Tag: christianity

The Path To Damascus: A Journey Over The Mountain

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The Path To Damascus: A Journey Over The Mountain

This was supposed to be a leisurely walk in the woods. Day one, not the case. Right off the bat the Devil’s been nipping at my heels. From my pack being overweight, to pack malfunctions, to the rain, to the camp stove not fitting on the tank. It would seem I did not do due diligence in my preparation, even though I’ve been planning for five months. Even now as I lay in the tent I can hear the heavy wind and the rain going on outside.

1400 after exhaustion we stopped and set tent. Notes that the bag is way to heavy but with no reason what to cut next time at a loss. The pad, tent, bags are needed without a doubt. Clothes are wet from the rain and sweat. It’s likely some knives aren’t needed. Sox are decently dry. Nothing but mud and rain so far. Goals to make it to the footbridge day one not going to happen. The right strap of the ruck seems unable to hold the weight of the pack. Water seems abundant on the trail so far. There’s been a good amount of uphill but thankfully down also. My body hurts and I feel exhausted. Riley is such a trooper. She’s gone through streams, mud and crossed bridges with no problem. I think she knew of some animals off the trail and she seemed intent in a direction at one point. So far the ground is covered in rock. Setting up the tent was a big challenge but we are safe and sound for probably the night. I don’t think I will make it in 5 days. Oh, side note, no service at all on the cell. And we are going to nap. 

The Road is long, but we never give up, even when we are knocked down.

In the end much like NASA, I would consider this a successful failure . While I didn’t hit my goal the lessons learned are most valuable, and myself and Riley come away without any major injuries. Best of all, I didn’t die

I did not achieve my goal to make it as far as I wanted, but understanding that failure isn’t an awful word, so long as we learn from them. Due to fatigue and pain I stopped early in the day. Currently unless I can lighten the load or the trek becomes easier, it’s not likely I will make my goal. What was my goal? Was it to prove to myself “I still got it”, or was it something else entirely? As it is written in Acts 9 a man named Saul, a Jewish Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee, and trained at the school of Gamaliel, a well known and one of the most noted rabbis in history. He had power which we know because he was able to be granted the authority to go to Damascus to seek out and prosecute Christians. Saul was not a man to be trifled with. He was wealthy, popular, well known, educated, and most of all had incredible authority. He did not make it to Damascus the way he intended. On the path he becomes blinded and the Lord came to Him. Jesus Christ spoke to Saul, condemning him for the ongoing persecutions. Saul became something new. He would be known throughout the world as the Apostle Paul. So what happened to Saul? Simple and yet complex, the Holy Spirit is a force in which we do not understand and yet we know it can change people, it can heal people, it can stop death, and much, much more.  

The water of Christ is like the untainted water in nature, pure and crisp, untoched by the hands of man.

So here I am on my very own path to Damascus and the first theme that comes to mind is transformation, second is perseverance. In order to understand Jesus we must under the nature of who Jesus was. As we learn in scripture, Jesus is love. We are loved and as I lay in this chilly tent with Riley (my service dog)  next to me pressed up against my hip, I’m reminded of love. Love is the lynchpin to everything, the transformation of our spirit, who we are, and the love that gives us salvation. Here’s the catch, love and salvation doesn’t mean your life will be easy or smooth sailing. Frankly, it’s the opposite, and life gets harder. To live in Christ is to carry a cross, but also paint a bullseye on your chest. To live in Christ is to be different however, to live with that renewing source of love everyday of your life. How can we love with so much hate and turmoil? For that we return to scripture. 

Our Lord and savior loved us eternally despite our cruel nature. Our nature of sin that is no less than cosmic treason. Christ died, bled for us and with arms wide open. The trinity being part of the sacrifice repaired the gap between God and mankind that was made in the fall. The trinity touching the Earth, covering the soil on Golgotha with innocent blood cleansing sins for all who seek Jesus with a repentant heart. Christ suffered for our sins, not just a death but a cruel, long ordeal of flogging with a scourge. This was a long ordeal of hatred and malice of men pouring out His blood with each whip tearing flesh from the body. Christ suffered for our sins and in a single sentence uttered from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ freed us from a fate we deserved, Hell. Luke 22:34 “Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.” That forgiveness is a gift that came at a high cost, but a gift we must choose to use. 

We all face change, but how we change is up to us. Do we change in Christ, or do we allow the world a chance to be what changes us? We all face the world every day, but it’s important we remember, “Don’t let the world be your Bible, let the Bible be your world.” (NK) Allow Christ to be the change in you. Saul changed and reminds us 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV)17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”Saul changed from the Holy Spirit and forever became Paul. As the world attacks you everyday the world wants to change you and when we truly take a look at the world, Satan rules it. Satan wants us to look like him, and not Christ. When we choose to transform ourselves to fit in the world, we choose to look like the god over the earth. It takes perseverance to fight against the forces that mean to sway you into darkness. When you choose to follow Christ, you live to follow Christ. Romans 12:1“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” We must not just feel different in our hearts, but allow that different feeling to shine in our actions every day. We cannot say we are different and still act and behave as if the world has a hold of us. We must renew ourselves daily and follow Romans 12:2“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” 

