The Wheelbarrow

This beautiful sunshine makes me want to get the flower beds cleaned up and ready for spring flowers.  It reminds me of Dad and how he would get things ready.  Though quite small when we moved to June Lake, I remember Dad building a rock border so he could level the yard.  He used a wheelbarrow to haul the rocks and also to mix up the cement to fix them into place.  Other times when the wheelbarrow was empty and clean he’d give my sister and me wild rides tipping the wheelbarrow to the right and left as he’d move it forward.

That old wheelbarrow and how Dad used it reminds me of what the LORD has emphasized to me lately about JESUS the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Let me lay the foundation of what I am seeing in hopes that you can see it too.

JESUS-then called the WORD- totally equal with GOD the FATHER both in form and nature (John 1:1-4), laid aside HIS visible glory and rights and riches and took on the form of man and became obedient unto death because the GODHEAD (all THREE) desired a relationship with mankind whom they had made (Philippians 2:4-8)

Leaving the glory of heaven the Light of the World came down into the darkness of this world of sin saying, “I come to do THY will, O GOD” (Hebrews 10:9).  In doing so HE determined to not speak HIS own words (John 3:34-35, 12:49) nor use HIS own powers (Luke 4:14, Acts 1:2). 

Totally aware of what HIS choice would mean (John 21:17, Acts 15:18 KJ) JESUS humbly chose to suffer for HE knew it was necessary for HIM to be made like unto HIS brethren (humans) in all ways, that HE might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to GOD, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people (Hebrews 2:17). That was the only way people could be saved and live eternally with HIM.

Now how does this connect with Dad’s old wheelbarrow?  He could not mix the cement in the wheelbarrow when it was full of rocks, it had to be empty, nor could Dad give his 3 girls rides while the wet cement was in the wheelbarrow.  Dad had to empty and wash it out before we got our rides.

In order for JESUS to be made like us (Humans) HE emptied HIMSELF out.  That only means HE chose not to go HIS own way, nor find HIS own pleasure, nor speak HIS own words but only do GOD’s will.  Did you know that Isaiah 58:13b states that doing those very things enables you and me to delight in the LORD?

When the Creator, JESUS took on a human body inside of Mary and became a baby, dependent on ones HE had made and even submitting to them was beyond huge.  But what the LORD has been impressing on me was the beginning of HIS ministry up to HIS ascension back into heaven as how I am to daily follow HIS lead (Hebrews 2:10). “Looking unto JESUS the Author and finisher of our faith” Hebrews 12:2.

Hebrews 10:9 “I come to do YOUR will O GOD” John 3:34 For HE (JESUS) whom GOD has sent speaks the words of GOD: for GOD gives not the SPIRIT by measure unto HIM (JESUS).

Luke 4:1 And JESUS being full of the HOLY SPIRIT returned from Jordan, and was led by the SPIRIT into the wilderness, Luke 4:14  And JESUS returned in the power of the SPIRIT into Galilee… 15  And HE taught in their synagogues… Acts 1:2 Until the day in which HE (JESUS) was taken up, after that HE (JESUS) through the HOLY SPIRIT had given commandments unto the apostles whom HE had chosen. 

I see JESUS does only what GOD wants HIM to do.  HE does not speak HIS own words but speaks only what HE hears the FATHER say.  HE goes not in HIS own power and ideas but is filled by the HOLY SPIRIT.  Being FILLED HE is led and goes by the power of the HOLY SPIRIT.  Notice, the HOLY SPIRIT teaches through HIM, so JESUS doesn’t convict people JESUS just speaks the words the FATHER give HIM, and the HOLY SPIRIT gives the people understanding (1 Corinthians 2:10-13).

Hebrews 8:14 blows me away, “… CHRIST, who through the eternal SPIRIT offered HIMSELF without spot to GOD…” 

On earth while in a human body, JESUS depended on GOD the FATHER and GOD the HOLY SPIRIT and did nothing on HIS own.

