And when a topic does catch your eye and you review the content, I will still look forward to the responses based on "the unleavened bread (we break and share) of sincerity and truth. Clearly some do not understand the verse, and that the leaven Paul speaks, as applied to a forum, are from those who have no desire to offer edification to others, but consistently derail threads, fail to read the post entirely and respond only to the title with unusual assumptions made, or only show an intent to disparage the OP, with total disregard for the Word of God presented in the content. I am grateful for all your participation, and pray that you will accept my appreciation as sincere.
    4 points
  13. You and me both. Too much of a good thing can be a bad thing.
    4 points
  14. Um, how am I to interpret this? Are you doubting me or just stating you've never met someone that's been in a concentration camp? There are quarter of a million still alive and if you visit a Jewish community I promise you'll meet plenty. Aside from that, it is a myth that all concentration camp survivors had numbers tattooed. Different camps had different systems and most numbers came specifically from Auschwitz. You probably have met more survivors then you realize. In addition tattoos are not allowed for Jews and many had them removed. My grandfather was barely a teenager and the nazis injected him with chemicals. He has a scar on his abdomen from when they cut into him. Some of the damage is permanent and it's a miracle he's alive at all, let alone being in his 90's. Ironically, he ended up becoming a doctor and medical researcher. He is also still handsome, walks to the store every day and has a sharp mind. My grandfather once met a former German solider who was so upset and begging him to forgive him. "I was drafted, I was scared, didn't know what was going on" and so on. My grandfather told him something like "No one's keeping you out of heaven because of me. Go live your life." In other words, he's not holding a grudge. If he can let that go, I can let pretty much anything go.
    4 points
  15. Because there are people who use different colors to divide us into groups so as to control people easier. And when we are fighting each other in the background, we are less likely to be able to fight them.
    3 points
  16. Not too silly. Quite vexatious when it's someone in your ekklesia cutting a swathe with their non-Scriptural nonsense. My Online Assistance Quote: The idiom “cutting a swathe” has an interesting origin and is used metaphorically. Let’s explore its meaning: To Garner Attention: When someone or something cuts a swath, it means they attract a lot of attention or make a significant impact. For instance: Cindy, being a talented designer, is sure to cut a swath in the fashion world1. Imagine her gowns turning heads and creating a buzz! To Cause Damage or Suffering: Alternatively, cutting a swath can refer to causing a lot of damage or suffering in a specific area or population: Last night, high winds cut a wide swath through our neighborhood, blowing down trees and power lines on nearly every street1. Similarly, severe malnourishment has cut a swath through certain parts of the globe. Origin: The term originated in America and comes from mowing. A “swath” refers to the amount of grass cut by one big sweep of a scythe. Over time, it was transferred to human showoffs, emphasizing their ability to make a showy display or attract attention1. So, when someone or something cuts a swath, they leave a memorable mark, whether through attention-grabbing achievements or impactful actions. 🌟
    3 points
  17. One thing for certain @kwikphilly, @D. Adrien, @Ray12614, @Who me; there is always someone taking crafty counsel against us, especially the more committed we become to stewardship. In ministry, it is often one's closest to us who put us under the highest scrutiny, and are quick to find fault. This can be a good thing if handled properly, as we are to offer correction to one other discreetly, as we "speak the truth in love". I must confess that I was very secretive about my faith, primarily out of fear that I provided a poor witness for His Name. As Peter brings out, and Paul as well, we must endure shame for the sake of the Election. Often it is well deserved! 1 Peter 4: 19 For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. 20 For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. 21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: Hebrews 12:11 Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
    3 points
  18. Kwik I can only say this about myself as I have no part in what anyone else does. If you ever come across something you think I need to change please PM me about it and we'll talk. I also see Worthy as a ministry, not that we can't enjoy fellowship. We are "ministering" to others and to each other in fellowship of the things we all hold in common. I don't see ministering as a switch I turn on, I see it as a thing that happens because of who we are.
    3 points
  19. So true. In USA most believers think that persecution means 'people are being mean-spirited saying hurtful things that make me sad' bohoo bohoo . . . etc. I am impressed by the faithfulness of believers (most in islamic countries, but some actually are in western countries) who stay with Jesus no matter what . . . even unto disowning by their families, friends, being fired from their jobs, and even unto death. May we all be 'wise as serpents and harmless as doves' in the generations we live in today.
    3 points
  20. As a public high school teacher in Southern California, I see a whole lot of anti-Christian behavior on the part of our born and breed "native" American population; additionally; many of these students have little interest in learning (i.e. academically lazy) and feel entitled to what America has to offer. Many of these immigrants are at least willing to come here and try to learn English and are willing to work hard!