We all face the world, it’s peer pressure, it’s lies, it’s draw to look like the world living in greed, sex, cruelty, debauchery, and other sinful desires. When we face judgment at the foot of the cross, we will never be able to blame others for our actions. We will never be able to say someone else, or something else made us make sinful and un-Christ like decisions. We are all accountable for ourselves, and how we behave and treat others. The transformation that Saul goes through on the road to Damascus is a very real, fundamental example of how the Holy Spirit can change someone. Saul was a man who did awful, sinful things, and was motivated by hatred. Saul hated what the Christians stood for, and was determined to imprison, and even murder Christians. Saul was responsible for allowing Stephen to be stoned to death. We see the nature of Satan as he interferes with the workings of the Church and how Satan is determined to destroy as many lives as possible. Satan wants to break the bonds between God and man. By allowing ourselves to become overtaken by the world is to transform into the likeness of Satan. If we are to call ourselves Christians, everything we do must hold true to that scripture. We must work at it every day. We must not allow ourselves to be swayed by this world, but instead allow ourselves time in the Word of God. We must study, and take the word into our hearts so that when people (the world) looks at us we look different. When we stand up before the world and against the pressure of the world we will be judged by God. Do we allow ourselves to follow destructive paths, or do we allow our path to be laid out by Christ? Walking against the grain as it were is not an easy thing. Walking against the will of this world, and standing firm on the cross is the hardest thing you will ever do. 

There is hope for those who are walking with the world. It’s never too late and you’re never too far gone to change your life around and start living for Christ. It’s never too late to accept the gift of the Holy Spirit into your heart, and allow that spirit to change you into a new creation. There is nothing too big, or too small that the Holy Spirit cannot change. The Spirit can take killers and turn them into saints. The spirit can take thieves and turn them into great missionaries. The spirit can take the worst drunk and turn them into the best father. Christ is in the business of changing lives by loving us, and showing us mercy. We are washed through the water to wipe away our sins, and be made white as snow. Jesus Christ saves, and we need to understand that as long as we live in this world, it only takes one small step down the wrong path and before we know it we’ve slipped into a chasm unable to get out on our own. We must learn that when we follow Christ nothing is impossible. Christ can change hearts and minds without bending someone’s will. I’ve seen those with addictions, with cruel and malice hearts, even devout atheists change their path because of the Holy Spirit. We all walk our own path to Damascus and while some may never find God it’s not because God wasn’t there, it’s because they chose to deny. Just as much as the slow fade (casting crowns) can cause us to slip into sin, we are only one step away (casting crowns) from knowing Jesus Christ. On my path to Damascus I realized I had a choice, a choice to be a servant of Christ or be a servant of myself. I realized I made a choice in my past to walk in the wrong direction, and I realized how influencing the world is. I realized that once I chose to follow Christ so much of the pain, and so much of the despair that I was going through would be caused by my own sinful desires. I was sinking under the weight of my own sin, and I realized that Jesus Christ was the hand that reached into the mud and lifted me out. Every one of us walks our own path of Damascus we just need to choose to let go of ourselves, the selfishness that consumes us, and allow Jesus Christ into our hearts. Once we make the choice it’s something we have to work on daily. We cannot grow complacent because the Devil never stops. The Devil never takes a day off and neither can we. The Devil and the fallen angels in his army are constantly moving against the people living in this world, and if we are not careful the cunning snake enters our lives without us knowing it. We can never become complacent to the true and real dangers we as Christians face, particularly now. The war against Christianity is not just from other religions anymore, but from within the ranks of Christianity, from politicians, and other groups that aim to destroy the Christian faith. Much like Paul we know that to be a Christian is to live a different life, but also means that life will not be an easy path. Paul would undergo great pain and suffering in the name of Christ, but we suffer only a little while to live in paradise forever. 

Being a Christian is hard sometimes, but having faith that no matter where our path leads us, whether it be down a peaceful stream, a muddy mountainous trail, or the valley of death, the Lord will see us through any and all circumstances. I firmly believe that when we no longer have a purpose God will take us home. We of course have the choice to do stupid stuff and we can hurt ourselves in the process, but God will take us home when the time is right. Follow God’s path, and live a Christian life. Don’t walk an isle on Sunday, and smile and shake hands, but as soon as the doors open you go back into the world acting like a devil. We are always being watched from people all around us, and when we act like a devil people notice. It’s only a matter of time before someone says ‘if that’s what a Christian looks like I want no part of that.’ We must do better and not give a bad impression of what a Christian should look like. As a Christian we are little Christ, and we need to be Christ like. No, we will never be perfect, and we will always fail, but we are always able to make the choice what kind of person we want to be. Let the Holy Spirit cover you and transform you each and every day. Continue to grow and change in Christ and withstand the attacks from the world. I may not have finished my goal but I have learned from it and I have grown in lieu of my failure. I will not allow this to defeat me and I will continue to grow and try to better myself and allow my failures to make a better man and most importantly a better Christian. I will attempt to take the path to Damascus again, and I will do so with the lessons I have learned. It’s okay to fall and fail, just never give up. Do not allow pride to determine who you are, but instead humble yourselves before the Lord, ask for forgiveness from the sins you’ve committed, and repent to do better not tomorrow, but today. 

