Tag: jesus

Every Contingency

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Every Contingency

As I have spent the last few months preparing for my mid December hiking trip, I have come to realize one very important factor that I am not in control over my destiny. I have tried to plan for every contingency, and the most I plan, the more carefully this plan is thought out, the words of Lenard Snartrun through my mind, “Make a plan, execute the plan, expect the plan to go off the rails, throw away the plan.” How true this statement is, not just for clever heists of Argus held technology, but in all of life. I have tried to think of every contingency, every minor detail of emergency I can think of, but when it comes down to it, I am not in control. Yes, there is a measure of free will, and yes, I am choosing to do this hike, and I am chosen where and when, but in my heart I know God has laid this trip on me for a reason, and I will go with an open heart to hear what God has to say.

 

One does not build a tower without first counting the cost. You do not build without a plan, and you cannot succeed in war without first being prepared for battle. I do not claim to know all that will happen, but I go humbly before the Lord the one who made the woods, and the mountains, and I ask for guidance and clarity and peace along this planning and execution phases.  James 4:13-17 (NKJV)13 “Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; 14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. 15 Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.” 16 But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. 17 Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.”

 

While I don’t pretend to know everything, I do think God gives us the ability to think logically and with the gift of intelligence we are able to take in information and process it and we formulate solutions based on the data we have at the time. We aren’t always right and we don’t always use every bit of information we may have available to us, and we may not always come to the right conclusions, but when we walk with God, when we ask ourselves every day what would Jesus do, we are far more likely to get it right, far more often.

 

As I have planned for bad weather, small injuries, fire, food, warmth, wet, wild animals, water, and not just for me but for Riley also, I understand there will be things I will find on the trail I didn’t need, or things I wish I had, but even if this trek in the woods turns out to be a failure then I will learn from that failure and I will do better the next time.

 

A lot of people have asked me why I would be willing to, or even want to do a trip like this, and the answer I have often given seems to be an over simplification, and the true, deeper answer is far more complicated. Death comes for us all, and I often wonder when my time will be. In the last two years I have faced death, and then a life changing back surgery. In that time I have often looked at my life and questioned what I was to learn, what I was giving up and loosing in all of this. I was so focused on what I lost, that I couldn’t see what I can gained. I have gained perspective and insight into a faith I didn’t know I could ever have. I would come to face my past and be forced to dissect it in order to truly heal. I have loved ones I have lost and that I miss. One of my favorite quotes is ‘Living is not for the weak.’ It’s hard being on this side, but this side is important. As much as I miss my loved ones who’ve gone home, I try to keep my focus on the mission, the reason I’m still here. I try not to let my grief distract me from what God wants me to do. I remember that if it were my time to go Home God would take me, and he would have taken me two years ago when I nearly died, but I am still here, fighting the good fight. I do not pray for death, but I am prepared to meet death like an old friend when the time comes.

 

This journey is for me to focus on God, and regain something within myself I lost. This trip is for me to prove to myself that I can still do things I love, even if it’s different from before. This trip is for me to hear God more clearly, to focus on that relationship and get back to a simpler time. Faith is important to me, and knowing that my original route was canceled because the hurricane washed out the bridge, and then me finding the most perfect route I could have ever asked for, Marion to Damascus. The path to Damascus is a long, and difficult one, but much like Paul, the path is meant to be difficult, and even painful to pick away parts of me that I don’t need and make me more like Christ every day. Remember as you move forward in your life it’s good to make plans, to seek Godly counsel, but don’t be so rigid in your plans that you don’t leave room for God to change them. You have to know that the course we set according to Christ will always follow that North Star, but sometimes God sees fit to alter our course slightly and we can’t be upset when those course corrections come. When we realize we aren’t the Captain of our ship, we are more willing to let God be in control and realize we’re just along for the ride. Be wise and trust in God but don’t spend so much time worrying about life even though we are told to plan. It’s okay if God changes the plan because if God changes things for you, it means something better is coming, even if you have to go through the storm first.

Path Of The Warrior

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Path Of The Warrior

Can you look in the mirror and tell yourself you’re your best self? What does your best self mean? That’s a deep question and it will undoubtedly raise a lot of little bubbles from your brain as you ponder the true meaning of what is your best self? Are you living your life to the best of your ability? Are you skating by just to do the least possible in your day? Are you working your life away letting the relationships pass you by? God has given us a balance of work and family responsibilities, but also to evangelize, to minister to those around us. When was the last time you stepped out into the deep end to really push yourself? When was the last time you were willing to give everything? These are tough, thought provoking questions but it’s truly something we all must face at some point. Are you truly alive, because it’s true, not all who live are truly alive?

This last weekend I was given the opportunity to attend a Warrior Health & Wellness Expo with the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). While I was there I got to thinking how poorly I’d done keeping up with my health and wellness. My physical injuries have become a crutch, an excuse for me to become lazy and complacent with my physical well-being. Since my back injury I have gained almost 30 pounds in a year. That’s an egregious amount of weight in a year. I look at myself in the mirror and I don’t think it looks so bad, but when I see myself in photo’s I am ashamed at myself. In the last several years maintaining weight has become a challenge. It seems and feels that no matter what I eat, how well, or how poorly, I still gain weight, and loosing it is an incredibly difficult challenge. The thing is, when I gave up the fight I was not living to be my best self, and if I’m not my best self, I’m not the best warrior for Christ. I think in my humble opinion, if you aren’t fit mind, body, and soul we aren’t able to be fully prepared for the missions Christ may bestow upon us. In the Army we had a saying, and I think it applies to the path of Christ, “Fit to Fight”. Are we truly fit to fight for Christ?

Truly, we must ask ourselves, what if we gave our everything? We want to eat what we want, and do what we want, and we think there isn’t a cost. We have the mentality that ‘it’s our life’ and sadly, we couldn’t be more wrong. Our life is to live for Christ and if we aren’t taking good care of ourselves we aren’t living the best we can for Christ. We as a nation have become complacent and we are not taking time to take care of ourselves. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NASB)19 “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? 20 For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.”  If someone bought us a nice car would we be grateful or would be trash it because we didn’t buy it with our own hard earned money? We cannot take our gift for granted, and we must accept that we only live because God breathed life into us. We were allowed to live and yet we walk around completely ungrateful.

