Choices

My son got 2 very young kittens a few weeks back. Knowing that after they ate they would have to do their business somewhere, we got two litter boxes.  We did not know what we know now. The kittens did not know what litter boxes were and became frightened when we would place them in one.  To cut down on the mess, I asked the LORD what to do. Then thought to put down cardboard with liter on it in the spots the kittens favored going (which is in my bedroom, under my bed). They are getting better on doing their business on the litter, but I still don’t know how to graduate them to the litter boxes.   

One of so many things I love about the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY is that HE knows all things (John 16:30), not just things past and present but also future. That simple mind-boggling fact helps me accept so much I cannot grasp.

GOD in three persons makes up the GODHEAD (Matthew 28:19) and in the counsels of heaven HE chose to make mankind to fellowship with HIM.  HE chose to make them in HIS image (Genesis 1:26).  Part of that image is the ability to make choices. Yet GOD did not make man to be in control.

Many scripture texts show that GOD allows men to do wrong to show us what is in us and why we need a Savior. Each person is always responsible for their own choices and choices have consequences. Often the MOST HIGH allows wicked men to do wrong.  But as Genesis 50:20 (and many other texts) show when GOD allows men to do wrong with evil intent, GOD has pre-planned to use their actions for an end result of good to those who love HIM (Romans 8:28).  There is always a plan in place (see 2 Corinthians 4:15-18) and GOD is always in control (Ephesians 1:11).

In making man with the ability to choose that meant they could either accept and love HIM or reject HIM.  HE knew before creation which would do what.  Yet for GOD to give the ability to choose meant HE had to 1st choose to allow HIMSELF to selectively suffer certain things because of mankind’s choices while GOD HIMSELF maintained complete Sovereign control. GOD is never at man’s mercy.

GOD the HOLY SPIRIT is said to grieve at times because of our actions (Ephesians 4:30). HE is holy and anything unholy grieves HIM. GOD the SON, our LORD JESUS, consented and chose to suffer much on earth from humiliation to carrying all the punishment for the sins of mankind in torture on the cross of Calvary.  GOD the FATHER suffered as HE laid HIS wrath for sin on HIS beloved SON.  HE did it out of HIS love for mankind.  But our triune GOD chose to do that because HE wanted us. 

“GOD devised means, that HIS banished be not expelled from HIM” (2 Samuel 14:14).

Interestingly, we find that GOD preset (past tense) the times and places (Acts 17:26) thereby set the stage where we make our choices.  In HIS astounding foreknowledge HE knew what choices would be made and synchronized it all.  It’s beyond amazing, just blows my mind thinking of it.

Hugs

Sharon

Working together

I love the chorus of KING of KINGS by Hillsong:  Praise the FATHER, Praise the SON, Praise the SPIRIT, 3 in ONE.  GOD of glory, Majesty, Praise forever to the King of kings.

Today let’s look one specific thing true about GOD.  HE is one GOD, yet there are 3 persons in the GODHEAD. That is what we call the trinity.  Elsewhere it is called the GODHEAD.

The Shema (shema means hear) is the oldest and most important prayer in Judaism. It forms an important part of Jewish evening and morning prayer and is used as a Jewish confession of faith.

Deuteronomy 6:4 “Hear, O Israel: The Lord (YHWH) our God (Elohim -plural form- that means supreme over all) is one Lord (YHWH).

By looking at the word forms of this confession of faith shows that YAHWEH (the LORD) is plural in existence although one in character, attributes and purpose.  You and I in effect speak of the Shema when we talk about the trinity.

It is exciting to see the THREE in ONE in action working together for the THREE in ONE do all things together, working in conjunction/ unity with one another. We see glimpses of this in many places because the persons of the GODHEAD do not work independently but as a unity in joint effort.

Ever thought about who is being spoken of during Creation when GOD said, “Let US make man in OUR image” in Genesis 1:26. Who are the US and the OUR?   Looking at the details we notice the number of persons seen by the pronouns is plural, but the image is singular.  That is because each of the 3 persons of the GODHEAD possess the exact same divine nature (such as love, joy, peace, gentleness, kindness, goodness, patience and so on.)