Blind Justice

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Blind Justice

We spend so much time trying to fight what we cannot see, smell, or touch. How do we prove something that happened 2000 years ago, and how do we face that truth if it were to flip our world upside down? The truth is we often hold anger and resentment early in our life that forces us down a path of quantifying what we see and what we fan feel, the problem is when that pain forces us to a feeling that there is nothing out there, no God, no grand plan, just cosmic chance.

We often want answers as to why bad things happen to good people. We want to know why people get sick, or why babies die, or why there is evil in the world? The idea that there is evil in the world because of a cosmic or divine standing such as sin is hard for some people to believe. Some people believe that sin is just the nature of man and man is only the wirings within the mind, the nature and nurture argument that a compound of events molds a person into the way they are and thus sin is nothing more then biology. While many compare this in adults, we fail to recognize the sin that spawns in children at an early age. The sin, or nature to lie, or to steal, or harm animals, or even other children is nature are it’s earliest stages but if it’s nature and nurture then what’s the cause? If human behavior is not inherently sinful and evil is a learned trait then where do children at this young age learn such behavior?

We want to think that we are in control of our lives, and that there is no one else, and nothing else at work. We want to believe that we are all we need and nothing else can dictate policy for our lives. Many view the Christian faith as a faith of rules, of guidelines in which a cosmic fairy tells us what we are doing wrong, as it takes the fun out of life, and in turn threatens us with some imaginary fiery torment for all eternity. So instead of putting any credence to this nonsense, people walk their walk and live their lives however they want, and while some live their lives in complete peace of others, there are some who find the cross so distasteful, so offensive that they cannot help themselves but to wage war with Christianity.

For those who wage war with Christianity, what is the main piece of contention? As it has been said by both Lee Strobel and J. Werner Wallace, the linchpin of Christianity rests with the resurrection of Christ. If the resurrection didn’t happen then the followers of Christ were liars and died for a known lie and Christ was just some profound Rabbi. If it did happen, and Christ did raise from the dead, then how would we be able to prove it happened? There are manuscripts that date back to within 30 years of the resurrection of Christ, and there are thousands of manuscripts that can all be cross-referenced to prove validity. That being said, there is still the question of how to prove or disprove the case for Christ. There are 5843 surviving manuscripts of ancient texts that is far more then those of the Iliad, and other early writings. All of these things further the evidence that this was not an isolated account. How can we expect to find truth if we are unwilling to truly add up the facts that all point to one truth, Jesus.

Women were not allowed to be legal witnesses, and every account of the life and resurrection of Christ does not show discrepancies, it shows a different perspective, different pieces of the puzzle that all point to the same overall story, despite the small variances in story, the overwhelming evidence points to the empty tomb that the Romans, and Jews were unable to prove foul play. The first account of the missing body was reported by women, and the fact that would only hurt the case for Chris, yet that did not detract the Apostles to tell the truth. There is no way 500 people would have been under some joint hallucination, or mass psychosis. This is just simply not possible. Yet, so many people discount the 500 eye witness, the truth does not just come from followers of Christ, yet Romans and Jews alike. The accounts of the empty tomb and the death of those followers of Christ has accounts on both sides who wanted nothing more then to prove the stolen body theory. Jesus did not survive the cross as many have proven, that his death was most assuredly accurate.

Scripture is not the only account out there but scripture is the only truth, the others just collaborate the truth. Jesus was thrust with a spear at the end of his life by trained killers, killers who if failed would be executed themselves. Jesus died on the cross from his injuries sustained in a flogging, beatings, hanging on the cross unable to breath, and bleeding to death, Christ would not have survived his ordeal. The cross is offensive to so many, but even for sinners and atheists alike, the cross is a symbol one so many find distasteful or are afraid of. So many people allow their anger and hate to blind them from a truth they don’t want to see. The truth is, it doesn’t matter if you are Atheist, Buddhist, Muslim, Pagan, or any other faith sins are equal at the foot of the cross. Jesus dying on the cross for the love of all mankind was a gift, one that was given freely and for all those who seek Him to use. A gift without application is worthless, but for those of us who seek Christ, who seek to have a relationship with the Father, we understand that the justice of the Father is blind. We understand that before the cross all sin is equal, and so long as we seek the Father through Jesus Christ the sins we have are washed away because Christ alone took the punishment, the wrath of God for them. As we know from our own legal system, justice holds the scales and is blind to anything but the facts. Our Heavenly Father does not see our color, our creeds, our nationalities, even our flaws, for the scales are level for each of us. Our hearts which turn to Christ, to be made a new creation, to burn away the sins of the past, to be reborn with a new heart, washed by the waters in baptism showing ones faith to the world, starting a path as a new person.

It is because of Christ I do not fear death, instead I know that when my work here on Earth is done I will be welcomed home with open arms. It is because of Christ that I have any hope at all within this life, and the hardships I’ve endured seem to mean something. It is in Christ I know that my suffering as not been for naught and I trust in my Fathers plans for me. I know that love is more powerful then my sins, and that sins albeit cosmic treason against an almighty, all powerful God, love concurs death itself. My works are but filthy rags to the Lord but my heart is worth all eternity. It is the heart in which Christ died for, the gift for each and every one of us to choose to have that relationship with Him in our hearts. How lucky are we to have a God who cares about us, who cares about our well being, and wants only what’s best for us. How gracious are we to be to give God nothing short of our love and devotion. Jew and Gentiles we are all welcomed into the Kingdom, and the price of admission is love. We are to have a loving relationship with Jesus Christ.

