Jayyycuuup

What you were talking about is what i was also lol, so yes, I do know what your talking about. As for what your saying. . . it seems as if they went from one theory to the next, my question to you is how long until this is flawed and scientists move on to a new theory? Don't get me wrong, some of the things within this theory are correct, for instance natural selection etc. But the key point that irks me that they leave out is God. They think that is a viable argument against God, but in my eyes it's pro God. It shows and aligns just the exactness and perfection it took to align such organisms, strands etc. Actually I have to agree with that statement. It is only a "truth" if it's within our senses. Otherwise it is a belief. As for what your saying about electrons. . . .that is assurance and hence still a belief. If i asked you to prove it you could give me a whole bunch of, they must exist! And I would say WOW! I am assured that God exists not only by the conviction in Him, but also He must exist! Interesting Sean. . . . but I think that same thing is applied to God. For example. We have inference of brains due to (a) they must exist (b) documentation © experiments, i.e. cutting open the human scalp and seeing. Someone posted something and I agree 100%, it says "the world says God show me and I will believe, But no My friend, God says believe and I will show you." ( ) And I think there is so much truth there. Applying this to the speculation about the brain. . . .(a) First, God must exist for we know something cannot come from nothing. Looking out upon the earth there is so much that needs the "God did it" otherwise it would have no base, for there is no such thing as a "coincidence" (b) We have a book to follow that gives us documentation about whom God is, who His son is and why we need Him. To bring flavor and life to our meaningless lives. Via process of faith and belief, acknowledge and believe in your heart. (John 3:16) © You seek God out, you "cut" open your faith and say LORD here I am! You carefully seek Him out with all of you and you will find Him! This I promise you Sean. I still remember my first encounter with God and believe me there is no other feeling like it. There is no doubt in my mind that you will not find Him. (Sorry about my crummy analogies lol, all I have) God bless you Bud!

Hey Sean, Could you by chance elaborate on your thinking? I agreed in what I read, but find it interesting as to what is nonfactual and sloppy. I observe God working in my life and those around me, my observations are conclusive to me but not to those around me. As much as I am convinced, this does not convince someone else. My point in this analogy is there seems to be something I am missing. The evolutionary timeline shows a monkey, then a human at the end. The course is said to have been enough time to evolve (hence evolutionary process) into what we are today. It is to my understanding that is is still an upbeat argument. As for the dialogue itself. I think the course of discussion is around GOD, instead of trying to demean professors. I think one of the most promising illustrations is the absence of something. Lets take for instance white and black, they are not considered a "color." But why? White is the presence of all colors, Black is the absence of light. (Overview, way more complicated lol) Tying this back into the OP, I tend to think of the unsaved or mislead as the color black. The absence of light, of God, of Truth etc. (sorry, got distraced and lost my train of thought. . . had a good closing statement, but I guess this message will be my closing statement! lol) God bless you!

How else would the course of discussion go? For instance, if you were that professor, what would you say in place of what was stated? He is considered "nutty" because the course of discussion was not in his favor? Being outwitted and left dumbfounded. . . Yes it is a made up dialogue, but instead of focusing on this, how about the arguments presented within it? I echo Neb, asking what you think about this: "Sir, you are working on the premise of duality. You argue there is life and then there is death, a good GOD and a bad GOD. You are viewing the concept of GOD as something finite, something we can measure. Sir, Science can’t even explain a thought. It uses electricity and magnetism, but has never seen, much less fully understood either one. To view death as the opposite of life is to be ignorant of the fact that death cannot exist as a substantive thing." The same "argument" you present about evolution. . . If people would take away from their self, read their bible, and pray would they be CONVINCED that God does truly exist. Taking your statement a bit further, if someone considered the dialogue with an open mind, and researched the arguments presented I think they would be inspired. I would go into the "evolutionary" aspect, but that is a course for a different discussion. The OP is for enlightenment. God bless you and look forward to your response.

Thank you for re-sharing this Fez! Was a wonderful and very thought provoking read. God bless you!

so many hamburgers? LOL chloe. shaking my head with Neb (smh) LOL

AMEN!! Thank you for sharing GE! That was a wonderful read!

A. 1 Samuel 2:26 "And the child Samuel grew in stature, and in favor both with the LORD and men" Samuel was among the very few to even testify to the greatness of the LORD, the word of the LORD was rare in those days (1 Samuel 3:1) and God had called Samuel numerous times. Not yet having the discernment, each time God called to him, he ran out to his father Eli, thinking he had called. Now this was the beginning of Samuel's walk with God, for he finally said to God, here I am! From here the LORD spoke to Him telling him of the prophecy to come. (1 Samuel 3:3-11) This was the beginning of the LORD's cry out to his chosen people through Samuel, it was not for Samuel was special, nor gifted, but a child who was wanting to listen, a man who desired the LORD as much as he desired to do the will of God. For this God brought forth many great things through him. So what I am getting at is Samuel's "leadership" like always, was brought forth by God, his spirit was manifested in him and he brought glory to the LORD's name, compassion upon his brethren and unity in the LORD of hosts. B. David is the first that comes to mind. He not only was lead by God but the LORD himself said that David was a man after His own heart. Continually God used David, telling others to walk as he did, in love, in truth in compassion and in thankfulness as his servant David did. Not because David on his own was beyond all else, but he truly did things that touched God's heart, his faithfulness is something that was beyond compare, such honor and gratitude was hard to come by. Just like Samuel, David did things to glorify the LORD, having HIM take the lead and to follow after HIS command, for that I believe is what made them so successful in their walk and in leadership. Another great thread, Thank you God bless you