Here are a few glimpses into how the 3 persons of the GODHEAD work in unity and are ONE.

ln Creation (Genesis 1)

1-GOD the FATHER designed creation for HE works all things after the counsel of HIS own will (Ephesians 1:11) All comes from GOD the FATHER (James 1:17)

2-JESUS the WORD-GOD created all things through JESUS the Word, nothing was made without JESUS (John 1:1-3, Hebrews 1:2, 10).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The HOLY SPIRIT moved over the waters (Hebrew: brooded as a bird over her young) (Genesis 1:2)

The Bible

1-GOD the FATHER-It is GOD the FATHER’s message to mankind (Revelation 1:1).  I have always found it amazing that GOD the SON, our LORD JESUS CHRIST never said or did anything on earth without first being told it by GOD the FATHER (John 12:49). When I learned that JESUS had to be made like HIS brethren/ those who would believe in HIM (Hebrews 2:17) it sure helped me understand that.  Also, the HOLY SPIRIT only tells people on earth that which HE hears from GOD the FATHER (John 16:13)

2-JESUS-The bible is about JESUS from Genesis where HE is called (the seed of the woman (Genesis 3:15), HE is the spirit of Prophesy (Revelation 19:10) And the Bible ends saying Come LORD JESUS (Revelation 22:20).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The Bible was written as holy men of GOD were moved on by the HOLY SPIRIT to write down GOD’s words. (2 Peter 1:21)

JESUS the eternal Word takes on a body.

1-GOD the FATHER- It was FATHER’s plan (as they counseled together (Genesis 1:26) and GOD the FATHER sent HIS SON (John 3:16)

2-JESUS took on the form of man (Philippians 2:5-8)

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The HOLY SPIRIT came on Mary and the power of the Most High overshadowed her and the HOLY ONE born of Mary was called the SON of GOD (Luke 1:35)

JESUS baptism (John 3:13-17)

1-GOD the FATHER spoke aloud (Luke 3:22)

2-JESUS was baptized because it was the right thing to do- (Matthew 3:14-15) in obedience of being made like HIS brethren in all ways (Hebrews 2:17).

3-The HOLY SPIRIT descended to and remained on JESUS (Luke 3:22)

When JESUS was tempted

1-GOD the FATHER works all things after the counsel of HIS own will. GOD the FATHER is always in control (Ephesians 1:11) though HE may not engineer a struggle, not one trouble can happen to us without HIS permission (see Job chapters 1 and 2). Although the FATHER may allow trouble to come from an outside source, it is never allowed without a cause (Proverbs 26:2), that is MOST HIGH always has a plan and HIS intent for allowing something difficult is always to achieve a necessary good (Genesis 50:20).

2-JESUS after obediently following the lead of the HOLY SPIRIT into the wilderness, was tempted for forty days by the devil. (Luke 4:2). For HE had to be made like HIS brethren (those who would believe in HIM) in every way in order to become their High Priest (Hebrews 2:17).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-JESUS was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil (Matthew 4:1).

When a person becomes a child of GOD

1-GOD the FATHER-One becomes a child of GOD the FATHER (Hebrews 12:6-7, 9)

2-JESUS-When one believes in /trusts in JESUS blood to cleanse her from her sins and calls on the name of the LORD she is saved from the wrath of GOD and JESUS gives them the right to become a child of GOD (John 3:36, John 1:12-13).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-one is born again by the work of the HOLY SPIRIT (John 1:12-13, 3:5-8), and the HOLY SPIRIT gives her new life (Ephesians 2:5) placing her into the body of CHRIST which is the church (1 Corinthians 12:13, 27).

Developing us into godliness

1-FATHER GOD’s role in our childrearing is to discipline those HE accepts and loves and also to Provide whatever is necessary (Hebrews 12:6-7, 10-11).