Christ changed my life two years ago, and while it hasn’t been an easy road for me, I know that Christ has plans for me. I was angry with God for the way everything had happened with my ex-wife. I was angry that I was made to go through such an awful even not once, but twice in my life. God though doesn’t make people do bad things, they are more then capable of doing that on their own. God does however promise to see us through those bad times. God promises that He would never leave nor forsake us. God didn’t just promise those things to me in passing, but when the odds were stacked against me to survive, God put a stop to my own death, assuring me my sins were forgiven, and breathing new life into my chest. A miracle to say the very least, and not only did I survive, I have come so far under the guidance of my Heavenly Father. Christ lives and as one of my favorite movie series points out, “God’s NOT DEAD!” No God is not dead, and the empty tomb and over 500 eyewitnesses proves that. We have so much evidence for the existence of Christ’s miraculous life, all we have to do is accept what we find. Bad things happen in and around the church and this often pushes people away. People judge God by the actions of people. People hate God or despise the very existence of God because they often feel hurt or betrayed by God, or deny that a God could be so careless to allow such evil or bad things to happen. The truth is, we don’t always have the answers of God and the why, but we do understand that we have free will to love or hate. We have free will to build or destroy, and it’s in those decisions our actions are born, thus we do amazing or awful things. The pursuit of power, greed, or sexual lust are the three basis that people do most things wrong in adult life. God does not need us, but wants us to be with Him in Heaven.

Jesus Dies 

Luke 19:44-46“Now it was about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. 45 Then the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in two. 46 And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit.’ ” Having said this, He breathed His last.”

John 19:34“But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out.”

The Empty Tomb 

Luke 24:1-12 24 “Now on the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they, [a]and certain other women with them, came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared. 2 But they found the stone rolled away from the tomb. 3 Then they went in and did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 And it happened, as they were [b]greatly perplexed about this, that behold, two men stood by them in shining garments. 5 Then, as they were afraid and bowed their faces to the earth, they said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, 7 saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’ ”

8 And they remembered His words. 9 Then they returned from the tomb and told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest. 10 It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them, who told these things to the apostles. 11 And their words seemed to them like [c]idle tales, and they did not believe them. 12 But Peter arose and ran to the tomb; and stooping down, he saw the linen cloths [d]lying by themselves; and he departed, marveling to himself at what had happened.” 

John 20:4-7“So they both ran together, and the other disciple outran Peter and came to the tomb first. 5 And he, stooping down and looking in, saw the linen cloths lying there; yet he did not go in. 6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; and he saw the linen cloths lying there, 7 and the [a]handkerchief that had been around His head, not lying with the linen cloths, but folded together in a place by itself.”

Jesus Resurrected 

John 20:24-29 24 “Now Thomas, called the Twin, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said to him, “We have seen the Lord.”

So he said to them, “Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.”

26 And after eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, “Peace to you!” 27 Then He said to Thomas, “Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing.”

28 And Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!”

29 Jesus said to him, [f]“Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

Reasons to Believe 

The eye witnesses had power, had prestige, and money. They had nothing to gain giving up their life for Christ, except for the truth of a Heavenly Father. Every eyewitness was willing to die for the truth. That puts their testimony in a different category then you or I.

The chain of evidence is there if people actually look at it. The writings and teachings did not change from writings within 20-30 years, till the counsel in which the bible was assembled.

Christianity is true because the evidence points to truth. God is truth and the scales are equal for each and every one of us. 

Check the Loot

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Check the Loot

The other day, I asked someone what loot they came up with, and they weren’t sure what I meant. I figured it was an obvious question, but as I have come to realize, nothing I think is obvious. I’ve been considering a few things this Christmas and the first is, do we truly hold the Christmas spirit in our daily life? Second, how much emphasis do we put on the ‘stuff’ we get? While there’s no doubt, I was very surprised by some of my items I received as they were not on my list, but fit me very well. I will say this, I am immensely blessed this year. I received far more then I deserved and I cannot express the happiness I felt. While I am very happy for what I received this year, I can safely say nothing compares to the gift of that baby boy we celebrate.

We give gifts to our loved ones the same way Jesus received gifts. While Jesus did not receive the Wise Men’s gifts the night he was born, we honor that tradition. I see that I am a nobody, and all I’m doing is trying to share the word about somebody. (Casting Crowns) I have come to realize for so many years I wanted to make a difference in this world. I wanted to be remembered for making a difference, but as I have grown I have realized it’s not about me. It’s not even about the people around me, for the only one I need to please is my Heavenly Father. I work for his pleasure, I work for the glory of God, and my reward will be eternal salvation in Heaven. That’s the greatest gift I could ever ask for. It’s time for me to change my focus and step back from my own desire, and focus on the desire of my Abba.

I spent so long in my life looking for others for approval, for acceptance, and as I am now realizing, it’s Christ I needed the approval from. My heart was wrapped in chains, and nothing would ever quench the thirst I had. I was held in bondage under the twisted notion that what I did in this life mattered if it wasn’t for the right reasons. I held onto the idea that if I worked hard enough, if I gave enough, if I helped enough that I would be accepted, that my gifts of my heart, or my time, would win over those around me, but those I was giving myself to were of this world, and my gift would be in vein. I wanted to be accepted by the world, and I was wrong thinking their acceptance would account for anything. It is in scripture I found the gift that has lasted a lifetime. Romans 12:2“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” The gifts I wanted would never satisfy and it took me years before I found that. 

