HIS Purpose

Immutable is a big word we seldom use that means unchanging. Sometimes the word immutable is used by preachers to speak of GOD.   In connection with GOD, immutable does NOT mean that GOD is rigid for HE is far from that. GOD’s unchangeableness speaks of HIS faithfulness to HIS own nature/character and purposes.  For instance, the LORD cannot get better for HE is already the best.  HE cannot lie for HE is the truth.  HE cannot learn anything for HE knows all things.

When the bible speaks about GOD never changing it tells us that we can rely on HIM to do what HE says HE will do. HIS promises speak of HIS eternal purposes.  All of GOD’s ways spring from HIS character and purposes. 

One of GOD’s ways is to hate sin and to punish it, while HE loves it when people do right, and HE will reward that.

“With the pure, YOU (GOD) show YOURSELF pure. With the sinful YOU show YOURSELF to be against them” (Psalm 18:26 NLV).

Christians face discipline when they do wrong (1 Corinthians 11:31-32, Hebrews 12:4-7, 10-11) just as the Jews have and do to this day.

Malachi 3:6 “For I am the LORD, I do not change.  Therefore, you are not consumed O sons of Jacob.”

The context is the Jews have sinned, but since GOD made a promise HE does not wipe them out. For HE always keeps HIS word.  Instead, the LORD in HIS longsuffering disciplines them until they change their attitude and actions, just like HE does with a Christian. 

A few Jews are accepting JESUS now and are saved. But for the most part the Jews are blinded and will not come to believe in JESUS until the end of the 7-year Tribulation (Zechariah 13:8-9, 12:10, Daniel 9:24, and Hebrews 8:7-12).  Daniel 9:25-26 shows that the Messiah (JESUS CHRIST) must be cut off/ die and other things happen before the Jews come to believe in HIM.  The text in Hebrews 8:7-12 was written in future tense (something yet to occur) several years AFTER JESUS died, was resurrected and went to heaven. Both are yet future and Romans 11:25-27 states clearly that the Jews have been blinded but every one of those Jews (the 1/3 which are purified Zechariah 13:8-9) who are still alive at the end of the Tribulation will come to believe when they see JESUS at HIS return at the end of the 7-year tribulation.

But you may wonder at the few times the Bible says, GOD repented/ was sorry that HE did something (Genesis 6:5-6).  What is that talking about?  It means that for GOD to be faithful to HIS nature and purposes/ for HIM to act in character which is to punish sin and reward doing right, certain things had to be done. (see Ezekiel 33:17-20).

When GOD made mankind in HIS image HE gave us the ability to choose.  GOD does not change that and even though HE does not like many of our choices, HE does not make us robots that must obey HIM. 

GOD does not take back our ability to choose.  Yet the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY is Sovereign for HE always sets the stage (determines the times and places with specific intent -Acts 17:26-27) and has complete foreknowledge of what we will do ( Acts 2:23, 1 Peter 1:2).  We in turn determine how to act in those times and places.

Now it is written that GOD is love (1 John 4:7) and that GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS only SON (JESUS) that whoever would believe in JESUS would have eternal life (John 3:16).  Then John 3:36 says, He who believes in the SON has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the SON shall not see life, but the wrath of GOD (continues) to abide on him.

You see GOD is love (1 John 4:7) and in HIS love HE sent HIS SON JESUS to offer forgiveness and life (John 3:16).  But GOD’s love is in HIS SON (JESUS) (Romans 8:39).  If you receive the SON you receive GOD’s love and the forgiveness JESUS earned for us on the cross.  But if you reject the SON you reject GOD’s love, and your sins remain on you and must be punished for the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23).

Sinclair Lewis said that GOD’s throwing those who reject JESUS into the lake of fire was GOD’s last act of respect/ for HE ratifies their rejection of HIM. 

In other words, GOD honors the unbelievers right to choose.  GOD acts at that time according to HIS nature to rejects those who already have rejected HIM. 

As it is written: “For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you” (Matthew 7:2).

Eternal life means being with GOD (John 17:3) and they want no part of GOD. Therefore, GOD turns them over and gives them what they have chosen (Revelation 20:10, 15).

Hugs

Sharon

The old and the new

Do you remember the song that began: “As a deer panteth for the water so my soul longeth after THEE?”

As I opened up to Psalms 42 that was the 1^st thing I saw and of course stopped and sang the song.  

Then I went on to read verse 2, “My soul thirsts for GOD for the living GOD: when shall I come and appear before GOD?”  The old testament believers couldn’t appear before HIM or hear directly from GOD but got it all 2^nd hand from Moses and later the prophets.  That reminded me of yesterday’s lesson in Hebrews and I just wanted to share the joy and excitement of it with you. 