Health is holistic meaning entire body, and if we are to be fit to fight we must be physically healthy and if our emotional health will be truly healthy the mind and the body are connected, then if one suffers, they both suffer. We must take our physical health as seriously as we would anything else in our life. If you are called are you ready to go? Are you afraid of the cost? What would you be willing to give up to follow Christ? Would you be willing to give up fast foods? Would you be willing to give up smoking, or sodas for Christ?

We need to take care of ourselves, and that starts with a simple word, honesty. We need to be honest about what’s going on inside our bodies. We need to be honest about our mental health. We need to be honest about our emotions. We need to be honest about our physical health. We can’t live in denial, afraid to face the challenges ahead. If we continue to kick the can down the road, eventually we’re going to have a pile of cans to deal with.

When I first had my back surgery I fell into a depression thinking of all the things I could no longer do. Instead of saying I can, my mantra at the time became, I can’t. I think many of us are like that today. It’s as easy as, my (blank) hurts so I can’t do this anymore. What we fail to realize is, there’s usually alternatives. When Paul was on his second mission journey he attempted to go into Asia many times, and each time was turned away. He never once said to God, ‘okay so I can’t go there, I’m going to just pack up and go home.’ He found another way, other places he could work. God doesn’t want us to just sit around, and we often think of our injuries, or illnesses as a hindrance, but what if those things are our Asia? What if we are meant to walk a different path because of those we will meet down the road in which we can minister too? Before my back injury I was doing well in the roll of security, and I was planning to move to Colorado, and start a new life there. Instead I had a major back injury, which led me to the path I’m on, which defiantly seems more God centered. While not everyone will go from a career into ministry, it’s still something you need to examine and really think about what are you doing in your newlife? It may be that you have new opportunities to minister, it may be that you have opportunities for missions, or even just a different brand of people. Either way, if you are walking with the Lord, you will find there’s a purpose for your change, for your injury, something God can turn tragedy into blessing. Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”

I think of the path for Tony Stark in the movies, and that he was on a particular path in his life. He wasn’t using his gifts for the betterment of mankind. He was selfish, and cared little for the impact of the things he did, which affected the lives of thousands. He was wounded, captured, imprisoned for months, and this set him on a new path. Tony Stark went from party boy eccentric billionaire, to egotistical superhero. Something absolutely horrible had to happen to Tony to set him on his course to make a true difference in the world. No I’m not saying you all will become superhero’s but, think about where you are because of your illness, your disability, and think about the people you encounter because of it. Do you encounter others who are sick and disabled? Can you provide words of hope and encouragement in the name of Jesus Christ? Sure you can, and it’s likely that’s how God is going to use a horrible situation for good. Don’t give up, and don’t loose hope. If you are to be a warrior for Christ we must learn to change our perspective and stop focusing on the old normal, and look to the new normal. You’re a soldier, a warrior, and you can rise to the challenge. Find your peace in Christ, and then focus on your mind, body, soul, health. There are so many alternative exercises for just about anything, and so many ways to eat healthy, there really isn’t a good excuse for being lazy. I had to take a long hard look at myself to realize I am far from where I want to be. Sometimes it takes a little push of motivation, other times, it takes being pushed off the cliff. Don’t sit around feeling sorry for yourself, get up, get motivated, and find what you can do.

If you need Ideas for workouts here’s a few, first is DDPYoga. This is a great combination of yoga, physical therapy and dynamic resistance. This can be done from a chair, for a bed, from so many different places depending on your specific injury. https://ddpyoga.comThe second is TRX which uses a suspended strap designed for different heights, for different movements, but is amazing because it uses only your body weight and gravity to allow you to work out. https://www.trxtraining.comThe ease and simplicity of these two workouts is proof that you can workout in any position, any health level, and make a difference so you too will be fit to fight. We are call called to be champions for Christ and whether you’re the warrior in need of motivation, or you’re in a position to motivate others, lets get out there, and start making a difference for Christ.

 

 

Tipping Point

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Tipping Point

How long will you travel down the road you’re on before you make a change in your life? Will you wait until you don’t have any other option? Sadly most people will refuse to change until the choice is no longer theirs to make. It seems the path towards self-destruction is a path that must run its course. Sadly I have watched people I’ve cared about hop on that train, and no matter what anyone did they had to ride along till it hit the brick wall, or as most people call it, hitting rock bottom.

What is it about that course that so many fall prey too? The human mind is a tricky thing, and when we truly take some time to think about it, why would anyone stay on such a self-destructive path? I think the answer is simple, and yet complicated at the same time. The simple answer is of coursesin, but the difficult answer is the complexity of the human brain. I think there’s something that happens inside the human brain that gets confused. Take a bad relationship for example. The whole world might realize a relationship is bad news, but the one person who doesn’t is the person in the middle of it. There can be emotional abuse, an over controlling element, or even physical abuse, and yet someone will stay in that situation till, they hit rock bottom. Much of that has to do with self-esteem, a notion of worthlessness, and an idea that no one else could ever love them, so it’s better to be mistreated by someone who ‘loves me’ than to be alone. Then there’s the alcoholic, substance abuse addicts, and workaholics who drive themselves towards destruction and rarely turn their own train before it smashes into the wall.

What can we do though, for those people who seem to be on those trains? Sadly the answer is not much, and any intervention may be a dangerous idea for the relationship. People often lash out when an intervention is staged. Admitting there’s a problem is incredibly difficult and always the first step to any real change. Every 12 step program is laid out very similar, and the first step is always the same.