1 Peter 2:18-20 "Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh. For this is commendable, if because your conscience toward God endures grief, suffering wrongfully. 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. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps." From here I echo OneLight, if it defies God, then do not do it, but if your "master" is abusive, still do good and suffer, for this is commendable before God for "(Now if we are children,) then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." (Romans 8:17) Commit your ways to the LORD and be the light upon the hill for the lost, show His goodness and His love, light the way and pray for your enemies. As for the "master." Ephesians 6:9 "Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him." Colossians 4:1 "Masters, treat your slaves justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven" I think a responsibility we have as a believer is to withstand as Christ did and be the light upon the hill for these unbelievers. Instead of being angry with the one whom "beats" you (verbally) you should pray for them and continue to do good even though this person is lost and mean, for they have someone even greater to answer to (God), do not be afraid of the one whom can destroy the body but be afraid of the one whom can destroy both. (Mathew 10:28) Philippians 1:29 "For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;" Mathew 5:11 "How blessed are you whenever people insult you, persecute you, and say all sorts of evil things against you falsely because of me!"

1 Kings 3-13 (Chapters) Solomon was promised the throne after David, he obtained this promise through his mother, for David said to her, "Your son Solomon will reign after me, and he will sit on my throne." Being bound by his word and swore by the LORD God of Israel, he followed through. King Solomon married the Pharaohs daughter and walked in love for God, in statues of his father David. Now, the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for that was the great high place, and he offered a thousand burnt offerings on that altar. At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream and said unto him, "ASK! What I shall give you?" And Solomon asked the LORD for understanding to discern judgement. The LORD was pleased that Solomon had asked of this and gave him according to his words, with that God gave him great riches, telling him if he walked as David walked He would lengthen Solomons days. Now there came a day, when the LORD's wisdom was shewn through Solomon, two harlots came upon him and both claimed to have the only living son between them. One had died and the other had lived. So the king said for them to retrieve a sword and to bring it to him, and they did. He said to divide the child so that each woman would have a part of the child. The first women yearned with compassion and said, "O my lord, give her the living child by no means kill him!? But the other said, "Let him be neither mind nor yours, but divide him." After hearing this, Solomon gave the child to the first women, saying that she was the mother. After this, all of Israel feared the king for they knew the LORD abide in him, administering justice. God gave Solomon wisdom exceedingly, and this was beyond the wisdom of any man East to Egypt. Solomon continued in the LORD and held feasts in His name, along with many buildings. During the assembly of Israel, Solomon spoke of many things, in wisdom and in love of the LORD. Concerning this and after Solomon had finished building the house of the LORD, God appeared to Solomon and told him that He had heared his prayer, and if he walked as David walked He would bless him, establish the throne of his kingdom over Israel forever, but if he or his sons turned their back on God, then He would cut off Israel from the land which He had given him, that He would cast off the house given unto Him out of His sight. The LORD also directed the children of Israel not to intermarry, but loving many foreign women along with his wife, Solomon did not take heed of this notion, little did he know that it was for Solomon along with others sake, that these women will turn them from the LORD and lead them to into adultery. Solomon did evil in the sight of the LORD and had 700 wives and 300 concubines, these women turned his heart from God. The LORD became angry with Solomon because his heart had turned and because of the God would tear the kingdom away from him, but for the sake of David, the LORD would do so to Solomons offspring, leaving only one tribe of which He will choose. After 1 Kings, we come across Ecclesiastes, where Solomon depicts the forsaking of God, and how no riches, nor love life is worth losing the LORD. He speaks of foolishness in his days and how much work he did was in vanity, he practically pleads with us to understand how his ways were corrupt and to learn from him, not to forsake the LORD, to remember our Creator! Telling us to KEEP God's commandments and to fear HIM for this is man's all. For God will bring every work into judgement including every secret thing, weather good or evil. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter, Fear the God and keep His commandments, For this is man's all. For God will bring every work into judgement, Including every secret thing, Weather good or evil. Wow, so much power in this. To me, Solomon is saying do not be like me, learn from my mistakes and do not forsake God, every thing you do, you say, will be brought before the LORD and be held against you, for every good or evil thing, you will be accountable for. My soul longs to do good in the sight of God, but like a fleshy being I fail, but what encouragement I have after reading and studying this. Took a long time to write out but praise the LORD, after doing such I have learned so much to carry on with me. Despite Solomon turning away from God, he truly is a figure to relate to and to learn from. In 1 Kings, we learn about the greatness of God and how He fulfills His purpose over the "obligations" of mankind. There was to be a King other than Solomon, but God had instore for Solomon to reign after David, and it surely happened! David had swore by the LORD that it would be so, and by this he was bound by it, fulfilling the plan of God which mind you is inevitable Just as in the book of Jonah, there is no running from the LORD, weather you like it or not, if God tells you to do it, you either A.) Faithful do it and are honored to be given a command by God or B.) Run in fear of pride and humiliation, and in the end do it anyways. To me, option A sounds much more appealing as you not only gain faithfulness and grace but you also obtain favor. I can not really follow in the PLAN AHEAD sequence, for King Solomon did navigate from God, but one thing I think should be made clear, and that is, not picking apart Solomon for a few reasons. First off he was apart of Gods will and plan, second he is a figure whom we can learn so much of, also, those same lust and attributes he obtained are all in us. Last but not least Solomon teaches us a great and beautiful song, which is known as as the Song of Solomon, in this song he teaches us to seek out our Beloved (Jesus Christ) like a lover, relentlessly and without loss. Like all of us, Solomon had his own issues, his own interpersonal lusts and desires that should have been put away but rather consumed him, he forsook the law and commandments given to him by the LORD and for that he was ashamed, which brought forth Ecclesiastes, in terms one can differ that their sins are not as bad or compelling as his, but sin is sin. The bible tells us that when we sin, we are held as slaves to that sin, and that is what happened to Solomon. His desires soon departed from the LORD and was overcome by his own lust, he was deceived by the beauty of women and lost track of the light, good became bad and bad became good. In Ecclesiastes, Solomon (and elsewhere) pleads with us to do the works of God continually, being in prayer to lift us up and to overcome our burdens through Christ, taking upon the whole armor of God and most importantly Jesus Christ as our LORD AND SAVIOR. So this leads me to my ending statement, and I want you to think about this, you don't have to share it but really think about it, what sins are you hiding and storing away? What secret things and burdens are troubling you? Once redeemed through Christ we are no longer burdened for we are made a new creation, no longer does the sin enslave us. I know I have my own struggles and Christ is helping me through them, truly He is. But along this path He has been driving into my head that I must give it ALL up to Him, every ounce of my heart mind and soul, every thing, I must say Jesus I am powerless to commit myself from this, only you can take away this burden and this shame, or "baggage" that I am carrying. And He ABSOLUTELY will, now I ask you one final thing, what haven't you given up, or committed FULLY to Christ? God bless you!