In the giving of the law to the Jews after they left Egypt they got to Mt Sinai. GOD told Moses to tell the people not to touch the mountain for if they did they would die.  GOD was going to appear in the sight of the people on the mountain as fire, smoke and a cloud and speak to the people.  The LORD spoke the 10 commandments to the people and in words sounding like a trumpet blast.  The people begged that GOD speak no more to them for they couldn’t bear (carry or do) what was being commanded.  The sight was so terrible that even Moses said, I am trembling with fear (see Hebrews 12:18-21, Exodus 19:10-12).

1-They couldn’t touch the mountain or go close because they were sinful (Habakkuk 1:13) and GOD is HOLY.  Although 2-GOD appeared right on earth in the sight of the people 3-on the mountain they could actually touch and 4-GOD spoke audibly to them, 5-the people begged that GOD speak no more to them personally 6-they could not bear what was being commanded 7-GOD then wrote the law (10 commandments) on tablets of stone.

Then in Hebrews 12:22-23 speaks of us, those who have believed/ trusted in JESUS to save them :1-we can go directly to GOD (Hebrews 4:16) but cannot touch the location for HE is in Heaven and we are on earth (Hebrews 1:3).  Since JESUS paid for our sins we have been cleansed (Colossians 2:13-14, Hebrews 10:10, 14) and through faith in JESUS, GOD the GOD FATHER has given us HIS righteous standing (Romans 3:22).  When we come to GOD and read HIS word we hear HIM speak (in our hearts) to us personally and it brings us not just understanding and direction but peace and joy for there is joy in the Presence of the LORD (Psalm 16:11).

Let’s compare the Old covenant with the New covenant established on the cross through the blood of JESUS (1 Corinthians 11:25). 

1-Old covenant-they actually saw an appearance and could have physically touched the place where GOD was.

1-New Covenant-We live by faith not sight and cannot physically touch the place of GOD for HE is in heaven, and we are on earth.

2-Old Covenant-they could not approach GOD because of their sin

2-New Covenant-We have been cleansed by the blood of CHRIST and come personally and directly to GOD through JESUS (Hebrews 7:25)

3-Old Covenant-They were filled with fear and trembling and did not want to hear GOD directly

3-New Covenant-we are to come into HIS presence confidently because HE tells us to (Hebrews 4:16)

4-Old Covenant-GOD spoke to the people through Prophets (Hebrews 1:1).

4-New Covenant-although GOD uses HIS written word, the HOLY SPIRIT given to us when we believe explains GOD’s word to us and directs us individually according to the will of GOD for us by placing within us the desire and ability to do HIS will (John 14:26,16:13, 1 Corinthians 2:10-13, Philippians 2:13).

5-Old Covenant-GOD wrote with HIS finger the 10 commandments on stone

5-New Covenant-The HOLY SPIRIT writes in our hearts and minds the law (desires) of GOD (HE often uses our reading the Word of GOD to do that as HE places the desire to be like our FATHER in heaven in us.

Let me note that our unchanging GOD’s standard of right and wrong is still the same.  The difference is that when we belong to JESUS, the HOLY SPIRIT stirs up the desire in our hearts to do right (Philippians 2:13, Hebrews 10:16 and if boldly run to the throne for help we are given everything we need to do right. 

In the Old Covenant the people followed rules set in stone in fear of the wrath of GOD.

In the New Covenant because we have JESUS and have been born into  GOD’s family (John 1:12-13) the HOLY SPIRIT places GOD’s desires within us and we act in order to please our loving FATHER not to get or keep ourselves saved from the wrath of GOD.

2 Corinthians 3:3 “Forasmuch as you are manifestly declared to be the epistle of CHRIST ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the SPIRIT of the living GOD; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.

What a privilege we have, our hearts do not have to pant after GOD we can go directly to HIM at any time, and HE will meet directly with us!   Praise the LORD!!!

Hugs

Sharon

Are you listening?

Do you, do I, listen to hear GOD speak and direct us?

JESUS said “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of GOD” (Matthew 4:4). 

It is recorded that GOD said, “I change not” (Malachi 3:6). Therefore, if the LORD ever did speak to people (and we know HE did), then HE still does.

HE can speak to us in any fashion that He desires: from a whisper in our innermost being where we know what we need to know, do, or say.  The LORD speaks often through a verse that stands out as we read the Bible, or a piece of a verse coming to mind that shows us what we need to do or know. Perhaps GOD will move on another (a preacher or a friend) to speak an audible word that resounds within you.

Remember, GOD even had a donkey speak once (Numbers 22:28).

So, the question isn’t, “Does GOD speak to us or not?” The question should be, “Are we listening and obeying when GOD speaks?”