  1. Admitting powerlessness over the addiction
  2. Believing that a higher power (in whatever form) can help
  3. Deciding to turn control over to the higher power
  4. Taking a personal inventory
  5. Admitting to the higher power, oneself, and another person the wrongs done
  6. Being ready to have the higher power correct any shortcomings in one’s character
  7. Asking the higher power to remove those shortcomings
  8. Making a list of wrongs done to others and being willing to make amends for those wrongs
  9. Contacting those who have been hurt, unless doing so would harm the person
  10. Continuing to take personal inventory and admitting when one is wrong
  11. Seeking enlightenment and connection with the higher power via prayer and meditation
  12. Carrying the message of the 12 Steps to others in need

 

While the 12 steps list a higher power, we as Christians must remember that it is God, Jesus Christ that can help us. No matter what situation you find yourself in, there are a few things that need to be mentioned. First, the creator of the universe loves you. Jesus Christ died for you, and you are special to Him. Second, you do not have to stay on the road you’re on. There is always help out there and all you have to do is ask for it. However, you must be willing to hear the truth, and face the challenge of making the change, which of course will not be easy. Third, you must trust that God can work out any bad situation, and there is something good to be taken from it. No matter the horrible things you’ve experienced in your life, i.e. rape, abuse (physical or emotional), loss, health issues, addictions, etc.) no matter what it is, there is something to be gained for it, and used in a positive way. Fourth, GOD DID NOT CAUSE YOUR SUFFERING, I cannot understate this. God is not in the habit of causing suffering in our lives. We must understand the nature of a sinful world, and a world endowed with free will. People choose to act how they want to. People choose to prey on the weak, to take other peoples power for their own. People choose to give in to the sin nature of this world. People choose to allow addictions to take hold by starting in the first place. People choose to rape, to abuse, to control, because it masks their own insecurities, and they themselves are not following Christ. We often want to blame God, instead of blaming the Devil. We want to ask God why He didn’t save us, and the truth is, he probably tried. We expect God to send us a miraculous intervention, where the truth is, there were probably people there who would have been willing to help, and maybe even tried to help. The problem is, sometimes we slap away the hands that try to help us.

It’s said we as people don’t truly change till we reach the precipice, the bottom of the barrel, the brick wall, but the truth is, you don’t have to wait that long. Addiction can be anything to include staying in bad abusive relationships, but there is hope. 1 Corinthians 10:13-14 (NKJV)13 “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. 14 Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.” When we put anything before God that is our idol, and we are in essence worshiping that in which stands between God and us. If it’s work, or a substance, video games, whatever you can fill in the blank that takes the majority of your focus, there’s a time to walk away. Change is possible any time, anywhere, but YOU have to be willing to make that step towards change.

I have lost two wives to adultery and I remember asking what I had done to deserve it. I asked God why I was being punished, and what I didn’t realize at the time was it wasn’t God, no, it was Satan that had intervened in my life and brought destruction upon my home. 1 John 2:16 (NKJV)16 “For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.” Every day people endure hardships, and they endure the pain of this life, and every day people cry out to the Father and ask what they have done, why did they deserve such horrible things, but the fact is, it’s a sinful world, and there will be troubles. God does not force people into His will and in turn God does not force people to sin. God did not force sin upon this world, but people choose to sin. As scripture says, God will ALWAYS give you a way out. It may not be easy, but God isn’t in the business of making life easy, but it is always what is right. “Dark times lie ahead of us and there will be a time when we must choose between what is easy and what is right.”(Albus Dumbledore)

If you’re in a position you want to change, or need to change, ask yourself, have you been talking to God about it? Has an opportunity to change been presented to you but you’ve not taken it? Is the situation truly bad, or is it that you’re just not happy? Are you putting your attention to objects, substances or people? No matter what’s going on in your life there is always hope in Christ. Remember that as you might have fallen victim at the hands of others, remember it’s free will that causes so much pain. The same free will that causes you pain, is also the same free will that allows you to walk away and turn to God. 1 Corinthians 6:12“All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” Don’t give away the power God has given to you. Don’t allow other people to take your happiness from you. When you trust in God you are given joy, and nothing can steal away your Joy. If you are in an abusive relationship, get help. If you are addicted to (blank) get help. Don’t walk through this life living in misery, there’s help out there for you. Be willing to make the hard decision for the hard change, but always turn to God for guidance. God will hear you, and God will answer you, so keep an eye open for it, and listen to the Holy Spirit guiding you. Have faith and don’t forget to love first, love God.

Encouragement

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Encouragement

You might be going through so much today, broken hearted, jobless, health issues, family problems, no matter what you’re going through know that Psalm 118:24“Today is the Lord has made so be glad and rejoice in it.” We can worry ourselves sick, and we can stress over everything going on in our lives, but and I get it, it’s easy to forget the most important thing to remember, God is still on the Throne. I know what it’s like to see the worst humanity has to offer. I know what it’s like to face unknown health problems. I have been through two horrible divorces, so I know that there are days when the world seems like its going to fall down on your head. Rest assured it isn’t, and no matter how dark it may seem today, Jesus is always with you. If you feel you can’t make it, just start with baby steps. Realize that tomorrow is a tomorrow problem. If you can’t face tomorrow, face today. You are a child of the King, and you are royalty, made for a purpose. Jesus loves you, and as you are known before you took your first breath, know that God knows every hair on your head, and you are just the way He wants you to be. Tomorrow might look scary, and you may think there’s no way out of your current situation but there always is. God never sends us into a problem without the tools to fix it. God always equips us to handle any situation we may face. Sometimes that’s the people God puts in our path, sometimes it’s a song on the radio, but He always gives us what we need. It’s our job to go through life with an open heart, and a love of Jesus Christ, and trusting and having faith in our place with the Lord. No matter if our path is to beautiful streams, green pastures, or the valley of death, the Lord is with you always.

I have had my share of ups and downs, and lately the struggle of depression has been very real for me. I have questioned if I’d be alone for the foreseeable future, and I’ve wondered if my living situation would ever change. I have doubted my self worth, and I have questioned my place in this world. You aren’t weak if you ask yourself these things, or if you feel these things, you’re normal. Dealing with life can be difficult, but when you truly understand that Jesus is the Truth, The way, the life, we know that there is hope on the horizon. It can be hard to see sometimes, and through the pounding of the storm, it can most certainly be hard to hear, but know that Christ is walking next to you every step of the way. When we are at our lowest we often search for meaning, we want answers to why we’re suffering, and it’s simple, sinful world. Our suffering is caused by our own sin, the sin of others, or just nature. Christ overcame sin, and gave us something to look forward to. Remember though even in our salvation, is a story of pain and sacrifice. Jesus bore the cross, took the beating, faced the pain, and the ridicule so we wouldn’t die without hope. Who are we to think we won’t suffer a little along the way if our own savior suffered for us? The Apostles were without hope in this days and nights after Christ’s crucifixion. They were lost and discouraged, but the morning came on the third day and Christ returned. The doubts were laid to rest as they found he was truly resurrected. After that they went with hope, with love, and with confidence to face the world in which they would most surely die for what they would preach. They didn’t fear what would come, so why should we? We may not have been able to walk with Jesus, but Jesus walks with us, and is in our hearts if we only let Him change our lives. Jesus can heal a broken heart, can give us peace in the storms, and show us the way through the fire. All we are asked is not to be afraid, and be courageous. Find your strength in Christ, and never give up the fight.