We received and were sealed with the indwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT when we were saved (John 7:38-39, Ephesians 1:13). But now we are commanded to be filled by the HOLY SPIRIT (Ephesians 5:18).  But what does that mean since we cannot not fill ourselves? I think Luke 11:13 holds the key when it say that GOD the FATHER will give the HOLY SPIRIT to those who ask.  We see in Acts 4:31 that the very disciples who on the Day of Pentecost were filled (Acts 2:4) with the HOLY SPIRIT with power yet on another day they prayed to GOD for boldness after being threatened and they are filled anew with the HOLY SPIRIT and speak with power. We are saved one time.  We get the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT one time and are sealed to GOD one time.  But the filling with power comes and goes.  I think we need to ask daily for the HOLY SPIRIT to fill us for whatever GOD has prepared for us to do.  Scripture says, “You have not because you ask not” (James 4:2).

Therefore, to follow JESUS how much more do I need to lay aside my personal opinions and ideas and seek to know and follow GOD’s leading (Proverbs 3:5-7) and be filled with the HOLY SPIRIT.  Only when we are filled by the HOLY SPIRIT can we be led by and walk with the HOLY SPIRIT. Daily I need to prepare my heart (Proverbs 16:1) by being in GOD’s word (Matthew 4:4), talking to GOD our FATHER and being willing to obey regardless so I can hear and understand the HOLY SPIRIT (1 Corinthians 2:10-13).  I need to listen carefully and do what I know I should do and say what I know I should say whether I agree with it or not.  For if I am willing to hear and obey, the HOLY SPIRIT will make my instructions clear to me and enable me to obey (John 7:17, Philippians 2:13) . 

But like that wheelbarrow full of dirt, if I am full of my own ideas I won’t be able to hear the HOLY SPIRIT.

Hebrews 8:14 How much more shall the blood of CHRIST, who through the eternal SPIRIT offered HIMSELF without spot to GOD, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living GOD?

Hugs

Sharon   PS-See the TRINITY in the crucifixion?

Just like

Has someone wronged you?  Even if you have forgiven that one, do thoughts of those wrongs come unexpectedly into your mind and bring you grief/ torment?

JESUS, the eternal Word of GOD (John 1:1-4), took on a body and came to earth (John 1:14, Philippians 2:5-8) to reveal to us what GOD is really like (John 14:7, 9), to bring mankind forgiveness through paying for their sins and give them eternal life with GOD/ HIMSELF (John 3:16), to destroy the works of the devil the author of sin (1 John 3:8) and more.  JESUS’ eternal sonship was how JESUS lived out HIS life not even speaking a word unless the FATHER told HIM to.

We were adopted, reborn into the family of GOD when we believed/ received/ accepted/ trusted JESUS (John 1:12-13) to save us. Now our sonship to GOD should control our lives just as JESUS’s sonship controlled JESUS. JESUS was the express image of the invisible GOD (Hebrews 1:3) and we are told to be holy as HE (GOD) who has called us is holy (1 Peter 1:15).

JESUS was all about forgiveness. Forgiveness was not a side issue to HIM. Forgiveness was HIS purpose and even on the cross JESUS prayed to GOD the FATHER for those who either crucified or mocked HIM hanging on the cross, “Forgive them for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).

In answering HIS disciples about how often one must forgive, JESUS spoke, setting the parameters as concerning the Kingdom of Heaven and those that belong to it (those children of GOD through faith in JESUS) in Matthew 18:21-35. JESUS said, “It is like this (and JESUS proceeded to tell a parable and its conclusion baffled me for years until I read it again Saturday morning).

A summary of that parable:

Since JESUS said “it is like the Kingdom of heaven” we know that this pertains only to believers in JESUS who have been transferred into the eternal Kingdom of JESUS by GOD the FATHER when they believed/ trusted in JESUS to save them from their sins (Colossians 1:13) and were born into the Family of GOD through the power of the HOLY SPIRIT (John 1:12-13, 3:5-7).

A man owed HIS master a huge amount of money.  The Master said “pay up!” the servant could not and begged HIS master to give him time (Called on the name of the LORD and was saved Romans 10:9-10, 13).  The compassionate Master completely forgave him and wiped out the man’s entire debt. 

That man who had just been forgiven went to a fellow who owed him a small amount money and said, “pay up!” when that fellow could not pay and begged the man to give him time, the 1^st man would not listen and had him thrown in jail.  Others saw what had happened and went and told the Master.  The Master became furious.