    3 points
  21. I was taken with this passage below from a late 19th century writer. I think it's true that often we think of applying the cross in our life as something of an onerous and draining duty. But the writer points out that doing the will of God should not be this way, and says (in another place) that the Lord says what He gives us is "easy and light." I love what she points out here, that in the growth of the Lords life within us, that is, our maturing in His life, we will automatically want to do certain things we didn't want to do before, and automatically stop doing other things that previously our more immature selves would always delight in doing. So once again this shows that it's not about our efforts, so much, but more about letting His life grow and operate in us . . . His life in us will get it done! (And, I will add, in another place the author reasons thusly: the cross means death and in death there are no feelings. So if we think applying the cross means struggling to do something, we have not come to its final result and reality - namely death of that "worthless" thing of the old man. Concisely stated: "To crucify means to put to death, not to keep alive in misery." And the death of the cross only happens that we may experience His resurrection life.) (please forgive the below formatting, as this is how my OCR copied this from the book) DELIGHTING, NOT GRUDGING If our affections are set on the will of God, we must love His will. It is impossible that God's will should seem hard to a person whose affections are set on it It may be accompanied with hard things, but in itself it must be a delight Our Lord could say with the psalmist David, "I delight to do thy will, 0 my God" (Ps. 40:8), because He was dead to everything that was contrary to His Father's will. Until our affections are Similarly so set on the will of God as to delight in it, we have not "taken up the cross" (Matt. 16:24) in the Scripture sense at all. A good illustration of what I mean would be the change that takes place in the feelings of a little girl when she becomes a woman. As a child she loves to climb trees and make mud pies; she hates to sit still and sew or learn long lessons or do hard work. But when the little girl becomes a woman, her feelings are reversed; she loves the things she once hated, and hates the things she once loved. The woman "takes up the cross" to her childish play; that is, she becomes dead to it and no longer finds any pleasure in it She delights in the pursuits of maturity and leaves behind the pursuits of childhood, just as once she delighted in the pursuits of childhood and dreaded those of maturity. There are a great many Christians who look at the Christian life as I in my childish ignorance looked at adult life; they think religion means to give up the things they love and to do the things they hate. They call this "taking up the cross" and actually think God enjoys their grudging service. (from "Every Day Religion" by Hannah W. Smith)
    3 points
  22. Every time I read through threads in the Prophecy/Eschatology forum, the members seem to express themselves with total authority, as if what they are saying is factual, rather than speculation. And yet they differ sharply point by point of view. As a witness, what I often see is men and women following current events and trying to fit them into prophetic fulfillment. Is this appropriate? Is this a mandate of Christ? Is this occupying until He comes or an endless distraction from the Lord's Great Commission?
    3 points
  23. All warfare is a maker of widows and orphans James 4: 9 Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. Those who make supplications for them are their true comforters. For only with the Lord will there be found peace. Isaiah 2:4 He shall judge between the nations, And rebuke many people; They shall beat their swords into plowshares, And their spears into pruning hooks; Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, Neither shall they learn war anymore.
    3 points
  24. Actions: Walking in the Spirit Gal 5:16-18 So I say, walk in the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (17) For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want. (18) But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Attitudes: Fruit of the Spirit Gal 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, (23) Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. Abiding: Living in the Spirit Gal 5:24-26 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. (25) If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. (26) Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. Accountability: Minding the things of the Spirit Rom 8:4-5 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (5) For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. Online Search Results: Christian accountability is a fundamental concept in the Christian faith. It involves being answerable and responsible for our actions, both to God and to other believers. Let’s explore the basis for this doctrine: Accountability to God: Scriptural Basis: The Bible emphasizes that we are accountable to God for our deeds. Key passages include: Matthew 12:36: “But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.” Romans 2:16: “This will take place on the day when God judges people’s secrets through Jesus Christ.” Romans 14:12: “So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.” 1 Corinthians 3:10-15: Describes believers’ works being tested by fire. 2 Corinthians 5:10: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.” Accountability to Fellow Christians: Scriptural Basis: Christians are also accountable to one another within the community of faith. This mutual accountability is rooted in love, grace, and the desire for spiritual growth. Relevant verses include: John 13:34: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” Galatians 6:1-2: “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. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Philippians 2:4: “Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others.” Hebrews 10:23-24: “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” James 5:16: “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” In summary, Christian accountability involves recognizing our responsibility before God and supporting one another in our faith journey. It’s a vital aspect of spiritual maturity and community life within Christianity123. [Copilot]
    3 points
  25. Gollum = Adam. That is, in Adam, we are all capable of all kinds evil, and capable of repeating it over and over. "In me, that is in my flesh, dwells no good thing" as Paul lamented in Romans 7:18. Love is merciful and we need lots of it!