2-JESUS nature is what we are being made like (Romans 8:29), HE intercedes and saves us to the uttermost (Hebrews 7:25)

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The HOLY SPIRIT teaches us (John 14:26, 16:13) prays for our needs that we do not know how to pray for (Romans 8:26-27), HE also convicts us of sin (John 16:8) and explains GOD’s word to us (1 Corinthians 2:10-13).

In Prayer

1-GOD the FATHER-Prayer is to GOD the FATHER and HE bends down to hear us (John 16:23)

2-JESUS CHRIST-We are to pray in the name of JESUS CHRIST (John 16:23) and JESUS as our high priest understands what our specific needs are because HE was tempted in all ways like we are but without sin (Hebrews 4:15-16).

3-HOLY SPIRIT- the HOLY SPIRIT moves us to pray and edits our prayers for us (Romans 8:26-27).

In the crucifixion

1-GOD the FATHER-was by the definite plan and foreknowledge of GOD the FATHER (Acts 2:23)

2-JESUS bore our sins and sorrows on the cross (Isaiah 53:4-6) and disarmed the principalities and powers at the same time (Colossians 2:15).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-Through the HOLY SPIRIT JESUS offered HIMSELF (Hebrews 9:14)

Witnessing to the Lost (1 John 5:7).

1-GOD the FATHER-The message we are to give when witnessing is that GOD the FATHER loves us and sent HIS only SON to save us (John 3:16) and that GOD the FATHER raised JESUS from the dead (Romans 10:9)

2-JESUS –The message is that JESUS is GOD/ the LORD and HE willingly came to die for our sin (Philippians 2:5-8) so we could be reconciled to GOD the FATHER (Romans 5:10, 2 Corinthians 5:18) JESUS’ resurrection proved HE was the SON of GOD (Romans 1:4) a necessary part of believing (Romans 10:9)

3-The HOLY SPIRIT convicts the hearts of the men and shows them their need of a Savior (John 16:8).

There is no way we finite beings can fully understand the infinite YAHWAH/ the Great I AM- the Great 3 in 1 who is our GOD.  But have you caught a glimpse of the Trinity working together in unity?

1-GOD our Heavenly FATHER plans, provides and disciplines…

2-JESUS came,taught, did miracles, died, was resurrected, saves and ever lives to intercede for those who come to the FATHER through HIM (Hebrews 7:25).

3-The HOLY SPIRIT teaches, comforts, leads, equips (using the supplies given by GOD the FATHER) and empowers us who believe.

Praise the FATHER, Praise the SON, Praise the SPIRIT, 3 in ONE.  GOD of glory, Majesty, Praise forever to the King of kings.

Show us more of YOURSELF LORD, show us more of YOURSELF.

Hugs

Sharon

GOD is over all

Thinking of the all the struggles so many of us are having and how people can react to troubles in such opposite ways. Why the difference?

Now I’m not trying to play down anxiety for it is no laughing matter. Times are tough, and the stresses of life can make you feel trapped and totally helpless.

But GOD who is over all tells us to look away from those problems that are causing you such stress and look to HIM (2 Corinthians 4:18). HE says that HE is achieving through them eternal wonders for the one enduring them (2 Corinthians 4:15-17).

JESUS said, “Man cannot live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of GOD (Matthew 4:4) and GOD’s word says, “Cast all your anxiety on HIM because HE cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7.)

GOD says HE will not allow anything to hit us that we can’t handle with HIM.

“I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).

“No testing has come upon you, but such as is common to man: but GOD is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tested above what you are able; but will with the testing also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Praying concerning the ongoing struggles of dear friends and family members, the LORD reminded me of JESUS being tempted by the devil for 40 days straight and how JESUS overcame through quoting the Word of GOD.  HIS testing was really ongoing, but HE was victorious. 

Then as I talked to the LORD concerning the many family members and dear friends very different reactions to ongoing struggles, my mind flew to the old illustration of what happens when a potato and an egg are boiled. The egg gets hard, the potato gets soft. Both have hot water boiling them, but the result is vastly different. In the same way, I see one person being angry and bitter while others continue to cry out to GOD in trust and are becoming more understanding and more patient. 