The Master called the man HE had forgiven and said, “I forgave you and so you should have had compassion and forgiven the one who owed you, just as I had pity on you. Then the Master delivered him to the TORMENTORS until he paid for all that was due.

That blew my mind. The context clearly declares this speaks of those who are in the Kingdom of heaven.  They have accepted the love gift of GOD the FATHER who sent HIS SON that all who believed in the SON would have eternal life (John 3:16).  They believed in JESUS and GOD the FATHER “has delivered us from the power of darkness, and translated us into the Kingdom of HIS dear SON” (Colossians 1:13).  These are eternally saved people and GOD the FATHER is turning one over to the tormentors.  What can this mean? 

SPOILERs alert: I am NOT saying one can lose their salvation.  All who BELIEVE/ TRUST in JESUS have eternal life with GOD the FATHER and JESUS (John 3:16, 36, 17:3), just as all who REFUSE GOD’s gift of HIS SON have eternal death in the everlasting lake of fire which is called the 2^nd death (Revelation 20:10, 14-15).

So back to my question.  What does it mean that GOD the FATHER turns one who became HIS child through faith in JESUS (John 1:12-13) over to the tormentors until he paid his debt?

Probably, I recognized the answer this time around when I read this illustration because the day before we studied our life group GOD the FATHER’s role of discipline/ child raising of all who have been born children of GOD.  GOD the FATHER disciplines all HE accepts and loves in Hebrews 12:4-11 and 1 Corinthians 11:31-32.

GOD has declared that all who love HIM will be transformed (changed like a caterpillar into a butterfly) into the very nature of JESUS CHRIST who has the divine nature (Romans 8:28-29).  HE (JESUS) whose great desire drove HIM to humble HIMSELF and be made a man and bore our sins on the cross because HE loves mercy and forgiveness.

Now GOD uses what HE sends/allows to come into our lives to achieve that transformation in us (Romans 8:28, 2 Corinthians 4:15-17). As we are told in Genesis 50:20 what the enemy means for evil, GOD uses for good to help many. Besides changing us, our struggles/ discipline somehow will bring GOD glory.

If we have forgiven one who has sinned against us yet unbidden thoughts of wrongs against us come into our minds it is a test/ temptation.  We just need to REFOCUS by taking those thoughts to JESUS, submitting ourselves to GOD and resisting the devil’s taunts (James 4:7, 2 Corinthians 10:5) like JESUS did by quoting scripture to him (Matthew 4:3-11).

Now when we have not forgiven, the HOLY SPIRIT convicts us (John 16:8) and we confess, GOD will forgive us and will not need to discipline us (1 John 1:9, 1 Corinthians 11:31).  But when we are convicted but don’t pay attention then GOD must discipline us in order to turn us to do right.  This discipline can get very grievous (1 Corinthians 11:32, Hebrews 12:11).  If we keep refusing to listen, then the discipline gets harder and harder just as when we discipline our children. 

But note: the purpose of the discipline is so that we won’t be condemned with the world (1 Corinthians 11:32) but that it will produce the divine character of righteousness in us (Hebrews 12:11)..

Remember Peter? GOD allowed Satan to sift him as wheat. (Luke 22:31) I would compare that to turning him over to the tormentors. And when there is unforgiveness in our lives we have torment when we think of the wrongs against us. When Peter learned his lesson GOD used Peter mightily, just as HE will use any once they learn through discipline. 

So, I saw that it was out of LOVE for one of HIS blood bought children that a stubborn child is turned over to the tormentors. 

There are some I pray for those who have been turned over to the tormentors.  I pray 1 John 5:16 for them, knowing that if they believe/ trust in JESUS they have not committed the sin that leads to death.  John 3:36, 2 Thessalonians 2:10 and Revelation 20:15 show us that only those refuse JESUS offer of forgiveness have committed that sin that leads to death.  That sin is called blaspheme against the HOLY SPIRIT because when one refuses the conviction of the HOLY SPIRIT that leads to faith in JESUS there is no other way to be saved (Matthew 12:31, Luke 12:10).

Hugs

Sharon

I can!