Genesis 6:13-14 "And God said to Noah, "Then end of all flesh has come before Me, for all the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold, I will destroy them with the earth. Make yourself an ark of gopherwood; make rooms in the ark, and cover it inside and outside with pitch." In the days on Noah the wickedness upon the earth was great in the earth, the intent was only evil, continually. But among them was a man, whom found grace in the eyes of the LORD, he was a just man, perfect in his genealogy, this man named Noah walked with God. After God got through describing the ark to Noah, God told Noah what animals that will be on the ark with him, after doing all that Noah was commanded by God, (Building the ark, bringing on the animals, the food,his family) There was a flood, and every beast and being were destroyed except that of on the ark. The waters prevailed for 150 days and God remembered Noah, and every living thin, and all the animals that were with him in the ark. So God made a wind pass over the earth and the waters subsided. At the end of the 150th day, the waters decreased, so it came to pass at the 600th and first year in the first month on the first day, the ground was dry. And in the second month of 20th day the earth was dry. God told Noah to bring out every creeping thing so that they may multiply upon the earth, so he and his sons went out and his wife and sons wives with them. After multiplying and building an alter to offer God a burnt offering, the LORD gave Noah a covenant, saying that never again will he kill off man with a flood as He had, with this he sets out a rainbow, and it shall be seen in the clouds, He will look out on it and remember His promise that He established between He and all flesh that is on the earth. Yet another powerful testimony that testifies to the goodness and grace of the merciful God that we serve. God could have just destroyed all the earth after seeing all the wickedness upon it, but instead He looked out upon it, and seeing one faithful man, He spared him. How wonderful! The promise God gave to Noah can still even be seen today! Wow, oh wow! God surely keeps ALL his promises! Lets take a look at how the PLAN AHEAD applied to Noah! P- Well, Noah's course of action was dependent on God seeing him through what was about to come upon him. His faith in what God told him (that he was going to destroy the things set upon the earth) brought him through it. L- His goal was abiding by what God told him,. to build the arc just as He told him, board upon board, he built just as God told him to. He knew the why, now it was time to put this into action. A- Noah's priorities did not change much come to think of it, he was just in the eyes of the LORD, even through building the arc he was serving the LORD, doing as he was commanded. N- Well, again his only notification was the LORD, this seems to be a constant as I look throughout the scriptures, their dependency rests solely on the LORD, and it only matters what He says. A- The bible is not all to clear on the thoughts, actions and such of Noah, but I am sure there was not much time to take it all in, because the LORD was ready to do away with the wickedness, so Noah had to get to crackin' so to speak. H- Now is when the crackin' comes into motion. Noah had a job to do, and that was to build the ark, JUST as God had commanded him, quite a task, but one by the grace of God was conquered. E- Again, the bible is not clear on his thoughts or actions, but by such a tremendous task to accomplish, I am sure he ran into his own problems at which obviously were resolved and overcome. A- His success was in the LORD, he was promised to be spared and he held onto this promise and fulfilled the task at hand. D- I am not sure about Noah but I can review his progress, and let me tell you something, it all gives praise and Glory to the merciful LORD we serve, Hallelujah! Yet another, "giant" slain and dismembered by the LORD of hosts, glory be to the KING!!! Each task presents itself as impossible,. but time and time again, God shows us his faithfulness to His people, and really, just how much he has for us! The same promise, love and covenant can still be seen today, the same thing, still shines! I really enjoyed looking at this as it has been raining as of lately, the next time I see a rainbow and times after this, I hope and pray I will be grateful. Just another thing we take for granted, and is something I need to take to God, because for so long have I been unappreciative of this, among other things, so hopefully this blesses you all as much as it has blessed me, thank you LORD for your time and your mercy, I love you Lord God bless you all !