And my friends, today in our world full of deception and increasing chaos this is the time we really need to study GOD’s word and listen for GOD’s voice as never before.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In ALL your ways acknowledge HIM and HE will direct your path.  Be not wise in your own eyes, fear the LORD and depart from evil” (Proverbs 3:5-7)

But beware, GOD is not the only one who speaks to us.  Therefore, if the message seems strange, ask GOD about it (Proverbs 3:5-7) for if you are willing to do what GOD says you will know if something is from GOD or not (John 7:17).

Now if a word contradicts scripture, toss it out altogether (Isaiah 8:20).

But don’t write off that inner awareness, check it out with GOD for HE may very well be directing your steps not just to lead you in the way you should choose but also to protect you from harm.

hugs,

Sharon

GOD keeps HIS promises

Jude1:²⁵ To the ONLY wise GOD our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.

GOD tells us in Isaiah 55:⁸ For MY thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways MY ways, says the Lord. ⁹ For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are MY ways higher than your ways, and MY thoughts than your thoughts.

Deuteronomy 29:²⁹ The secret things belong unto the Lord our GOD: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law (all the HE has assigned for us to do).

The Sovereign LORD GOD ALMIGHTY Maker of heaven and earth is over all. HE has given us HIS word and sent HIS SON JESUS in order that we could know what HE is like and could have a relationship with HIM through JESUS (Hebrews 7:25).

Colossians 2:⁹ For in HIM (JESUS CHRIST) dwells all the fulness of the GODHEAD bodily.

GOD’s Word, the Bible, relates many things true about GOD. HE is eternal, unlimited, powerful, all wise and has all knowledge -in that is HE knows all things past, present and future-even our thoughts before they are formed so HE knows who will eventually believe and who will not (Psalm 139:2). The LORD is loving, compassionate, gentle and longsuffering, HE is good and never makes a mistake, but HE also is fair and punishes wrong. There is so much more about our GOD that we learn as we seek HIM and study HIS love letter to us, the Bible listening to that still small voice of the HOLY SPIRIT (our teacher within us John 7:38-39, 14:26 who interprets the Bible to us 1 Corinthians 2:10-12).

But there are also things that are secret that we cannot know.

There is one fundamental aspect of our amazing triune GOD that I want to zoom in on for it must be fully grasped for us to know and trust HIM. GOD cannot lie or promise something HE cannot or will not perform.

Isaiah 45:¹⁸ For this is what the Lord says— HE who created the heavens, HE is GOD; HE who fashioned and made the earth, HE founded it; HE did not create it to be empty but formed it to be inhabited. HE says: “I am the Lord, and there is no other. ¹⁹ I have not spoken in secret, from somewhere in a land of darkness; I have not said to Jacob’s descendants, ‘Seek ME in vain.’ I, the Lord, speak the TRUTH; I declare what is right.

Titus 1:² In hope of eternal life, which GOD, that cannot lie, promised before the world began.

John 14:⁶ Jesus answered, “I am the way, the TRUTH, and the life. No one comes to the FATHER except through ME.

Can you trust someone who does not keep his promises?

Romans 3:⁴ GOD forbid: yes, let GOD be TRUE, but every man a liar.

In other words, every man has told at least one lie and with that potential man cannot be totally trusted. But GOD who always speaks the TRUTH can be trusted to do what HE says HE will do.

Numbers 23:¹⁹ GOD is not a man, that HE should lie; neither the son of man, that HE should repent: has HE said, and shall HE not do it? or has HE spoken, and shall HE not make it good?

Let us just look at something GOD has declared and, therefore, know is TRUE.

Jeremiah 31:³ The Lord appeared to us (the descendants of Jacob who today are known as the Jews) in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness. ⁴ I will build you up again,

Jeremiah 31:¹⁰ Hear the word of the Lord, you nations; proclaim it in distant coastlands: ‘HE who scattered Israel will gather them and will watch over HIS flock like a shepherd. ¹¹ For the Lord will deliver Jacob and redeem them from the hand of those stronger than they. ¹² They will come and shout for joy on the heights of Zion; they will rejoice in the bounty of the Lord—

Jeremiah 31:³¹ “The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will (future) make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. ³² It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the Lord. ³³ “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God,

Who is GOD talking to? To the offspring of those HE sent Moses to take out of Egypt and put them in the Promise land. In other words, the LORD is speaking to the Jews of today.

Jeremiah 31:³⁵ This is what the Lord says,

HE who appoints the sun to shine by day, who decrees the moon and stars to shine by night, who stirs up the sea so that its waves roar- the Lord Almighty is his name: ³⁶ “Only if these decrees vanish from my sight,” declares the Lord, “will Israel ever cease being a nation before me.”