Got any struggles?  Feeling weary of the day-to-day demands or spreading worldwide chaos and confusion?

Hebrews 12 ^:2 Looking unto JESUS the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before HIM endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of GOD. ³ For consider HIM that endured such contradiction of sinners against HIMSELF (GOD who took on a body for us), lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. ⁴ You have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.

Why would pondering/considering the unfairness of JESUS life help us in our day-to-day struggles?

For me it happened this way nearly 30 years ago now.  I was running late for work, there were issues with my two teens and Mac was working out of state, so it was up to me to figure it out. To top it off all the demands kept me too busy to read the Bible.  To put it mildly, I felt overwhelmed.  You know what I mean, for we have all had days like that.  

I didn’t feel like I could take another step, so before I headed out the door I cried out to GOD, “I need a word from YOU, just a word!”  Then I blindly opened my bible and read Hebrews 12:1-4, glanced at the clock, rushed out the door heading for work.

As I drove to the space center I thought about JESUS.  I considered some of what I knew concerning the total unfairness of JESUS life, HIS willingness in giving of HIMSELF, how HE joyously endured even the cross, though HE despised the shame of the weight of sin put on HIS back and being displayed naked before those passing by. 

JESUS, the SON of GOD, set the joy of you and me being cleansed of sin, living eternally with HIM and fulfilling GOD’s eternal plan before HIM.  As HE thought of what HE was accomplishing HE endured.  As I thought of these things, somehow the struggles I was facing faded as I began to worship and praise JESUS.  Too soon I arrived at the base and had to go through the portal.  But no longer was I weary and dragging but energized ready to step out and to do whatever needed to be done.

If you are struggling and weary, maybe even wondering how GOD could allow all this to happen I urge you to consider JESUS and what HE endured for you. Somehow it changes your perspective.

Hugs

Sharon

Villain or Victim

Hamas and others claim that Israel is the villain in this war in the Middle East.  But visual and verbal proof from Hamas own troops’ body cameras tell a very different and horrific story. 

Every story has a villain, yours and mine do too. You and I were born into a world at war.

Today the devil goes back and forth throughout the earth seeking those he can devour but he still has access to the heavenlies and accuses us to our great GOD (see Job 1 and 2).  We are told that one day Satan will lose the battle against Michael and his angels, “he will be hurled to the earth, and his angels with him” (Revelation 12:9), barred from free access to the heavens wherein now he moves.

Amir Tsarfati likes to call it ‘the great exchange’.  Christians go up in the Rapture to meet JESUS in the air (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Revelation 4:1) and Satan is thrown down (2 Thessalonians 2:6-7) and not long after the 7-year Tribulation/ Jacob’s Trouble begins when JESUS begins opening the 7 seals of the scroll (Revelation 6).

But meanwhile, right now, on this earth there are hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of fallen angels -foul spirits, bent on our destruction. And Satan’s mood? He is filled with fury, seeking those he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). Yes, he roves back and forth across the earth (Job 1:7), and comes not but to kill, steal and destroy (John 10:10) and deceiving many with his lies.

Although we have an enemy and are at war, there is a Savior. JESUS CHRIST our LORD and Savior is Greater.  HE has given everyone who believes (trusts) in HIM the HOLY SPIRIT and GREATER is HE (the HOLY SPIRIT) within us than he (the devil) who is in the world (I John 4:4).

In YOU O LORD, I put my trust; let me never be ashamed; deliver me in YOUR righteousness. Deliver me speedily; be my rock of refuge, a fortress of defense to save me (Psalm 31:1-2).

Looking unto JESUS and for, the Author and Perfecter of my faith.

hugs

Sharon

Walk together

My big sister Rosie and I were just two years apart and here we are walking together back in the day. The cars in the picture give you a clue just how many years have passed by since that walk.

Jesus said “If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you” (John 15:7).

Wow, that is some promise!

To abide with someone, we must simply walk hand in hand in agreement with them about where we are going.

How can two walk together unless they agree? Amos 3:3

When we walk in agreement with JESUS (which according to HIS word) we get to know HIM better and better. We learn how HE thinks and what HE wants (Philippians 2:13, Hebrews 10:16).

