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  1. Enjoyed this wonderful, yet simple message in The Supplied Life devotional today! Everything is laid out for us by our loving Father - all the provisions of Christ are in us . . . yet we are told to take the initiative to participate. That is, our job is to GET OUR NOSE IN THE DISH, as a precious brother (now gone to be with the Lord) used to say. A couple verses (fav go-to verses) that highlight this truth are, "I remind you to fan into flames the gift of God which is in you" and "Work out your own salvation . . . for it is God who operates in you." (2 Tim 1:6 & Phil 2:12) A Mingled Desire "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace which was toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me." 1 Corinthians 15:10 God's eternal goal over our lives is to transform us into the image of His Son. This goal is accomplished by spending time beholding the glory of the Lord (2 Cor. 3:18). The secret of learning how to behold His glory is simply discovering that we can take the initiative to do it. The Lord's desire to do His work of transformation over us is an ever present fact of His heavenly ministry (Heb. 7:24-25). Nevertheless, He still waits for us to draw near to behold Him in order to accomplish this work. Taking the initiative does not mean that we are initiating something from nothing. In spiritual things, taking the initiative means we do something with a preexisting condition. Every Christian has this preexisting condition. It is Christ in you(Col. 1:27). Thus, Christ is the underlying factor of all your spiritual desires. Take the initiative everyday. Go along with that little feeling within you. It may seem like it is merely you. But when you identify that feeling by the Word of God, you discover that it is not you. It is God operating in you. Yet neither can you say that it is not you, because the desire is your desire. Thus, we can say that it is a mingled desire issuing from the divine life operating within our human life. The apostle Paul expressed this principle in the verse above. He admits that he labored, yet in reflecting on his own statement, he has to equally say, "yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me." Taking the initiative means cooperating with God's operation. Cooperate with the desire, and He will transform you.
    4 points
  2. “I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” (Ephesians 4:1-6 NKJV) These verses are a reminder of our oneness in Christ by His work for us and also and admonition to walk it out continually and in so doing show ourselves as a witness of Christ to all around. A very Light shining in darkness…distinct from this world. Not showing the same characteristics of the fallen.
    4 points
  3. For recent members and long time members; it's evident that the forum has been very slow and at times not loading at all. We want you to know it is being addressed and the forum will be loaded into a new and better server within a few days--please pray that all goes well. Thanks to all for your patience through this period. God Bless
    4 points
  4. That's not the issue, my friend. Here is the issue: what the Lord may do with the desperation that is conducive to such thinking. Elijah despaired of living (1 Kings 19), and witness what the Lord did... He did not engage with despair. I have said (and written) this before: on the other side of despair is the glory of the Lord. What profit is there in spilling life with no purpose? Better to spill one's life into the Holy One with abandon, for all things are possible in Him. Give your life to the Lord and witness what He gives in return... more than any of us can possibly imagine. On the other side of despair are the riches and mercy of the Lord.
    4 points
  5. Well I actually have an IQ of over 300- I just haven't told anybody yet! And by the way I am also the most humble person that ever lived!
    4 points
  6. to all my fellow canadians
    3 points
  7. Three times in the Law of Moses is it commended "thou shalt not seethe a kid in its mother's milk". The mind of God is not clear to me, but one thing is for sure, God is against His Word doing damage to a young Christian. We are bound to seek the truth, but must avoid "boiling" a new Christian in God's Word. Let us be TESTIFIERS and let the Holy Spirit CONVICT. It is His job to lead us into all truth. Our job is only to "search out a matter".
    3 points
  8. Blessings Just a little reminder to keep from getting personal ..Debate the Topic or post your rebuttals and opinions on the subject matter but please- not one another Have a God Blessed Day and give God Glory in all we say & do❤️ With love in Christ,kwik
    3 points
  9. Yup…people and especially studious immature ones come up with all kinds of doctrinal errors as a result. Most end up in forums. Its real thing.
    3 points
  10. I suggest that every eschatology student read Josephus’s Jewish Wars as well as The Tacitus accounts. Tacitus was a Roman historian. Josephus was in a unique position to tell the tale.
    3 points
  11. I personally don't think there is a firm yes or no answer to that. But, the "maybe" is enough to keep me away from it. Since it's Jesus that makes that decision, I don't think it wise for us to say since we can't really know the outcome. I can't conceive of anything more terrifying than to do it and be wrong.
    3 points
  12. In any matter pertaining to the throngs of people from every nation, tribe, and tongue, including kings/queens and those in authority, the first thing to be done is the making of requests for supply and provision, for needs, mercies, good governance, and of course, that all would "be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth" v4 It's about priorities and urgencies, "Do it now" sort of thing.