So as long as there is a sun, moon and stars the Jews are GOD’s people. Only after the Tribulation and 1,000 years reign on this earth, only after this earth is dissolved (Revelation 20:7-11, 2 Peter 3:12-13) do the sun, moon and stars disappear. So, until that time, the promises to the physical descendants of Isaac and Jacob remain in force.

Jeremiah 31:³⁷ This is what the Lord says: “Only if the heavens above can be measured and the foundations of the earth below be searched out will I reject all the descendants of Israel because of all they have done,” declares the Lord.

GOD is saying that since the heavens above cannot be measured, and the foundations of the earth below cannot be searched therefore GOD will not reject ALL the descendants of Israel because of all they have done. There will be the remnant saved.

Isaiah 10:²⁰ And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again stay upon him that smote them (the Antichrist); but shall stay upon the Lord, the Holy One of Israel, in truth. ²¹ The remnant shall return, even the remnant of Jacob, unto the mighty GOD.

Romans 11^:26 And so ALL (remaining) Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: ²⁷ Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: “Though the number of the Israelites be like the sand by the sea, only the remnant will be saved.

Romans 11:²⁹ For the gifts and calling of GOD are without repentance (irrevocable).

GOD will not break HIS covenant promises.

The LORD must keep HIS promise to the Jews since HE cannot lie. Yet, GOD is fair. During the 7-year Tribulation/ Daniel’s 70^th week also called Jacob’s Trouble, 2/3^rd of the Jews will die (they are the secular Jews who do not believe in GOD) and the remaining 1/3 Jews who believe in GOD but not JESUS will be refined during that time and when they see JESUS coming down out of heaven (Revelation 19:11-16, Zechariah 12:9-10) ALL the remnant (those 1/3)will believe on JESUS and be saved (Zechariah 13:7-9. Isaiah 10:20-21).

What it boils down to is: if GOD can break HIS eternal promise to the descendants of Jacob, then we have no guarantee HE will keep HIS promise to us who believe in JESUS.

Aren’t you glad GOD does do what HE says HE will do? I sure am!

Hugs

Sharon

Changes, changes, changes

The great and mighty GOD, who made all things is sovereign over all (2 Samuel 7:22). HE knows the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10) and everything in between and has shared enough with HIS children (John 1:12-13)/ us who believe in JESUS and HIS word that we can do all HE asks of us (Deuteronomy 29:29).  That is how JESUS could say, “Peace I leave with you…Do not let your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).

In our troubling times we need to remember those verses so, I have those verses memorized.

Since I was teen in the late 50’s, the meanings of words have changed some, the values of the world and what is shown on TV and in movies have shifted in an unbelievable way, what is taught in public schools have changed as history and science is being rewritten to fit an agenda.  Things that are right and good are being called evil and wrong, while things bad and wrong are being called right and good just as JESUS said would happen. 

But the worst part to me are these lies, this false propaganda pushed and fed to youngsters are being believed by them and have blinded them to the truth.  Many Christian churches have followed suit and are buying into the lies as well as they turn away from the truths in GOD’s Word.

To hear some relate their views of life and values and see how closed they are to any thought other than their own shows that they are totally blind to truth and to the consequences of their beliefs. Their perspective comes from what they have been cleverly taught, programmed by teachers and the media, not so concerned with truth as with getting others to think as they do. It’s actually scary how indoctrinated the kids and even adults are with the world’s standards of self. The lust of the flesh (desires from food to sex. Whatever feels good), the lust of the eyes (wanting everything they see that they like) and the pride of life with everything about ‘me’ (How I think, how I feel, what I want, doing it my way). All are things of this world which lay under Satan’s influence (Ephesians 2:2-3,1 John 2:15-17, 5:19).

As I walked around the park talking to the LORD about these troubling things and how they are affecting some of my precious grand and great-grandchildren, a verse flooded my thoughts.

Malachi 3:6 “For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore, you sons of Jacob are not consumed.”

This verse speaks of the LORD’s faithfulness to HIS word.  HE made promises to the Jew’s ancestors that can be read beginning in Genesis. The LORD GOD ALMIGHTY will keep everyone of HIS promises, fulfilling each detail, for HE does what HE says. HE fulfills HIS word whether to bless or discipline (Numbers 23:19).  Even when they act against HIM, HE cannot deny HIMSELF (2 Timothy 2:13).

GOD’s nature is WHO GOD is. GOD cannot deny HIS nature.  The LORD is truthful (HE  cannot lie Titus 1:2), HE is love (John 3:16), HE is power (Luke 1:37), HE is wisdom (Psalm 51:6), HE is understanding (Hebrews 4:14-15), HE is knowledge (John 16:30) HE is mercy (Lamentations 3:22-23), HE is eternity (Psalm 90:2), HE is righteousness (HE does what is right Genesis 18:25, Romans 3:21-22), HE is goodness (Mark 10:18) and HE has wrath (John 3:36) to mention just a few of the things true about GOD.