Interesting perspective. A few more questions I’d like to discuss as a Moderator (Servant)… E. Are you saying there’s such a thing as a “light” Christian? Can one be slightly committed to Christ? Please clarify. F. Can one come to a rational saving grace of Jesus Christ? Or is it through faith alone? G. Does God not condemn people to hell who reject Jesus Christ? H. Are you saying we don’t need the Bible to understand who God is? I. Are you saying that one can save one’s self? God bless, GE E. Are you saying there’s such a thing as a “light” Christian? Can one be slightly committed to Christ? Please clarify... It means that some humans think that they have commited themselves to Jesus completly withouth realising that they haven't let go of such things as worldly desires acquired by inheritance of past loved ones they cannot forgive. And therefore the cycle goes on... unforgiveness, hatred...etc...It is a typical behavior amongst the human behavior' geen..no? Interesting perspective. Perhaps your speaking of the parable of the seeds? Interesting perspective again. The most important part to understand is we are sinners in need of a Savior would you agree? Thank you for answering so many of the questions my friend. Please if you would answer G, H, and I? God bless, GE G. Does God not condemn people to hell who reject Jesus Christ? It says that He does in the Bible. I believe "evil spirit filled" ppl who live by Satan's rules condemn themselves to hell. However I don't believe that a clean spirit who refuses to accept Jesus in their heart goes to hell. H. Are you saying we don’t need the Bible to understand who God is? Do we need to understand who God is to go to heaven? The answer to that is in Romans:2 14-16 And it clearly states that "some" who never had a chance to know God still do go to heaven. I. Are you saying that one can save one’s self? Again Romans 2 : 14-16 G. What do you take as "evil spirited" people? John 3:18 "He that believes in him is not condemned: but he that believes not is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." Revelation 21:8 "But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.” 1 John 5:10 " He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son." Revelation 21:27 "But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life" 2 Peter 3:9 "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance." John 14:6 "Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

Only advice I have Walla is that they are unsatisfied and need Jesus, their life is in a spiral and need to be reborn in the blood of Jesus Christ. How can one accept the Love or even love others if they cannot even love themselves? If the hatred is shined upon yourself than that is rather your light that is shewn rather than the light and love that is supposed to be displayed. The folks I was talking about are believers as far as I know. I was in a hurry and missed posting that part. Sorry. Well, then that makes things a whole lot more interesting! Could you by chance give a brief description as to what it is they hate? (obviously themselves, lol, but what about themselves? Or is it just in general. They hate themselves to the worlds standards, or what they are/become?)

Actually, God's eternity does not refer to Him lasting forever. According to basically all theologians, starting with Augustine, God is eternal in the sense that He resides outside of time. This is obvious, God created time and cannot have temporal extension, otherwise one of His characteristics would refer to something He created, which is logically absurd. So, if your inference is correct (penalty has the same temporal characteristics of the offended party), then Hell is outside of time, too. Fire is a chemical process that releases energy in the form of photons and heat (BTW, hell cannot be dark if there is fire). The burning skin excites nervous cells which transmit this information to the brain; the brain processes this information and releases the sensation of intense pain. This pain also causes the uncontrollable activation of facial muscles which causes the teeth pressing on each other. This causes the generation of progressive sound waves which are interpreted as the sound of "gnashing teeth", etc. etc. It is obvious that all these physical and cognitive processes, which allegedly happen in Hell, require a time context in order to make sense. But Hell cannot be both WITHIN time and OUTSIDE of time. Therefore, Hell is a logical impossibility. QED Ciao - viole Hell IS eternal(Mathew 25:46) so where is the time variant? Furthermore, Isaiah 28:18-19 And your covenant with death shall be disannulled, and your agreement with hellshall not stand; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, then ye shall be trodden down by it. As often as it goes out it will take you; For morning by morning it will pass over, And by day and by night. It will be a terror just to understand the report. You feel comfortable now because you have assured yourself, that just before your birth you remember nothing, so shall it be in death, but do not deceive yourself. For in death is punishment to the unrighteous, and all are unrighteous without repentance. The logical inevitability is beyond compare, and our minds cannot grasp the sense of this so we conjure up reasoning to try and deplete the inevitable, why run from when you can run to? Run to the LORD of Hosts and be blessed, accept Him and you accept eternal life, reject Him and love death, love evil and love punishment.

Only advice I have Walla is that they are unsatisfied and need Jesus, their life is in a spiral and need to be reborn in the blood of Jesus Christ. How can one accept the Love or even love others if they cannot even love themselves? If the hatred is shined upon yourself than that is rather your light that is shewn rather than the light and love that is supposed to be displayed.

Amen! So much power is such few verses, I love it! And talk about planning, we fall short and unfulfill our plans day to day, and why do you think that is? Could it be the self reliance? Moses prepared all of this in the direction and course given to him by the LORD of hosts, directing him to establish the names and bring in the congregations in a fashionable way. Had Moses tried to do this on his own, do you think he would get very far? God bless you GE!!