The astounding instructions/ illustrations GOD gives us through HIS creation are stunning.  JESUS told us we will have problems in this world, but this world is not our home and JESUS has made a way for us to go and be with HIM in a wonderful place where there will be no more sorrow or pain.  Therefore, let us look unto JESUS the Author and Perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2-4) and go to the throne for the grace to help us during our struggles (Hebrews 4:16).

“But the GOD of all grace, who has called us unto HIS eternal glory by CHRIST JESUS, after that you have suffered a while, make you perfect, establish, strengthen, settle you” (1 Peter 5:10).

Hugs

Sharon

It’s not fair!

Life just isn’t fair. JESUS warned us it would be this way when HE said, “in this life you will have tribulation but cheer up I have overcome the world ” (John 16:33). 

GOD tells us in HIS word that our temporary troubles are achieving eternal things for us that far surpass the unfairness and pain of today (2 Corinthians 4:17).  In fact, the LORD promises that HE is using all the good and bad, working them together for an end result of good for us who love HIM.  HE is developing Christlikeness in us through what we encounter (Romans 8:28-29).

JESUS said, If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am (John 14:3).

JESUS went up in a cloud 40 days after HE rose from the grave (Acts 1:3, 9-11).  HE went to prepare a place for us, and HE is coming again to get us and take us to where HE has been.

Since the beginning of the world men have not heard…neither eye seen…what GOD has prepared for those who wait for Him (Isaiah 64:4, 1 Corinthians 2:9).

Are you expectantly waiting for JESUS to return and take us to be with HIM?

I urge you in JESUS’s stead to consider these things and may the good LORD give you wisdom and understanding (James 1:5, 1 Corinthians 2:10) and reveal to you whatever you need to see (Philippians 3:15) as HE guides you with HIS peace (Colossians 3:15), strengthens you with HIS joy (Nehemiah 8:10), and enables you with HIS grace (Hebrews 4:16). Now may the GOD of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the HOLY SPIRIT.”(Romans 15:13) Keep looking unto JESUS (Hebrews 12:2) and talk over your thoughts with HIM (2 Corinthians 10:5).

Hugs

Sharon

Think

If you quickly glance around as you are driving you may not see that armadillo along the side of the road or what make of car just zoomed past you.  It is the same with the Word of GOD.

GOD has spoken to us through HIS prophets (moved by GOD the HOLY SPIRIT to write and speak 2 Peter 1:21), ^“whatsoever things were written (in Scripture) were written for our learning…” (Romans 15^:4⁾.

Although JESUS said “Man cannot live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of GOD (Matthew 4:4), many Christians don’t see the need to read the Bible for themselves.  Others read the Bible because they think they are supposed to but, don’t really expect to hear from GOD personally and speed read as if by osmosis they will absorb the riches contained within the eternal word of GOD.  But they wonder why the word of GOD doesn’t really speak to them.

GOD says that HE rewards them that diligently SEEK HIM (Hebrews 11:6, Jeremiah 29:13).  To seek HIM with all of our hearts we must THINK.  Note the context of what you are reading, the principle being spoken of, how it is spoken of in other places of the Bible and zero in on what the words show us.  I sometimes call this connecting the dots.

“Then Jesus said to them, “So every ·teacher of the law [scribe] who has ·been taught about [become a disciple of] the kingdom of heaven is like the ·owner [head] of a house. He brings out both new things and old things ·he has saved [from his treasure/storeroom; knowledge of the Old Testament provides insight into JESUS’ “new” message of the kingdom of GOD]” (Matthew 13:52 EXB).

Let’s look at an example of having to simply THINK (ponder on what is said) to know what the Bible is talking about. “JESUS despising the shame” (Hebrews 12:2).  Where was HE?  JESUS was enduring as HE was crucified on the cross.  Why did JESUS feel shame? 

Two of the reasons are:

1-Matthew 27:25 Soldiers stripped off JESUS’ clothing.  THINK what does that tell us?  JESUS hung naked where all who passed by could see HIM.  I don’t want people seeing me naked, that would bring me shame. How about you?