Since GOD cannot change, neither can HIS nature nor HIS standards change.  What HE has said in the past is true today.  If HE has said something is wrong in the past, it remains wrong today.

So, I will obey the LORD’s instructions to not strive with those who are opposing themselves, but gently and with respect speak the truth in love and continue to pray that GOD grant them the ability to see the truth and turn to what is right, to recover themselves and escape from the snare/ trap that has held them captive (1 John 5:16, 2 Timothy 2:24-26).

Will you join me?

Hugs

Sharon

How many?

Today many say that the bible is outdated and even some churches no longer accept the Word of GOD as applicable to our lives today, because their personal desires go in a different direction.

JESUS said that man cannot live by bread (food) alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of GOD (Matthew 4:4). That is GOD’s words are to guide us through life.

GOD cannot lie (Titus 1:2), in fact it is impossible for GOD to lie (Hebrews 6:18), therefore whatever HE says is true and GOD’s truth endures forever (Psalm 117:2).

That means it still applies. Take for example forgiveness.

How many? Talking to my LORD this morning concerning another we both love, I asked, “How many 2nd chances (new beginnings) are there, LORD?”

JESUS answered immediately and simply by reminding me of HIS word. Matthew 18:22 “70 times 7” (an idiom meaning= times without number.)

Wow! It is nothing new but what a refreshing reminder!

Back in the day, Peter asked JESUS that same question and said even added up to 7 times? Peter was really being generous for the Rabbinical rule (taken from Amos 1:6) stated that you were to forgive 3 times period.

But JESUS took the question out of the sphere of the law (what must be done) and transferred it into the realm of grace where there is always mercy and grace it help in times of need. A realm where nothing is impossible.

So, until time is no more, (and that day is fast approaching) GOD is true and what HE said in HIS word still applies. But at the same time if you go to GOD when you have gone against HIS word, you will find forgiveness through JESUS CHRIST and another chance.

Hugs

Sharon

Attack from within

Busy here, but as my days so is my strength just like GOD promises HIS children (Deuteronomy 33:25).  Yes, GOD promises that HE will not let us have to face anything (assignment, trouble or temptation) more than we can handle with HIM (1 Corinthians 10:13, Philippians 4:13).

What would we do without GOD’s word and HIS promises? In them we find direction for living (Proverbs 3:5-7), help in times of need (Hebrews 4:16) comfort and correction (2 Timothy 3:15-16)?

Now we know that since the beginning of time, GOD’s word has been under attack (Genesis 3:1-5) and so down through the years it has been attacked.  The attack is now coming from within! By negating the need for the Bible as the standard to check against falsehood they suppress the truth. Now the Bible is being attacked by a false doctrine (of devils) propagated by woke Christians when they say the Bible is not to be followed, JESUS is.

Now the SPIRIT speaks expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; (I Timothy 4:1).

“Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly CONTEND for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3).

“For the time will come when they will not endure SOUND DOCTRINE; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears” (2 Timothy 4:3).

“>>>the Holy Scriptures which are able to make you wise unto salvation through faith which is in CHRIST JESUS,  ALL scripture is given by inspiration of GOD, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:15-16).

Holding fast the FAITHFUL WORD as he hath been taught, that he may be able by SOUND DOCTRINE both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers (Titus 1:7).

Have you heard of the new claim emerging via woke Christians?  (Woke being ones who have left the foundational Biblical truths {doctrine} to be people friendly and socially correct). This concept states an adherence to the Bible as GOD’s declared standard, “bibliolatry” (Bible idolatry) and they say we are not to do that.  They declare if we hold Scripture to be Truth and the pattern for our living that is worship / idolatry!

Such sentiments, I think  is part of the apostasy that is prophesied in 2 Thessalonians 2:3.  It makes me  so sad.  They claim that we need to look to JESUS not the Bible.  But how can we look to JESUS without the Bible which shows us HIM? 

“JESUS said that if you have MY word and do it you love ME” (John 14:21).

JESUS also said, “Man cannot live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of GOD” (Matthew 4:4, Luke 4:4).

The Bible is the foundation of our faith.  For the Church was built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, JESUS CHRIST HIMSELF being the chief corner stone (Ephesians 2:20). Without GOD’s WORD written by the HOLY SPIRIT through men (2 Peter 1:21) and the interpretation of such by the HOLY SPIRIT (1 Corinthians 2:10-13) we can’t know what GOD is like nor what HE desires for us.

“For MY thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways MY ways, says the LORD.For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are MY ways higher than your ways, and MY thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9).

If that isn’t enough, the Bible contains great and precious promises that if we use enable us to grow in the likeness of JESUS and cope in our crazy world (2 Peter 1:1-4). 