A Light in the Darkness

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A Light in the Darkness

The darkness has covered the whole of the Earth. The fear, and hate, anger all flows around us like the wind through the trees. In this world the negativity and fear have flooded our streets, our schools, our homes, and we face tough situations every day in this life. With the world telling us one thing, and the scripture telling us another, we are left in the darkness of our own minds, our own beds to consider what’s going on. “Live in this world, but do not be conformed to it.” What does it mean to be a Christian today? If a Christian gets angry and says some bad things, they are condemned and ridiculed for it. The hardships Christians face today in a world that’s forever growing more bitter and ‘progressive’, Christians are not the ones antiquated, out of date. See, Christians have been facing persecution since it’s founding after Christ rose from the dead. Today it seems the church is once again under attack in many ways. This growing persecution although it’s not new, it does seem like a failing environment which is allowing an epic proportion of sexual immorality, divorce, abuse, criminal activities, all on an biblical scale. People no longer prescribe to the law of the Holy Book.  We show similar behaviors of Sodom and Gomorrah, so it begs the question will we one-day face judgment as they did. While this is something heard quite often that if we (the USA) doesn’t change our ways if God doesn’t intervene soon, God would owe Sodom an apology. This isn’t the only city in the Bible that was full of debauchery, alcohol abuse, and all manner sinful behavior, you have probably heard of it, Corinth, as in 1stand 2ndCorinthians. An interesting point to mention is the city of Corinth was rebuilt by Julius Cesar and within the city a new temple to the Roman goddess of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Corinth was a large commercial center and with as much traffic that it had ritualistic prostitution as a regular part of life. Corinth needed to see the light, and I suggest that we the USA also need to see the light.

I often wonder how my own life will affect those around me in this life. I fully admit that there are times my struggle with depression is evident and public. I am not a perfect man, but I try hard to be more then a debby downer, or a pessimist. I believe God has plans for me. I trust that I am where God wants me, the leading question is why? I recently watched God’s Not Dead (3) A Light in Darkness. In that movie I was flooded with feelings of faith that there is a solution to many of our negative outlooks. Love and grace is always the way we as Christians need to behave. So many people are pushed away from the faith because of someone’s actions, or someone’s words. There’s a reason the Apostle Paul remained in Corinth for so long, the darkest of places often require the most work. When we consider hope, we should be looking at Christ as our example. Christ was an amazing man of liberties. Christ not only healed the sick, raised a man from the dead, fed the masses with bread, fish and wine by using Divine power to multiply the food. Not only did he do all that he also spoke out for woman’s rights, and the rights for children. He spoke out for the poor, and the despair of people. If he can bring so much hope to the world, why can’t we live our lives being slow to anger, slow to wrath, and slow to negative actions? We must learn to be better in control of our actions. Yes we’re all human, and we all fall short to the glory of God, but we all need to be a little more like Christ, and a lot less like the world.

I can’t say I’ve always been the best at being the conduit for Christ’s love. When the world beats you down, especially for those in the military, police, emergency services it’s not always easy to stay bright for others. We have to remember that when we are down in our low places someone is there for us. Christ loves us so we are given what we need, when we need it. Christ has a plan for us, and those plans are to prosper not to live in despair. We need God’s grace and we must show why others need God’s grace. Ephesians 2:8-12  (NKJV)8 “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Grace is everything; because it’s through grace we are given the gift of eternal life with Jesus. Light up the dark, and remember always, God’s NOT Dead.

God’s In Everything

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God’s In Everything

It’s an amazing feeling knowing that God is in every situation I find myself. Having that faith affirmed is so powerful, I often find it hard to put into words. I know that for whatever reason Christ has a plan for me, a plan to make a difference. I always wanted to make a difference in this world, and after 34 years, a few near death experiences, a few divine interventions, and a whole lot of tears, I finally have made it through the fire to see what all the training was for. In every one of my trials, I have begged God for reasons. Recently I watched as a situation in my life made full circle. A man I never met was at the hospital with my ex-inlaws two years ago. He knew who I was by proxy, and two years later we are united by God’s wonderful plan. I find myself sitting in an office of someone I had never met, but who was praying for me knowing I was gripping to life. How wonderful and small this world is, that in the midst of tragedy God is working things out so out of the ashes a diamond may shine. God waists nothing, and we should remember that it may not be the next day, week, or even a year after a tragedy, but at some point in your life, if you’re walking with Christ, you may find a purpose for it. One day I would like to thank those who were with me this whole week two years ago. I would like to express my deepest gratitude for the hands that helped keep me in this world. I cannot express adequately how I feel, but I know that in my heart, I will be able to honor their service, by serving myself.

Scripture talks about service, and serving others. Luke 6:35 (NKJV) 35“But love your enemies, do good, and lend, [a]hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil.” Service is laying yourself down before God and going where you’re wanted. God never needs us, but if we are delighted at the opportunity to be used by Christ, we should feel honored and humbled to do so. Those in ministry rarely get the thanks deserved, the pay equal to the work that goes in, or the honors that ought to be rendered for their sacrifice to selfless service, but at the foot of the cross those works will not go forgotten. When people serve others, no matter if it’s emergency services, military, or ministry, rarely do the affirmations come along, but God gives enough to keep you moving. Serving is not for the faint of heart, and nor is it for the accolades, but once in a while when you hear how the service of Christ has affected another it’s beautiful.

Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)8 “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” We don’t always know where we must go, or what we must do. It’s important to take time to pray about God’s path for us, so we may open our minds, and our hearts to the Holy Spirit, and listen as we are guided along the path. We know from scripture that those who seek power are foolish, and those who choose to serve are the light of the Lord. Matthew 20:28 “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” This sentiment is played out by Christ more then once in scripture. Christ is saying here that anyone who dreams of being first ought to be a slave to the last. In John 13:12-1712 “So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you [b]know what I have done to you? 13 You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. 16 Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” Jesus shows the disciples that no one is above another. No one is greater then another. This is an act of humility shown to us by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Whether we are serving others or being served by others, we must always remember that anyone we come into contact with is a Child of God and we must act accordingly. Everyone we meet we have an opportunity by divine appointment to show compassion, grace, mercy, and kindness. If we don’t get a chance to talk about Christ we must always be a representative and hold ourselves accordingly. We truly are no better then another even if we think we are. We don’t always know what someone is going through, and we have an opportunity as part of God’s wonderful plan to change someone’s day just by being nice. Someone who didn’t know me two years ago prayed for me, and now two years later, I was in his office talking about a position within the very organization that he runs. We never know how things will turn out, so we must act accordingly in every instance.