2-Hebrews 1:9 JESUS HATED sin, Isaiah 53:6 ALL SIN from Adam and Eve in the garden to the last sin after the uprising after the 1,000 year reign, was laid on JESUS as HE hung on the cross and paid for our sin.  “For the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23).

When I realize I have sinned, I feel SHAME.  JESUS felt the SHAME of all mankind, “for all have sinned and come short of the glory of GOD” (Romans 3:23).  The SHAME JESUS felt hanging there is beyond anything we can imagine.  The positive side of it is that HE understands how we feel after we have sinned, and HE cares. JESUS chose to suffer SHAME because HE loved us and wanted to save us and give us eternal life.

“For GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS only begotten SON that whosoever believes in HIM will not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16), He that believes on the SON has everlasting life, and he that believes not the SON shall not see life, but the wrath of GOD abides (stays) on him” (John 3:36).

Do you seek to know GOD and HIS ways better?   Are you taking the time to zero in on words and asking GOD for answers?  I hope so for it make us stand in AWE of our Marvelous triune GOD.

Hugs Sharon

I will do it

Psalm 119:¹⁶⁰ Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endures forever.  

Yes, GOD’s word is true (2 Samuel 7:28) and GOD’s word is magnified even above HIS holy name (Psalm 138:2).  As JESUS told us, we cannot live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of GOD (Matthew 4:4). Therefore, we know we can trust it.

Therefore, we need to go to GOD’s word, not man, to understand what GOD means (Isaiah 8:20).  The Word of GOD written and explained by the HOLY SPIRIT (2 Peter 1:20-21, 1 Corinthians 2:10-13) is its own best interpreter. So, let’s prayerfully look at a promise the Word of GOD gives us.

Hebrews 9:²⁸ So CHRIST was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto THEM that look for HIM shall HE APPEAR the second time without sin unto salvation.

JESUS will APPEAR in the clouds for believers only. That is commonly called the Rapture a word from the Latin translation which means= to catch away.

The bible also refers to the Rapture as being made perfect.

Hebrews 11:⁴⁰ GOD having provided some better thing for us (who are alive and remain until HIS coming), that they (who died believing) should not be made perfect without us (before us).

The Rapture is also called the redemption of the body.

Ephesians 1:¹² That we should be to the praise of HIS (GOD’s) glory, who first trusted in CHRIST (JESUS). ¹³ In whom (JESUS) you also trusted, after that you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom (JESUS) also after that you believed, you were sealed with that HOLY SPIRIT of promise, ¹⁴ Which is the earnest (down payment) of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of HIS (GOD’s) glory.

Ephesians 4:³⁰ And grieve not the HOLY SPIRIT of GOD, whereby you are sealed unto the day of redemption.

2 Corinthians 4:¹⁴ Knowing that HE (GOD) which raised up (the body of) the LORD JESUS shall raise up (the bodies of) us also by JESUS and shall present us with you.

1 Corinthians 15:⁴² So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: ⁴³ It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: ⁴⁴ It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.

1 Corinthians 15:⁵² In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed (see the two groups?). ⁵³ For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.

1 Thessalonians 4:¹⁴ For if we believe that JESUS died and rose again, even so them also which sleep (have died believing) in JESUS will GOD bring with HIM (JESUS). ¹⁵ For this we say unto you by the word of the LORD, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the LORD shall not prevent (precede) them which are asleep. ¹⁶ For the LORD HIMSELF shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of GOD: and the (bodies of the) dead in CHRIST shall rise first: ¹⁷ Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up (with new bodies) together with them in the clouds, (then together we will go) to meet the LORD in the air: and so shall we ever be with the LORD.

Therefore, when the LORD JESUS CHRIST comes back 7 years later to fight as seen in Revelation 19:11- 20:3, we will be with the LORD. 

Then, when JESUS judges those alive after Tribulation and sets up HIS 1,000-year reign (Revelation 20:4, Matthew 25:31-45) we will be with HIM.  