To keep my balance, I need to have GOD’s promises found in GOD’s Word to hold on to when everything else falls apart.

In the beginning was the WORD (JESUS) and the WORD was with GOD and the WORD was GOD” (John 1:1). “The WORD (JESUS) was made flesh and dwelt among us, (and we beheld HIS glory, the glory as the only begotten of the FATHER,) full of grace and truth” (John 1:14).

“For the WORD of GOD is living, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). In other words, the Bible shows us things about ourselves we don’t know it meets us where we are and gives us direction and hope.

We are commanded to study to show ourselves approved of GOD rightly dividing the WORD of truth and then told to share GOD’s word with others” (2 Timothy 2:15, 2).

Daily from every direction it seems as though we are being bombarded with this world’s corrupted values/standards (that calls good bad and bad good).  How can we renew our minds and cleanse our thinking without daily being in the Word of GOD? 

…even as CHRIST also loved the church, and gave HIMSELF for it;That HE might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, (Ephesians 5:25-26)

Why is that cleansing even necessary?

For all have sinned and come short of the glory (standards) of GOD (Romans 3:23) and the WAGES of SIN is DEATH (but GOD loved the world and so sent HIS SON that who would believe would gain eternal life) the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD (Romans 6:23)

GOD is faithful, HE gave us JESUS the eternal Son of GOD to show us what the GODHEAD (FATHER, SON and HOLY SPIRIT) and to die for the sins of the world that if any who believe in HIM they should not perish under the wrath of GOD against sin but have eternal life.  GOD spoke in the Old Testament through prophets but in these last days HE speaks through JESUS (Hebrews 1:1-2) who commissioned HIS disciples to witness of HIM and then teach those who believe the things HE taught (hence the New Testament).

As the Psalmist said, “THY word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against THEE” Psalm 119:11.

Hugs

Sharon

GOD is at work

With all that is going on around the globe, do you find direction in GOD’s Word?

“Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of GOD spoke as they were moved by (GOD) the HOLY SPIRIT” (2 Peter 1:20-21).

JESUS said that man cannot live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of GOD (Matthew 4:4).  GOD’s Word is alive and powerful!  “For the word of GOD is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).

GOD’s Word judged my thoughts and attitudes of my heart as I read in Ezekiel. It convicted me, showing me that I was wrong and sinned whenever I judge things happening around the globe such as certain governments actions, or natural upheavals. Like Job I spoke and thought about things I didn’t understand, things too wonderful for me to know (Job 42:3).  In other words, I don’t know how GOD is using for good the evil we see. Lacking all the facts, I have no right to make judgments.

“Therefore, judge nothing before the time, until the LORD come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of GOD” (1 Corinthians 4:5).

I know I am not to judge people’s motives, although I can know if something (action or statement) is right or wrong for GOD’s absolute standards have been given to us in HIS word and they never change (Psalm 119:89), because GOD never changes (James 1:17, Malachi 3:6).  Yet I have no reason to fear or right to criticize for according to scripture things are not falling apart they are coming together. GOD foretold in HIS word these things that are happening now not to frighten us but to prepare us and keep us from fear. The Bible tells us that GOD is at work behind the scenes taking men schemes and using them for an end result of justice.

A prime example of this is seen when we look at Joseph, with his coat of many colors, being thrown down into a pit and then sold by his own brothers, then how GOD used Joseph’s troubles for an end result of good. By pondering Joseph’s life we get a glimpse of how GOD works all things together (like stirring up the ingredients of a cake) for an end result of good to those who love HIM (Romans 8:28-29).  

Many years later Joseph himself told his brothers, “You meant it for evil, but GOD meant it for good to bring to pass as it is today, to save many alive (Genesis 50:20).

That being what it is, does not say that meanwhile we are not to pray for those who are suffering.  As we pray for the suffering they are encouraged, strengthened and perhaps will even reach out to the LORD and be saved (Acts 17:26-27, Romans 10:13).

My conviction came against my thoughts/ my judgments concerning world events for I began to see GOD’s hand of judgment on the nations as one country rises against another as I read,  “Therefore, says the LORD GOD, behold I will give the land of Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon…it shall be wages for his army…I give him the land of Egypt for his labor…because they wrought for ME says the LORD GOD” (Ezekiel 29:19-20). “I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon and put MY sword in his hand” (Ezekiel 30:24)  “He (Nebuchadnezzar) and his people with him, the terrible of the nations, shall be brought to destroy the land” (Ezekiel 30:11).

Deuteronomy 28:49 The LORD shall bring a nation against you from afar…

Wow! Again, like Job I must proclaim, “Things to wonderful for me to know!”  Truly, GOD ways are not our ways, nor are HIS thoughts our thoughts, but as high as the heavens are above us so are HIS thoughts and ways above our thoughts and ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).  We can rest assured for HIS ways always work (Isaiah 55:11).