 

 

Power

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Power

We sit and wait with no control over anything happening around us. With no power and an uncertainty when it will come back, all we can do is ride it out and pray. We often take the simplest prayers for granted just saying we know God is in control, we respect that power, and we humble ourselves submitting all of our grief and anxieties upon the Lord. We cannot allow ourselves to be consumed with worries in situations far beyond our control. As over 321,000 people are without power in North Carolina, all we can do now is pray people were prepared and trust in God’s will. Today is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice in it. The sun is slowly rising and light now awakes the world around me. The light is a warm comfort, still as the wind howls in the rainless skies. It’s not fear, or apprehension that floods the house, it’s almost a boredom with nothing but silence to listen to.

This quiet time had given me the opportunity to turn to God and pray and have a conversation with my Heavenly Father. I’ve been so busy with school and everything I feel I haven’t been praying as much as I should. It’s truly interesting how obligations and life can so quickly and easily interfere with relations with Jesus. Shame on me for not praying as often as I should. Time is something we don’t have control over, but we do have control over how we use it. I hear so many say, I haven’t had the time, or I’ve been so busy. Time with God should never be one of those things we let slip us by.

So in closing, obviously with no power I want to keep this brief, pray for those affected by Flo. Pray for the floods, the wind, those in its wake. Pray for peace in the midst of the storm. God is still in control, and that we can count on. Be safe, be well.

Trial by Combat

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Trial by Combat

If you really think about it often times the attacks we face from Satan feel like we are in the middle of Trial by Combat. This isn’t far from true. While there are some instances where we may experience the occasional poke, the intermittent frustration, but on some occasions we are in full-blown combat. There are some instances where we enter a season in life where war is on the horizon. It’s not always avoidable, and when the season does come, are you ready for it?

Trial by combat is an old custom in which legal matters were settled by hand-to-hand combat. One of my favorite episodes of Arrow was called “The Climb”. In this episode Oliver Queen challenges Ra’s Al Ghul to a trial by combat. If we really think about the troubles we face, is it so different from days of old? We may not be fighting for some legal matter, or honor, or even a bride, but we are fighting for the witness of our souls. When we face troubled waters we show the world what we’re made of. Satan wants you to fall to the ground bloody and broken. Satan tries to beat you down, punch after punch telling you you’re weak, you’re worthless, and your faith is nothing. When things get bad and your life is falling down Satan will whisper “Where is Jesus now? No where to be seen.” He tries to divide you, to make you feel alone. He preys on your suffering, on your pain, to make it about you, and not bout Christ.

The whole world can be crumbling down and the moment the focus turns away from God and we are focused on the “I” in a problem we have already sinned. The Devil has so many different ways to try and break you down, but when you’re in that ring with him, you need to stay focused on the fight. Don’t loose sight what you’re fighting for and why. Don’t loose hope if the fight starts to go badly because no matter how low you may get Christ is always there with you. There is no doubt that every challenge we face is a fight for who we are in Christ. Even when it seems like it’s the world that is beating you down remember since the fall the Devil roams the world creating dissention at every turn. Know that this is cosmic warfare and take heart we know who’s stronger. Ephesians 6:12 (ESV)“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” We are soldiers on the front lines, and we are at war. We are at war with the attacks from the outside, and we are at war with the attacks, the sinful nature within. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (ESV)“For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,” We must train our minds, and our bodies for the fight. We must be ready when the day comes that we stand toe to toe with Satan that we can resist the temptations, resist the anger within. We will be attacked and it will be relentless. We will face evil and there are day’s evil will wear the face of those we love. The Devil may take everything from us we care about, and try to convince us Jesus let it happen, or worse ‘If Jesus loved you he wouldn’t let it happen.” The lies the Devil tells are always bending the truth, to distort it, to make it sound reasonable, but it’s always 100% lie.

Ephesians 6:10-18 (NKJV)10 “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the [a]wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of [b]the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—“

 No matter the flavor of the battles we know that God is still in control. We know that we will be tested, and we will face many adversities, but we have the Holy Spirit with us always. We shall not fear in this life because no matter what happens in this life, tomorrow is promised in Heaven. Jesus Christ is the only way, and when we trust in Him, we know his promise will never be broken. It doesn’t matter if you fight fear of a hurricane, fear of a job, or fear of an illness, this life will pass one day for all, and tomorrow the glory of Heaven awaits you. I struggle with fears of loneliness but I know that is my trial by combat. Feelings of isolation, of being trapped on an inescapable island away from life is what I often face. I know what my trials by combat are, do you?

 

 

 

Fighting Terrorism

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Fighting Terrorism

Today we wake up and some of us remember what happened in 2001, some were very young, but in some way, the events that occurred touched every life in America. We will never forget, but we do have the ability to try and bridge the gap and stomp out radical terrorism. Not long ago I finished a class in terrorism and I had the privilege to write a paper on the subject. It is my hope that you will find this paper educational, and maybe even inspirational. Let us be proactive, rather than reactive.

 

The Christian Fight Against Radical Islam:

How Apologetics Will Win The War

Jacob Keiffer

GOVT 480-D03 : Terrorism

Aug 5, 2018

Thesis Statement

The war on terror has been ongoing for over ten years. In that time the fight against radical Islam still wages on with only marginal impact of improvement. In order to truly make a difference in the fight against the radical sects of Islam, the more liberal leaning liberals, which makes up the majority needs to stand up to and police their own back yards. In order to do this and encourage the radical idea, Christians must turn to apologetics and repair almost two thousand years worth of hostility. Throughout the New Testament of the Christian Holy Bible lessons are taught how to love one another, and how to love and treat your enemies. These lessons along with a strong understanding of apologetics can be used to win the hearts and minds, instead of dropping bombs and waging war.