I love it how you are digging into the Word of God Jacob. You are an encouragement to me brother! Samson’s story is a good reminder that no matter how you start it’s how you finish that counts. We’re to run the race towards Christ and we’re to be faithful. Yet we cannot rely on our own strength to sustain us in life. We must rely on God. Ever thought of the fact that Samson could’ve asked God to restore his sight and asked God to live? Even though Samson had a Philistine wife God used this to bring about Samson’s disdain for the Philistines and deliver His people. God still accomplishes His purposes regardless of man’s intent. What do you think? Sometimes as Christians we are distracted. It can be another person as in a love interest. It can be a job. It can be a career. It can even be your family or friends. It can be video games, an addiction, or anything that we put before the Lord. God wants our whole being. Not just a part. Not just worshipping Him on Sundays and (if we’re really spiritual) Wednesdays or whatever day your church has small groups. God wants us to engage into a daily, hourly, minute by minute relationship with Him. What do you think? I agree there are some lessons to be learned from Samsons story. 1. God is faithful. Even when we are not. 2. One shouldn’t allow the things of this world to take priority over our relationship with God. 3. God always provides for a way back to Him – like the story of the prodigal son. We are never too old or too far away to where God can’t get a hold of us. I agree brother. In Christ, GE Funny that you mention that GE, the fact that Samson did not ask for his sight to be restored is quite mind boggling, but then again,if you think of it in a spiritual way, it makes so much sense. Samson not asking for his sight to be restored not only fulfilled the purpose that God has set out for Samson, but also that Samson had been betrayed, what else did he have to life for? Die alone or die in the peace and strength that was given by the Spirit of God, glorifying the Father and bringing peace among the Israelites in His name. Yes, Amen. Reading the bible and praying are Key to not only a relationship with God, but a great one! James 4:8 tells us to draw near to God and He will draw near to us, and how do we draw near to God? Seeking His face day in and day out, giving ourselves over to Him and reading the Book!! To seek out God like a lover, as in the Song of Solomon, the beauty and ferverent love that is found in the LORD is beyond comparison, bless the LORD for He is surely good in all things, the love that He has for us as a hole and individually brings a smile to my face, because how could it be that the creator of all the earth would care so much to want to know me, want to be apart of my life, to watch over and take care of me. What a Father we have! Once again, I say Amen! Psalm 34:31 "1I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. 2My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. 3O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together. 4I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. 5They looked to him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed. 6This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. 7The angel of the LORD encamps round about them that fear him, and delivers them. 8O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusts in him. 9O fear the LORD, you his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him. 10The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the LORD shall not want any good thing. 11Come, you children, listen to me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD. 12What man is he that desires life, and loves many days, that he may see good? 13Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking guile. 14Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. 15The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their cry. 16The face of the LORD is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. 17The righteous cry, and the LORD hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. 18The LORD is near to them that are of a broken heart; and saves such as be of a contrite spirit. 19Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivers him out of them all. 20He keeps all his bones: not one of them is broken. 21Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate. 22The LORD redeems the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate." God bless you GE, thanks again for this thread