While we are going through the loot we got please keep in mind the gift of the living waters, the gift of love and grace we were giving in that baby boy’s sacrifice. No matter how much we love the gifts we get they are nothing compared to the gift of salvation and forgiveness of our sins. There is nothing greater and we best not loose sight of that. Sure it’s nice to have cool gadgets and toys but we can’t take them with us. It’s better to enjoy the time with friends and family over the stuff we get. 

Have You Been Naughty or Nice?

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Have You Been Naughty or Nice? 

We are in the mindset we’ve been nice, and we’ve made the list in which Santa Claus has checked twice. We think we deserve gifts and presents but we’ve lost sight of what’s so important. Instead of Santa it’s God who truly knows if we’ve been naughty or nice. When we think of our walk are we walking in God’s will or our own will? Luke 1:26-3326 “Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” 29 But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. 30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. 33 And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”Our sins are treacherous and filthy and our sins forever place us on the naughty list. We are wrapped up in emotions this time of year and we often loose sight of truth. Faith is based on God’s truth not emotions. We cannot look back to our emotions and expect our perceptions to be based on reality. 

Santa is a fun fantasy we enjoy but we cannot take our eyes off of the real giver of the best gift we could ever accept. Forgiveness of our sins for eternal salvation is freely given despite the naughty nature of our lives. Hebrews 11:6“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” We must accept into our heart that 

James 1:17“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.”

Philippians 4:19 (NKJV)19 “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

Matthew 7:11“If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!”

John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

We celebrate Christmas of the little baby in the manger, but we forget it was be cause we were hopeless without Him, we were sinners in which there was no hope of works to win our way to Heaven. Death is a gift, a release of a sinful life for a place of no sorrow, no pain, and no tears. Our naughty nature is wasted away and Heaven awaits us where we will forever be amazing.

Now, before all of you get up in arms about Santa Claus let me add a personal note, I believe the spirit of Santa Claus is very alive and real. In the 4thcentury Saint Nicholas was a very alive and real person who gave gifts generously to those of the poor. While the legend has changed, and small things were added or moved, the idea of Santa has endured. The magic and mysticism of Santa may have grown as time has moved forward, but the truth is, while Santa may no longer be a real person (that we know of) the thought of what Santa represents is just fine. Giving to those in need selflessly is not only a Santa thing, but as the Saint who gave birth to the legend was a Christian bishop. Live your life with a giving heart, and full of love. Keep Christmas cheer and while Santa is great, remember Santa worked for Christ, just doing as Christ had done. Don’t put Santa ahead of Christ, but don’t miss the spirit of good ol Saint Nick. 

The Devil Prowls

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The Devil Prowls 

I can feel the darkness creeping in towards me. I can feel the shadow close in all around me, the memories in my head, I know the attack looms, bringing the fight to my mind, the fight for my heart. The night is long, and I can feel the grasping gloom over my body. I am trapped in the world unable to run fast enough. Every time I look back he’s there watching me. His eyes burn through me red and piercing through my flesh. I cannot escape the one who is everywhere. Alone I run and everywhere I turn I find a blocked path, but what is it that I see, the reflection of failures, reminding me how retched I am. The demons dancing around every failure, every shortcoming, every mistake taunting me, laughing at me, their howls echo in the night. I run faster now tripping on branches and roots that seem to be trying to grab me. The rain comes in the night, frozen, and sharp against my face. The punch comes across my face before I see where it came from. The blood trickles from my mouth. The blow to my stomach knocks me to my knees. The next to my back, then another to my face, and I stand arms raised and I see no one. The blow to my face knocks me back off my feet and I land on my back. My nose breaks and blood chokes me. I roll to my side and start to stand and feel the kick to my stomach. I hear the hyena laughs from all around me. I stumble to my feel and run through the pain.

I fight the voices, I fight the wolves chasing me, how did I get here so lost in the black away from the light. I cannot run anymore for my legs are tired, I am sinking down as the world tilts under me. I fall and hit one branch after another before I grab hold of a stump. I look down and the shadow is reaching towards me. I feel the pull, the invisible lasso that wraps my legs. I struggle to hold on, but I can’t let go. I cannot give up, and I cannot give in. “You are mine.” I hear the shadow say, the echo pierces my mind. “You’re a failure” I hear in my mind. “You are nothing.”  I struggle, I grit my teeth and I try to pull my self up, but the chains are holding me. The shadow, the one with the red eyes pierces deep into me, and I feel the darkness rush over my whole body. The flashes of everything I’ve lost, friends, family, health, jobs, homes, and then I hear it again, “I will take everything from you.” 

I scream and I begin to lift myself up, “you cannot win” the Devil screams at my resolve. I can feel the cold hands wrap around my throat and I’m flying through the air before landing hard on the ground. I feel the air bounce out of me as I gasp. The Devil holds me above the ground, the eyes stab into my mind searching my fears, my failures, and I feel the freeze cover my flesh.

I finally get the chance to speak, “you’ll never have me.” I am pulled down face to face with the king of the demons, the fire dancing in his eyes, the piercing bright flames I can’t bare to look into. “I’m not afraid of you!” I tell Satan. I laugh at Satan, and feel the spike pierce my side. “You’re going to loose, and He is going to kick your….”