But for HIS word to abide in us, we must know it. So, we need to take some time every day to grow in our knowledge of HIM by spending time in HIS word and prayer (2 Peter 1:1-4). Then as we walk hand in hand with JESUS desiring HIS will, the HOLY SPIRIT will bring HIS words to our minds (John 14:26) and as we comply to those nudges to act HIS word abides in us and we can ask what we will, and it will be done for us.

Isn’t the simplicity of CHRIST amazing and beautiful?

Hugs

Sharon

What are you looking at?

Looking to see… We miss so much as we read the Bible by not looking to see GOD and JESUS and understand what HE wants us to know.

See the way that the little kitten is focusing in on that dragonfly? She isn’t noticing the grass below or the sky above for she has taken her eyes off everything else and is fixing her eyes on the dragonfly.

With everything happening in our world, like the Euphrates river drying up in Syria, the increase hatred and wars, inflation and food shortages plus in everyone doing what is right in their own eyes it is so easy to get distracted but like that little kitten we are instructed to focus in on JESUS.

The Greek word in the text translated LOOKING unto JESUS holds a twofold command-1-don’t look all around, but turn your eyes from everything else and 2- fix your eyes on JESUS.

The Old Testament Jews looked to the law and put their trust in the law and being sons of Abraham; but we are told to look to JESUS and put our trust in HIM for HE makes us sons of GOD when we believe in HIM. (John 1:12)

One morning I was especially rushed needing to be on my way to work but needing strength from GOD as well, so I cried out to GOD “Please give me word, just a word!” and turned to my Bible. Usually I am much more orderly, systematic even in my reading of the Word, but that morning I had no time so I just looked at it opened on my table.

Hebrews 12:1-3 … let us also throw off everything that hinders (distracts us) and the sin that so easily entangles us and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on JESUS (literally- looking/ focusing on JESUS) the Author and Perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before HIM endured the cross, despising the shame and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of GOD. For consider HIM who has endured such hostility by sinners against HIMSELF, so that you do not grow weary and lose heart.

On my way to work, and when my actions didn’t require thought I obey those instructions. I looked at JESUS- considering HIM, pondering those circumstances mentioned.

JESUS is the Author of my faith…Yes, when HE spoke to my heart I received HIS word and believed. For faith comes from hearing and hearing by the (rhema- spoken in our hearts) word of Christ (Romans 10:17).

The Greek word for AUTHOR is also translated leader… If HE is our Leader, we need to follow HIM. (1 Peter 2:21, Hebrews 2:10) JESUS asked, “Why do you call ME LORD, LORD and do not the things that I say? (Luke 6:36)

Who for the JOY that was set before HIM (saving you and me) JESUS ENDURED the cross… By focusing on what HE was achieving HE was enabled to endure the horror, pain and shame of the cross.

JESUS took HIS eyes off the pain; off the SHAME and horror of bearing all sin of mankind on the cross; off the SHAME of HIS physical nakedness though HE DESPISED the SHAME (see it is ok not to like something when we are being obedient). JESUS deliberately FOCUSED on one thing .. HE purposely set before HIS eyes that by HIS suffering HE was reconciling man to GOD our FATHER.  That brought HIM great joy.

NOTE: JESUS despised the SHAME… hey it is ok not to like what’s going on… just follow JESUS example and don’t FOCUS on it.

Consider HIM who suffered such a contradiction of sinners against HIMSELF.

Knowing how HE suffered helps me grasp the truth that HE really understands and therefore knows what I need when I have struggles. (Hebrews 4:14-16)

Just for telling some Jews Bible stories they already knew well, those Jews tried to throw JESUS over a cliff (Luke 4:22-30).

JESUS healed a man who had suffered for 38 years, and that man turned HIM in to the Jewish leaders (John 5:5-15).

JESUS was innocent of any sin but died for all the sins done or will be done against HIMSELF. (Hebrews 10:10, 1 John 2:2)

The LORD JESUS CHRIST the Creator of heaven and earth and all that is within them (Colossians 1:14-17), was mocked and hated by the very ones HE was dying to save. Talk about unfair. You think things are unfair in your life? Consider JESUS and the unfairness lest you grow weary and become discouraged.

