Mercy May Run Out For Some....But Not All.

Been listening to the Psalms. Today was Psalm 94 and it just describes the ever growing condition of our world and how God views the condition of pride. God waits until the very last minute before he pours out any kind of judgment. He would prefer mercy over justice so Ge waits. But there comes a time when He has to move forward. Think of all the examples throughout history where God gives people the chance to do the right thing....Basically to turn from their own ways and put their trust in His lovingkindness ( Jesus Christ His Son). I am praying for God's mercy to the very last moment for the world and those I know. Even as our world keeps moving away from Him this Psalm is just another faithful warning from the God who has never changed. 

Psalm 94:

O Lord, God of vengeance, O God of vengeance, shine forth! Rise up, O judge of the earth; repay to the proud what they deserve! O Lord, how long shall the wicked, how long shall the wicked exult? They pour out their arrogant words; all the evildoers boast. They crush your people, O Lord, and afflict your heritage. They kill the widow and the sojourner, and murder the fatherless; and they say, “The Lord does not see; the God of Jacob does not perceive.” Understand, O dullest of the people! Fools, when will you be wise? He who planted the ear, does he not hear? He who formed the eye, does he not see? He who disciplines the nations, does he not rebuke? He who teaches man knowledge— the Lord —knows the thoughts of man, that they are but a breath. Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O Lord, and whom you teach out of your law, to give him rest from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked. For the Lord will not forsake his people; he will not abandon his heritage; for justice will return to the righteous, and all the upright in heart will follow it. Who rises up for me against the wicked? Who stands up for me against evildoers? If the Lord had not been my help, my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence. When I thought, “My foot slips,” your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul. Can wicked rulers be allied with you, those who frame injustice by statute? They band together against the life of the righteous and condemn the innocent to death. But the Lord has become my stronghold, and my God the rock of my refuge. He will bring back on them their iniquity and wipe them out for their wickedness; the Lord our God will wipe them out. (Psalm 94:1-23 ESV)

God's Mercy Frees Souls from the Grip of Satan- Amen!

This is a testimony that shatters the darkness and exposes the religion of the enemy of our souls- the Devil. If you have a hard time believing that there is a spiritual realm, and that there is a war raging for your soul, and against the fulfillment of the purpose of your life in Jesus Christ then this testimony of John Ramirez will help you see the intensity of the battle. The reality of the spiritual realm is more real then this material world we experience everyday. People are spiritual beings that will either spend eternity in heaven with Jesus Christ, because they have been forgiven their sin, or they will spend eternity in the Lake of Fire with Satan and his demons because they did not put their faith in Jesus as the one who takes away sin. This is no joke. This world is ruled by Satan and he so blinds, and deceives, and seeks to keep those who do not know Jesus from a personal relationship with him, and from receiving the eternal salvation that Jesus possesses within himself. Satan also works over time to keep Christians from fulfilling the divine purpose God has for them in this life. Although this testimony is intense, it is real and a rare eye opener to the reality of the dark side and the reality of the power of Jesus Christ to save souls that cry out to him for mercy...to free them from themselves, and the grip of Satan even to the very last seconds of death.  This testimony will encourage you tremendously...perspective is everything!! 

Escape From Hell - Ex Satan Worshiper John Ramirez Testimony

The Commands of Hebrews

So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. (‭Hebrews‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬ NLT)

That is why the Holy Spirit says, “Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled, when they tested me in the wilderness.

Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God. You must warn each other every day, while it is still “today,” so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God.

Remember what it says: “Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled.” (‭Hebrews‬ ‭3‬:‭7-8, 12-13, 15‬ NLT)

God’s promise of entering his rest still stands, so we ought to tremble with fear that some of you might fail to experience it.

So God set another time for entering his rest, and that time is today. God announced this through David much later in the words already quoted: “Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts.”

So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe.

So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. (‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭1, 7, 14, 16‬ NLT)

So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God.

Our great desire is that you will keep on loving others as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true. Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God’s promises because of their faith and endurance. (‭Hebrews‬ ‭6‬:‭1, 11-12‬ NLT)

They serve in a system of worship that is only a copy, a shadow of the real one in heaven. For when Moses was getting ready to build the Tabernacle, God gave him this warning: “Be sure that you make everything according to the pattern I have shown you here on the mountain.” (‭Hebrews‬ ‭8‬:‭5‬ NLT)

For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time.

let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

Think back on those early days when you first learned about Christ. Remember how you remained faithful even though it meant terrible suffering.

So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. (‭Hebrews‬ ‭10‬:‭10, 22-25, 32, 35-36‬ NLT)

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up.

And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, “My child, don’t make light of the LORD’s discipline, and don’t give up when he corrects you.

As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father?

Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever?

So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong. Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Make sure that no one is immoral or godless like Esau, who traded his birthright as the firstborn son for a single meal.

