God's View on Sex (Part 3 of 3)

Greetings All,

This will be the last installment on God's Views On Sex unless you go to the Word on your own. Those of us who have been *saved* for any length of time can tell you that the Holy Spirit will allow certain Scripture to jump out at us when He wants to get our attention. We may have read the same chapter every day for months and it was about God's amazing love. Then the day you really needed to hear from the Lord...... He's right on time.  SO MEN PLEASE LISTEN UP!

"Why Does Proverbs Include So Many Warnings About Unauthorized Sex?"

(Proverbs 5:3)  "For the lips of an adulteress drip honey and smoother than oil is her speech;"  

This "Adulteress Woman" is a Prostitute. Proverbs includes many warnings against unauthorized sex for several reasons: (1) A lady of the evening's charm is used as an example of any temptation to do wrong or to leave the pursuit of Wisdom. (2) As previously mentioned, sexual immorality of any kind was and still is notably dangerous. It destroys family life. It disintegrates a person's ability to love.  It degrades human beings and turns them into objects. It can lead to disease. it can result in unwanted children. (3)  Remember Sexual Immorality is against God's law. In Corinthians 6, teachings about sexual immorality and prostitutes was especially important for the Corinthian Church because the temple of the love goddess Aphrodite was in Corinth. Paul clearly stated that Christians are to have no part in sexual immorality, even if it is acceptable and popular in our culture. Back in 1 Corinthians 4 Paul told the Corinthians  to imitate him. Men we ought to listen to the man of God. Now Paul was able to make this statement because he walked close to God,  spent time in God's Word and in prayer, and was aware of God's presence in his life at all times. Paul wasn't expecting others to imitate everything he did, but they should imitate those aspects of his beliefs and conduct that were modeling Christ's way of living.

"In Sexual Sin Someone Always Gets Hurt"         

(Proverbs 6:25-35) Let's be honest in the past how many times have you thought that it is right to break God's law against sexual sin especially if nobody  gets hurt. If truth be told, somebody always gets hurt. Men, spouses are devastated. Children are scarred. The partners themselves, even if they escape disease and unwanted pregnancy, lose their ability to fulfill commitments, to feel sexual desire, to trust and to be entirely open with another person. God's laws are not arbitrary. They do not forbid good, clean fun; rather, they were used against destroying ourselves through unwise actions or running ahead of God's timetable.  In Romans 1:26-27  We're reminded of God's plan for natural sexual relationships for his creation, you and me. Unfortunately, sin distorts the natural use of God's gifts. Sin frequently means not only denying God, but also denying the way we are made. When people say that any sex act is acceptable as long as nobody gets hurt, they are fooling themselves. Brothers can we talk, In the long run  ( and often in the short run), sin hurts people - individuals, families, whole societies. How sad it is that people who worship the things God made instead of the creator so often distort and destroy the very things they claim to value!

Men homosexuality was as widespread in Paul's day as it is in ours today. Many pagan practices encouraged such behavior. Our God is willing to receive anyone who comes to him in faith, and Christians should love and accept others no matter what their background. Yet, homosexuality is strictly forbidden in scriptures (Leviticus 18:22). "You shall not lie with a male as one lies with a female; it is an abomination."  Sexual desires and activities must be placed under Christ's control. God created sex for procreation and pleasure, and as an expression of love between a husband and wife. Sexual experience must be limited to marriage, to avoid hurting ourselves, our relationship to God, and our relationships with others.  

"Ways To Avoid Sexual Sins"

Proverbs 7:25-27   There are precise steps you can take to avoid sexual sins, first, guard your mind. Don't read books, look at pictures, or encourage fantasies that stimulate the wrong desires. Second, keep away from settings and friends that tempt you to sin. Third, don't think only of the moment - focus on the future. Today's thrill may lead to tomorrow's ruin.

"Committing Mental Adultery"

You have heard that it was said, you shall not Commit Adultery;  (28) But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Back in Exodus 20:14  You shall not commit adultery. But Jesus said that the desire to have sex with someone other than your Spouse is Mental Adultery and thus Sin. Jesus emphasized that if the act is wrong, then so is the intention. Men to be faithful to our Spouse with our body but not our mind is to break the trust so vital to a strong marriage. Jesus is not condemning natural interest in the opposite sex or even healthy sexual desire, but the deliberate and repeated filling of ones mind with fantasies that would be evil if acted out.  Some think that if lustful thoughts are sin, why shouldn't a person go ahead and do the lustful actions too?  Acting out sinful desires is harmful in several ways:  (1) It causes people to excuse sin rather than to stop sinning;  (2) It destroys marriages;  (3) It is deliberate rebellion against God's Word; (4) It always hurts some one else in addition to the sinner. Sinful action is more dangerous than sinful desire, and that is why desires should not be acted out. nevertheless, sinful desire is just as damaging to righteousness. Left unchecked, wrong desires will result in wrong actions and turn people away from God. We are in a battle for our lives and the lives of our families. If we stay Pure, Clean and Healthy in the Lord, what chance will our families have in the long run. Remember when Jesus said to get rid of your hand or your eye, he was speaking figuratively. He didn't mean to actually gouge out your eye, because even a blind person can lust. But if that were the only choice, it would be better to go into heaven with one eye or hand than to go to hell with too. Sometimes we abide sins in our lives that, left unchecked, could eventually destroy us. Brothers it is better to experience the pain of removal  (getting rid of a bad habit or something we treasure, for instance) than to allow the sin to bring judgment and condemnation.  Men SCRUTINIZE your life for anything that causes you to sin, then take proper precautions to remove it.

Have a wonderful Christmas in the Lord and please remember God's Views on Sex.

Humbly Yours in Christ,

              Jim

God's View on Sex (Part 2 of 3)

 I heard from a few of you yesterday and all I can say is "God be the glory"...  Strap in and let's continue on this journey into the bible.

"WHY DID GOD INCLUDE SO MANY LAWS ABOUT SEXUAL SINS"?

(Deut.22:13-30)   Laws on Morality were given to God's chosen people and also for us today. Instructions about sexual behavior would have been essential for three million people on a 40 - year camping trip. But they would by equally important when they entered the Promised land and settled down as a nation. In the book of Colossians chapter 3:5-8, Paul recognizes the importance of having carved in stone rules about sex for believers because sexual sins have the power to disrupt and destroy the church. Are you strapped in? Sins involving sex are not innocent dabbling in forbidden pleasures, as is so often portrayed, but powerful destroyers of relationships. They confuse and tear down the characteristics of respect, trust, and credibility so essential for solid marriages and secure children. Brothers it's time for us to stop being selfish, when we cheat on our spouse, in whatever form it maybe self gratitude can open the door to the pit. Before I inadvertently forget to list Colossians 3:5-8 "Therefore consider the members of your earthly body as dead to immorality, passion, evil desire, and greed, which amounts to idolatry. (6) For it is because of these things that the wrath of God will come upon the sons of disobedience, (7) and in them you also once walked, when you were living in them. (8) But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth".

"HOW TO COMBAT TEMPTATION"

(Judges 16:15)  We've all read about Sampson and Delilah and more important how Delilah deceived Sampson as the serpent in the garden deceived Eve. The serpent was described as more crafty than any beast in the field. Now, Delilah thought that she was more clever than others. Men how do we keep our desire for love and sexual pleasure from deceiving us?  (1) We must decide ahead of time what kind of woman we will entertain as our possible mate for life. My son is in his early thirties and he is still single and walking with the Lord. Everyday I'm praying for the Godly woman, that our Lord is preparing for my son. Determine whether a person's character and faith in God are as desirable as his or her physical appearance. (2) Men, most of the time that we spend with our wives will not involve sex, our companion's personality, temperament, and our duty to solve problems must be as gratifying as that special thing that makes your wife melt, or your or her kisses. (3) Men be patient... Remember that we are searching for your life long partner. It's OK to take a second or even a third look. Often will reveal what is under the surface. I'm not referring to what she looks like when the makeup is off but what she's like when it's just you and her.

"WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS ABOUT MARRIAGE"                             

(Genesis 2:18-24) Marriage is God's idea - (Genesis 24:58-60) Commitment is essential to a Successful Marriage - (Song 4:9-10) Romance is important - (Jeremiah 33:10-11) Marriage holds times of great joy - (Malachi 2:14-15) Marriage creates the best environment for raising children - (Matthew 5:32) Unfaithfulness breaks the bond of trust, the foundation of all relationships - (Matthew 19:6) Marriage is permanent - (Romans 7:2-3) Ideally, only death should dissolve marriage - (Ephesians 5:21-33) Marriage is based on the principled practice of love, not on feelings - (Ephesians 5:23,32) Marriage is a living symbol of Christ and the church - (Hebrews 13:4) Marriage is good and honorable.

"RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PRIDE AND SEXUAL IMMORALITY"     

Men no matter how you look at another woman who is in sexual sin. An adulteress is a seductive woman or a prostitute. Two of the most difficult sins to resist are Pride and Sexual Immorality. Both are alluring. Pride says, "I Deserve It" ;  Sexual Desire says, "I Need It" ;   In combination, their appeal is deadly. In fact, says Solomon, only by relying on God's strength can we overcome them. Pride appeals to the empty head; Sexual enticement to the empty heart. Always remember by looking to God, we can fill our heads with Wisdom and our Hearts with his Love. Don't be fooled - remember what God says about who you are and what you were meant to be. Ask Him for Strength to Resist these Temptations.

OK men that's enough for now, it looks like there will be a Part 3.  Lord Willing I'll see ya soon.

God's View on Sex (Part 1 of 3)

This message is of such importance that I may have to share it with you in parts, so please strap in and get ready for a ride through the Bible.

It's my prayer that you are all standing in the Word of God. Today's subject is sex and I'm not sure if we're on the same page. The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines the word "sex" (1) either of the two major forms that occur in many living things and are designated male or female according to their role in reproduction; also (2) the qualities by which these sexes are differentiated and which directly or indirectly function in reproduction involving two parents. 

"WHY SEX MUST BE LIMITED TO MARRIAGE"

(Deuteronomy 23:17-18) "None of the daughters of israel shall be a cult prostitute, nor shall any of the sons of Israel be a cult prostitute. (vs18) "You shall not bring the hire of a harlot or the wages of a dog into the house of the Lord your God for any votive offering, for both of these are an abomination to the Lord your God. Our God did not over look anything in His law, prostitution is rigidly forbidden. Almost every other religion known to the Israelites included cult prostitution as an integral part of its worship services. prostitution makes a mockery of God's original idea for sex, treating sex as an isolated physical act rather than an act of duty to another. Outside of marriage, sex destroys kinship with marriage, if approached with the right attitude, it can be a relationship builder. Young people need to be reminded about premarital sex, and adults need to be reminded about sexual loyalty.

"SEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS IN MARRIAGE" 

(Proverbs 5:18-20) "God does not intend faithfulness in marriage to be boring, lifeless, pleasureless, and dull. We are told to rejoice in the wife of our youth. We are to be stimulated always with her love. Real happiness comes when we decide to find pleasure in the relationship God has given or will give us and to commit ourselves to making it pleasing for our spouse.

 "SEXUAL SIN"

 "CONSEQUENCES OFTEN DEVASTING"     

(Genesis 34:27-29)  When Shechem raped Dinah, the consequences were far greater than he could have imagined. Dinah's brothers were outraged and took vengeance, pain, deceit, and murder followed. Sexual sin is devastating because it's consequences are so far reaching.

"RESISTING SEXUAL SIN"  

(Genesis 39:9)  "There is one greater in this house than I, and he has witheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do this great evil and sin against God?"  Wow, what a man of God. Joseph truly was a man with character. Potiphar's wife failed to seduce Joseph, who resisted this temptation by saying it would be a sin against God. One has to wonder how many other times Potiphar's wife seduced other men and was successful. Joseph didn't say, to Potiphar's wife, "I'd be sinning against Potiphar," or "I'd be sinning against myself." Under pressure, such excuses are easily explained away. Men remember that sexual sin is not just between two consenting adults. We know that it is an act of disobedience against our God. None of us I don't believe gets up each day and says, let's see how can I disobey God today. We must purpose in our heart to stay sin free. We need to realize how important it is to engraft scripture into our daily lives. Just afew weekends ago while praying for someone at the altar a brother in the Lord came up to me an handed me a list of scriptures that we all should memorize and speak into other lives.

"WHY SEXUAL SIN IS SO DANGEROUS"                                                                   

(Leviticus 20:10-21)  God's prohibition against sexual sins come with notably harsh punishments. God has no understanding for such acts for the following reasons: (A) They shatter into smithereens the mutal commitment of married couples; (B) They can surely destroy the sanctity of the family (C) They twist people's mental well - being; and (D) They spread disease. Sexual Sin has always been widely available, but the glorification of sex between people who are not married to each other often hides deep catastrophe and hurt behind the scenes. When society portrays sexual sins as attractive, it is easy to forget the dark side.When we neglect to pray and search the scriptures daily for guidance and strength will can stumble and Fall. God had good reasons for prohibiting sexual sins.He loves us and wants the very best for us.

 I believe I will stop right here for now as I don't want to bowl you over today.   I'll be back with Part 2!

Until next time stay tuned...

 

Humbly Yours in Christ,

              Jim

Is Your House Built On Rock Or Sand

Greetings To You All,

I have a very important question for you.Have you excepted the challenge yet? Are you still just getting by... What I mean is some of us coast through life on what was achieved in the past. (James 1:5) " but if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him". How easy is this, just ask and receive. Knowledge, insight, and good judgment and the path of less Resistance. In the book of Luke 6:48 speaks on obeying God, which is likened to building a house on a strong foundation. Is your families substructure based on the Word of God? Are you building your house, your temple on a solid ground? We all know that life has bumps in the road, so it's vital to build on rock rather than sand. Isn't it a great feeling to know that you're prepared in case of any situation in your life. In the Gospels we're told about Jesus calming the storm. The disciples have seen many things that they never heard of before. We should know by now that Jesus is always with us know matter the situation we find ourselves in. The Lord is looking for you and me to trust Him in all facets of our lives.

We need to en graft this concept that Jesus will never leave us nor forsake us. He will provide every thing we need. Nows the time to check and see what you're made of. Many of us read the Word Daily and we are in church every time the doors are open. But we still don't trust God in an wholehearted manner. One day Jesus stepped into a boat and his 12 disciples followed. Remember that these were fishermen accept for a few. These men had not thoughtlessly set out in a storm. being familiar with these waters they truly had been caught without warning, and in their minds they were in trouble. These men had first hand knowledge of many miracles performed by Jesus Christ. These men for some reason did not think that Jesus could handle this situation. Are we like that, do we know that Jesus can handle any situation. There is often a stormy area of our human nature where we feel, that for whatever reason God can't or won't work, in that situation. I confess that I have given something to the Lord then took it back when I figured out a solution.When we truly understand who God is, however, we will realize that he controls both the storms of nature and the storms of the troubled heart. Jesus is willing to help if we only ask him. We should never discount his power even in terrible trials.

"Why do you call me, Lord, Lord, and do not do what I say? Yielding to God is like building your house on a strong, solid foundation that will stand firm when the storms of life come. When life is calm, our foundations don't seem to matter. On the other hand when crises come, our foundations are tested. Friends we must be sure our life is built on the solid foundation of knowing and trusting Jesus Christ. I'm reminded of when Jesus taught about the vine and the branches. (John 15:5-6) "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing". (vs 6) " If anyone does not abide in me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned".

That's all for now, have a great day in the Lord.

Humbly Yours in Christ,
Jim

"Endeavor to become a person of Integrity"

Have You Checked Your Insurance Policy?

I'm sure that all of us have been reading about what's going on in Southern California. My wife and I spent about ten years out west. In fact two of our children were born in Southern California, and our third was born in the great state of Massachusetts. We have been through fires, flood, earthquakes and hurricanes. We truly understand just how devastating wild fire can be, we've seen fire burn right up to the house and stop. If one does not believe in God I just don't understand. My Bible says the earth will be judged by fire. 2 Peter 3:7 "But by his His Word the present heavens and earth are being reserved for fire, kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men". In the days of Noah the earth was judged by water; and the Word says at the Second Coming it will be judged by fire. This fire is described in the book of Revelation 19:20; 20:10-15.