 

Introduction

Islam is a common word heard across the world today. “As of 2010, there were an estimated 1.6 billion Muslims around the world, making Islam the world’s second-largest religious tradition after Christianity.”[1] The religion of Islam dates back to around 653AD, however to truly understand the religion, one must understand its origins.[2] Some might say the West is at war with Islam, and while perhaps that is the larger picture, the fight is against radical Islam and the terrorist organizations that have called for the annihilation of all non-Muslims, and liberal Muslims who do not conform to the ideology of Wahhabi Islam. To fight this war on terror the West must understand the drive and mindset of those who follow this particular brand of Islam. A long-term plan to win what is essentially a family civil war must start and end with apologetics. Bombs will not win this war, or the number of battles won; instead it will be won by changing the hearts and minds of those who will listen. Christians will never win the war against radical Islam alone, they will need to support of liberal Muslims willing to stand and say ‘no more’ and join forces side by side with Christians, bridging the gap of a blood feud going all the way back to Abraham’s first born, Ishmael. Liberal Muslims must stand against the radicals together with the west to destroy the Wahhabi movement.

 

The Birth of Islam

Abraham was a prominent figure in the Christian Bible. God loved him, and he was promised children, but when that promise didn’t come on his timetable Abraham took matters into his own hands and bore a son with his handmaiden. This son was named Ishmael, and he would start the long blood line that would one day lead to a man now known to be the father of Islam, Muhammad.[3] Muhammad would create the religion of Islam by writing the Qur’an and this faith would spread throughout the world, but not as a unified religion. After the death of Muhammad the religion fractured and dissention rose quickly. While fighting between the different sects was violent at times, a common enemy was still growing across the world, and that enemy was Christians. Christians stole the birthright promised by God, and as Christians and Muslims are half siblings, one can understand how the hatred began.

 

Radical Islam Emerges

Over time a different way of thinking came about within the Nation of Islam. The Wahhabi Islam“This religious context provides the framework for justifying violence. Jihadists quote from Islamic scripture, prophetic traditions, and legal opinions to support their claims and activities. Jihad against non-Muslims and the ultimatum to convert to Islam, pay a special tax, or be killed are in fact based on Islamic law.”[4]Azumuah would go on to say in his paper, “Another key feature of the jihadists’ ideology is their rejection of and often rebellion against established governments of Islamic countries. Al-Qaeda, IS, and Boko Haram have declared Muslim governments around the world un-Islamic and illegitimate, vowing to replace them with an Islamic caliphate. To achieve their aim, the groups target and kill Muslim opponents, justifying their actions by invoking takfir, a doctrine, dating back to the seventh century, that specifies conditions under which fellow Muslims can be declared unbelievers who can be killed.”2 Since the dawn of Radical Islam countless lives have been taken in the name of Allah. The answer to combating this kind of hatred is simple, it’s found in the teaching of Jesus Christ, and the answer is love. “For those who eventually accepted the ideology as “true Islam” (and this was heavily influenced by perceptions about the credibility of the movement leader as an interpreter of Islam rather than the superiority of al Muhajiroun’s spiritual incentives relative to other groups),”[5]Muslims who follow this radical ideology also believe that members of their own faith, who are not conservative enough are also a threat, and can either conform, or die. This creates a religious civil war and creates an opportunity for Christians to come to the aid of the oppressed.

 

Apologetics: The Fight Against Hatred

Apologetics is simply put, the defense of what someone believes to be true. For Christians this is perhaps one of the most important aspects of faith. In order to truly evangelize to non-believers of Jesus Christ, understanding different worldviews is important. One would not use the same apologetic argument towards Muslims as you would an Atheist. Muslims and Christians share a common lineage and therefore our Holy Books have some similarities. In order for the west to fight Radical Islam, Christians must understand that particular worldview and then with the teaching of Jesus Christ, an apologetic argument can then be made. Showing love for your enemy is the only true way to change hearts. There are a few interesting points about Islam compared to Christianity. One major point was the idea of grace. “Because Muslims do not understand the concept of grace (undeserved forgiveness through the blood of Christ), tangential arguments do not reach the core of the Problem.”[6] Since Muslims don’t have a true understanding of grace, Christians showing love, and compassion, the nature of Jesus Christ will go a long way in proving Christians aren’t hostile and evil, as the leaders of radical Islam leads many to believe. In the wake of 9/11 Christians have grown to treat Muslims like outsiders, as a threatening intruder in a home, that must be dealt with. Understanding that not all Muslims condone terroristic actions is perhaps one of the first ways Christians can help mend the growing gap between two cultures. What Christians fail to understand, and it is important to realize that Christians who do not study God’s word, and truly dives into the teachings of Jesus Christ are partially responsible for the growing stigma and subsequent hatred of Muslims in the United States.

When a Christian talks to a Muslim the only true thing that matters is Christ. As fate would have it, God loves the little details, “The Qur’an presents Jesus as a miracle worker (2:49; 5:110) who brings signs (2:87, 253; possibly 5:75; 43:63; 61:6) and even speaks as an infant to establish himself as a prophet sent from God (19:29, 30)”[7] The separation comes where Muslims do not believe Christ was God and rejects the resurrection, and the trinity. However when you consider the timing of the Qur’an being written AD 653, although it does agree with the life of Jesus Christ, it denies the crucifixion of Christ, which shows the book is fallible. There are non-Biblical accounts of the Nazarene’s death.[8] There are four major points to consider when discussing Jesus to any Muslim. Before those four points it needs to be understood that Muslims who truly understands the Qur’an knows that Jesus is held in highest regard in their faith. Because of that, it is not necessary to try and prove his existence. What’s needed is to show his resurrection and divinity. This can be done if it is universally believed he was truly raised from the dead after three days in fulfillment of the scripture. The four points are, Jews, Christians, and Romans all knew where Jesus would be buried because of the man who buried him, Joseph of Arimathea, in a tomb just outside the city. Second, all major parties all agreed the tomb was in fact empty to include the Romans in which guards were placed to protect the tomb. These guards would have been Roman guards, and they all knew failure meant certain death.[9] Everyone knew the stone placed in front of the tomb would have weighed around 450 pounds, and would not have been easily moved. This makes the theory that Jesus’ body was stolen to be highly unlikely. Another point to this second idea was at the time of the crucifixion most of Jesus’ followers fled and went into hiding, so they were not organized until later. Third, according to Lee Strobel “on multiple occasions in under various circumstances, different individuals and groups experienced appearances of Jesus alive from the dead.”[10] The Roman Empire and the Sanhedrin would have been able to eliminate a few frightened followers, but instead, the sheer number of witnesses to the divine resurrection, there was no possible way either group, Jew or Roman would be able to stop the fire that was lit. Jesus Christ showed the world he was the Son of God, and the most powerful empire in the world would never be able to stomp out the truth. Fourth, before the accounts of the risen Christ, the disciples were afraid to be seen in public because they did not want to die for something they themselves doubted. Many were not sure Christ would actually rise and because of that, after the resurrection and walking with the risen Jesus Christ for forty days, they became bold, and no longer hid in the shadows. Even knowing they would be persecuted for preaching and teaching the word of Jesus Christ, they refused to yield. Knowing the penalty of blasphemy would be torture and maybe even to be crucified. Not one Apostle recanted their story about Christ. Each one that was murdered and martyred remained faithful and truthful about what they personally experienced.