Be careful that you do not refuse to listen to the One who is speaking. For if the people of Israel did not escape when they refused to listen to Moses, the earthly messenger, we will certainly not escape if we reject the One who speaks to us from heaven!

Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe. For our God is a devouring fire. (‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭1-3, 5, 7, 9, 12-16, 25, 28-29‬ NLT)

Keep on loving each other as brothers and sisters. Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! Remember those in prison, as if you were there yourself. Remember also those being mistreated, as if you felt their pain in your own bodies. Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery. Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.”

Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. So do not be attracted by strange, new ideas. Your strength comes from God’s grace, not from rules about food, which don’t help those who follow them.

So let us go out to him, outside the camp, and bear the disgrace he bore.

Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit. Pray for us, for our conscience is clear and we want to live honorably in everything we do. And especially pray that I will be able to come back to you soon.

I urge you, dear brothers and sisters, to pay attention to what I have written in this brief exhortation.

Greet all your leaders and all the believers there. The believers from Italy send you their greetings. (‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭1-5, 7-9, 13, 15-19, 22, 24‬ NLT)

The Commands of Philemon

And I am praying that you will put into action the generosity that comes from your faith as you understand and experience all the good things we have in Christ.

I appeal to you to show kindness to my child, Onesimus. I became his father in the faith while here in prison.

So if you consider me your partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything, charge it to me. (‭Philemon‬ ‭1‬:‭6, 10, 17-18‬ NLT)

The Commands of Titus

This is true. So reprimand them sternly to make them strong in the faith. (‭Titus‬ ‭1‬:‭13‬ NLT)

As for you, Titus, promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching. Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have sound faith and be filled with love and patience. Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God. In the same way, encourage the young men to live wisely. And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized. Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us. Slaves must always obey their masters and do their best to please them. They must not talk back or steal, but must show themselves to be entirely trustworthy and good. Then they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive in every way.

And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed.

You must teach these things and encourage the believers to do them. You have the authority to correct them when necessary, so don’t let anyone disregard what you say. (‭Titus‬ ‭2‬:‭1-10, 12-13, 15‬ NLT)

Remind the believers to submit to the government and its officers. They should be obedient, always ready to do what is good. They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.

Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These things are useless and a waste of time. If people are causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with them.

Our people must learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others; then they will not be unproductive. Everybody here sends greetings. Please give my greetings to the believers—all who love us. May God’s grace be with you all. (‭Titus‬ ‭3‬:‭1-2, 9-10, 14-15‬ NLT)

The Commands of 2nd Timothy

This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. So never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. And don’t be ashamed of me, either, even though I’m in prison for him. With the strength God gives you, be ready to suffer with me for the sake of the Good News.

Hold on to the pattern of wholesome teaching you learned from me—a pattern shaped by the faith and love that you have in Christ Jesus. Through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us, carefully guard the precious truth that has been entrusted to you. (‭2 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭6-8, 13-14‬ NLT)

Timothy, my dear son, be strong through the grace that God gives you in Christ Jesus. You have heard me teach things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others. Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

Think about what I am saying. The Lord will help you understand all these things. Always remember that Jesus Christ, a descendant of King David, was raised from the dead. This is the Good News I preach.

Remind everyone about these things, and command them in God’s presence to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless, and they can ruin those who hear them. Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior.

But God’s truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription: “The LORD knows those who are his,” and “All who belong to the LORD must turn away from evil.”

If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work. Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts. Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. (‭2 Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭1-3, 7-8, 14-16, 19, 21-25‬ NLT)

You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times.

They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!

But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. (‭2 Timothy‬ ‭3‬:‭1, 5, 14‬ NLT)

I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he comes to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.

But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.

Timothy, please come as soon as you can.

Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you when you come, for he will be helpful to me in my ministry.

When you come, be sure to bring the coat I left with Carpus at Troas. Also bring my books, and especially my papers.

Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila and those living in the household of Onesiphorus.

Do your best to get here before winter. Eubulus sends you greetings, and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers and sisters. (‭2 Timothy‬ ‭4‬:‭1-2, 5, 9, 11, 13, 19, 21‬ NLT)

The Commands of 1 Timothy

When I left for Macedonia, I urged you to stay there in Ephesus and stop those whose teaching is contrary to the truth. Don’t let them waste their time in endless discussion of myths and spiritual pedigrees. These things only lead to meaningless speculations, which don’t help people live a life of faith in God.

This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”—and I am the worst of them all.

Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked. (‭1 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭3-4, 15, 19‬ NLT)

I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.

In every place of worship, I want men to pray with holy hands lifted up to God, free from anger and controversy. And I want women to be modest in their appearance. They should wear decent and appropriate clothing and not draw attention to themselves by the way they fix their hair or by wearing gold or pearls or expensive clothes.