1,000 years later after the devil is released and gathers an army against JESUS and GOD sends fire down from heaven and the elements of heaven and earth dissolve being melted with a fervent heat and flee from the face of GOD (2 Peter 3:10-12, Revelation 20:11) leaving only a great White Throne, we will still be at JESUS’ side. 

For you see only the dead in trespasses and sins will be judged that day (Ephesians 2:1, Revelation 20:12-13).  Since none of them have believed in JESUS their names will not be written in the book of life therefore they will be cast into the eternal lake of fire with the Antichrist, the false prophet (already there 1,000 years Revelations 20:10) and the devil and his hordes (Revelation 20:15).

GOD’s word, especially prophesy, is not intended to scare you but to prepare you.

If you believe in JESUS and trust HIM to save and lead you, you will be at JESUS side (John 3:16).  If you choose you want to call the shots by yourself and refuse to look to JESUS you will be among the dead standing before that Great White Throne (John 3:36). So where will you be?

Looking to JESUS

Sharon

The salt of the earth

Salt and sugar are the two most addictive food flavors.  I love the taste of salt and have found using Sea salt on grapefruit eliminates a bitter taste. 

Salt is one of the oldest, most ubiquitous (it’s everywhere) food seasoning thattruly enhances the flavor of other foods. It can be found in most kitchens and is added to most canned foods.  That is why cutting back on salt is so hard once you have acquired the taste for it.

Salt is essential for health.  The taste of salt (saltiness) is one of the basic human tastes. Salting is also an important method of food preservation and is used in a vast many things from improving flavor, controlling the growth of bacteria in yeast and cheese to making steel and soap.

Therefore, when JESUS speaks of believers being the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13), HE is saying we should bring a distinct enhancing flavor to every conversation and our presence will have a preserving effect (against the rotting spiral of sin) on society.

Colossians 4:6 Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

When Jesus is the source of your life you become both salt and light.  And we are told to “be blameless and harmless, the sons of GOD, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom shine as lights in the world (Philippians 2:15).

Believers in JESUS, indwelt by the HOLY SPIRIT, are commissioned by JESUS to witness of the truth of the Gospel that GOD the FATHER sent JESUS was sent to earth, gave HIM a human body and JESUS died for the sins of the world and rose from the dead so that whoever believes in HIM might have everlasting life (John 3:16, Romans 10:9-10,13). 

We also hold back the full release of sin by our very presence (2 Thessalonians 2:6-8).  So much so that we must be taken out of the world (raptured) before the unleashing of sin that occurs when the antichrist sets up his reign at the beginning of the 7-year tribulation. That is a time GOD’s wrath will be poured out on the CHRIST rejecting world and it is also a time of refining for the CHRIST rejecting Jews. It is also known as Jacob’s trouble (Jeremiah 30:7) or the last week (of years) of the 70 weeks of Daniel (9:24).

Let your salt bring a delightful seasoning to every conversation that keeps evil at bay -and let your light shine by following JESUS’ example and speaking openly about HIM so people have a chance to believe and escape that horrible 7 years.

Hugs

Sharon

Whosoever

It is always fun when GOD confirms something true that I have come to believe from my personal study of HIS Word. Such was the case when Chuck Smith illustrated the beginning words of 1 Peter 1:2, “elect according to the foreknowledge of GOD the FATHER”.

Chuck asked, “If you went to the racetrack fully knowing without question which horse would win, who would you bet on?” 

Why would you not bet on a loser?

In the same way, GOD knowing who would believe and trust in JESUS chose them to be HIS own and designed a specific plan for their lives (Ephesians 2:10) even to the determining of all times and places where all occurs (Acts 17:26, Ephesians 1:11) for the purpose that man might reach out to HIM (Acts 17:27).

In other words humanity does not reach out to GOD on his own but as things happen to us they are designed to give us opportunities to reach out to GOD, but the choice is ours. 

GOD knows all things past, present and future (John 16:30, John 15:18 KJ, Isaiah 42:8-9, 46:9-10), GOD knew before HE created anything that people would sin.  Knowing that, the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY devised a plan to save WHOSOEVER would turn to HIM and believe and trust in JESUS the SON of GOD’s sacrifice on the cross and resurrection from the dead.  The offer is given to everyone even though GOD knows many will refuse it.  This was all determined before the foundation of the world, or anyone sinned (Revelation 13:8).