    3 points
  13. The oneness in Christ is beyond amazing! Look at all the "ones" in that verse - one faith, one Lord, one Spirit, etc. We have one Spirit flowing in all of us! Like the prayer Jesus made in John 17:21, which is really quite mind-blowing: "That they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you - that they also may be in us - so that the world may believe that you have sent me"
    2 points
  14. The bottom-line message to me (that I need to be frequently reminded of) is that no mater what we do as mischievous "puppies," just keep coming to Him and get the nourishing supply of His life! "Desire the pure milk of the word that you may grow thereby." (1 Peter 2:2)
    2 points
  15. Philippians 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. 2Cor 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
    2 points
  16. Most of us get tired just managing our homes. How will we fare running a city? Let not us think that slackers, no matter how gentle and gracious they might be, will be awarded this glory. There is a subtle lesson in Luke 19. Here are the verses; 15 And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading. 16 Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds. 17 And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities. 18 And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds. 19 And he said likewise to him, Be thou also over five cities. Lk 19:15–19. The parable has many pertinent themes. But notice the reckoning. "How MUCH ... !" It is not only about "faithful" servants. The word "good" can only be connected to the NUMBER of pounds. To be found a "good" servant DILIGENCE is required. At first reading we tend to think that because the text says "likewise" that the same praise is accorded both the servants. NOT SO. The "likewise" is not the praise but the relationship of adding pounds and receiving cities. What was "likewise" is one city for a pound - not the words of praise by the Lord. The servant who multiplied his pound by 10 is praised. The servant who multiplied it by 5 receives equivalent cities but receives NO WORDS OF PRAISE! Our FAITH cancels our sins and gives us eternal life. Our DILIGENCE in SERVICE decides our reward. Like the Israelites inheriting Canaan, we Christians inherit the earth (Rom.4:13). Cities are centers of rule of that earth (Rev.22.5).
    2 points
  17. 2 points
  18. I get it. But plans change. In high school I dreamed of a military career. Now, 22 years later I'm driving a trash truck. Never joined the military. But it seems to me you have a choice, either find a way to tolerate your families behavior, or find a way to make it away from your family. Seeing as your brother has already hurt your child, the choice would be easy for me, I would leave in a heartbeat, even if it meant working a dead end job at a fast food joint (or two) to keep my child out of an abusive home, which, if everything you say is true, he is indeed in a abusive household. And the problem with an abusive household is it escalates, and no one wins. Often, it ends in DFS getting involved and removing the child. But, unfortunately by then, the child's already subjected to a lot of trauma.
    2 points
  19. Empires have emperors. Individuals are portrayed as beasts. I'll leave it there.
    2 points
  20. Yes, indeed! Lot's of discussion on here about who we are and ekklesia vs "church." But, since church is the culturally accepted term we've all come to know - may the church burn bright with the testimony of Christ in these days!
    2 points
  21. Heavenly Father, I pray for all of the persecuted faithful in the Body of Christ, for God to give them strength and endurance in the midst of their brutal persecutions. In Yeshua's mighty precious and holy name. Amen amen
    2 points
  22. That's a an uninformed comment, as hours of forum discussions on the subject attest. In prophetic scripture, while beasts often symbolize empires or kingdoms, there are notable instances where individual leaders are portrayed through beastly imagery—either as personifications of those empires or as distinct figures of power and rebellion. Here are some key examples: 🐑 The Beast from the Earth — Revelation 13:11–18 Appearance: “Two horns like a lamb,” suggesting a Christ-like façade—gentle, innocent, perhaps even religious in tone. Voice: “Spoke like a dragon,” revealing its true allegiance to Satan, the dragon of Revelation 12. Function: Acts as the false prophet (cf. Revelation 16:13; 19:20), promoting worship of the first beast (from the sea). Deceptive power: Performs great signs, including calling fire from heaven—mimicking Elijah and divine authority. Image of the beast: Commands the people to make an image of the first beast and gives it breath, so it speaks and kills dissenters. Economic control: Enforces the mark of the beast—without it, no one can buy or sell. Number of the beast: Introduces the infamous number 666, “the number of a man” (v.18), calling for wisdom and discernment. The first beast is the blasphemous empire actualising satanic tyranny, and the second beast is the emperor who exercises the authority given it. While the Lamb of God brings life and truth, this lamb-like beast mimics the Lamb to lead people into idolatry and destruction. 