I'm a people watcher and I believe that we all should have the facts. My friend Tony S. sent me a link that took me back to days of yesteryear. I enjoyed watching a program called "Dragnet", the star was a character named "Joe Friday". His famous line when questioning a witness he would say "Just The Facts". This program ran from 1952 - 1959, then 1967 - 70. I believe that we all should have the facts. In order to make the best decision for our lives. We should understand that we have a clear choice of where we will spend eternity. Some walk around with the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Still some walk around saying to themselves let's live for today as we may die tomorrow. I believe that we should live our lives expecting Jesus Christ any moment. 2 Peter 3: 8-9 "But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord One Day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like One Day. (9) The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. God may have seemed slow to these believers as they faced persecution every day and longed to be delivered. Know that our God is not slow; He just is not on my or your timetable. Psalm 90:4 "For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday when it passes by, or as a watch in the night". Moses reminded us that a thousand years are like a day to the Lord. God is not limited by time. It's easy to get discouraged when years pass and the world doesn't get better. Some wonder if God is able to see the future. But assume that God has our limitations. God is completely unrestricted by time. Because He is eternal, we can depend on Him. Please understand that our God is an on time God. We must stand and wait on God's timing. Psalm 39:5 " Behold, you have made my days as hand-breadths, and my life time as nothing in your sight; surely every man at his best is a mere breath." The shortness of life is a theme throughout the books of Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes. Jesus also spoke about it (Luke 12:20). Remember Judges 7:19 "So Gideon and the hundred men who were with him came to the outskirts of the camp at the beginning of the middle watch, when they had just posted the watch; and they blew the trumpets and smashed the pitchers that were in their hands". It's always important to trust God. There marching orders come from the Lord, then to Gideon, to the 300 soldiers. The night was divided equally into three watches. The beginning of the middle watch would have been around 10:00 P.M. many in the camp would still have been awake confusion of the enemy. Gideon's army simply watched as the army of Median fell into panic, confusion, and disordered retreat. "Not one man had to draw a sword to defeat the enemy. Now regarding a Deceitful Heart Jeremiah 17:11 "As a partridge that hatches eggs which it has not laid, so is he who makes a fortune, it will forsake him, and in the end he will be a fool".

There is a right way and a wrong way to do any task. Jeremiah says that the man who becomes rich by unjust means will end up Foolish and Poor. Whether at school, work or play we should strive to be people of Integrity in all of our dealings. Getting a Promotion, Passing an Examination, or gaining Prestige Unjustly will never bring God's Blessing or Lasting Happiness.

Now, Doom of the Beast and False Prophet. Rev. 19:20 "And the beast was seized and with him the False Prophet who performed the signs in his presence by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the Beast and those who worshipped his image, these two were thrown alive into the lake of fire which burns with brimstone". The lake of fire which burns with brimstone ("Sulfur") is the final destination of the wicked. This lake is different from the abyss ( Bottomless Pit ) referred to in Rev. 9:1. The Antichrist and the false prophet are thrown into the lake of fire. Then there leader, Satan himself, will be thrown into that lake ( 20: 10), and finally death and hades ( 20:14). Afterward, everyone whose name is not recorded in the Book of Life will be thrown into the Lake Of Fire (20:15).

"Bottomless Pit" Rev. 9:1 "Then the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star from heaven which had fallen to the earth; and the key of the bottomless pit was given to him". Most likely it is a good angel, that has fallen to the earth. The key to the bottomless pit is normally held by Christ (Rev. 1:17-18), and it was temporarily given to this other being from heaven (see also 20:1). This being, whoever he may be, is still under God's control and authority. The bottomless pit represents the place of the demons and of Satan, the king of demons (9:11). See also Luke 8:31 for another reference to the bottomless pit ( also called the abyss). (Rev. 1:17-18) When I saw Him, I fell at His Feet like a dead man. And He placed His right hand on me, saying, "Do not be afraid; I am First and the Last, (18) and the living one; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades. As the Roman Empire stepped up it's persecution of Christians, John must have wondered if the church could survive and stand against the opposition. As always Jesus is with us evermore, reassuring John that he and his fellow believers had access to God's strength to face these trials. If you are facing difficult problems, remember that the power available to John and the early church is also available to you ( see 1 John 4:4). Our sins have convicted and sentenced Hades. He alone can free us from eternal bondage to Satan. He alone has the power and authority to set us free from sins control. As believers we don't have to fear Hades or Death, because Christ holds the keys to both. All we must do is turn from sin and turn to Him in faith.

Every time I attempt to control my life and disregard God, I'm setting a course which leads directly to hell. But when we place our lives in Christ's hands, He restores us now and resurrects us later to an eternal, peaceful relationship with Him. Most of us have life and health Insurance, plus Homeowners and Automobile Insurance but we neglect "Eternity Insurance" Why do we procrastinate when it comes to Eternal Salvation. We cannot hide from Christ; He knows what sin is in our hearts and minds, and still He loves us, the sins we try to hide from God need to be confessed to HIM. Jesus is knocking on the door of our hearts every time we sense we should turn to him. Jesus wants to have fellowship with us, and he wants us to open up to Him. Jesus has proven to be patient and persistent in trying to get through to us. The lamb of God is a gentle Savior. Make no mistake about it God will separate his obedient followers from Pretenders and Unbelievers. How well do your actions separate you from Pretenders and Unbelievers? My God is in control.

We all get tested from time to time and it's important that we measure up. We should remember, know matter what, Flood, Fire or even Hurricane/Tornado our God is in control. If I lost everything, it would be my prayer that I totally Trust God. Even in total destruction and loss, "TRUST GOD"

Humbly Yours in Christ,
Jim

"We fathers must earn the right to be heard".

Men our actions speak louder than words, I heard this many times growing up from my parents. As father we must accept each person just as he or she is. this is especially true in the home, do we always put our best foot forward? Children learn values, morals, and priorities by observing how their parents (me and you) act and react every day. How many times in our own way do we try to tell someone to do it this way or that. Our wives, children even those who we work with. we are to be in a position of Learner and Servant. We should appreciate each person, and time will tell about the future. Stay with me for a moment , if parents exhibit a Deep Reverence for and Dependence on God, our children will catch these Attitudes. As the strongman in our families we are held by God, accountable for each child, who has been entrusted to us. By allowing our children to see our reverence to God.

Teach them right living by giving worship an important place in your family life and by reading the Bible together. Remember as Husbands and Fathers it's our job, no our Responsibility to never compare any of our family members to one of greater ability. As a Husband and Father looking back I confess that I made mistakes in the rearing of my family. It's imperative that we check ourselves daily. This can be done at anytime during the day. When my family was young and my children were preteens I would depressurize on my way home in my automobile. I would talk everything out with my Lord. If we don't repent from our sins, we may never receive the full blessings of the Father.

In the book of Numbers we're reminded: The Lord is slow to anger and abundant in loving kindness, forgiving iniquity and transgression; but He will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and the fourth generations. OK, Moses pleaded with God, asking him to forgive his people. Isn't it wonderful to know that we don't have to wait for someone else to stand in the gap for us, all we have to do is repent. Moses plea reveals several characteristics of God: (1) God is immensely patient; (2) God's love is one promise we can always count on; (3) God forgives again and again and (4) God is merciful listening to and answering our prayer requests. God has not changed since Moses day. Like Moses, we can rely on God's love, patience, forgiveness, and mercy.

Remember it's very important to repent from sin and ask for forgiveness. As a man we should be strong enough to ask to be forgiven. Daily I ask for WISDOM... Proverbs 16:16 "How much better to get Wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver".

Until next time

Humbly Yours in Christ,
Jim

Nehemiah

There are few times in our lives when we think that everything is going well and there seems to be little to no problems that we know of. We have a good family life. We have found a good church to attend that helps us to learn and to grow. And we have a good job which helps us not only to pay the bills but to have some prestige. Those are times we need to keep our eyes open and look around to see how God is going to use us. God does love us and He is going to bless us simply because we are His children, but there are times when He will put us into places in order
to accomplish His will.

Such was the case several times in the Old Testament. These include Queen Esther whom was used to protect the Jews and this was the case with Nehemiah, cupbearer to king Artexerxes (Nehemiah 2:1). The problem from Nehemiah's day was that the walls of Jerusalem had been torn down (Nehemiah 1:3). If it truly is a God-given task that we have on our hearts then our requests will be granted when we go to the "authority" figure seeking permission and possibly
even when we seek funding.

In Nehemiah 2:4 Nehemiah went to the king to seek permission to step away from his role as the cup bearer and to return to "home" where his fathers were buried to rebuild it. Since he was favored in the king's eyes he was granted permission to go. Not only that, but the king also sent him with letters to other provinces to give Nehemiah safe travel as well as timber. Again, the king granted the request, but he didn't stop there. The king also sent officers and calvary to accompany Nehemiah (Nehemiah 2:9).

It wasn't until Nehemiah arrived in Jerusalem that he saw just how much devastation there was that he knew the extent of the damage and how much work was going to be needed in order to accomplish the rebuilding task. And to make matters worse, even though Nehemiah was there with the king's permission and was going to accomplish God's will, but there were also those who opposed the work. As you can see in verses 19-20 there were those who mocked and ridiculed Nehemiah.

Despite the opposition Nehemiah and the rest of the Jews were faithful and began the work to repair the walls around Jerusalem / Judah. The work was divided upon families and the prominent Jewish leaders. Each leader was given a section of wall or gate in order to repair (Nehemiah 3).