The Story of Samson and Delilah is another one of my personal favorites. Judges 16:29-30 "And Samson took hold of the two middle pillars which supported the temple, and he braced himself against them, one on his right and the other on his left. Then Samson said, "Let me die with the Philistines!" And he pushed with all his might and the temple fell on the lords and all the people who were in it. So the dead that he killed at his death were more than he had killed in his life." The story begins with the fruit and children of Israel continually doing evil in the sight of the LORD, time and time again God tried to correct this behavior, delivering them unto the hand of the Philistines for 40 years. Samson's mother was childless and was barren. But the Angel of the Lord appeared and said to her, indeed you are barren but you will be delivered a child who will deliver Israel, he instructed her that no razor shall be upon his head nor shall she drink wine nor eat any unclean thing. Her husband Manoah went and prayed asking the Lord what will the boys rule of life be,and his work? So the Angel of the Lord appeared and delivered to him the same message as was sent to his wife. So the woman (Samson's mother) bore a son and named him Samson; and as he grew God continued to bless him. (Judges 13:1-25) In Judges 14:8, The spirit of the LORD comes upon Samson when he comes across a young lion that comes roaring. He tears it apart with nothing in his hands. This is the first encounter he has with his strength. In Judges 14 Samson find the woman he want to marry and they have a feast. To the thirty companions that accompanied him he posed a riddle, telling them if they answer correctly and explain it in the seven days of the feast then he would give them 30 linen garments and 30 changes of clothing. But if they got it wrong they would have to do to him likewise. He posed the riddle and for three days no one could explain it. But it came to pass on the 7th day Samson's wife fooled him and wept until he told her what it meant and the answer. From there she went and explained it to the sons of her city. (first lie taking fruit) After this, the sons of her city came up to Samson and said, "What is sweeter than honey and what is stronger than a lion." Samson had been forsaken by his wife, and rubuked them saying, "If you had not plowed my wife with my heifer You would not have solved my riddle!" From there, again the spirit of the Lord came upon him, he went down to Ashkelon and killed 30 of their men. He returned and gave them apparel to those whom had answered his riddle (second showing of his great strength) In Judges 15 Samson had lost his wife to his companion, this aroused anger in Samson and he took 300 foxes, tied the tails together and lit them on fire, sending the torches into the stocks of the Philistines, burning up all their grain as well what was in the vineyards. This angered the Philistines. Then an army of 3,000 from Judah came upon Samson to arrest him, asking him what have you done, we now will deliver you into the hands of the Philistines. They swore that they would not kill Samson themselves, but they securely tied him with two new ropes and brought him up from the rock. When they came to Lehi, the Philistines were shouting against him. Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon him and the ropes became like flax that is burned with fire and his bonds broke loos from his hands. He found a fresh jawbone of a donkey, taking it up her killed a thousand men with it. (Two more events showing his great strength delivered to him from the Spirit) In Judges 16 Samson goes to Gaza and is surrounded by Gazites, he laid low until midnight then arose, taking ahold of the the doors at the gate of the city and the doorposts, taking the whole thing, bar and all, up the hill he laid it to rest facing Hebron. (Another showing of his might) Soon after this he met a women whom he loved, named Delilah. The Philistines enticed her. So she continually asked Samson where his great strength came from. Time and time again, Samson told her lies trying to keep it a secret. Day after day she questioned him, he soon had enough and told her the secret. That not a razor has come upon his head. She called up the Philistines and they came down, having Samson fast asleep they then commenced to shave his head. After been shaven the spirit left Samson and he became as strong as any other man. The Philistines then took him up and put out his eyes and brought him down to Gaza.They bound him with bronze fetters and he became a grinder in the prison. However, the hair of his head begon to grow again after it had been shaven. Now the lords of the Philistines gathered to offer a great sacrifice to Dagon their God and to rejoice. They called out Samson to perform for them, and settled him between two pillars upon request. Now,the temple was full of people during the ceremony and Samson cried out to the LORD saying, "O LORD God, remember me, I pray! Strengthen me. I pray just this once o God, that I may with one blow take vengeance on the Philistines for my two eyes!" And Samson took ahold of the two pillars which supported the temple and he braced himself against them, one on his right and one on his left. And Samson said, "Let me die with the Philistines!" And he pushed with all his might and the temple fell on the lords and all the people who were in it. So the dead were more than than he had killed in his whole life. WOW, quite a story! And what a story that goes to prove the faithfulness of God, Amen and Amen. Samson is credited to be one of the strongest men in the bible and rightfully so. 1,000 men he slew with a jawbone!! Talk about deliverance. Even though Samson forsook the LORD by telling his secret to the women, God was still faithful to Samson and gave him the strength that he asked for, to have vengeance on the people who mocked and took his vision! Now Lets see How PLAN AHEAD fits into this! P- Well, Samson's purpose was already set out for him to deliver the Israelites from the Philistines. So the course of action that was to take place was evident, but the faithfulness that God had for Samson is outstanding, until his dying breath did God remain faithful. Samson's punishment was giving into his harlot of a wife was being delivered unto the Philistines and being imprisoned. He suffered accordingly for forsaking the LORD and the way. Proverbs 15:10 "Harsh discipline is for him who forsakes the way. And he who hates correction will die." L- Sadly, all Samson wanted was a lover, someone to love. . . time and time again was he forsaken by his supposed "help mates" only to find out the love of money was greater then he was. Although HIS own goals fell through the Lord still kept his hopes, love and ambition alive, fulfilling the purpose Samson was set out to do, I can honestly say that Samson did live a fulfilling life in the walk with the LORD. A- After Samson's priorities were straight it went from women, to fulfilling his purpose, the vengeance he had upon the Philistines is what brought the LORD back into his life and initially finalized his purpose here on earth. N- The only person left was the LORD, his final request was strength and by God, it was given! His notification was to last person in his life whom was left, the last person whom was faithful from the beginning all the way to the end. A-It took time for Samson's hair to regrown, and his faith to resettle and the goodness of the LORD to be rested back upon him after turning away from God. And in just the nick of time as well, right when the ceremony was going on, was he able to repay the Philistines for their wickedness and harlotry to the LORD. H- Samson requested to be rested upon the pillars of the temple, this course of action was also rested in faith, that God would deliver him the strength to bring the walls upon the Philistines. E- Of course there was a cry from Samson to God, about giving him vengeance because he began to stop living for God and take upon things his own way, giving up his secret to please his wife. But the spirit of God would time and time again move upon Him, giving them unto Samsons hands. A- Samson knew that not once had God failed him, in his dying plead and call out to God, he took the pillars and without doubt, he brought them upon himslef and the Philistines. First he took upon the pillars, then he said let me die with the Philistines, this action goes to show that the LORD we serve is yet again so very faithful. D- Well, since that was his dying breathe, he did not have much to reflect upon. But while being captive I am sure he reflected upon this day and night. The course of his life and that the Lord would avenge him, that the Lord had not forgotten him, that the Lord would remain faithful even though he in terms failed. Little did he know that the Lord had his return to him be the last breath he took. Not in desperation but in faith, he did eventually yield to God's great purpose for his life and finished his life praying for God's help to accomplish it. The Lesson from the Past looks like one we can learn today does it not? Despite the failures and trials he underwent there was still a great purpose of course! For one, God's faithfulness. Second, there are some things that are to be kept between the relationship of you and God. Furthermore, no matter how lost or "blind" like Samson, there is always a way back though. The forgiveness that is found in the heart of God is so glorious! Blessed be His name!!!!!!