The bright light shines all around me; the cold is replaced with heat, and I can’t see beyond the white all around me. I hear battle cries from all around and I make myself small on the ground. The ground shakes, the earth quakes, and I can hear Satan cry in the light. I smile through the pain, “told you so.”

The Angels came down with Jesus leading them, Michael leading the charge of the demons fleeing in the woods; Jesus comes to me placing his hands on me. “I knew you’d come.” The sweet, soothing voice of Jesus responded, “I’m always with you.” His hand placed over my heart and the warmth, the energy flowed through my broken body and in just an instant I could feel my body healed.

Make no mistake, Satan is powerful and he is dangerous. Many people believe in Christ but doubt the nature of the Devil. Scripture is very clear on this point that not only is Satan real, but as Paul points out in 2 Corinthians 4:4“whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.” Paul is writing to the city of Corinth and is giving warning of worldliness, and the idea of fire insurance. Paul, who was an educated man, respected among the Jews for a time, and Christians, spoke with authority, and always chose his words carefully. Paul uses the word theos, and translates to god, with a little g. Satan is god of the earthly domain, and as it was pointed out to me recently, Satan could not have tempted Jesus without having something legitimate to offer. Satan should not be underestimated, and you should never let your guard down. It’s important for you to stand firm on the word of God, and know that Jesus will never let you go through the darkness alone. No matter if you are walking in the valley, by the streams, or the meadow, Christ is always with you. The fight for your soul is very real, and the Devil attacks daily trying to break through the defenses, but “If you can take it, you can make it.” (Unbroken) 

I have watched so many fall to the temptations of Satan and I have watched as good people made bad choices. I have watched as people I looked up too, to show me Christ in them failed when the going got tough. We all fall short of the Glory Of God, and we all fail, we all Sin. Sin is everywhere around us, and it’s easy for us to make one false step and we fall into the pit. Satan is like the Sarlacc waiting for you to slip in, and once in, unable to escape. The fact is though, Satan may grab hold of you, but that doesn’t mean you are forever in his grasp. Jesus can break through anything. Jesus heals any heart, and is more powerful then we can ever imagine. Satan may be lord over the earth, but Jesus is Lord over Everything. Satan cannot hold you, he cannot break you, he cannot bond you to anything so long as you allow Christ into your heart. Jesus will always win over Satan and we have nothing to fear. Stay firm in your walk, and check your armor daily. Focus on the Lord and you will stand fast when the Devil prowls in the night. 

The Lord Protects Me

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The Lord Protects Me 

Psalm 121:5The Lord is your keeper;

The Lord is your shade at your right hand.

6 The sun shall not strike you by day,

Nor the moon by night.

7 The Lord shall preserve you from all evil;

He shall preserve your soul.

8 The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in

From this time forth, and even forevermore.

The Lord is my Keeper. I am his sheep and as he is my Shepherd I trust my safety in His perfect hands. We are important to God so God has determined to give us His attention. God does not keep score of our past transgressions after we repent and ask for forgiveness. Acts 3:19“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord,” If the creator of the Heavens and Earth loves us so much shouldn’t we be able to put our faith in God? 

God will not bend or break to the attacks of the evil that tried to overthrow and destroy the Kingdom. The attacks are never ending and God is ever watchful for the protections of not only the glorious Kingdom of Heaven, which always has been and always will be perfect, but of each and every one of our souls. God will always give us what we need when we need it. It’s not to say we don’t have trials and troubles, but God will give us strength, joy, peace and no matter what we may need to do, God is with us. We struggle in a world that’s tough, but our souls are safe. Psalm 121:7“The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul.”

I have experienced a great number of trials in my life, and in the worst of them, I could feel the presence of God. I recall the ambush in Iraq, feeling at ease despite the chaos all around me. After I took that bullet to the shoulder and lost consciousness and I experienced a near death close call, the voice of God brought me back from the brink. I can say without a doubt if it weren’t for God I wouldn’t be alive today. God has seen fit to protect me, to keep me alive, and is always keeping me on track. God has not always kept me from harm, but God has protected my soul.

Deuteronomy 31:6 (NKJV)6 “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”From my own life I know that this is true, and I have never been left. I trust in my Lord, and I know that no matter what happens to my physical body, my soul is safe. I know that my future is set, and I will do what I can in this life to be pleasing to God, and one day I will finish the race and I will be called home. Forever protected by my King. 

So Glad I’m Forgiven

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So Glad I’m Forgiven

Even though I’m a sinner forever in this life, Christ, the greatest physician heals this world to give us eternal hope. I am not a perfect man, and I’ve made plenty of mistakes in my life. While I’ve always tried to walk a good path, I haven’t always put my best foot forward. I can never do enough to work to earn my way into Heaven. I cannot work hard enough to make my way into Heaven. It is by grace alone I am saved.

1 John 1:9 (NKJV)9 “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 

Because of grace which we can see that grace while Christ was on the cross,

Luke 23:32-43 (NKJV)

32 There were also two others, criminals, led with Him to be put to death. 33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. 34 [a]Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”

And they divided His garments and cast lots. 35 And the people stood looking on. But even the rulers with them sneered, saying, “He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God.”