Then in Nehemiah 4 the opposition goes from being ridicule and mocking to being active opposition and the enemies plotted against the rebuilding of the wall (Chapter 4). So in 4:16 half of the men worked on the wall while the other half of the men stood protection. They would then rally to where ever the trumpet would sound and converge to help in the event of an attack.
Despite all of the obstacles the wall was completed and God's will was accomplished. Even then opposition continued.

Just because they were following God's will did not mean that opposition would stop. This is a very important lesson for us to learn. Even when we are following God's will and seeking to serve Him we will still run into problems and have difficulties in life. Even with the problems we should continue to serve Him and to overcome. His will is going to be done, if not by us then by others. Then we will fail to receive the blessings that accompany serving God and
seeking His will for our lives.

It is always better to follow God's will for our lives rather than to get comfortable and stop seeking His will and stop serving Him. In those instances we risk losing the blessings that He has bestowed upon us when He raises up someone else to help.

In Him,
Benjamin

"One Of God's Creations"

Today I'd like to share with you about my new acknowledgement of "goats". Before you go to another site just wait a moment and you just might as I did learn something.

Approximately one month ago my wife and son purchased four goats to keep three acres of land clear behind our home. As I peer out of the window amazed at how much vegetation these creatures of God can consume I'm astounded. This past weekend I found myself again watching the goats. One was standing on an uprooted tree trunk that would tip one way and then the other. As he was stretching to reach vegetation just out of his reach his weight was causing a sea saw action, he never fell or lost his balance. He got up on his hind legs and that just blew my mind, I thought to myself that my God is truly an awesome God.

I started doing my research on goats and I was curious to see just how the Bible portrays goats, sheep's etc. These animals are surefooted and are mentioned in both the Old Testament and the New Testaments. In the Old Testament Sheep/Goats were referred to "Atonement". Leviticus 16:1 "The day of atonement was the greatest day of the year for Israel. The Hebrew word for atone means "To Cover". Goats were used as a sin offering.

Atonement: The reconciliation of God and man through the death of Jesus Christ. Aaron had to spend hours preparing himself to meet God. Now we can approach God anytime (Hebrews 4:16). What a privilege! We are offered easier access to God than the high priest of Old Testament times, still, we must never forgot that God is Holy nor let this privilege cause us to approach God carelessly. The way to God has been opened to us by Christ. But easy access to God does not eliminate our need to prepare our hearts as we draw near in prayer.

Now, getting back to the goats, everyday I find myself watching them while I'm praying and praising God outside. It's truly amazing how surefooted these animals are. They have hooves and dew claws which allows them to run, jump and leap from any surface in reckless abandonment. Now days I tend to look at things more closely. I enjoy sitting on my front porch rocking as I take notice of how creative, how amazing, how marvelous my God is. I see deer, rabbits, snakes even foxes on our property and it's amazing how they take care of each other. I've also noticed most of these species respect each other as long as one does not invade the others space.

I now have a better understanding of Matthew 25:32 "All the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats." Jesus used sheep and goats to picture the division between believers and unbelievers. Sheep and goats often grazed together but were separated when it came time to shear the sheep. Ezekiel 34:17-24 also refers to the separation of Sheep and Goats. Matt. 25:31-46 God will separate his obedient followers from pretenders and unbelievers. It's important that we communicate intimately with the Father daily. The real evidence of our belief is the way we act. As Christians we are to treat all people we encounter as if they are Jesus is no easy task. What we do for others demonstrates what we really think about Jesus words to us feed the hungry, give the homeless a place to stay, and look after the sick. Ask yourself this question, How well do my actions separate me from Pretenders and Unbelievers?

Have a great day in the Lord...

Humbly Yours in Christ,
Jim

"OUR CHRISTIAN WALK"

(Eph 4:17-32)

How many times have you attempted to read the Bible, with the best of intentions but your mind wondered. You see most of us just read the Bible opposed to studying it. When one studies the Word of God you truly will have the Bible open to you as never before. Why should someone want to understand the Word of God? I believe many of us who are saved, who know the Lord as our personal savior, are missing out on the blessings of God. "So this I say, and affirm together with the Lord, that you walk no longer just as the gentiles, also walk, in the futility of their mind. I don't know about you, I for one do not wish to be void of the Word of God, as I was before my personal relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. People should be able to see a difference between the Saved and the unsaved. Paul told us to leave behind the old life of sin. Non believers have no doubt in their own abilities. Intellectual pride, and rationalizations will keep people from God. If we don't rely on Jesus, we will soon believe that we don't need God. Their is a big difference between knowing the right words and living them out. Don't be content to have the right answers about Christ. Let your life show that God's power is really working in you.

Verse 25:27 "Therefore, laying aside falsehood, SPEAK TRUTH EACH ONE OF YOU WITH HIS NEIGHBOR, for we are members of one another. (26) BE ANGRY, AND YET DO NOT SIN; do not let the sun go down on your anger, (27) and do not give the devil an opportunity. How many times have you heard some one say something that just wasn't true? Lying to each other disrupts unity by creating conflicts and destroying trust. It's my prayer to be a "Powerful Man" A man of God , to walk in power. Know matter what ones past has been you can call on Jesus Christ for a life changing experience. As a Christian you may become humble but also bold. Your confidence will come from the Holy Spirit. Always control your spirit, remember Eph. 4;26 "Be angry and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger". Now in John 2;4 Jesus was angry at the dishonest, greedy practices of the money changers and merchants, and he particularly disliked their presence on the temple grounds. They were making a disparagement of God's house of worship. As born again people we must realize that we are being watched by others. I believe that some are waiting to say: If that's a christian then I don't want to be one. As followers of Christ we have the obligation to be Christ - Like, a christian. I'm reminded of Deuteronomy 7:9 "Know therefore that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His loving kindness to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments; (10) but repays those hate Him to their faces, to destroy them; He will not delay with him who hates Him, He will repay him to his face. Enough said every promise that God has uttered will come to pass... Some time in the future we will look into " The promises of God".

Remember someone is always watching, the father has promised that He will never us.

Humbly Yours in Christ,
Jim

Have You Met My Friend, Jesus?

Have you ever wondered how our heroes of the Faith became so familiar with our Lord? One word comes to mind: "Obedience". Now the opposite of sin is obedience. Obeying God restores our relationship to Him. In case you're not hearing me, the only way to enjoy the benefits of God's promises is to obey Him. It seems simple enough. The Lord God commanded the man, saying, "From any tree of the garden you may eat freely; (17) but from the tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil you shall not eat, For in the day that you eat from it you will surely die." (Genesis 2: 16-17)

Next Moses comes to mind in Exodus 33:11 " Thus the Lord used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend. Does this not excite you, "JESUS IS A FRIEND WITH PERKS". He knows my every thought - He's with me always - He never forces His will upon me - He's available 24/7 - One can go on and on. " The man or woman who trusts God and obeys His will is untouchable until God takes him or her. To trust God is to have immeasurable peace. God, who delivered Daniel will deliver you. Do you trust Him with your life?"

" JESUS NEVER FAILS "

If asked by another if we trust our Lord God, we say without thought "Yes ". Today just as in the days of Abraham we live in a sinful world. Most people that we come in contact with ignore the Word of God. Of course there is a percentage of us who try to follow Christ. One day God appeared to Abraham and told him that his descendants would become a great nation. As believers we are to live our life keeping in mind the legacy we will leave our descendants. God spoke to Abraham and He will speak to you. Can you say that you hear from God, and if you do, are you totally trusting Him? We must know that our God will not and cannot lie.

God will not permit lying, not even if it will avert the consequences of our actions. Do you remember in Genesis 20:11-13 Abraham deceived Abimelech with what he called a half truth. Abraham mistakenly assumed that this ruler of Gerar was a wicked man. Abraham said of Sarah his wife, "She is my Sister". So Abimelech king of Gerar sent and took Sarah. How many times do we receive a no from God, but still go ahead? If you're not seeking the face of God daily, it is easy to do your own will. Isn't God good, but God came to Abimelech in a dream of the night, and said to him, "Behold, you are a dead man because of the woman whom you have taken, for she is married". I suggest that you read this very short chapter (Gen. 20:1-18) Abraham thought it would be in his favor in deceiving Abimelech rather than trusting God. We're told in many ways that we are to trust God, no matter what our situation looks like. If you were to take some time to reflect on your past troubles, you will notice that you can come through and the world wasn't over. What I'm alluding to is we must trust God even if we were threatened with the Lions Den or a furnace that is heated 7 times hotter than normal. If we totally trust God, even though we're scared to death, we're putting that mountain, that problem, that situation on the altar of God, His Will be done. Our Lord may intervene when we least expect Him to. When we put ourselves in His hands, we'll have nothing to worry about and we can spend more time worshipping Him. I'll ask one last time have you met my friend Jesus?