    3 points
  26. Sorry about that. I do that with verses that aren't crystal clear and straightforward. And when I have verses that ARE crystal clear and straightforward, I use them to explain the verses that aren't. :) Sorry I missed that. I agree. ABsolultely! Very biblical! But as I pointed out, there are many views among evangelicals about how to get to heaven, unfortunately. I agree that salvation is quite simple. And clear. I've come to the view that much of the figurative language and metaphors in the OT prophecies will only be actually understood WHEN they come to pass. Then it will be clear. My first post was about the "pretribulation rapture" view. The verses I quoted are clear enough to understand that Jesus comes back only once more, and all believers will be resurrected at the same time, which is "when He comes". The visions of Daniel, and prophecies in the OT weren't meant for everyone throughout the ages to understand, since none of it applies to anyone but those who will live through it. iow, we'll know it when we see it.
    3 points
  27. A pretribulation view: Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh. (Matthew 25:13) The above is an imperative: What and where are we commanded to watch? The Jews had plenty of scripture and signs to watch for with their Messiah’s first advent and missed it. The Jews should have at least known the season of their visitation. How I view prophetic scripture: It is world history documented in advance. To know there is One True God in control, the Alpha-Omega, knowing the beginning from the end and directing human affairs. All to the praise and glory of the One True living God in three Persons. The Old Testament is the New Testament concealed; the New Testament is the Old Testament revealed. In other words, the mysteries (the plan of God) hidden from the foundation of the world are brought to light for His glory. We are not to be ignorant of the nearness of our Lord’s coming for His Bride, always prepared, looking, and not ashamed of ourselves at His arrival. Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. (Hebrews 10:25) I think the preceding verse may have a dual application, as many other prophecies. Given the context and what was to follow, the sacking of Jerusalem and not one stone upon another with the Second Temple, courtesy of Titus and his legions. Whether Hebrews 10:25 is directed explicitly to Israel circa 70 A.D. or not, there is an application to the Day of the Lord: watch, look for, assemble yourselves as you see the day approaching. Are we seeing that day approach? Although prophecy is best understood after fulfillment, it can be directly compared to scripture. However, we have many things to watch for as the Tribulation nears. Never in history has everything prophetic (Matt. 24; Eze. 28;29; 2 Tim. 3) and everywhere else jumped off the pages of God’s word, telling us we are in the season of the Lord’s second coming for His church. With the doctrine of imminence, there are no signs or events preceding Christ’s return. He could have, and can, return at any moment. All prophecy for our day (end time) reflects the nearness of the coming Tribulation. We all have different views of theology and eschatology, and I never claim my views are correct. As plainly stated in scripture, we are brothers and sisters in Christ, family. We have all things in common. We are to edify, uplift, get along with each other, prefer one another, and assemble ourselves (be it in church, Bible study, snail mail, Christian forums, etc.). We must be mature believers growing in patience and faith, not squabbling with each other over secondary hermeneutics and exegesis. We are to put those childish things away, get off the milk, and get to the meat and potatoes of scripture, faith and understanding.
    3 points
  28. If God has placed that burden on your heart, then fantastic. It should, however, be noted that Jesus can also be found in Mexico and South America (as many have already discovered) - and not only in the USA. Furthermore, from another perspective, mass migration into a western nation could be interpreted as a satanic imperative to dilute Christianity (and its influence) out of a culture.
    3 points
  29. Worthy is the only forum I'm involved with apart for a brief interlude on another forum while Worthy was out of commission (I haven't returned to that forum since Worthy came back online). There are a number of brothers and sisters here who I'm particularly close to, yourself being one; however, closeness is something that simply happens --- it's not intentional. Fellowship is what brought me here and what keeps me in place but apart from that, I'm not involved with Worthy in service to an agenda. One thing I have witnessed many times, brother: the Lord repurposes the schemes of the wicked to serve His will. I watched that happen up in the mountains on a number of occasions when certain individuals schemed against my adopted mother. Those schemes not only failed, but they served to spread the word about her kindness and generosity. As for those who intend evil toward us? It's an honor to witness how the Lord uses the schemes of the wicked to further His will on this earth!