🦁 Daniel’s “Little Horn” (Daniel 7:8, 8:9–12) The “little horn” emerges from the fourth beast (often associated with Rome). It has “eyes like the eyes of a man and a mouth speaking great things,” suggesting a specific ruler with intelligence and arrogance. Many scholars associate this with Antiochus IV Epiphanes, while others see it as a foreshadowing of the Antichrist. 🐐 The “King of Fierce Countenance” (Daniel 8:23–25) A king arises from the Greek empire (symbolized by the goat) who is “mighty, but not by his own power.” He destroys the holy people and exalts himself—again pointing to a singular, tyrannical leader. 🐺 Nebuchadnezzar’s Transformation (Daniel 4) Though not a beast in prophetic vision, Nebuchadnezzar literally becomes beast-like in his madness. This serves as a symbolic judgment on prideful kings who exalt themselves above God. Simple logic prescribes that every empire has an emperor. You're welcome
    2 points
  23. Are we Eagles or chickens Are we building are house on the Rock “Christ” or on the Sand “World a business who calls themselves a church”. Isa 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. What does it mean, to "mount up" with wings as eagles? The Hebrew word is alah and means "to ascend," "to be high," "lifted up," "arise up," or "carry up," and is used in a great variety of senses. An eagle "mounts up" as it soars high into the sky, far above the plains below. When a storm breaks, the violent winds that hits the earth also carry the eagle upward above the storm clouds. In what ways is a Christian like an "eagle"? Are we a spiritual "eagle" who can soar to great heights, above the circumstances? Or are we more like a barnyard "chicken" -- bound to the earth, scratching for a living, dependent on the local "flock" and chicken "coop" for protection? Many Christians, in these last days, are much like these "chickens." Rather than being spiritually strong through Faith which brings contentment and Godliness like the eagle, they are more like chickens in a chicken coop, they are not single minded towards Christ they need protection and the security that world offers. Each "chicken" is confined to the chicken pen of its owner. It is not allowed to wander or roam freely. Woe to the chicken who keeps straying from the pen! Such a chicken becomes a candidate for a fried chicken dinner! Today, as we look about us, we see all kinds of groups of "spiritual chickens" -- there is "the Methodist over there”, and the "Baptist over there", and the "Pentecostal" down the street, and the “Metro Calvary," over the hill, as well as many smaller chicken pens. The various chickens may all feel comfortable in their own chicken yard, and may think it is better than the others, but aren't they all pretty much the same? The dull, monotonous, routine life of the 'chicken yard" will never appeal to those who are like the "eagle." When the storm strikes with its fury, notice how the chickens dash for the chicken coop, cuddle up inside, and cower in fear. If the storm should beat upon their own coop with real fury, they would be tossed about, and perhaps killed, all together. They have no way of escape -- for they are bound up inside the chicken pen! The eagle, on the other hand, doesn't blink at the storm clouds coming along the horizon. Its nest is built upon a "rock," high up in the mountains, safe from the fury and onslaught of the storm's violent winds and rains and lightning. The same storm of tribulation and persecution that beats down upon the cowering chickens -- is the very storm that allows the eagles -- bold, fearless, obedient Christians who know the 'way of the eagle" -- to ride the powerful of the storm’s winds, and to soar to heights never imagined or attained!
    2 points
  24. We don't attend church we are the church, we just gathered together, we're not an organization. We are a living body, that's been called out of this world and we're now a holy nation, we are ambassadors of the kingdom of God. Luk 17:26 And as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. 27 They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. 2 Pet 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. 11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. We need to tell the world what’s coming, every man, woman and child will have the lake of fire waiting for them unless they're in Christ Jesus, our Lord. It will be just like Noah's day out of millions of millions of people only eight were saved..