Looking unto JESUS… only 3 little words, but in doing them is the whole secret of life. Let us not be corrupted from the simplicity that is in CHRIST JESUS. (2 Corinthians 11:3).

Look at JESUS during times of trouble set your eyes on HIM and HIS Promises for what we see is temporary but what HE is achieving for us through our troubles is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:15-18).

Look unto JESUS as you read the Bible and you will know the way to go. By looking at how JESUS did things you will know how to do things. (John 5:39)

Look unto JESUS when you feel alone for HE is with you, HE will never leave you nor forsake you. (Hebrews 13:5)

Look unto JESUS when the burden is too heavy. HE will bear it for you. (Matthew 11:28)

Look to JESUS, HE understands your struggles (Hebrews 4:15).  So go boldly to HIM when you need mercy or help in your times of need (Hebrews 4:16 ).

Look unto JESUS and see what GOD the FATHER is like. (Hebrews 1:2-3).

Look unto JESUS and you will be changed little by little into HIS likeness (2 Corinthians 3:18).

What are you looking at?

Are you looking at your gifts? At your work? At your successes? JESUS said, without me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)

Are you looking at your weaknesses? You are being transformed into the image of JESUS by the HOLY SPIRIT (Romans 8:29, 2 Corinthians 3:18).

Are you looking at your struggles? They are temporary (2 Corinthians 4:15-18).               

Are you looking at the things and pleasures of this world, they will all pass away. (Matthew 24:35, 1 John 2:15-17)

Are you looking at what people will think? If you are, you will be hindered in pleasing GOD (John 5:44)

Are you looking at the enemy of your souls. Greater is HE who is in you than he that is in the world. (I John 4:4)

Look at JESUS, just as that kitten is looking at that dragonfly. One glorious day HE is coming to get you & me so that we will always be with HIM (John 14:3).

With the ways things are going, prophesies being fulfilled right and left, it won’t be long before HE calls us to come up.  So look up your redemption draws near. (Luke 21:28).

Hugs

Sharon

The New Year

No matter where you are or what you face, turn and look to JESUS the author and finisher of our faith Hebrews 12:2.

“Now the GOD of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing (JESUS loves you and GOD is in control) so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the HOLY SPIRIT.” Romans 15:13  

hugs

Sharon

Can’t see the forest?

The menacing clouds of troubles loom over my head.  When I FOCUS on these serious situations (and there are several) I can’t see the forest (GOD at work) because of the trees blocking my view. 

Is there something in your life or world that is troubling you? Does it hang over you clouding your mind?  Do your thoughts keeps going back to it?  

The word GOD gave me this morning : JESUS said, “What I am doing now you do not know, but later you will know” (John 13:7 paraphrased).  In other words this doesn’t make sense now, but later it will.

In Ezekiel 14:23 paraphrased GOD declared it this way, “later you will be comforted, and you shall know that I have done (allowed) nothing (not one thing) without a cause (good reason).”

“If we are to gaze into the face of GOD, we must look beyond our present circumstances.” AW Tozer

2 Corinthians 4:15-18 tells us ALL things are for our benefit and our troubles are in reality achieving awesome eternal things for us.  It instructs us to look past what we can see and by faith in GOD’s word look to what HE is accomplishing for us through the struggles because what we see is temporary but what HE is achieving for us will last forever.

GOD reveals to us in HIS Word that HE uses all things, mixing good and bad, stirring them up together for an end result of good to us who love HIM and prove we are the called by calling upon the name of the LORD (Romans 8:28, 1 Corinthians 1:2).

As I often remind myself, GOD’s ways and thoughts are not like mine, but they are and will accomplish all that HE wants done (Isaiah 55:8-11).

For all of you who have believed in JESUS and have called on the name of the LORD to save you, whatever your struggle, remember our LORD is with you, HE loves you and is working on your behalf (Hebrews 7:25, 13:5).

For those of you who have not come to JESUS, I urge you in CHRIST’s stead believe on the LORD JESUS CHRIST whom GOD the FATHER sent to die your sins that you might be forgiven and adopted into HIS family.  As JESUS was risen from the dead all who believe in HIM will also be raised and live forever with HIM.  “For the one who believes on the SON has everlasting life, but the one who believes not on the SON shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abides on him” (John 3:36).