36 The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine, 37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.”

38 And an inscription also was [b]written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew:

THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, [c]“If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.”

40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said [d]to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.”

43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”

Even in the final hour, being able to offer nothing to Christ, the criminal on the cross was forgiven and promised Heaven. Forgiveness is a gift, it’s a gift we could never deserve, yet through grace we are given anyway. I know I can never do enough to tip the scales in my favor. Matthew 6:14-15 (NKJV) 14 “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. We are given a choice how we want to live in this life. Will you live with love and forgiveness in your heart, or will you hold hate and grudges in your heart? We must always be a reflection of Christ in all we do. The love we share must always be the reflection of our Heavenly Father. When we live in the Lord we shall be rewarded in kind. 

I know I’m not perfect, and I know that there is no reason for Jesus to forgive me for the sins that I commit, but He does in fact forgive me every day. I am lost in the darkness without my light, and I have no hope in this life without Jesus Christ. I have seen and known so much pain, and I have lived this life in a constant struggle, but even when I’ve cried in the night, I was set free from my chains by the blood sacrifice of my Lord Jesus Christ. The darkness fades away in the light, and I am not covered in the tar of my sins anymore. The white covers my life, and the darkness tries to slip, slither back in, but Jesus Christ is my shield, the bubble of white I live in protecting me when I walk through the valley of the shadow of Death. 

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Pearl Harbor

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Pearl Harbor

December 7th1941, a date in which the Empire of Japan deliberately, and maliciously attacked the Pacific Naval Fleet on the island of Pearl Harbor. 77 years ago over 2000 were killed, over another 1000 wounded, and countless ships and aircraft destroyed. We remember today the sacrifice made by the men and women who served and gave everything on this morning 77 years ago. What does it mean to serve? What does it mean to sacrifice? 

Jesus said, John 15:13 (NKJV)13 “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” The end for so many is a scary time. For millions the end of their life whether it’s of old age, or taken by way of an accident is a terrifying ordeal. There are so many people who are lost in the end who never knew the love of Jesus Christ. I think of the over 2000 souls lost 77 years ago and wonder how many of them were saved. I think back of what that morning in Hawaii must have been like. The weather was beautiful and much like any other morning people were at work, and none of them knew it would be their last day, their last chance to know Jesus Christ. I think of those who died in the Arizona as the air slowly faded and the slow time it took to face the truth that it would be their last day. The sad, yet undeniable truth is that we never know when our time is up. The biggest question is what have we done, or what will we do with the time we have left, however long that may be? 

Psalm 90:12“So teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom.”I remember when I was in the military and I never knew when the last day might come. I went on mission wondering if it would be my last, if my number were up that day. While the experience stuck with me for years, I can remember being both calm and terrified at the same time. I recall feeling at ease because I knew where I was going, but also I found it upsetting all the things I would never be able to do. It seems irrational thinking about all the things yet to experience in this life considered the perfection of Heaven, but the feelings I experienced were very real. I had been a Christian my whole life up till that point 20-21 years, but all things considered I was a baby in my faith. It wasn’t until many years later that I would have a much better and in depth view of what it truly means to be Christian. 

Today the thought of so many people in this world who don’t know Christ and who will never know the eternal life of Heaven breaks my heart. The evidence points to the Gospels being true accounts, the Non-Biblical accounts corroborate many of the Biblical facts. Even with that people choose to think of Jesus as a myth, a crazy man, or just a regular guy who did nice things for people. The facts are fairly plane when you put all the pieces together instead of picking and choosing what to focus on. While it’s true none of us saw what happened that day, the fact remains that there are eyewitness accounts of the acts of Jesus Christ, and the ‘facts’ point to a risen Christ with an empty tomb. The empty tomb shows Christ overcame death and promised we too who follow would also overcome death.

I think it’s important to use events like Pearl, Boston, 9/11, San Bernardino, even events like hurricanes, that we understand the end day is never promised to be after a long life. We must count our days, and to gain a heart of wisdom is to be blessed by God. We are blessed in salvation, but we must accept that salvation. We must place our hope in the Son, and accept the nature of life, and that it’s not told to us when or how the end comes. It’s better to be prepared and to know the savior and be at ease when the moment of death arrives no matter if it’s at a ripe old age, or a sudden accident. We need to count the blessings for each and every day, and understand tomorrow is never promised.

And Test Me Not Into Temptation

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And Test Me Not Into Temptation 

Distraction away from what’s important. The Devil draws you away and wants to sew conflict into your life. The Devil in Matthew 2:1-7“Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, [a]wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: 6 ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’ ” 7 Then Herod, when he had secretly called the [b]wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared.” The Devil used Harod in an attempt to end Christmas before it began. The Savior was born and in order to stop from being removed from power, Harod’s increasingly more paranoid state of mind led him to slaughter kids from the ages of newborn to three years old. How awful a stain on the joy of Christmas. Satan stained Harod’s heart with the sin of selfishness, greed of money and power. 

Satan tries to tempt you in this life away from God, or away from God’s blessings. Temptations come in every shape and size. For some temptation comes in alcohol, women, men, drugs, addictions, and so many others. Are we strong enough to withstand and turn away those temptations? Of course we are only human and there will be times in which we do, and sadly times we fall.