    2 points
  25. Yeah.. saw one.. it had Kathern Kalman's picture and I thought that it was some channel posting very old videos but.. no someone put their own words and used her voice. At the start you know.. its in you something was wrong so I started searching and yeah wise to watch out. I found out it was not just her it was many others
    2 points
  26. "we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another" in Romans 12, 5 Ecclesiastes 4:12. "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Quote; This verse emphasizes the strength found in unity and companionship, using the analogy of a rope made of multiple strands to illustrate that a group of people (or things) is stronger together than they would be alone. "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2 Quote; "Have you ever considered the benefits of going to church regularly outweighing the benefits of not going? Studies have been done that found only twenty percent of Christians in America go to church weekly"… "Consider and list all the reasons you don’t attend church regularly and ask yourself what the benefits are. Once you have your list, consider these reasons to start regularly attending church:" Personal and Spiritual Benefits It’s the right thing to do. The Bible says it’s what we should do. It helps you understand you are part of a much bigger story in this life. It helps give you a sense of purpose and meaning. It gives you hope both now and eternally. It helps you define and articulate what you believe, where you stand, and why. It helps you learn more about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit and why it matters. It will help you learn about the Bible and how it applies to your life. It will bring blessing into your life. It will help you be rooted and grounded in God, His house, and His people causing you to grow and change in positive ways. It creates stability in your life and family. It will help you learn spiritual discipline. It will encourage and energize you, and help you focus on the right things when looking at the week ahead. It helps you put your faith in action. Faith without works is dead. It will help you examine and rearrange your priorities. It helps take your focus off yourself and places it closer to God and others. It’s an opportunity to have your opinions challenged and questions answered. It a great place to sing worship and praise songs. The songs stay with you throughout the week. You may even wake up to a worship song in your head in the morning! It will open your eyes to all that God is doing around you, in our country, and all over the world. It will encourage you, inspire you, and help you make wise decisions in your life through the preaching and teaching of God’s Word. It will strengthen your walk with God. It will help you change your perspective about God, others, life, and eternity. It will help you know godly truth from worldly lies. It honors God. Family Benefits It will teach your kids to know and love God and His Church. It lends itself to making a happy marriage. It is an opportunity to create a spiritual and meaningful experience with your kids. It will help your kids grow in Christ and learn about the Bible. It will help create family unity and a special godly bond of love. It sets a good example for your kids to follow. Community Benefits It strengthens your faith when you gather amongst other believers. It helps you look beyond yourself and see the needs of others. It will give you an opportunity to give financially to help those in need. It will give you an opportunity to meet like-minded people and make friends to do life with. It will give you an opportunity to serve others by volunteering in an area that you enjoy or where you can minister to others. These opportunities can help you develop, sharpen or explore your God-given talents, gifts, and abilities. It will help you meet people who can support you when life gets tough. People who can pray for you and walk with you on your journey. You will also have the same opportunity to support others through their life issues. Does this list encourage you? Or, have you had negative reasons pop up in your mind to just stay at home? What spirit encourages assembling together? What spirit discourages assembling together? We reap what we sow....
    2 points
  27. It is true that we are members of the body and members of one another. And this is how God set things up - that we need one another! Why? The life flow is in the body, and much of the supply we need to live comes through our connection with one another (including both death & resurrection). I often hear among my local group, "There's no Lone Ranger," meaning that our experience is constantly how much each one needs the encouragement in Christ that comes from one another! If someone thinks they are a Lone Ranger and are growing properly, they are deceived.
    2 points
  28. Hello brother. If I may be so bold as to add the following: Correct theology matters. Correct doctrine matters. Correct preaching and teaching of correct theology and correct doctrine matters. Your admonition omits this. Also, while I agree whole-heartedly that fellowship with other born again believers can indeed be edifying and encouraging, it is not the congregation itself that nourishes us and gives us growth. Growth comes by the indwelling Holy Spirit with the sincere hearing, studying, and doing of God's word and God's will; being fertile soil that produces fruit from the hearing of God's word. Being exposed to biblically sound preaching and teaching is essential for growth in the knowledge of the truth: God's word is truth. But I would caution, as you admonish, if all one needs to do is to find a congregation that one "likes", as opposed to a congregation that might be convicting, it may very well be that the congregation one "likes" is the one that tickles the ears, and teaches less than the truth, and we know there are many so-called "pastors" ready, willing, and able to do just that in order to keep the tithes and offerings coming. Thanks. Peace
    2 points
  29. I know the future. The Lord will return, we will we resurrected and changed and the universe will be renovated in some way. The blessed hope. All suffering and sorrow will be no more. Amen?