There are many, who have attacked the Christian faith over the years, but recently there are two that stand out because when they did they were deemed experts in their fields, and both started as devout atheists. Lee Strobel who was a journalist started investigating Christianity and despite his best efforts, he was unable to prove the hoax, and eventually converted to Christianity after following the evidence he uncovered. Second is a man by the name of J. Warner Wallace, a Los Angeles cold case detective, and also a devout atheist set off on a mission once and for all to debunk the lie that was the Bible. Wallace believed he could use his experiences as a cold case detective to attack the Bible much like a cold case, and prove discrepancies within the testimony of the four eyewitness accounts. Despite his best efforts, and his desire to prove atheism was the way, he began to understand that the truth didn’t match his desired outcome. He realized how difficult it would be to keep a dozen people engaged in a conspiracy in the overwhelming pressure from the Romans and Jews.[11] Also, one of the biggest pieces of evidence is that so early on, every single Apostle was willing to go to their death, and no one goes to their death for something they ‘know’ to be a lie. Because of these pieces of evidence, it allows Christians to have an open discussion with Muslims and with a common background it can lead into a conversation. Knowing that the Muslim faith stemmed from Abraham’s disobedience and the baby that came of it, it is easy to understand that a long line of hatred towards Jews would be in place. The half brother was cast out and exiled away from home. It is easy to imagine how upsetting that could be. Christians are fighting a blood feud with their stepsiblings, and the teaching of love by Jesus Christ is the only way to extend an olive branch of peace.

 

Terrorism Strikes The United States

Prior to September 11th2001, terrorism largely seemed to be a problem that government faced overseas, not in the pride lands of the United States. The heart of New York City was struck a major blow as two planes crashed into the world trade center, one plane crashed into the pentagon, and another crashed in the fields of Pennsylvania. The fight against radical Islam came to the front door uninvited. Much like Pearl Harbor, the United States was not looking for a war, but when the time came, it truly was inevitable. As combat missions started in Iraq, and Afghanistan a military strategy was established and executed, but sadly no endgame was clearly drawn. The reason there was no exit strategy is because fighting an Idea is not as simple as fighting an organized military. Guerrilla warfare, secret meetings, and blending in with the population are all challenges faced in fighting organized terror. The long-term effect after Iraq was evident with the birth of ISIS and as they begun retaking cities one after another. The prize city of Ar-Ramadi fell to the hands of ISIS showing the vain efforts of nearly ten years of war in Iraq. The question of what was accomplished was answered, and it was very little. A country like the United States is well versed in military strategy, and very good at fighting a traditional military. The problem with terrorism is it isn’t traditional, and the Untied States has not put enough effort in learning about its enemy to truly mount a sustainable offense, or defense. After 9/11 a commission was filed to improve homeland security. This commission would end up leading to what became knows as the Patriot Act. “The principal focus of the patriot act is to provide law forcement agencies with the proper legal authority to support their efforts to collect information on the suspected terrorists, to detain people suspected of being or aiding terrorists and terrorist organizations, to deter terrorists from entering and operating within the borders of United States, and to further limit the ability of terrorists to engage in money-laundering activities that support terrorist actions.”[12] While it’s important to seek out those who want to do harm to this country, it is important to note that at the same time, it is also important to do humanitarian missions, and to build outreach so that hate, does not continue to breed hate. With only 30% of Muslims that feel that violent actions are ever necessary, that leaves 70% willing to have a conversation about the violence.[13]

 

Conclusion

Jesus spoke of loving your enemy and forgiving sins. The book of Corinthians, Paul explains what love is. Christians must understand the reasoning behind such terroristic acts and a decision must be made how to extend an olive branch of peace to more liberal leaning Muslims. Radical Islam does not actually have overwhelming support like much of the U.S. thinks it does. Christians must approach radical Islam with love and understanding. Christians must appeal to the hearts and minds of Muslims who do not condone the actions of those terrorist organizations, and in time, it must be liberal Muslims who deal the crippling blow to the ideology that has caused nearly the number of deaths as genocide. Together Christians and Muslims as now distant cousins can join force to defeat a common enemy. The common thread is Jesus Christ, and through the love of Christ we can work together. Jesus Christ is noted in the Qu’ran enough to make him influential, and with a little apologetic push, a common bond can be made. The radical Islamic fight is an internal struggle between warring sects of the same faith, and therefore an Islamic focused problem. With the old saying ‘the enemy of my enemy is my friend’ Christians and Muslims can put their differences aside and focus on a mutual threat. As ISIS and other terrorist organizations such as Al Qaeda continually threaten the lives and safety of innocent Muslims around the world, it is clear that it is imperative the two faiths come together and put nearly two thousand years of animosity aside.

 

Bibliography

Azumah, John A. “Challenging Radical Islam.” First Things, no. 249 (01, 2015): 33-7, http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/docview/1645114378?accountid=12085.

 

Bullock, Jane A., George D. Haddow, and Damon P. Coppola. Introduction to Homeland Security: Principles of All-hazards Response. Fourth ed. Waltham, MA: Butterworth Heinemann, 2013.

 

Hindson, Edward E., and Ergun Mehmet. Caner. The Popular Encyclopedia of Apologetics. Eugene, Or.: Harvest House Publishers, 2008.