The LORD GOD ALMIGHTY says, “So shall MY word be that goes forth out of MY mouth: it shall not return unto ME void, but it shall ACCOMPLISH ALL that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it” (Isaiah 55:11).

GOD is good and HE is working for an end result of good for those who love HIM. Do you love HIM because HE 1^st loved you and sent HIS only Begotten SON to die for you that you might live forever with HIM? (John 3:16, 36).  Sure hope so!

Hugs

Sharon

GOD cannot lie

GOD draws pictures and gives details of HIS ways, eternal principles in the Old Testament stories, just as JESUS spoke in parables that illustrated truth.

“Now the SPIRIT speaks expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to (teachers influenced by) seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils” (1 Timothy 4:1).

“that we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive” (Ephesians 4:14).

The best way to avoid being deceived is to know the truth.  The best way to do that is to check what is said with the Bible (Isaiah 8:20).  For the Bible is true and teaches us about GOD.  As we see GOD the FATHER and JESUS interact with people we learn things concerning HIS nature and HIS ways.

GOD knows all things. “Now are we sure that YOU (JESUS) know all things…” (John 16:30).  I love the way Psalm 139 states that before we were formed in our mother’s womb, GOD saw everything we would ever do, knew every word we would ever speal, yes, even each day of our life HE has seen as if on a schedule.  Crazy thing is HE knew all this and yet HE loves us.  AMAZING!  Acts 15:18 KJ “ Known unto GOD are all HIS works from the beginning of the world.”  There is not one thing GOD will ever learn for HE knows everything that has, is or will happen. 

That does not mean that HE forces it to be, but rather that GOD has seen what we will do before we do it, just as GOD enabled Elisha to see the horrors Hazael would do when he became king over Syria (see 2 Kings 8:7-14) when Hazael had no clue that he would even become a king.  

Now there is an underlying truth about GOD, each of HIS virtues compliment all of HIS other virtues. 

One thing seen throughout Scripture is that GOD is faithful to keep HIS word/ HIS promises.  What HE says, HE will do (Numbers 23:19).  GOD has foreknowledge (GOD knows things before they happen).  GOD’s foreknowledge preceded HIS decrees (1 Peter 1:2). Being the LORD knows all things, the LORD is able to make promises for HE has already seen what will occur and so HE never has to redo or recalculate anything.  There is no plan 2.  Yet, through it all our Sovereign LORD does not override the abilities to choose and reason that the LORD gave man when HE created man in HIS very own image (Genesis 1:27).

GOD is eternal.  “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, says the LORD, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the ALMIGHTY” (Revelation 1:8). Therefore, GOD’s faithfulness is eternal as HIS promises are eternal.

GOD cannot lie. “in hope of eternal life, which GOD, that cannot lie, promised before the world began” Titus 1:2.  Therefore, HE must be able to do whatever HE says HE will do or HE will not say it.

GOD cannot change. “For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore, you sons of Jacob are not consumed” Malachi 3:6.

Now that brings us to a horrendous lie that has risen up within Christendom.  The lie says that because Israel was so evil that GOD has changed HIS mind and has taken all the promises that HE gave to Israel away from them and transferred them to the church.  That lie is called “Replacement theology.”

If GOD did that, HE cannot be trusted to keep HIS word.  HE would not be the GOD of the Bible. Therefore, we know replacement theology is a lie, a doctrine of devils.

Just one example: The very fact that in May of 1948 the unbelieving Jews were drawn back to the Promise land and then Israel became a nation for the 2^nd time, in one day just as GOD it would happen (Isaiah 66:7-8) shows GOD knows what HE is talking about and that HE keeps HIS word. 

Why would a holy GOD keep a promise to unbelievers?  #1 because what HE says HE will do besides when GOD made that promise to Israel HE already knew what they would do.  #2 HE knows that the 1/3 Jews that will survive the 7 years of Jacob’s trouble (spoken of as the 7-year tribulation) will come to believe in JESUS when they see HIM (see Zechariah 13:9).

Will the Jews always be a nation? No. 

But they will remain a nation as long as THIS earth exists.

“Thus says the Lord, which giveth the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, which divides the sea when the waves thereof roar; The Lord of hosts is HIS name:  If those ordinances (sun, moon, stars, seas and waves) depart from before ME, says the Lord, then the seed of Israel also shall cease from being a nation before ME forever. Thus, says the Lord; If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done, says the LORD” (Jeremiah 31:35-37).

So, you see as long as THIS earth remains with the sun and the moon and the stars and the sea Israel will be a nation.