    3 points
  30. You know we're all influencers in one way or another. Are we mass murderers? Now on to the ops definition. I watch a lot of FB reels and find a lot of christian influencers on there, spreading Christ's love. Are they mass murderers? I would say no. I would say the ops claim is a unscriptural generalization at best. Social media is a thing now. It's an integral part of culture and it's not going away. It's where the people are, like it or not. And If we hide from it that doesn't do anything to further the kingdom of God. Because social media isnt inherently evil or good. It's a tool. Nothing more, nothing less. And it's largely used for evil, that is true. But going through the reels I see many Christian influencers using the platform of their choice to spread the gospel. They're being in the world but not of it, using the tools available to them to preach Christ to those that will listen, just like the apostle Paul did on Mars hill. I myself have used social media for good. It's a powerful tool that can indeed be used for good, hence why it's being censored so badly. So to compare influencers to mass murderers, isn't scriptural. At least not as a blanket term, there certainly are a great many of them that are following selfish desires, but they aren't all doing so and it's a disservice and a false claim to paint them all under the same flag.
    3 points
  31. Psalm 62 5 For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. 6 He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken. 7 On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God.
    3 points
  32. Yes. But in what way would knowing who/when the rapture, and then meanwhile how would it affect your daily walk in Christ, gathering your sheaves? "They that sow in tears Shall reap in joy" "He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, Shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him" Psalms 126:5-6 Then, the Bema seat.......our report card. Think on that one.... Thanks, farouk
    3 points
  33. If in doubt, don't. FWIW, TikTok along with other social media is having negative, even deadly, results on our children, I favor banning all social media -including TikTok to anyone under 18 the same way we ban alcohol, drugs, firearms and tobacco to them.
    3 points
  34. Sometimes catching one disease gives us an immunity that prevents another one that is worse. But as for vaccines, I haven't had a vaccine in well over 50 years (had to have them to be discharged from the army, but nothing since) and I haven't caught anything that there is a vaccination for (only thing of any significance I've caught was from a mosquito bite and there wasn't and still isn't a vaccine for it anyway). FWIW, I've been around people dropping right and left from the flu but never been even slightly affected by it. I just don't catch things, I think that vaccines actually affect the immune system negatively by interfering with its natural response to the environment and initiating an artificial one in its place, but that's just my thinking and has no medical reasoning behind it. I neither recommend nor discourage vaccines for anybody, everyone should just think for themselves and make their own decisions is what I would prefer. There are certain nutritional substances that I take as well so I can't just credit it to a powerful immune system by itself. Hope you stay well and continue gaining liveliness.
    3 points
  35. Probably just a heart valve complaining.
    3 points
  36. And to connect to our other discussion, we have been liberated from sin to become slaves to righteousness
    3 points
  37. The enemy is the ones who support lie... as lie has nothing of God within it... The Lord has brought Himself in The Person of The Holy Spirit to dwell within His children and God's Word is our weaponry and defense so as not to become part and parcel to the lie ever again... In this we have the infinite supply of Love and we can spend it lavishly here and now upon all we are near... the miracle is to be set free from the lie in so doing we have the power of Truth/Christ... John 14:6 (KJV) [6] Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. When the world sees that which we have began in means little to us... then they are forced to see an attachment to that which is not of here... Galatians 6:10 (KJV) [10] As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
    3 points
  38. Here is my somewhat simple position on this topic. I believe the first person to read the Book of Revelation once it was recorded was Satan. The same enemy of the people of God then is the prince of this world and the enemy of God's people now. He has had 2000 years of influence on world events to spin deceptions and "prophetic knockoffs" to deceive even the very Elect. Therefore, it is my opinion that to follow current events and try to fit them into someone's personal interpretation of prophecy is to play directly into his hand. In other words, I believe that the prophecy/eschatology forums on Christian discussion sites is Satan's playground, and there are far too many willing participants. The Lord Christ Jesus told us exactly how to apply His Word to our lives. Some try to interpret this narrowly, but I believe it must be applied across the board. John 14: 29 And now I have told you before it comes, that when it does come to pass, you may believe. 30 I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming, and he has nothing in Me. What this says to me is that we should not try to predict anything beforehand, but if we are obedient we will simply watch. Mark 13:37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch! To my simple understanding, this is what the Lord means here. Revelation 1: 3 Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near. I also believe that my position is the only way to avoid this condemnation: Revelation 22: 18 For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; 19 and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. To keep the prophetic word is to follow the example of the Lord's Blessed Mother Luke 2:19 But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.