[quote Great GE! The OP and this one here ! I'm not sure if we discussed David and Goliath in another thread, but I think the story is worth being made mention of again! 1 Samuel 17:45 "45Then said David to the Philistine, You come to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied." Goliath was a whole 6 cubits and a span (or 9'3,1 Samuel 17:4) the weight of his coat of mail was 5,000 shekels of bronze (or 156, 1 Samuel 17:5) the iron spearhead (not the spear itself) weighed 600 shekels (or 18 pounds, 1 Samuel 17:7) We can conclude that this was one fierce man! Now David on the other-hand, was just a youth (1 Samuel 17:33) the youngest of his brothers. Then Saul tested Davids faith and proclaimed this, also saying that Goliath was a man of war from his youth, this seed of doubt was far from being planted into Davids mind. Despite His young age and lack of war experience he was certain the LORD would deliver Goliath to his hand. (1 Samuel 17:37) After seeing David's desire to fight this man and his faithfulness to God, Saul permitted David to carry on and said the LORD be with you! David could not wear the armor, so instead he took up his staff and choose five smooth stones from the brook and put them in his Shepard's bag (1 Samuel 17:40)with this he had his sling. When Goliath approached David he disdained him; for he was only a youth, ruddy and good looking (1 Samuel 17:42) He mocked David and asked him, "Am I a dog, that you come to me with a sticks? And he cursed David by his gods." (1 Samuel 17:43) David then rebuked Goliath, proclaiming this, "You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel who you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. Then all this assembly shall know that the LORD does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD's and He will give you into our hands" (1 Samuel 17:45-47) David drew from his sack a stone, and he slung it and struck the Philistine and killed him. He ran over to Goliath and cut off his head. Once the Philistines saw their champion had been defeated they fled. (1 Samuel 17:50-51) Now there are alot of things to consider in this, lets follow the PLAN AHEAD P-David had heard what was going on and wanted to fight the Philistine (1 Samuel 17:33) L-David's goal was to deliver Israel and proclaim the Name of the LORD, letting it be known to all that there is a God of Israel! (1 Samuel 17:45-47) A-When a lion or bear came amongst the flock that David was tending to, and took a lamb, he would go out against the beast and deliver the lamb from its mouth and when it arose against him he would grab it by its beard and slay it. Just as the Philistine went out against the flock of the LORD, the God of Israel will go out and slay the ravenous beast, the Philistine Goliath will be just like one of them. David said with confidence, "The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver m from the hand of this Philistine." (1 Samuel 17:34-37) N-After hearing this Saul considered his servant David and allowed him to fight against the Philistine's Champion A- It was not long before Saul accepted David to be the fighter, but likewise, David would not take no for an answer. H-David took up the 5 smooth stones, his sling, and his staff and approached the Philistine. Not in fear, but in the name of the Lord! (1 Samuel 17:45 & 48) E- Instead of just taking up one stone, David took with him 5 stones in his Sheppard's bag. The reasoning is not very clear, but being that Goliath was one monstrous man, it seems evident as to why. (1 Samuel 17:40) A-David not only was confident, but he knew that the LORD would be faithful and deliver him. David stepped out in faith and knew that God would not only see him through it but he would come out of it unharmed. He glorified God's name and reaped the reward for his faithfulness to God. Childlike faith D-The same God that looked after David that day, kept with Him continually, providing for him and proving His love and protection as a faithful Father does time and time again. Not only could David reflect on this but each time a bigger task presented itself, David would say just what that picture is showing above. God is bigger than this, He will prove His faithfulness and set out His will for me, guiding and protecting me. Again, child like faith God is Good

Actually, there are many things in the Word that are yet to take place. Like the return of Christ, the rise of the anti-christ, the 4 horsemen. . . .just to name a few!

Thankfulness and blessings in your life are wonderful to hear !!!! Don't worry about being a huge poster, GE I am sure is looking for the Holy Spirit to come upon the readers and give fruit to their spirit and to grow, and praise the Lord that it has done as such to you! God bless you!

Great GE! The OP and this one here ! I'm not sure if we discussed David and Goliath in another thread, but I think the story is worth being made mention of again! 1 Samuel 17:45 "45Then said David to the Philistine, You come to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied." Goliath was a whole 6 cubits and a span (or 9'3,1 Samuel 17:4) the weight of his coat of mail was 5,000 shekels of bronze (or 156, 1 Samuel 17:5) the iron spearhead (not the spear itself) weighed 600 shekels (or 18 pounds, 1 Samuel 17:7) We can conclude that this was one fierce man! Now David on the other-hand, was just a youth (1 Samuel 17:33) the youngest of his brothers. Then Saul tested Davids faith and proclaimed this, also saying that Goliath was a man of war from his youth, this seed of doubt was far from being planted into Davids mind. Despite His young age and lack of war experience he was certain the LORD would deliver Goliath to his hand. (1 Samuel 17:37) After seeing David's desire to fight this man and his faithfulness to God, Saul permitted David to carry on and said the LORD be with you! David could not wear the armor, so instead he took up his staff and choose five smooth stones from the brook and put them in his Shepard's bag (1 Samuel 17:40)with this he had his sling. When Goliath approached David he disdained him; for he was only a youth, ruddy and good looking (1 Samuel 17:42) He mocked David and asked him, "Am I a dog, that you come to me with a sticks? And he cursed David by his gods." (1 Samuel 17:43) David then rebuked Goliath, proclaiming this, "You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel who you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. Then all this assembly shall know that the LORD does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD's and He will give you into our hands" (1 Samuel 17:45-47) David drew from his sack a stone, and he slung it and struck the Philistine and killed him. He ran over to Goliath and cut off his head. Once the Philistines saw their champion had been defeated they fled. (1 Samuel 17:50-51) Now there are alot of things to consider in this, lets follow the PLAN AHEAD P-David had heard what was going on and wanted to fight the Philistine (1 Samuel 17:33) L-David's goal was to deliver Israel and proclaim the Name of the LORD, letting it be known to all that there is a God of Israel! (1 Samuel 17:45-47) A-When a lion or bear came amongst the flock that David was tending to, and took a lamb, he would go out against the beast and deliver the lamb from its mouth and when it arose against him he would grab it by its beard and slay it. Just as the Philistine went out against the flock of the LORD, the God of Israel will go out and slay the ravenous beast, the Philistine Goliath will be just like one of them. David said with confidence, "The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver m from the hand of this Philistine." (1 Samuel 17:34-37) N-After hearing this Saul considered his servant David and allowed him to fight against the Philistine's Champion A- It was not long before Saul accepted David to be the fighter, but likewise, David would not take no for an answer. H-David took up the 5 smooth stones, his sling, and his staff and approached the Philistine. Not in fear, but in the name of the Lord! (1 Samuel 17:45 & 48) E- Instead of just taking up one stone, David took with him 5 stones in his Sheppard's bag. The reasoning is not very clear, but being that Goliath was one monstrous man, it seems evident as to why. (1 Samuel 17:40) A-David not only was confident, but he knew that the LORD would be faithful and deliver him. David stepped out in faith and knew that God would not only see him through it but he would come out of it unharmed. He glorified God's name and reaped the reward for his faithfulness to God. Childlike faith D-The same God that looked after David that day, kept with Him continually, providing for him and proving His love and protection as a faithful Father does time and time again. Not only could David reflect on this but each time a bigger task presented itself, David would say just what that picture is showing above. God is bigger than this, He will prove His faithfulness and set out His will for me, guiding and protecting me. Again, child like faith God is Good