It is so amazing how our Sovereign Maker can have absolute control and yet allow humanity choice. No one can take the credit for GOD gives all opportunities and insight, nor have any excuse (Romans 1:18-21).  

We definitely do not understand why GOD allows all that HE allows for we do not have all the facts.

As the Most High says, “For MY thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways MY ways, saith 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).

Even though we cannot understand the Most High GOD completely, we can believe that HE is and that HE rewards those who diligently seek HIM (Hebrews 11:6).

Are you in that number?

Hugs

Sharon

GOD’s glory

Just sitting and talking to the LORD this morning, I got so excited for by GOD’s infusing a simple truth into my thoughts and coupling it with another verse (Proverbs 21:1) the light went on in vivid color for me as HE explained something I had accepted because it was in the Word of GOD but had not understood at all. 

The truth GOD whispered into my ear this morning: ”And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the LORD had spoken it”(Isaiah 40:5).

The concept I had not understood was: “The LORD has made all things for HIMSELF: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil” (Proverbs 16:4).

We know from Exodus 33:18-19, 34:6-7 that GOD’s glory is HIS divine nature.

When GOD designed man, HE chose to make him in HIS own image (Genesis 1:27) and that included the ability to choose.  GOD did not make puppets, but people HE desired to one day make HIS children, yet HE gave them the choice whether they wanted to be with HIM or not.

”A man’s heart devises (designs/ contrives/plans/chooses) his way: but the LORD directs his steps” Proverbs 16:9.

How can that be? GOD sets parameters, (Acts 17:26 last clause, 27) GOD presets the times and places, with the desire that men would reach out to HIM and find HIM.  But the LORD of heaven and earth and everything within allows man to choose how to act within the boundaries HE sets.

The oldest book of the Bible, Job, gives us an example.  GOD allowed the fallen angel Satan to act within precise boundaries (Job 1:12, 2:6) but Satan decided what to do in the boundaries GOD allowed (Job 1:13-19, 2:7-10).  The thing that Satan didn’t know, but our all-knowing GOD did, is how Job would act in any given situation.

Our GOD is all knowing.  HE knows the past, present, and future which entail even the words we will say before we say them (Psalm 139:4-Before a word is on my tongue, YOU know it completely).

GOD’s attribute of knowing all things enables HIM to allow man to choose how to act since GOD sets the stage of time and place according to HIS purposes.  This way man is fully responsible for his actions since he chooses them, yet GOD is still in control and working everything together to fulfill HIS plans and purposes (Ephesians 1:11).

Before I tell you how GOD opened my eyes, let me remind you that GOD so loved the world that HE sent HIS only begotten SON that whosoever believes in HIM will not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). Three times in Ezekiel (18:23, 32, 33:11) GOD cries out to the wicked to turn to HIM and live because HE does not delight in the death of the wicked.

How would allowing those who GOD knew would choose evil instead of HIM bring glory to GOD?  It reveals GOD’s awesome character.  Things like GOD’s love, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, and righteousness (doing what is right) even in HIS eventual destruction of all evil.

Just one last example.  JESUS knew from the beginning that Judas was a thief, but HE had him carry the money bag for the group.  Why? Doing so gave Judas an opportunity to choose to do right.  JESUS knew Judas would betray HIM, yet it is written that JESUS loved him to the end (John 13:1). JESUS loved Judas until his continual wrong choices placed Judas in a catch 22 where he could not turn back.  That is what happens after the Rapture according to 2 Thessalonians 2:10-11.

The greatest thing is to know GOD.  Job said, before all his trouble, he had heard of GOD with HIS ears but after all his troubles he got to see GOD as HE is.  That is the best.  And when we see GOD’s glory when HE ends all evil and promises it will not rise a 2^nd time that will be glory indeed!

“What do ye imagine against the LORD? HE will make an utter end: affliction shall not rise up the second time” (Nahum 1:9).