Do we respond with hate, or anger when our beliefs are attacked? Recently in the news there have been attacks on Christmas songs, and even the old claymation movie Rudolph. These attacks will come and will tempt us to try and follow the world’s flow, but as it’s said, it’s better stand with God and be judged by man, rather then to stand with man and be judged by God. Don’t loose sight of what’s important.

Matthew 6:13“And do not lead us into temptation,

But deliver us from the evil one.

[a]For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.” 

700

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700

I almost missed this milestone, and how sad that would have been. How fitting that last night I watched the video for the first time I taught class in church. The lesson I taught was on the full armor of God. I have been putting thought in my own growth over the last few days. It’s interesting how God works things out, that I had lost track of how many posts I have had, and this gives me the opportunity to see at least how far I’ve come in numbers. I started this ministry on February 23rd 2017, and now 700 posts later, I’m still, by the grace of God, going strong. I’ve tried to step away and slow down, and while I must admit I’ve missed a day or so in the last couple months, I’ve maintained a steady stream of posts. It’s not been an easy road, maintaining full time school, this ministry, and my social events. God has been good to me, blessing me, and watching over me as I have continued to try my best to do good works.

2018 has been a good year for my blog. While of course my numbers aren’t where I’d like them to be, I feel blessed that this year there was an increase then that of 2017. The number of views I’ve had so far this year have been 9,497. The visitors has been 5,901, likes 637, and 112 comments. While some of these numbers are far lower then I’d like, I must confess that if my blog just touches one life and helps strengthen someone’s walk with Christ then I’ve done exactly what God has asked me of. This year my blog has been viewed in 105 different countries. While I’m not able to go out to all the nations, I have been able to reach many, and I thank God for giving me the ability to continue the great commission in my own way.

Matthew 28:16-20Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted.18 “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.” 

We all have our own gifts, our own voice, our own special talents, and we must be thankful for what we have because we have been specially chosen for them by God, to live a life with a special purpose. We all our place in this world, and even when someone feels lost, or disconnected, or even alone, fear not, we are never far from God. The wonderful thing about God is we don’t need an appointment to sit down with Him. We don’t need to wait in a crowded hospital emergency room to be seen for our ailments. God is right there waiting for us when we are ready to accept His Son Jesus Christ into our hearts. There’s never a time when Jesus stops loving us. There’s never a time when God forgets us. There’s never a time we are alone on our path. We may be lost in our own way, but the path of God is always lit up. It’s not easy being a Christian today, with so many reasons not too, with so many opinions, and science, and hateful people, but as we understand scripture, the name Christian will become more offensive as we get closer to the end times. We should not be surprised that holiday’s such as Christmas begins to get pushed back in meaning, while the name alone survives. The birth of a baby boy is so far removed from peoples minds, that now it’s about the gifts, the deals, the food, and very little is about the birth of our savior. How wonderful it is to be able to write about God freely without fear of being persecuted by my government, without fear of executions or my family being targeted as enemies of the state. For now I write and I am blessed that God has given such a wonderful gift.

I can only hope and pray that as time moves forward for me, and as I work to a new type of ministry, this has not only allowed me to reach thousands of people in the time since it’s inception, but it’s helped me grow closer to God by diving deeper into His word, and teaching me valuable lessons not only about scripture, but myself also. I wonder how much I’ve grown, and not just in scriptural knowledge, but in a visible way. As I study to be approved, and I continue on a path towards ordination, and finishing my degree, I pray God continues to light my path, remove obstacles unnecessary for my growth, and continues to forge me into a Soldier of Christ. I do not claim to look forward to the trials ahead, but I know and understand, and expect them to come. It’s in trials we learn the most, and show how far we’ve come. God has blessed me with a wonderful lady Argie in my life, wonderful friends, an amazing best friend and brother Glen in Christ, and I could not ask for more blessings. It’s taken me a long time to find contentment in my life, and as I have not always been the most ideal picture of patience, I confess I am glad in some ways that wait is over. Even though there are trials ahead, and challenges in both my walk with Christ, and my relationship with such a wonderful woman of God, I know that God is still in control, and still working out the board for the path to twist and turn exactly where it needs too. I am so grateful for my friends that are always there for me, especially my few close friends in the Philippines. I am truly blessed to have a couple friends from that wonderful country that are so wonderful, and sweet, and loyal.

I am looking forward to m hiking trip in January on the Appalachian trail that I will be focusing on a series I’ll write about the Apostle Paul. I will be on the trail for somewhere around six days maybe longer on a set route. I am blessed to be able to take time away from my busy life and dive into God’s word, and hear the message He lays upon my heart. I expect it to be a challenge physically and mentally as I will face cold, and separation from friends and family. This will be an amazing opportunity for me, and I pray God blesses my trip, and keeps my friends safe while I’m away.

Other then my relationship change, and my continued efforts towards finishing my degree there isn’t a whole lot new in my life. The status quo seems to be a fairly constant and consistent motion for now, and while there have been spiritual attacks along the way, with the guidance and blessings from God, along with God appointed people in my life at the right times, I have been able to weather all the storms and keep pushing forward. It’s hard to believe it’s been another 100 posts but God is good, and as long as God continues to bless me with messages, I will continue to write and post, and pray to inspire others along my own spiritual journey. God bless all of you, and please feel free to share this website with others, maybe we can get a small ember to turn into a flame for God.