Oh man, a bunch came to mind then saw that just ONE can be posted, grrrrrr. LOL, this is so very hard! Hmmmmmmm: Isaiah 1:18 "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow: though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."

Ummm yeah, he is right in the middle of the page>? LOL

I think you'd like this book; http://www.amazon.com/dp/1594484023/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_til?tag=chiselseasonc-20&camp=0&creative=0&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=1594484023&adid=18V3BRKD0P7ANSYZ7JZ6 The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller. As for how to preach Christ, the first thing people need to see is unconditional love, that the people who are supposed to represent Christ will hug them, laugh with them, and not judge them no matter who they are or what lifestyle they have. If they see fear, hate, or disdain then no matter what words you speak or what scripture verses you quote it's not coming from Christ. Pride says look at us! Listen to us! Live like us! We're so much better than you who drink, are promiscuous or have sex with the same gender. We're going to heaven, you're going to hell and deserve it! Humility says I've been hurt and healed, you're hurting now. I will be a friend to you if you will let me. I will help you if you are willing. Scripture talks against sinners being thrown into the lake of fire. Do you ignore what you don't like? It's not what we can do for God but what He has done for us. He entered "our world," He took on "our humanity," He bore "our sins," He died "our death, "He was resurrected for "our life," He's coming again for "our glorification." Jesus is not coming back to our glorification, He is coming back as a judge, not as a savior. Furthermore Christ is coming in the glory of the Father, not man (Mathew 16:27) Paul in his letter to the Romans is urging us on the basis of all that he taught on, on the basis of all that has been done, he urges us to become living sacrifices: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:1, 2 KJV) Not so sure how this entertains what your saying? Can you please elaborate a bit further so that I may understand what your getting at? Please and Thank you. If we have not understood all that the mercies of God has done, if we have not understood doctrinally and theologically deep enough, all that Messiah has accomplished for us, then we have become useless to him. God is calling us to live our lives as living sacrifices unto him. Hmmm. . . .Jesus died for all whom are accepting of Him, the term "theology" is derived from mankind. Whomever bears the spirit understands. Traditions, theology and doctrines are useless, the Holy bible and the leading of the Spirit is all we need to truly understand. It is not by what we understand, or what we know, but it is because of whom God is. There are millions of people who do not understand what Christ did for them, does that make Jesus useless? Something to think about, God bore our sins because that is the kind of loving God we serve, not because we deserved it, but because of whom He is. Merciful, giving and all loving King. Our problem is, we are so prideful that we are not willing to give up anything for others. When a sacrifice was laid upon the alter there was a great deal of suffering involved, the animal experienced pain and suffering. What are we willing to give up? What are we willing to place upon the alter? So that we can become a blessing to others, and become servants of the Most High God? Our problem is not fully giving into the Lord, ALL come short of the Glory and ALL need repentance. We need to focus on ourselves and not our brothers and sisters next to us, by that I mean judging. If we truly love and care, if we truly bear the spirit of our God then these things should be apart of us. Christ paid the sacrifice so that we don't have to. Giving up our lives is not a "sacrifice" rather a blessing to serve our glorious King, returning to Him the things at which are His instead of squandering these things on our selves. I can kind of see what your saying. but keep in mind, before repentance we are all this "bad," wrapped down into shackles of the devils schemes. Not one of us can proclaim to be "good" without Christ, it is the goodness of Him that we can be accepted by the Father. Read what's in plurple

I guess Jesus was wrong when He said "Go, and sin no more". God is in the business of turning bad people into His people, who are good people. He does this by removing the pride and replacing it with humility. YOu can't cherry pick what you like to follow and ignore, or demean, what you don't. Amen, I agree with this 100% Some of the strongest people in Faith that i know came from a place of nowhere. Lost in destruction but found in the Glory of our God. Their life ended, they are literally made a new creation, from that day on they gave their life to the LORD and honor Him with their lives because had it not been for Him they would literally be dead, physically and spiritually.