    2 points
  30. Okay. We won't light the wood until tomorrow.
    2 points
  31. Reminders Numbers – 12 The number 12 is recorded 189 times in Scripture and its meaning is related to foundations, perfection, and sovereign authority. It is first associated with Abraham, when God promised him that he would be the “father of many nations.” Genesis 17:4 Abraham was both a patriarch of Ishmael through the flesh, and of Isaac through faith. The flesh produced 12 heads of families, who were the beginnings of the Arab nations in the Middle East today. Faith also produced 12 heads of families through Isaac, father of Jacob, (later re-named Israel) who then became the father of 12 sons: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph, Benjamin, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher. These 12 sons became the heads of 12 clans, or families, commonly referred to as the “12 tribes of Israel.” Next, we see Moses sending 12 men, one from each tribe to spy out the promised land. Numbers 13:1-33 Twelve unleavened cakes were to be offered as a weekly sacrifice in the tabernacle. Leviticus 24:5 Elijah built an altar of 12 stones, then called down fire from the LORD. 1 Kings 18:31-40 And the OT ends with the 12 books of the 12 minor prophets, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. These 12’s lay a strong foundation for the coming of the Christ. The number 12 is also seen often in the NT. Jesus was 12 years old when “they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both hearing them, and asking them questions.” Luke 2:42-49 At the beginning of His public ministry, Jesus appointed 12 apostles, “that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach.” They are, “Simon, (whom he also named Peter) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the zealot, Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot.” Luke 6:14-16 Twelve baskets of food fragments were collected after feeding the 5,000. Mark 6:43 A woman was healed “which was diseased with an issue of blood 12 years,” Matthew 9:20 and Jesus raised a 12-year-old girl from the dead. Mark 5:42 At Gethsemane, Jesus could have called 12 legions of angels to rescue Him. Matthew 26:53 And after His resurrection, Jesus equipped and sent the 12 apostles to “turn the world upside down” Acts 17:6 with the Gospel. Final Thoughts: Going from history to prophecy, we find the number 12 prominent in the book of Revelation. There will be 12 thousand virgin Jewish males, from 12 tribes of Israel (144,000 total) Revelation 7:5-8; 14:1-4 that are sealed by God to preach the Gospel during the time of Jacob’s trouble. Jeremiah 30:7; Daniel 12:1; Matthew 24:21 Next, we see “a great wonder in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of 12 stars.” Revelation 12:1 She is symbolic of the nation of Israel, from whom the Lord Jesus came. Finally, we see the New Jerusalem, the dwelling place of all the saved, coming to the new Earth after the Millenium. It has “12 gates, and at the gates 12 angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the 12 tribes of the children of Israel. And the wall of the city has 12 foundations, and in them the names of the 12 apostles of the Lamb. And the 12 gates are 12 pearls; every gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city is pure gold, as it were transparent glass. In the midst of the street of it…is there the tree of life, which bares 12 manner of fruits, and yields her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.” Revelation 21:12,14,21; 22:2 What perfect habitation, sustenance, and healing that awaits us! For we “look for a city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God,” the sovereign one of the universe. Hebrews 11:10 ph
    2 points
  32. There was a 60 minutes interview many years ago where the interviewer asked a guy, "aren't you afraid of going to jail?". To which the guy answered, "The first time you go to jail, you are real nervous. The second time, you know to bring your toothbrush." If someone has lost everything, he might walk into a police station and ask to stay in the jail overnight. Between churches and social service agencies, the guy would be helped back on his feet. People are hardly ever as alone as they might feel. It used to be that guys that needed a new start would go in the Army and learn a trade. The problem with suicide is that over time, it becomes seen as a solution and other practical options are often overlooked.
    2 points
  33. I was in a dark place once, struggling to make sense of life and of the awful decisions I had made. As dark a place it seemed, it was not so dark a place that my conscience did not get the better of me. I was not yet born again, and I was resisting and rebelling against God, doing things and thinking things I now know were contrary to the will of God. Even as I rebelled, I had a faint awareness of a force that kept me from deleting myself, a force I now know was the Holy Spirit who was calling me out of darkness. After I finally surrendered to God and put my faith trust and rest in Him, I then knew that God has a better plan for my life than any plan I could devise or any plan all the event planners of the world could devise for me; God's plan is greater. I still have lean financial times, I still have regrets and remorse, and trouble and distress still finds their way into my life, but ever since the day I repented and believed and was born again, I live every moment of my life by His word and stand firmly on His promises: "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6). His ways are not our ways. Trust Him and live. Amen Peace
    2 points
  34. Yes--I understand that. It's good for us all to keep in mind that we don't all have the same background and pre-suppositions derived from various possible backgrounds. Not to mention what studies we have done that help us each to understand what our brothers before us understood over centuries.
    2 points
  35. You are truly blessed brother! One of my grand-daughters called me this week to seek spiritual advice. She has no idea how much that blessed me. The Lord used her greatly by that simple act. She thought I was ministering to her, when in fact she was ministering to me without knowing it. I think a lot of the Lord's ministry is Him doing His work through us while we are unawares....