Get to know Him by reading the Bible daily, remember He tells us to prove Him, to Test Him.

UNTIL NEXT TIME, RELY ON JESUS.....

Humbly Yours in Christ,

Jim

"Endeavor to become a person of Integrity"

The Green - Eyed Monster Envy

Scripture includes a vivid account of envy which resulted in murder, destruction and death. I once heard that, everything we have loses it's value to us when we desire something we cannot have. Men, it is a gray matter when we set our affections on something we shouldn't have because those around us will often do what they can to get it for us.

In this story a king had great riches but was unable to enjoy them because he wanted something he could not have. The king's wife implemented a wicked scheme that gave him his wish, but neither the king nor the Queen counted on the final price of what they had done. The callous eyes of a evil queen stared at her moody husband . It was in her interest to keep everyone around her happy, but the king was exceedingly displeased and dejected. She played the part of a doting wife. "Why aren't you eating? What has made you so upset?" The king answered as though he was a little boy telling his mother who hurt him. Then he replied I asked the man next door if he would trade me his vineyard for a better one or accept money for it, but he refused." "Why would he refuse?" She probed." "because he claims that the law of God prohibits such a sale." With irritation she demanded, "Are you king or aren't you?" Then with a ingenious gleam in her eye, she assured her husband, "Don't worry about it. I'll see that you get that vineyard." The queen was very evil and she despised God's prophets and delighted in destroying them. Why should she allow a neighbor who kept God's laws to interfere with her husband's happiness? So she went about her deadly scheme against the vineyard owner. Now the plot thickens... Letters were drafted and sent out in the king's name to the leaders of the city. "Call the citizens together, proclaim a time of fasting and prayer. Then put the vineyard owner on trial. Hire two men to falsely accuse him of cursing God and the king. then execute him." The leaders of the city followed her instructions. When the report of the man's demise reached the queen, she proudly announced to her husband, "Do you remember the vineyard your neighbor wouldn't sell you." You can have it now. He is no longer living." The king grinned like a spoiled child used to having his own way, but when he left the palace to claim the vineyard he was met by a Prophet of God (Elijah the Tishbite). The king was startled and deeply convicted by the Prophet's words.

"God has a message for you, O King. Isn't it bad enough to kill your neighbor and his family? Must you steal his vineyard, too? Because you have done this, dogs will lick your blood outside the city just like they licked the blood of your neighbor's. None of your sons will survive and the dead body of your wife will be ripped apart by the dogs."

Men it's so important that we received wise counsel, and the best counsel comes from the Word of God. Then Ahab refused to admit his guilt / sin against God. He accused Elijah, God's prophet, of being his enemy. When we are blinded by envy and hatred, it is almost impossible to see our own sin. Surely there was no one like Ahab who sold himself to do evil in the sight of the Lord, because Jezebel his wife incited him" (1 King 21:25). Jezebel's story is told in 1 Kings 16:31- 2Kings 9:37. Her name is used as a synonym for great evil in Revelation 2:20. Now Ahab was very evil and he holds the title of being the most wicked king in Israel's history.

Several years later that king was killed in battle. As men washed his blood out of the chariot dogs came and licked it. Later still, the General of the army entered the Royal city. The wicked queen was waiting for him. She had painted her eyelids fixed her hair and was sitting in an upper window of her place. Little did she know that this would be her last attitudinizing regal like portrayal.

The general shouted, "throw her down". The servants who surrounded her obeyed and threw her out the window. Her blood splattered against the wall. The general trampled her body beneath his horses. Later, soldiers were sent to bury her, but they found only the skull, feet and hands of that wicked Queen Jezebel. The dogs had eaten her just as the prophet said they would. But even the dogs refused her bloodstained hands, her feet that were swift in running to mischief, and her corrupted mind that found joy at the expense of others when they stood in the way of her evil plans. From (1Kings 21 and II Kings 9:30-37)

Although Jezebel outlined her husband by ten years, she did not escape a violent and humiliating death (II Kings 9:33). In Revelation 2:20, the name Jezebel is used for a false prophetess within the church of thyatira who encouraged idolatry and immorality. Her name is synonymous today with wickedness and treachery. Jezebel's tragic epithet is given in conjunction with her husband's, "but there was none like unto Ahab, which did sell himself to work wickedness in the sight of the Lord, whom Jezebel, his wife, stirred up". (I Kings 21:25). An innocent death to satisfy a selfish whim. Naboth refused to sell his inherited land on the basis of the Mosaic Law which was higher than Ahab's desires ( Leviticus 25:23).

"Until next time keep your spiritual wit's about ya"

Humbly Yours in Christ,

Jim

Being Vigilante

"Can We Talk?"

I'm sure that you're familiar with this verse: Love not the world (1 John 2:15-16) Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the father is not in him. (16) for all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the father, but is from the world. How many times have you heard someone say? "I just love my life" most people who use this phrase are just thinking of material gain, from the sweat of their brow ... We must always put God first, and seek the kingdom of God...

Now the serpent was MORE CRAFTY than any beast of the field which our Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, "Indeed, has God said, 'you shall not eat from any tree of the garden ?" (Gen.3:1). Cloaked as a crafty serpent, Satan CAME to tempt Eve. Let's not forget that Satan at one time was an angel who rebelled against God and he was thrown out of heaven. As Satan we are all created beings, Satan has definite limitations. Satan is trying to tempt EVERYONE away from God, he will not be the victor. God has the final say. In Gen. 3:14-15, God promises that Satan will be crushed by one of the woman's offspring, the MESSIAH.

The other day I was watching the local news and they started talking about parents getting ready for the opening of school. All of a sudden I noticed the advertisements that are shown in repetition, TV certainly knows how to capture our attention and the same is true when we walk into a store any store. Have you noticed how attractive successful - looking the models/mannequin's are? The message that they are attempting to communicate to the public is... if you purchase their product you will also become attractive and successful.

Genesis 3:6 says: When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes... They failed their first test. The Lord God commanded the man saying, "From any tree of the garden you may eat freely; but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day you eat from it you will SURELY DIE". Eve had never tasted the forbidden fruit. She had tasted other from which was very delicious and enjoyable. When she considered violating God's limitations, she allowed her eye to associate the forbidden fruit with previous pleasurable experiences. The fruit itself was appealing to the eye.

Do you have the same eye that Eve had, can you see yourself with eyes like hers? Friends not only do advertisers use sensually suggestive models to sell their product, but they also encourage woman to overemphasize their eyes. God warns men, "Do not desire her beauty in your heart, "Nor let her capture you with her eyelids". Men as husbands, fathers and grandfathers we must make our families aware of alluring advertising. When one thinks about it, alluring advertising takes the weakest point of a product and tries to turn it into a positive quality. A cigarette company advertises satisfaction, while the liquor industry focuses on life; in reality its product produces death. As an ex-smoker I never found satisfaction so I inhaled up to 1 1/2 packs per day. When we lean on our own understanding, we are not trusting God. We must trust him completely in every choice we make. Depending on our own reasoning means that Satan has a fifty fifty chance of us blowing it again. God wants us to discern between good and evil through his spirit. 1 John 4:1 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. The very temptation of Satan portrayed the consequence of relying on human understanding rather than trusting in divine discernment.

Next time you and your family go into the mall be on the look out for misleading phrases, items that appeal to the lust of the eye. Be aware that some who work behind the register/counter might be working on commission only. Men it's my opinion that he/she might use any tactic to fill their sales quota. They may use a phrase like it's only $xx,xx, or I want you to have this product so I'll do this or that for you. We truly must develop SALES RESISTANCE. "The naive believes everything, but the sensible man considers his steps. (Proverbs 14:15) Sales people are trained to move product, so they will point out the positive features of the product in question. They will make broad statements and they will put pressure on you to buy immediately. It's very important to get all the facts. My wife and I, before we make a purchase, especially a high dollar item we check with Consumers Reports. You can subscribe or go on line www.consumerreports.com . be a wise consumer as school opens in weeks.

Have a great day in the Lord.

In Times Of Difficulty

OK, sometimes we are on our "A" game and other times we just don't feel like we can complete anything for a variety of reasons.

There may be times of great difficulty in our Christian life when it seems that the weight of our problems is going to crush us. God may seem to be a galaxy away. At these times we learn what it means to walk by faith and not by sight II Cor. 5:7. Have you ever experienced pain, all we want is to get rid of it right away II Corinthians 4:17 says: For momentary, light affliction is producing for us eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison . Our troubles should not diminish our faith or disillusion us. we should realize that there is a purpose in our suffering. Problems and human limitations have several benefits: (1) They remind us of Christ's suffering for us. (2) They keep us from pride, (3) They cause us to look beyond this brief life, (4) They prove our faith to others, and (5) They give God the opportunity to demonstrate his power.