But after the 1,000-year reign of CHRIST (that follows the battle of Armageddon- Revelation 19:11-20:2), GOD will rain down fire from heaven against all those gathered by Satan who are attacking Jerusalem.  At that time the earth explodes, the heavens flee and nothing is visible but a great white throne for all the elements have melted (Revelation 20:7-11, 2 Peter 3:10-13). 

After the judgment of unbelievers and their being thrown into the eternal lake of fire, there is a new heaven and a new earth but we are told there will not be a sun, moon or sea.  On the new earth JESUS and GOD the FATHER will live with all believers.   No longer will there be an Israel or any other nation.  There will be neither Jew nor Gentile.  We do not know all that awaits us there. But clues in Scripture tell us what is coming will be beyond awesome, beyond amazing!

“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which GOD has prepared for them that love him” (1 Corinthians 2:9).

Will you be part of it?  Do you know JESUS?

Hugs

Sharon

Every word

We live in a day when it is hard to tell who is telling the truth.  The worst part is that is also true within the church.  The Holy Bible says that the end days will be marked by many false teachers. (2 Peter 2:1). As one man aptly put it, “The more truth mixed in, makes the little lie seem true.”  So as never before we must be Bereans.  Who were they?

“These (those in Berea) were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so” (Acts 17:11).

Today I received an email about a false teacher and what she believed. Though I’d heard of that teacher, I was astounded at some of the points they claimed she taught.  Most were wild and clear error.  But one thing stated as false doesn’t jive with Scripture.  It said GOD doesn’t speak to us today.  But GOD never changes! (Malachi 3:6, James 1:17).

I believe the Scripture is complete, nothing should be added to it nor subtracted from it. The Scriptures were written as the HOLY SPIRIT moved on men of GOD to write what GOD wanted. (2 Peter 1:21).  They were written for our learning (Romans 15:4, 1 Corinthians 10:11). They show us what GOD is like, how GOD deals with people, and what is pleasing to GOD.  GOD the HOLY SPIRIT teaches us through these Scriptures and reminds us of Scripture when we need it. (John 14:26, 16:13).

HE the HOLY SPIRIT who was given to each and every believer when they believe in the LORD JESUS CHRIST (Ephesians 1:13-14, John 7:38-39) also interprets GOD’s word to us (1 Corinthians 2:10-11).  That is necessary so we can understand it, for GOD’s ways and thoughts are different than the human perspective vastly higher and beyond our understanding (Isaiah 55:8-9).

The HOLY SPIRIT also individually leads us, and comforts us directly in personal situations. (2 Corinthians 1:3-5).   Part of the purpose of HIS individual speaking to me is so through the comfort HE gives me I am enabled to comfort others with the same comfort HE gives me.

As the Old Testament prophet Joel prophesied in the “last days” visions and dreams will be part of the HOLY SPIRIT’s work after HE is poured out. (Joel 2:28-29). This BEGAN (for it was not completely fulfilled at that time) on Pentecost when the church was born. (Acts 2:14-18). JESUS tells us that when the HOLY SPIRIT comes (which HE did on Pentecost over 2,000 years ago) HE would convict the world of sin (John 16:8) of righteousness and of judgment and HE is still doing it.

An example of this is seen in Iran were 1,000s unable to hear the gospel by people, have and are having visions that have brought them to saving faith in JESUS just as Paul had on the road to Demarcus. (Acts 9:1-8). 

When GOD impresses instructions on me, they are not scripture. They are not words for others. But GOD is speaking to me/ impressing on me (Philippians 2:13, Hebrews 10:16) with GOD’s words of comfort or direction and HIS words are to lead me as HE walks with me through life.  (Proverbs 21-1).   Just as HE promises.

(Proverbs 3:5-6)  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.

As I submit myself to HIS instructions in HIS word and directions through the nudges of the HOLY SPIRIT (hearing a word in my ear to turn to the left hand or to the right Isaiah 30:21) HE leads me.  Sometimes it is simply to call a person which I then learn needed a word of encouragement. 

JESUS said in Matthew 4:4, It has been written, “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of GOD.”  The Greek word translated for word in this verse is not logos (the Greek word for Scripture, and even used of JESUS) but it is the Greek word Rhema (which means a spoken word for a specific situation).  Both are needed and the spoken word will ALWAYS agree with the written word.  The Rhema is just personal directions for specific situations, like when GOD wouldn’t let Paul go into Turkey on his second missionary journey (Acts 16:17), but later on Paul’s 3^rd missionary journey Paul did go into Turkey (that is where the 7 churches of Revelation 2-3 are). That showed it wasn’t GOD’s timing on the 2^nd journey but was GOD’s timing on the 3^rd.

Check all that is said by the written Word of GOD (the Scripture/ the Bible) for many false teachings are out there.  But at the same time despise not that still small voice nor GOD’s nudges.

Hugs

Sharon