Hugs

Sharon

Allegory

Pictures or illustrations placed with instructions really help us grasp what is meant. An allegory is a picture or illustration and right now we have been given an allegory depicting what is to come.

As the US troops left Afghanistan the Taliban took over, chaos ensued. Reports have it that Taliban soldiers are going door to door and seizing young gals (12 years old and up) to be sex slaves to the Taliban troops and those who collaborated with the US are being slaughtered.

You may agree that it is horrible but wonder what I mean that it is an allegory/ illustration of?

For the mystery of lawlessness [rebellion against divine authority and the coming reign of lawlessness] is already at work; [but it is restrained] only until HE (the HOLY SPIRIT) who now restrains it is taken out of the way (2 Thessalonians 2:7 AMP).

As the Taliban and ISIS are very real, but their activity to take over power was restrained by the US troops in Afghanistan.  But in horror we are watching the Taliban’s atrocities as they began the take over of Afghanistan as the US troops were getting ready to leave the country.

So, although evil is already everywhere and increasing there is a Restrainer who holds back complete lawlessness.  That Restrainer is the HOLY SPIRIT who indwells every believer in JESUS CHRIST.  When HE, along with everyone HE seals (Ephesians 1:13, 4:30) is taken out of the way (the catching away often referred to as the Rapture à 1 Thessalonians 4:17), then and only then will the lawless one come to power. As is spoken of in Daniel and Revelation.

As with the allegory we can see worldwide lawlessness is already increasing.  Are you ready to be swept up into the clouds to meet the LORD in the air and to always be with the LORD?

Only those who believe JESUS died for their sins and was raised from death for our justification and have called on the name of the LORD JESUS (John 3:16, Romans 10:9-10, 13) are sealed with the HOLY SPIRIT.  They are the ones who will caught away (raptured-Latin for caught away) to meet the LORD in the air and saved from the 7 years of Jacob’s trouble/ Tribulation that comes to test all those on the earth.

Hugs

Sharon

Crisis

Every day brings another crisis or challenge and for someone who hates friction and drama this has really been exhausting to say the least.  

My world seems spinning out of control.  There has been not one single day recently that has not had at least one new and serious crisis.  So how can I obey our LORD when JESUS said, “Let not your heart be troubled (the Greek indicates an outside being-demonic- is what is stirring up your heart). You believe in GOD, believe also in ME” (John 14:1). Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid (John 14:27).

How can I walk in that Peace that JESUS offers me?  I have discovered I must take my eyes off all the craziness and look to JESUS the ONE through whom GOD the FATHER made all things and speaks to us (Hebrews 1:1-3).

When I look at the stars or see lightning and hear the thunder I stand in absolute AWE and WONDER.  For it directs my attention to the amazing power of GOD. HIS mind-blowing power along with of HIS infinity (being unlimited in every way) and the LORD being the Creator of all things, shows me that the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY is the source of all and controls all power.  HE has absolute power and supreme authority over all. 

Couple that with the LORD knowing everything past and present plus HIS foreknowledge that takes in everything that will ever happen, it just takes my breath away. I simply must bow in wonder. 

Jeremiah 32:17
“Ah, LORD GOD! Behold, YOU have made the heavens and the earth by YOUR great power and outstretched arm. There is nothing too difficult for YOU.”

The chorus and verse from a song I wrote over 40 years ago speaks of this.

The sky up above is silent, the clouds drifting by are silent, the grass and the trees and the flowers too are silent as they tell of YOU.

In wild storms of wind, lightning, and thunder man thinks of YOU and he wonders, “How ONE with such power can be loving too”, but YOU sustain all things and daily renew.”

These basic true facts about GOD calms me in every situation or storm I face WHEN I look at them. For GOD is prepared for everything and there is nothing too difficult for the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY and nothing that will ever surprise HIM.

Then, as is HIS gentle way, today as I was trying to put away a grumbling spirit, the LORD whispered what HE was teaching me though this latest crisis.  As I recognized that HE is changing me into what I need to be, it sure changed my attitude and brought a smile to my face.

Hugs

Sharon