"See your difficulty as an opportunity"

The other day I was talking with my friend Rick Creech and he was sharing with me about how God is in control. Then I remembered that I belong to the Father, and He wants the very best from me. When I experience a disruptive moment in my life such as chronic pain or any other type of irritation I try to remember that God is in total control. The Father is allowing this interruption and I believe that it's just a test. Do you remember Jesus prayed in the garden, He was fully aware of what doing the Father's will would cost Him. We also must understand and realize that irritations, pain and or suffering in life that we encounter the father is well aware of.

Jesus was well aware of the suffering He was about to encounter. Jesus prayed, "Not what I will, but what You will". Is this your prayer? Are you willing to pay the price to gain something worthwhile in the end. Whens the last time you read 1 Peter 4:1-2 ?

As followers of Christ, we should be willing and prepared to do God's will and to suffer for it if necessary. I would like to think that I could stand - up to the test. As one who experiences chronic pain daily, I've come to realize that sin loses its power to defeat us in our suffering. When we focus on Christ all things are possible, healing of all kinds. Anyone who suffers for doing good and still trustingly obeys in spite of suffering, that person has truly made a clean break with sin. God created the world, and he has faithfully ordered it and kept it since the creation Because we know that God is faithful, we can count on him to fulfill his promises to us. If God can oversee the forces of nature, surely he can see us through the trials we face.


Humbly Yours,
Jim

Making a Proper Appeal

Have you ever thought about the way you've made appeals in your past, and was your appeal granted? God supplied us with the Word of God, which can prepare us for every situation.

God is in control: Our Father is all knowing, and He is in charge of world events. God overrules and removes rebellious leaders who defy him. God will overcome evil; no one is exempt. But He will deliver the faithful who follow Him. Although nations vie for world control now, one day Christ's kingdom will replace and surpass the kingdoms of this world we live in. We can take solace in knowing our faith is sure because our future is secure in Christ. We must have courage and put our faith in God, who controls everything.

Daniel and his three friends are examples of dedication and commitment. They did not give into pressure from an ungodly society because they had a clear "Purpose in life".

Perseverance: Daniel served from 605 BC to 535 sum total of 70 years in a foreign land. His captors were hostile to God , yet he did not compromise his faith in God. He was truthful, persistent in prayer, and disinterested in power for personal glory.

"God's Faithfulness:" God was faithful in Daniel's life. He delivered him from prison, from a den of lions, and from enemies who hated him. You see God cares for people and deals patiently with them. Saints we can trust God to be with us thorough any trial. Because he has been faithful to us, we should remain faithful to him.

I know that many of us have had times when we thought to compromise rather that to stand on the word of God. Daniel 1:3 Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, the chief of his officials, to bring in some of the sons of Israel, including some of the royal family and of the nobles. 1:4- youths in whom was no defect, who were good looking, showing intelligence in every branch of wisdom, endowed with understanding and discerning knowledge, and who had ability for serving in the king's court; and he ordered him to teach them the literature and language of the Chaldean's.

"DANIEL'S RESOLVE"

1:8 But Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king's choice food or with the wine which he drank; so he sought permission from the commander of the officials that he might not defile himself. 1:9 Now God granted Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the commander of the officials. Daniel appealed to the overseer "please test your servants for ten days, and let us be given some vegetables to eat and water to drink. Daniel 1:13 Then let our appearance be observed in your presence and the appearance of youths who are eating the kings choice food; and deal with your servants according to what you see". 1:14 So he listened to them in this matter and test them for ten days. 1:15 At the end of ten days their appearance seemed better and they were fatter than all the youths who had been eating the king's choice food. 1:16 So the overseer continued to withhold their choice food and the wine they were to drink, and kept giving them vegetables. 1:17 As for these four youths, God gave them knowledge and intelligence in every branch of literature and wisdom; Daniel even understood all kinds of visions and dreams.

God loves us just as much as he loved these four young men. I'm reminded of another scripture 1 John 5:14-15 This is the confidence which we have before him, that, if we ask anything according to His Will, He hears us. (15) And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him. At the end of the days which the king had specified for presenting them, the commander of the officials presented before Nebuchadnezzar. Now the king spoke with them and not one was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king's personal service. 1:20 As for every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king consulted them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and conjurers who were in all his realm.

Now I'd like to fast forward as Daniel is propelled in the sight of the king, he promoted Daniel and gave him many gifts, and he made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon and chief prefect over all the wise men of Babylon.

2:19 And Daniel made request of the king, and he appointed Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego over the administration of the province of Babylon which Daniel was at the king's court. Something we all must grasp, that the highest test of our true attitudes is not when we make our appeal but our response if our appeal is turned down. A gracious response at this point will not only be a proper testimony, but it may also prompt the one who has turned down our appeal to reconsider. It will certainly cause our authority to be more open to future appeals which we may need to make. OK, if our appeal is accepted, we also have an obligation to demonstrate a right spirit. That would involve genuine gratefulness and any expected follow-through. Daniel is one of God's best examples of how to make wise and effective appeals. He served under four political rulers and on two occasions could not obey the instructions that were given to him.

In the first episode he appealed and was given what he requested. In the second instance an appeal was useless, so he followed his convictions and was cast into a den of lions. Daniel had so effectively followed the aspects of being under authority, having the right motives and having attitudes, that the king spent a whole day and a sleepless night trying to spare Daniel from the consequences of the law that he had to violate.

In Babylon's religious culture, statues were frequently worshiped. Nebuchadnezzar hoped to use this huge image (ninety feet high by nine feet wide) as a strategy to unite the nation and solidify his power by centralizing worship. Now this golden image might have been inspired by his dream. He thought of having not just the head made of gold but head to toe.

The king wanted his kingdom to last forever. When he made the statue, Nebuchadezzar, showed that his devotion to Daniel's God was short-lived. He neither feared nor obeyed the God who was behind the dream. 3:8 For this reason at that time certain Chaldeans came forward and brought charges against the Jews. Then they said "You, O King have made a decree that every man who hears the sound of the horn, Flute, Lyre, Trigon, Psaltery, and Bag Pipe and all kinds of music, is to fall down and worship the golden image. 3:11 Then the Word of God says "But whoever does not fall down and worship shall be cast into the midst of a furnace of blazing fire. I'm sure that we all know the rest of the story.

The Bible is so interesting to me, it has everything. The Word of God is life changing and those of us who are adventurous, and who wasn't at the edge of our seat when Abraham was instructed to offer up his son, his pride and joy (Gen.22). Now wasn't it thrilling, I'm sure that each one of us can share a story in the Bible. How about the New Testament, the Gospels to be a great way to introduce others to the Word of God. When we're sharing our faith, it's like making a proper appeal.

All I wish to do is to share what God puts on my heart. That is why my friend, Ben Corll, and I have put together this blog.

Thank you so much for all your prayers in the last 7 years.

Bond - Servant Of God
Jim

"Desire The Things Of God"

Returning Home

Brothers in the faith,

I know that most of us have heard a sermon or read about Nehemiah, for whatever reason this is what I'm suppose to share with you.

"NEHEMIAH"

And I went out by night by the gate of the valley, even before the dragon well, and to the dung gate, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were broken down, and its gates were consumed with fire. Then I went on to the gate of the fountain, and to the King's pool...

Then went I up in the night by the brook... and turned back, and entered by the gate of the valley."

HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED HOW DID NEHEMIAH WIN FAVOR WITH THE KING?

Although Artaxerxes allowed Ezra to beautify the temple in Jerusalem in his seventh year (Ezra 7:8), he expressly forbade the building of the wall (Ezra 4:16,21). The city had a long infamous record of rebellion (Ezra 4:15,19). The fact that four months passed before Nehemiah made his request to the king indicates its serious nature (cf. Nehemiah 1:1; 2: 1). For Nehemiah to be made governor of Judah and be able to fortify its capital revealed the tremendous trust the king placed in his cupbearer. Because he was indirectly involved in the assassination of his father, Artaxeres was well aware of the danger of poisoned wine. Nehemiah had the responsibility of protecting the king's life by keeping the poison out of his cup. It was a high position of trust which he faithfully and competenly fulfilled. Artaxerxes was now looking to Nehemiah as he had in the past to preserve his interests in Israel by allowing him to fortify Jerusalem. If Nehemiah led Judah into a revolt against Artaxerxes by making an alliance with Egypt and Athens, the King could have possibly lost the entire area south of the Euphrates river (cf. Ezra 4:16). However, If Nehemiah remained loyal to his master, as artaxeres fully expected, it would do much to stabilize the entire area.

HOW DO WE KNOW IF NEHEMIAH'S MOTIVES WERE PURE?