    2 points
  36. You would be throwing away the greatest gift God ever gave you. The gift of life. Think about how hard people struggle to survive. Children with cancer who constantly suffer or the people who survived the Holocaust. They would do just about anything to survive another minute. How bad is your life? Talk to some people that care about you. Talk to people at church. An AA meeting might also be a great idea. Even if you don't have an issue with drugs or alcohol, AA is a great place to listen to others struggles and how they overcame them. Listening to others share their problems is very powerful and inspiring. I've learned some great lessons from going to AA. Jesus loves you and so does a lot of other people in your life. I understand suicide is not a logical thing. I have people in my life that have attempted it. They are all grateful they didn't die. They all realize how trivial their problems were. Think about how devasted all the people that love you would be if you were gone. Don't be selfish, get some help. It will get better, it always does.
    2 points
  37. (And, God has blessed our family with twelve believing grand children)..... Thanks Pat
    2 points
  38. I haven't engaged in the lost tribes discussion, just the scattered tribes, whose influence is Scripturally documented.
    2 points
  39. Beloved ones, we heard: “that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2‬:‭2‬ ‭KJV‬‬ Beloved ones, let our hearts be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;” Let us consider the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ. This, we heard Jesus said: “And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.” ‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭40‬ ‭KJV‬‬ WHAT THE SON? Let us compare spiritually. This, we previously heard: “Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which THE SON of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.” ‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭27‬ ‭KJV‬‬ WHAT THE SON of man? This, we also heard: “When Jesus came into the coasts of Cæsarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood HATH not REVEALED it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭16‬:‭13‬-‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬ That we perceive: THE SON or THE SON OF MAN is the Christ, the Son of the living God, that Jesus’s Father which is in heaven hath revealed it unto us. And this, we also heard: “He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become THE SONS of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the WILL of man, but OF GOD. And THE WORD was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” ‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭11‬-‭14‬ ‭KJV‬‬ That we perceive: “And THE WORD was made flesh, and dwelt among us, THE SON full of grace and truth.” Beloved ones, let us consider again what we heard Jesus said: “And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.” ‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭40‬ ‭KJV‬‬ Paraphrasing for clarity: “And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which SPIRITUALLY PERCEIVE THE WORD, and believeth on THE TESTIMONY OF him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.” Paraphrasing for clarity: “And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which PERCEIVE THE REVEALED WORD: THE CHRIST, THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD, and believeth on THE TESTIMONY OF him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.” And this, we heard apostle Paul said: “But I certify you, brethren, that THE GOSPEL which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received IT of man, neither was I taught IT, but by THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST.” ‭‭Galatians‬ ‭1‬:‭11‬-‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬ Beloved ones, let us receive THE SON, THE WORD OF TRUTH OF THE GOSPEL by THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST. To God the Father be all glory and thanksgiving through Christ. Amen
    2 points
  40. CaptWalker, I have not been here in several months, but I just could not let this pass. There is only ONE unpardonable sin and that is the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. What is that? Well, it's not a fleeting and intruding thought. It's dying with a very deliberate and persistent rejection of the Holy Spirit's move to bring you to the LORD. A rejection of God's grace, the saving blood of Jesus Christ and in the Bible, a belief that Jesus worked under the power of demonic spirits. People who reject Christ as atheists or as ignorant fools CAN be saved of their unbelief, it happens every day, but when they die that way, it's too late. So what about suicide? It does not and CANNOT send the Christian to hell. Our good works cannot enhance the saving power of Christ and our bad ones, even our worst ones, cannot undo the saving grace of God. Suicide is a horrible thing. Any murder, including self-murder, is horrid and leaves behind friends, family, classmates, and colleagues that suffer and suffer. It's just not God's plan or will for ANYONE's life. So much can affect suicide attempts: mental illness, extreme physical pain, loss, and more. Especially when one has no one to turn to. I'm NOT giving anyone permission. I am saying DON'T DO this!! Get help!! As far as not being able to repent of this - every Christian on the face of the planet dies with unconfessed sin in their lives. It is literally impossible to confess all the sins of our lives. If one only commits 5 sins a day [and that's astronomically low] and lives to be 75, that's almost 140,000 sins that need to be confessed. God doesn't want you to do this. He didn't want ME to do this the two times that I was at the serious point of taking my life. He took it away from me. I pray God will take this away from you. God bless you in a miraculous way. Jayne
    2 points
  41. Jas 1:1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.
    2 points
  42. Study Resources: (I have checked these out) "Children of the Promise" in Biblical and Theological contexts: Bible Hub - Children of the Promise Explores the biblical concept of "Children of the Promise," particularly in Paul's writings. Discusses how God's promises are fulfilled through faith rather than physical lineage. Read more here. One People, One Promise Examines how the Church continues Israel’s covenant heritage. Discusses the theological idea that believers in Christ inherit Abraham’s promises. Read more here. Steppes of Faith - Who Are the Children of Promise? Explores the biblical origins of the term, starting with Isaac as the first "child of promise." Discusses the distinction between physical and spiritual heirs of God's covenant. Read more here.