    3 points
  39. With all the food talk. I decided to get out for food. Went to the mall, hadn't been in it in years. There is a Cheesecake Factory there. Hadn't eaten in one of those for over decade, maybe two. Great menu much of it healthy stuff, very reasonable pricing too! Spouse and I walked the mall, bought some shoes and people watched as people watched us in our KENNEDY 24 T shirts (Yes, plus pants and shoes!). We received a surprising amount of approving nods. Was encouraging. Think I will try to walk the mall daily, - well, we will see. Maybe even walk to it as it is only a few hundred feet away from home. Funny how I hadn't been in the Mall in years. Original Angels is playing in the theater there, might do that tomorrow too. Wonder if I would get more attention if I wore a kilt with my Kennedy T shirt? ??? Perhaps a summer weight one. Maybe, nah likely not worth the expense. Plus I don't think I can actually work up the courage to wear one plus the socks and footwear. LOL; seems a bit "formal". The ball cap and t is good enough for me. .
    3 points
  40. These are the training grounds for the battles that the Christian would face on his pilgrimage. When you became that new man, many will oppose you as you testify to the truths that you have within for the salvation of man. Yes, indeed, the devil would oppose, but the beliver puts on the FULL ARMOR of God as he trods on. Be strong, brother as you continue the journey, for the Christian is fearless with the spiritual war that he has entered for the rest of his life.
    3 points
  41. The same source that came up with "hot water heater," more than likely.
    3 points
  42. A good steak dinner for the two of us and a nice tip usually runs $60 or so. We eat at a breakfast place after church with a whole hoard of church friends, and that usually runs about $40. No matter what the total, I never tip less than $10. We ate at an Olive Garden last month and the total was 70 something. We won't be doing that again. We spend a lot on eating out, however we both have retirement income, and we paid off all our debts 20 or so years ago. We're both in our 70s, so I'm hoping our vehicles last longer than the two of us. It'll be touch and go as they are 18 and 29 years old. The Winnebago is 24 years old. Our house was built around 1940. LoL, we live in nostalgia surroundings, but my goodness, the memories.
    3 points
  43. Jesus Christ and Him crucified are the deepest things of God. 1Co 1:18 For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1Co 1:19 For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart." 1Co 1:20 Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? 1Co 1:21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. 1Co 1:22 For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, 1Co 1:23 but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, 1Co 1:24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 1Co 1:25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than me impart 1Co 2:7 But we impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God, which God decreed before the ages for our glory. 1Co 2:10 these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. 1Co 2:12 Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. 1Co 2:13 And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual. 1Co 2:14 The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. 1Co 2:15 The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one. 1Co 2:16 "For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?" But we have the mind of Christ.
    3 points
  44. Wherever you go, and whatever you do, keep Jesus close. Let the Spirit lead. Hebrews 12:1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
    2 points
  45. My grandfather, a man in his 90s, loves the stuff... and he's a medical doctor on top of it. Somehow he is still alive despite eating fast food all thenl time for years. When I was 12 my husband and I, (obviously we were not married at the time), caught him eating at a Supermacs during one of his visits. I walk in there and say "Grampa, you know this is not kosher." He looks up at me and says "G-d gave me to the nazis, he won't begrudge me this burger". Oy vavoy.
    2 points
  46. They will put you out of the synagogues; yes, the time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service. And these things they will do to you because they have not known the Father nor Me. John 16:2‭-‬3 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/jhn.16.2-3.NKJV He let a Jewish christian be burned because of how he saw the Trinity and I looked it up but could not find that he was sorry. They warned him, but he refused to listen.
    2 points
  47. I feel I kinda knew how important it has been to you for us to stay on topic in your teachings here. And would hope you do same in sharing your understanding with others wherever the road takes you. You have kept me on my 'spiritual' toes many's the time, and I've been blessed. Thank you, Mister M...
    2 points
  48. The Winnebago gets between 5 and 6 miles per gallon on gasoline. It gets expensive with the gas prices so high. Several years ago when the gas got to $4 and higher, with the max purchase blocks at service stations, it took two credit cards to fill it up. We had to stop taking long trips. My dream trip was to drive up to Alaska and spend the summer. In 2011, I priced the fuel to do so, and it was a bit over $8,000. So we had to settle with driving the car to Vancouver, BC and take a cruise to Alaska.
    2 points
  49. I'm sellin my pic for only peanuts
    2 points
  50. Mr.M, do you remember what John Calvin did in a Swiss city when he became frustrated that believers weren't believing rightly? Christianity cannot be forced upon anyone. It is by the Holy Spirit of God that we all have understanding and each one of us are burdened with our individual carnal past. We all arrive where we need to arrive by the grace of God. Jesus is the vine and we are branches. We can do nothing without His input. I do hope you find what you seek.
    2 points
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