Nehemiah's concern for God's reputation above his own is apparent in his humble and reverential prayer (Nehemiah 1:4-10). He lived in the splendid capital of the pagan Persian Empire while Jerusalem, the residence of the temple of God, lay in ruins. Like Jeremiah he could weep and say, "How doth the city sit solitary, that was full of people; how is she become a widow! She that was great among the nations, a princess among the provinces; how is she become tributary. (Lamentations 1:1). Nehemiah knew that the cause of the situation was the disobedience of his own people, but other nations would think that the God of Israel was less powerful than their gods. Nehemiah's concern was for the spiritual restoration of his people, and he realized the importance of rebuilding the city which was the center of the nation's spiritual activities. He was willing to leave his position of prestige and safety in order to help accomplish this task.

LAST QUESTION: HOW WAS NEHEMIAH ABLE TO GET THE JOB DONE SO QUICKLY?

Nehemiah had won the favor and confidence of the King; however, he knew that when govenors Sanballat, Tobiah and Geshem learned of his ambitious project these jealous leaders would go to the king to stop the reconstruction. Nehemiah calculated that he had only a few months before the king's message could be delivered and returned from Jerusalem to susa (cf. Ezra 7:8,9). It was imperative, therefore, that he get the job down within that period of time. He accomplished this by having each man concentrate on a small section of wall which bordered his property. By working long hours and not being distracted or discouraged by their opponents diversionary tactics, they were able to complete it in the alloted time period. nehemiah met each opposition of the enemy wisely and accurately, careful to choose a course that would nullify their undermining efforts.

We at C3 church are in the midst of a building project,with the blessings of the father. Nehemiah also had the blessings of his authority figure. Despite threats, blackmail and false accusation - an incredible task is accomplished. When Sanballat, govenor of Samaria, Tobiah, govenor of Ammon, and Geshem, leader of the Arabs who lived to the south of Judah heard of Nehemiah's action the three joined in an informal coalition to prevent the reconstruction of the wall. They first tried to discourage Nehemiah, then they demoralized the people. Next they gathered and army for a direct attack and then tried to blackmail Nehemiah by accusing him of treason. But these men failed in their attempts to trap Nehemiah because of his ability to outmaneuver his opponents.

Nehemiah finished his task in the incredibly short time of fifty-two days, but even then he did not consider his mission accomplished. He continued to use his influence to make Jerusalem a safe and attractive place to live. Because of his determined effort, the Lord used him to reestablish Jerusalem as the vital center for the Jews worship of their God.

"WITH INTEGRITY, YOUR CHARACTER STANDS ALONE UNDER GOD'S WATCHFUL EYE".

God's Servant,
Jim

James

ENDURANCE IS SETTING ASIDE PRIVILEGES WHICH WEAKEN ME OR OTHERS.

"It is good not to eat meat or to drink wine, or to do anything by which your brother stumbles" (Rom. 14;21). Men one measure of mature Christian is his willingness to refrain from activities which some Christians think are right and others believe are wrong.

True love will always show deference. deference is limiting our freedom in order not to offend the convictions of other Christians. The alternative to deference is defending our right to engage in questionable activities. This defense usually involves trying to prove that the activity is acceptable, but the real question does not concern the activity at all. Now my brothers the real question is whether we are willing to cause a weaker Christian to stumble.

In every period of church history there have been questionable activities which have caused Christians to be divided. When this matter was discussed in the very first church council, clear principles were given which required Christians to set aside any activity which would spiritually weaken themselves or others. One measure of a mature Christian is his willingness to refrain from activities which some Christians think are right and others believe are wrong.

Listen to this short story: A man carefully chose the best lamb of his flock and made his way to the heathen temple. Then he sacrificed it according to the temple ritual. A pagan priest took the lamb, slipped out of the temple and went directly to the meat market. In order to get money quickly for the lamb, the priest sold it at a low price.

Many Christians shopped in this village meat market. They knew that the meat available at a bargain price came from a heathen temple. They also knew that it was the best meat available. It was easy to find reasons why it was perfectly proper to purchase this meat. Some thought it was right; others felt strongly that it was wrong. The controversy grew.

Soon it threatened to divide Christians and a church council was held the leaders of the early church gathered together. Several questions were presented and vigorously discussed.
One man waited until everyone had expressed their thoughts. Then he spoke, wouldn't it be great if we all waited until everyone else had their say. Most of us know a man like this our prayer partner Josh Patterson.

Getting back to the story everyone had great respect for him and listened attentively to his suggestion. When he finished speaking, they all agreed that his conclusion was in harmony with the principles of scripture and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

His conclusion was written in a letter and sent to Christians in the early churches who were waiting for it. The letter explained that the unanimous decision of the church as confirmed by the Holy Spirit was all Christians abstain from meats that were offered to idols. This decision established a precedent for all future questionable activities. The speaker of that council was the apostle JAMES. (From Acts 15:1-35)

JAMES BECAME A MAN WHO LIVED BY HIS CONVICTIONS.

After hearing all the arguments, the wise and respected James decided upon a compromise. He clearly favored freedom from the mosaic law for gentile believers, but he urged Gentiles to avoid practices which would unnecessarily offend Jews. Because James himself had been such an example of setting aside privileges which would weaken or offend others, his decision was accepted without controversy.

Men allow me to regress for a moment as some might ask what was the reason for James' unexpected conversion? While Jesus was ministering on earth, James and his brothers were not in agreement with His claims. When Christ was rejected at Nazareth, He implied that opposition was ever "among His own Kin" and "in His own house". (Mark 6:4) But when Jesus wrote his epistle, he began, "James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ". (James 1:1) He didn't refer to himself as the Lord's brother or even as his apostle. The word used literally means slave.

The details of his conversion are not given, but it appears that his skepticism was completely removed by a special appearance of the risen Christ. "After that he was seen by James; then of all the apostles" (I Corth. 15:7). Like Paul after him who saw the Risen Lord on his way to persecute Christians in Damascus, James' Life was completely turned around. The fact that he believed that his brother was the son of God is very significant. One of the main tenets of Christianity is that Christ was without sin in His own life in order that He might die for the sins of others (John 1:29; II Corth.5:21). The fact that James believed this truth proves that not once during the many hours they had spent together as children, teen-agers, and young men could James recall a single incident when Jesus committed a sin.

James was his own man, one might think that his human relationship to the Lord as brother would have made James an important and credible witness to the claims of Christ witness to the claims of Christ. But the fact that he was elected to such a significant and key position in the mother church of Jerusalem indicates the respect he held. It was said that James was a person of prayer, infact His knees were said to be as hard as camel's because he was so constant in prayer for his people. Even non-believing Jews respected him for his exemplary life.

EVEN UNBELIEVERS MOURNED HIS DEATH:
Josephus, the contemporary historian, relates the death of James. During a transition of governors, the high priest, Ananias, charged James and others of breaking the law. As a result, he was stoned to death. Josephus reports that this unjust act was protested by pious non-Christian Jews who respected him so highly. As a result, the high priest was relieved of his office. James died a Christian martyr about A.D. 62. WOW now James was truly a Christian, is there anything in your life that you need to improve on. I know that I have some more work to do in my character.

HAVE A GREAT DAY IN THE LORD...

God's Servant,
Jim

A Man's Home Is His Castle

Do you believe that a man's home is his castle?

The way we live shows others the strength of our commitment to serve God. Have you made your commitment to God, and what kind of example are you being for the Lord?

BUT AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE, WE WILL SERVE THE LORD.

The well known phrase, "A man's home is his castle", is no empty cliché. God designed the home to be a bastion to protect each member from the influences of an often hostile world. I believe we all know just how antagonistic this planet has become. Home is to be a place of training, preparation, and provision. It is to give care to its members and hospitality to its visitors. Its potential is to generate resources and skilled warriors who are able to go out to spiritual warfare and advance the Kingdom of God.

Since the home was designed by God for all these purposes, there should be little wonder that it has been the object of a calculated, systematic, and very effective assault in our generation.

First, the home was robbed of its basic functions; then, ill-trained sons and daughters were lured into enemy territory, where they were easily defeated.

Wives and Mothers were coerced out of the home with the promise of vocational fulfillment and financial security.

Perhaps the greatest tragedy of all is that the "Modern Father" has been convinced that he should open up the doors of his castle to any godless influence which desires to come in, plunder his home, and take captive his wife and children.

But God is calling together men like you and me who are claiming His power and learning the principles of His word in order to raise up the foundations of many Godly generations.

Brothers children tend to adopt their father's values. Are you hearing me?

If our major concern is for temporal things, theirs will often be also. However, children may take a different approach to temporal things. If, for example, a father is overly concerned about retirement, his son may be slothful on the basis that if retirement is so important, he will beat his father to it.