    2 points
  43. Reminds me of Ephesians 1.12-14: "...we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. 13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, 14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory."
    2 points
  44. The end of the matter is come drink of the water of life without cost ...
    2 points
  45. It may seem a strange thing to say, but I say it after considerable thought, and some years of experience in talking to people of all kinds, that there is hardly anything so little understood by Christians generally as the love of God When I say “the love of God,” I do not mean His love to the world, His love for those who have sinned against Him with hard hearts and a high hand. That love is beyond comprehension—too great, too utterly stupendous for mere words to set forth. I refer rather to that special love which God has to us His children, the Father’s love to those who belong to His dear Son. Ask the average Christian how he knows that God loves him? “Well, God has been very good to me: He has brought me through many a trial, and though I have had many ups and downs, yet here I am today, still trusting and following.” Perhaps some reader of these lines is rather astonished that one should regard such a reply as anything but very right and good. Well, we do not find fault with it; we thank God for all the causes He gives us to speak of His abundant delivering mercies in times of a trial, and of His abundant goodness and constant care. But I ask, what about those who have not been delivered in the hour of their trouble? A Christian, who intended to go from Europe to America by the ill-fated Titanic, but prevented by some unforeseen event, took it as a great proof of God’s love that He allowed that event to hinder him from taking that vessel. But what about the Christians who were not thus providentially hindered, who did take that vessel, and who went down with her in mid-ocean? Were not they equally the object of God’s love? God has mercifully and providentially intervened in times of persecution and distress on behalf of one another of His poor troubled people. The readers of such a book as “A Thousand Miles of Miracle,” will be at no loss to quote instances of this. On the other hand, numbers were not delivered; no “miracle” of providential mercy was wrought on their behalf. They were left to be cruelly slaughtered by their savage persecutors. Did not God love them as much as those that He was pleased to succor and deliver? The mercies which we enjoy every day, and which we are accustomed sometimes to speak of as “our common mercies,” were often denied to the Apostle Paul. He knew what it was like to lack food and clothing, to have no roof over his head, and to go from day to day in danger of his life (1Co 4:11). Did not God love Paul? Let me go further. Let me speak for a moment of Him who came from eternal riches to be poor from love for us. He was acquainted with grief (Isa 53:3); worse off than the foxes with their forest lairs and the birds with their roosting-places. He had nowhere to lay His head (Mat 8:20). Others could go to their homes, while He spent the night on the lone mountain side. Mercies which you and I take as matters of course were withheld from Him. Why? Was He not ever the worthy subject of His Father’s infinite and everlasting love? Aye that He was. Then why the poverty, suffering and grief during His lifetime on earth, when it was no question of making atonement? Mark the answer: Because the Father’s love does not express itself in the form of earthly and temporal mercies, or at least, is not to be measured by them, though He may give us many , and we may rightly take them all from His gracious, loving hand. God is good to all creatures. He bestows His mercies on the unconverted as well as upon those who belong to His Beloved. There is a well-known story of Charles Spurgeon’s visit to a Christian farmer. I was relating it to a God-fearing widow by whose fireside I was sitting. She had been passing through sore and bitter trial, and the enemy had taken advantage of this to sow in her heart the seeds of distrust and doubt. She felt that God had forgotten her; that at all events, His love was not such a reality towards her as towards others. So I told her of Spurgeon’s visit to the farmer, and of his inquiry when he notices that in the place of the usual bird, fish or arrow, a text “God is Love,” had been placed upon the old barn as a weathervane. “Do you mean to say by that,” he asked, “that God’s love is as changeable as the wind?” “Nay, nay,” replied the farmer, “my meaning is that God Is Love, whichever the wind blows!” This is the lesson we need to lay at heart. We must in no wise measure God’s love by circumstances. The gentle breeze from the south may blow upon us, bringing ease and prosperity; or the biting blasts may sweep down from the frozen north, bringing trials, grief, suffering and disappointment. But nothing changes the love of God. The grand truth is that He loves us as He loves His Son. Wonderful words, and they are true; for read the precious words for yourself in John 17:23. It is the Son of God, our Lord Jesus who says: “Thou … hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me!” Lying before me on a table is a picture of a small hotel. Stretched across the full