 

Lipka, Michael. “Muslims and Islam: Key Findings in the U.S. and around the World.” Pew Research Center. August 09, 2017. Accessed August 04, 2018. http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2017/08/09/muslims-and-islam-key-findings-in-the-u-s-and-around-the-world/.

 

Lipka, Michael. “Muslims and Islam: Key Findings in the U.S. and around the World.” Pew Research Center. August 09, 2017. Accessed August 15, 2018. http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2017/08/09/muslims-and-islam-key-findings-in-the-u-s-and-around-the-world/.

 

MacArthur, John. The MacArthur Study Bible. LA Habra, CA: Thomas Nelson, 2006.

 

McDowell, Josh, and Sean McDowell, Evidence That Demands a Verdict: Life-changing Truth for a Skeptical World. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 2017.

 

Strobel, Lee, and Jane Vogel. The Case for Christ: A Journalists Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2017.

 

Strobel, Lee. The Case for Faith: A Journalist Investigates the Toughest Objections to Christianity. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.com, 2000.

 

Wallace, J. Warner. Cold-case Christianity: A Homicide Detective Investigates the Claims of the Gospels. Colorado Springs, CO: David C Cook, 2013.

 

Wiktorowicz, Quintan, and Karl Kaltenthaler. “The rationality of radical Islam.” Political Science Quarterly 131, no. 2 (2016): 421+. General OneFile (accessed July 22, 2018). http://link.galegroup.com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/apps/doc/A458267314/ITOF?u=vic_liberty&sid=ITOF&xid=2130f7b2.

 

 

[1]David Masci, “World’s Muslim Population More Widespread than You Might Think,” Pew Research Center, January 31, 2017, , accessed August 04, 2018, http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2017/01/31/worlds-muslim-population-more-widespread-than-you-might-think/.

[2]Hindson, Edward E., and Ergun Mehmet. Caner. The Popular Encyclopedia of Apologetics. Eugene, Or.: Harvest House Publishers, 2008.

 

[3]MacArthur, John. The MacArthur Study Bible. LA Habra, CA: Thomas Nelson, 2006.

 

[4]Azumah, John A. “CHALLENGING RADICAL ISLAM.” First Things, no. 249 (01, 2015): 33-7, http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/docview/1645114378?accountid=12085.

 

2Azumah, John A. “CHALLENGING RADICAL ISLAM.” First Things, no. 249 (01, 2015): 33-7, http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/docview/1645114378?accountid=12085.

[5]Wiktorowicz, Quintan, and Karl Kaltenthaler. “The rationality of radical Islam.” Political Science Quarterly 131, no. 2 (2016): 421+. General OneFile (accessed July 22, 2018). http://link.galegroup.com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/apps/doc/A458267314/ITOF?u=vic_liberty&sid=ITOF&xid=2130f7b

 

[6]Hindson, Edward E., and Ergun Mehmet. Caner. The Popular Encyclopedia of Apologetics. Eugene, Or.: Harvest House Publishers, 2008.

 

[7]McDowell, Josh, and Sean McDowell, Evidence That Demands a Verdict: Life-changing Truth for a Skeptical World. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 2017.

 

[8]Strobel, Lee, and Jane Vogel. The Case for Christ: A Journalists Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2017.

[9]Mcdowell, Josh, and Sean McDowell

[10]Strobel, Lee. The Case for Faith: A Journalist Investigates the Toughest Objections to Christianity. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.com, 2000.

 

[11]Wallace, J. Warner. Cold-case Christianity: A Homicide Detective Investigates the Claims of the Gospels. Colorado Springs, CO: David C Cook, 2013.

 

[12]Bullock, Jane A., George D. Haddow, and Damon P. Coppola. Introduction to Homeland Security: Principles of All-hazards Response. Fourth ed. Waltham, MA: Butterworth Heinemann, 2013.

 

[13]Michael Lipka, “Muslims and Islam: Key Findings in the U.S. and around the World,” Pew Research Center, August 09, 2017, , accessed August 15, 2018, http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2017/08/09/muslims-and-islam-key-findings-in-the-u-s-and-around-the-world/.

 

The Rough Days

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The Rough Days

When someone tells you “I don’t care” in regards to a way you feel about something, I think few things in life cut that deep. We are lucky to never hear that from God. God has never once said He doesn’t care about us, or our feelings. In fact, scripture tells us to cast all our anxieties, our worries, and struggles unto the Lord and He will give us strength and peace. So if you’re feeling like you’re alone today, or maybe you are alone today, remember the Lord God is always with us. He shall never leave you or forsake you. Trust in God to deliver you from the storm and keep moving forward. Some days you find yourself overwhelmed with spiritual attacks and everything else seems like an amazing struggle, such as posting a blog. The day was such an off day for me, not only did I not post, but I didn’t prepare one for the next day. Struggling with a failing AC unit in NC. On a HOT September day, dealing with homework, and recovering from the hurtful things that had been said early in the day, before I knew it the day had slipped away until it was after midnight. Some days it’s like you’re shackled and you can’t do anything to get yourself free. We are only human, and we can only take so much before we just need a little while away.

 

It’s not easy living your life having so many people tell you what your value is. It’s not easy fighting the insecurities that are lied to you from the Devil. It’s not easy wondering if you could have done something better, or should have done something different. The thing is, we are called by God to do God’s work, and God makes no mistakes. God calls each and every one of us into service who will head the call. The signal is shown because Jesus Christ said go forth and baptize all the nations. If we are called for such an amazing service, an amazing honor that God would use each and every one of us for the glory of Heaven, then we should know how much value Jesus places on each and every one of us.

 

If we were superheroes for Christ we would have a signal in the sky telling us where we needed to go to minister to the helpless, the hopeless, the lost. We don’t have the luxury of having some ‘Bat’ signal in the sky, but we do have the Holy Spirit to guide us where we need to be. We must learn to answer the call, and realize that no matter how we feel, the lies we believe aren’t truth. God’s truth is that every one of us is made in His image. Every single person has a purpose and are made exactly how we need to be made. We encounter trials and trauma’s that can often leave a lasting scar and sometimes we suffer long term. The Devil will influence people to treat us poorly and sometimes it makes us feel bad, and in worst cases it makes us feel worthless. While it’s not easy to overcome difficult trauma’s we must not fall victim to the hurtful lies. Find value in your work for Christ and you will find your value in the Love Christ has for you.