Hugs

Sharon

Draw near

Recently, I volunteered to work a weekend at Camp in the kitchen.  When it came time to dish up platters of food to be placed on each of the 26 tables for one meal, the boss stated he needed 2 to dish up one item and hands went up and 2 were chosen.  This was repeated for another item with the same response.  But when the boss named the last item to be dished up and called for volunteers, I raised my hand and when I was selected all other hands went down.  For a moment I felt rejected, like the little girl in the picture, but that changed to a smile when the boss quickly turned to me and said, “Then I guess you’re stuck with me.”

Life is all about relationships.  Each of us relates to each other person differently. Just as you might treat your mom different that someone you met for the 1^st time.  It is the same with GOD.  HE relates to each person on a one-to-one basis.  HE responds to us according to how we respond to HIM and HIS word although HE always stays true to HIS divine nature.

GOD’s relationship and interaction with believers in JESUS CHRIST is full of grace (unmerited favor). GOD says HE delights in and sings over us who believe in HIM and talk with one another about HIM (Zephaniah 3:17).  Doesn’t that just blow you away? GOD watches over us continually; GOD waters us and guards us night and day and at the appointed time will come and take us to be with HIM forever (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).

As it is written, Romans 8:39 “…Nothing can separate us from the love of GOD that is in CHRIST JESUS our LORD.”

But how do we get into JESUS and into that love relationship with GOD the FATHER?

John 3:16-18 For GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS one and only SON, that whoever believes in HIM shall not perish but have eternal life. For GOD did not send HIS SON into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through HIM. Whoever believes in HIM (JESUS) is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of GOD’s one and only SON.

But what are we to believe about JESUS name? (in the Bible the word name speaks about the character/ nature of that person). 

Matthew 1:21 “…you shall call HIS name JESUS, for HE will save HIS people from their sins.

Matthew 1:23 “Behold the virgin shall be with child, and bear a SON and they shall call HIS name Immanuel, which is translated is “GOD with us.”

Romans 10:9-10, 13 ESV  ^“because, if you confess with your mouth that JESUS is LORD (Master) and believe in your heart that GOD raised him from the dead, you will be saved. ¹⁰ For with the heart one believes and is justified (just like I’d never sinned), and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. ¹³ For “everyone who calls on the name of the LORD (JESUS) will be saved.”

1st-We must believe that when JESUS died on the cross, HE paid for our sin and because of that GOD the FATHER made HIM LORD of all.

I John 1:7 “the blood of JESUS HIS (GOD’s) SON cleanses us from all sin.”  

Hebrews 1:2 (GOD) has in these last days spoken to us by HIS SON…through WHOM (JESUS) HE also made the worlds: 

Colossians 1:12 “For it pleased the FATHER that in HIM (JESUS) should all fulness dwell;”

Hebrews 1:8 “But to the SON HE (GOD) says “YOUR throne O GOD is forever and ever…” And GOD the FATHER continues speaking in Hebrews 1:10 “YOU LORD (JESUS) in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth.

2^nd-We must also believe that GOD raised HIS SON JESUS from the dead because the resurrection from the dead proved JESUS was GOD the SON.

Romans 1:4 “and declared to be the SON of GOD with power according to the SPIRIT by the resurrection of the dead.”

Now there are groups that believe in an historical man named JESUS, Muslims among them. They even believe HE was good. But they don’t believe JESUS is GOD’s eternal SON, nor do they believe in their hearts that GOD raised HIM from the dead.  Therefore, they are not saved.  Yet, GOD continues to call out to them.

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 come to repentance.”

Ezekiel 33:11 “Say to them, ‘As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die?” 

In CHRIST’s stead, I plead with you who do not know my LORD JESUS, the one who came to earth to bear our sin on the cross so we could be forgiven and saved to live with HIM forever. Turn to JESUS and be saved for HE died for you.

GOD relates to you according to how you relate to HIM.  “Draw near to HIM and HE will draw near to you” (James 4:8).

Looking unto JESUS the Author and Perfector of my faith

Hugs

Sharon