width of the building, above the door, is a long board bearing these words: “Free Board Every Day The Sun Doesn’t Shine.” If an unwary traveler should enter the hotel on some gloomy day and demand a meal, free of charge, on the strength of this inscription, he would of course, be blandly asked by the proprietor, “Why, sir, do you imagine that the sun has ceased to shine? It may be gloomy here, but the sun is shining in all its glorious brightness!” And so with us. We might make the most extravagant promises for the day upon which the sun of God’s love does not shine. For such a day will never be, in winter as in summer, on dark days as in bright ones, for the Father’s love to us abides in its infinite greatness, because His love to His Son ever remains the same. —Harold Primrose Barker (1869-1952) MJS daily devotional for June 23, 2025 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God” (Phil. 4:6). “Ignorance insures insecurity; scriptural knowledge secures strength. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Tim. 1:7). “In mechanics, wobbling is weakness. Power issues from God’s restfulness. Are we resting in the Lord? Can we wait patiently for Him to act? Anxiety reduces spiritual energy. Lack of rest of heart is one of the most serious hindrances to Christians. “Fret of soul when wronged, or fuss over financial or other concerns, is a depletion of power, a dissipation of energy. From the rock basis of rest in Him we can put forth the whole of our energies. Perfect peace is our promised portion. “Martha gets instruction; we all get that, for our Lord neglects none of us; but she did not get His company; company is what gives rest to the heart. “Nothing can separate the believer from the love of God, and under no circumstances whatever can he come under the infliction of wrath from God. He may have to correct His saints for their sins, and where there has been no failure He may chasten (child train) them for their profit, that they may become partakers of His holiness; but all this is in love, not in wrath. Every action of God toward His saints is in grace and blessing; it is ever the outcome of His love.” —Miles J Stanford “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ.” Jhttp://www.abideabove.com/hungry-heart/esus” (Phil. 4:7)
    2 points
  46. If we examine inheritance in the Old Testament it refers almost exclusively to the Land of Canaan. The priesthood, having no inheritance in Land, inherit God Himself and a tithe of all Israel (Numbers 18, 26) Abraham initially received this inheritance, but after passing a threefold test of not taking earthly wealth at the hand of the Canaanite, and for the willingness to offer his son Isaac, the promise of inheritance was extended to the whole world (Rom.4:13). Since the world is made and owned by Jehovah, and an inheritance is the passing of the father's goods to His sons, Abraham and his seed via Isaac and then Jacob are promised the earth. To Abraham is promised THREE seeds; 1. A Seed (singular) Who would inherit all 2. Seed as the stars of heaven which would be part of a heavenly calling and have celestial glory (Heb.3:1, 1st Cor.15:40) 3. Seed as the sand of the seashore which would inherit Canaan and which would have Terrestrial glory After the NATION of Israel refused the King, refused the law and provoked God to remove them, they forfeit the earth (Matt.21:43). The criteria for inheriting the Kingdom of Heaven/God is rebirth and Baptism (Jn.3:3-5). Israel will receive the Land of Caan to dwell in, but Christians will rule them - namely David (jer.30:9) and the twelve Apostles (Matt.19:28) Of the rest of Christians, a small minority who EARNED it by their works, will rule cities of the heathen (Lk.19:17-19). In one single event, that of the rich young man, is the whole matter pictured. He seeks to HAVE eternal life. The Lord Jesus assures him that he HAS eternal life by recognizing the deity of Jesus. But salvation and rebirth are one thing and INHERITING eternal life is another. To ENTER eternal life WORKS are required. Until Moses "walking with God" was needed. From Moses to John Baptist keepng the Law was needed. From John to the rapture refusing earthly reward is needed. ENTERING LIFE is used interchangeably with ENTERING the Kingdom of Heaven (when it comes to earth) and being SAVED. Being saved from the consequences of sin is one thing. Being saved fully is when a saved man is elected to ENTER the Kingdom as a ruler of cities. The WORKS required are to show you a GOOD STEWARD - a self denying king of a city. A slothful Christian is saved from the Second Death, but will lose hs INHERITANCE - to be king on the earth in Christ's KINGDOM. We are chosen as Priest - Kings. In or ministry as Priests we inherit God: As Kings we inherit the earth. Salvation is by FAITH. INHERITING is by WORKS. HAVING eternal LIFE is by FAITH. ENTERING Life is by WORKS. Many are called - few are chosen. 600,000 Israelites left Egypt for their inheritance. TWO made it in. All were Israelites - that is, their BIRTH was correct. ALL had the promises of Abraham. ALL ate manna (spiritual food), ALL were saved from the angel of death. ALL ate the Lamb. TWO INHERITED!
    2 points
  47. We're each of us certainly living in our end times.
    2 points
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