Hang with me, when sons and daughters adopt their father's God-given goals, the father can provide much-needed encouragement, resources, and counsel for these goals.

We saw this in the building of the temple.

David had the vision for it, but his son built it. Now, as fathers we must be rebuilders, no matter what our past failures may have been. Our sins tend to recur in the lives of our sons and daughters. The manifestations may differ, but the basic failure will be there. When sons and daughters react to us, they become just like us either in actions, or attitudes, or both. I've shared this next point a number of times to you in the past. "WHAT FATHERS ALLOW IN MODERATION, THEIR SONS AND DAUGHTERS TEND TO EXCUSE IN EXCESS".

PROTECT YOUR HOMES AT ALL COST

Steps to a dynamic Home
1- Worship Center
2- Learning Center
3- Hospitality Center ( II Kings 4:8-10; Luke 14:13)
4- Health Center (Proverbs 31"10-31; Acts 9:39)
5- Craft Center ( Exodus 15:26; Matthew 8:14-15).

Until next time, be the man that God wants each of us to be.

God's Servant,
Jim

Our Children, Continued

I'm prompted to complete the message from earlier, as a few of you shared that you were blessed and you learned to be a better father.

None of us are perfect, but we truly need to get it right (FATHERHOOD).

"THE DESTRUCTIVE CONSEQUENCES OF REBELLION"

"The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it " (Proverbs 30:17). The raven is a scavenger bird. It is usually the first to arrive at the scene of death. It has exceptionally keen eyesight and is able to detect dead or dying prey. The raven first determines if its prey is dead by picking at the eyes of the victim. If the victim does not defend its own eye, it is assumed to be dead. After the raven has begun to satisfy its appetite, the eagles arrive. They are larger and more powerful scavengers, and they finish the work which the ravens began.

These facts from the world of nature add astonishing depth to the warning of Proverbs 30:17. Listen up, when a son or daughter despises or rejects the authority of his or her parents, he or she begins to show signs of spiritual death. Those evil ones who, like the raven, feed upon destruction, can see the signs of spiritual death in rebellious children by looking into their eyes, "The light of the body is the eye..." Matt 6:22. Paul warned that the one who lives in pleasure is dead while he lives (1Tim 5:6). Rebellion to authority invites destructive temptation; and after smaller "Scavengers" have begun their work, larger ones will come and finish the job.

"GOD'S JUDGMENT WHEN MEN FAIL TO BE SPIRITUAL LEADERS..."

"...THE CHILD SHALL BEHAVE HIMSELF PROUDLY AGAINST THE ANCIENT, AND THE BASE AGAINST THE HONORABLE" (Isaiah 3:5).

"...Children are their oppressors, and women rule' over them..." (Isaiah 3:12).

"WHAT IF A FATHER HAS ALREADY FAILED?
A man who fails is not a failure! However, God promises "beauty for ashes." God allows us to fail when we try to succeed in our own strength. His most powerful illustrations have been in the lives of men who knew their own weaknesses, but who learned how to draw upon God's strength.

Failure leaves "scars", but these "scars" can be turned into God's glory for sons and daughters: Disobedience always results in loss and regret. When the nation of Israel disobeyed God, He scattered the families and destroyed the temple. Later, the people repented and rebuilt the temple, but it was less glorious than the orginal structure. However, God promised to make it more glorious than the former temple if they would be obedient to Him.

The dreams of the fathers are often fulfilled by the sons and daughters: Children tend to adopt their father's values. If his chief concern is for temporal things, theirs will often be also. However, children may take a different approach to temporal things. If, for example, a father is overly concerned about retirement, his son may be slothful on the basis that if retirement is so important, he will beat his father to it. When sons and daughters adopt their father's God-given goals, the father can provide much-needed encouragement, resources, and counsel for these goals. This was illustrated in the building of the temple. David had the vision for it, but his son built it.

THE SINS OF THE FATHERS ARE PASSED ON TO THE THIRD AND FOURTH GENERATION: A father must be a rebuilder, no matter what his past failures may have been. His sins tend to recur in the lives of his sons and duaghters. The manifestation may differ, but the basic failure will be there. When sons and daughters react to their father, they become just like him either in actions, or attitudes, and both. WHAT FATHERS ALLOW IN MODERATION, THEIR SONS AND DAUGHTERS TEND TO EXCUSE IN EXCESS.

Brothers I wish you all the very best, I know that you will be the very best father you can be. It's never to late to learn. What legacy are going to leave your children?

Have a great week in the Lord.

Our Children

This message has been on my heart and mind for afew weeks now. One day I'll learn when the Lord puts a message on my heart I need to share it right away. Too often by not sharing it at the appointed time someone looses a blessing.

I'm still a young man of 59 years and my children are in their early to mid thirties, I'm also a grandfather of four grandsons.

Our children and grandchildren are all walking with the Lord, but I as Job pray for my children / grandchildren daily. My wife will tell you that I'm not perfect in fact I make mistakes every day. Karen and I pray daily for our family before 6am each morning.

Fathers it's my pray that you will get something out of this message.

When a father does not fulfill promises... Our children get wounded spirits.
When a father does not admit he is wrong... Our children lose confidence in our leadership.
When a father refuses to ask for forgiveness... Our children react to our pride.
When a father does not have right priorities... Our children feel that we are too busy from them.
When a father is too strict in discipline... Our children have their spirits broken.
When we fathers give too much freedom to our children... Our children see freedom as a form of rejection.
When a father neglects his parents... Our children do not honor the counsel of their grandparents.
When a father puts his parents in a nursing home for the sake of convenience... Our children are taught to reject older people.
When a father does not love his wife... Our children take up offenses for their mother.
When a father neglects God's word... Our children reject the authority of God and the Bible.
When a father sacrifices his family for a better retirement... Our children develop a temporal value system.
When a father disciplines in anger... Our children have seeds of bitterness.
When a father delegates his children's education to others... Our children cease to respect him as a teacher.
When a father does not teach his children how to please him... Our children feel frustrated and rejected.
When a father focuses on the outward beauty of others... Our children feel inferior and reject themselves.
When a father is impatient with his children... Our children seek approval from friends.
When a father has inconsistent standards... Our children despise us.
When a father tries to warn his children only of the consequencesof sin... Our children are challenged to be successful in avoiding the consequences.
When a father lets his wife assume spiritual leadership... Our children may regard religion as childish when they grow older.
When a father does not have personal convictions... Our children accept situational ethics and excuss in excess what their father allowed in moderation.

CAN YOU DETECT WARNINGS OF REBELLION?

AWARNESS OF TENSION BETWEEN PARENTS: When a child senses conflict between the parents, the child tends to take up an offense against one or both parents and ultimately rejects the authority of both parents.

ACCUSATIONS THAT PARENTS ARE SHOWING FAVORITISM: A child has a keen sense of fairness. Once a parent shows unfairness, the child will feel rejected and accuse the parents of favoritism. This will produce seeds of resentment which grow into rebelliousness.

FEELINGS OF INFERIORITY AND EVIDENCES OF SELF-REJECTION: If a son or daughter rejects the design of unchangeable features, he or she will also tend to reject the designer and his authority in daily living.

LOYALTY TO FRIENDS WHO REJECT AUTHORITY: Wrong friends corrupt right living also, a son or daughter tends to choose friends who will openly do what that son or daughter secretly wants to do.

LACK OF CLEAR OR SIGNIFICANT ANSWERS TO THEIR PRAYERS: A child who "Gives up his or her faith" is usually only giving up the parents' faith because the child has never experienced any convincing evidence of a living and loving God.

EVIDENCE OF PERSONAL MORAL IMPURITY: A child who violates God's moral laws will experience guilt which, if not dealt with, will produce rebellion to parents, to the Bible, and to God.

ADMIRATION OF THOSE WHO MOCK AUTHORITY AND ENCOURAGE REBELLION: Scripture warns about the devastating influences of teachers who reject God's principles of authority. These teachers will corrupt the obedient spirit of a son or daughter.

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE ACCURACY OF THE BIBLE: When a son or daughter begins to question the accuracy of the Bible, the authority of the Bible is also in question.

LACK OF CONSISTENT INTEREST IN THE BIBLE OR CHRISTIAN ACTIVITIES: Satan's program of destruction beginning with separation from the Bible and Christian friends, and then doubts and defeat follow.

Brothers it's my hope that we all can share and grow in our faith. Children are a blessing and we must never forget: WHAT WE FATHERS ALLOW IN MODERATION, OUR SONS AND DAUGHTERS TEND TO EXCUSE IN EXCESS.

Have a wonderful weekend.

God's Servant,
Jim