Women should learn quietly and submissively. I do not let women teach men or have authority over them. Let them listen quietly. (‭1 Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭1-2, 8-9, 11-12‬ NLT)

Since everything God created is good, we should not reject any of it but receive it with thanks.

Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly.

Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them. Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them. Do not neglect the spiritual gift you received through the prophecy spoken over you when the elders of the church laid their hands on you. Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress. Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you. (‭1 Timothy‬ ‭4‬:‭4, 7, 11-16‬ NLT)

Never speak harshly to an older man, but appeal to him respectfully as you would to your own father. Talk to younger men as you would to your own brothers. Treat older women as you would your mother, and treat younger women with all purity as you would your own sisters. Take care of any widow who has no one else to care for her.

So I advise these younger widows to marry again, have children, and take care of their own homes. Then the enemy will not be able to say anything against them.

For the Scripture says, “You must not muzzle an ox to keep it from eating as it treads out the grain.” And in another place, “Those who work deserve their pay!” Do not listen to an accusation against an elder unless it is confirmed by two or three witnesses. Those who sin should be reprimanded in front of the whole church; this will serve as a strong warning to others. I solemnly command you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus and the highest angels to obey these instructions without taking sides or showing favoritism to anyone. Never be in a hurry about appointing a church leader. Do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure. Don’t drink only water. You ought to drink a little wine for the sake of your stomach because you are sick so often. (‭1 Timothy‬ ‭5‬:‭1-3, 14, 18-23‬ NLT)

All slaves should show full respect for their masters so they will not bring shame on the name of God and his teaching. If the masters are believers, that is no excuse for being disrespectful. Those slaves should work all the harder because their efforts are helping other believers who are well loved. Teach these things, Timothy, and encourage everyone to obey them.

But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. Fight the good fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you, which you have declared so well before many witnesses.

that you obey this command without wavering. Then no one can find fault with you from now until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again.

Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others.

Timothy, guard what God has entrusted to you. Avoid godless, foolish discussions with those who oppose you with their so-called knowledge. (‭1 Timothy‬ ‭6‬:‭1-2, 11-12, 14, 17-18, 20‬ NLT)

The Commands of 2nd Thessalonians

Don’t be so easily shaken or alarmed by those who say that the day of the Lord has already begun. Don’t believe them, even if they claim to have had a spiritual vision, a revelation, or a letter supposedly from us. Don’t be fooled by what they say. For that day will not come until there is a great rebellion against God and the man of lawlessness is revealed—the one who brings destruction.

With all these things in mind, dear brothers and sisters, stand firm and keep a strong grip on the teaching we passed on to you both in person and by letter. (‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭2‬:‭2-3, 15‬ NLT)

Finally, dear brothers and sisters, we ask you to pray for us. Pray that the Lord’s message will spread rapidly and be honored wherever it goes, just as when it came to you. Pray, too, that we will be rescued from wicked and evil people, for not everyone is a believer.

And now, dear brothers and sisters, we give you this command in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ: Stay away from all believers who live idle lives and don’t follow the tradition they received from us.

As for the rest of you, dear brothers and sisters, never get tired of doing good. Take note of those who refuse to obey what we say in this letter. Stay away from them so they will be ashamed. Don’t think of them as enemies, but warn them as you would a brother or sister. (‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭3‬:‭1-2, 6, 13-15‬ NLT)

The Commands of 1 Thessalonians

Finally, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you in the name of the Lord Jesus to live in a way that pleases God, as we have taught you. You live this way already, and we encourage you to do so even more.

God’s will is for you to be holy, so stay away from all sexual sin. Then each of you will control his own body and live in holiness and honor—

Never harm or cheat a fellow believer in this matter by violating his wife, for the Lord avenges all such sins, as we have solemnly warned you before.

Indeed, you already show your love for all the believers throughout Macedonia. Even so, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you to love them even more. Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we instructed you before.

So encourage each other with these words. (‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭4‬:‭1, 3-4, 6, 10-11, 18‬ NLT)

So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded.

But let us who live in the light be clearheaded, protected by the armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation.

So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. Show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work. And live peacefully with each other. Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone. See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to all people. Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. Stay away from every kind of evil.

Dear brothers and sisters, pray for us. Greet all the brothers and sisters with a sacred kiss. I command you in the name of the Lord to read this letter to all the brothers and sisters. (‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭6, 8, 11-22, 25-27‬ NLT)

The Commands of Colossians

But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don’t drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News. (‭Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭23‬a NLT)

And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.

So don’t let anyone condemn you for what you eat or drink, or for not celebrating certain holy days or new moon ceremonies or Sabbaths.

Don’t let anyone condemn you by insisting on pious self-denial or the worship of angels, saying they have had visions about these things. (‭Colossians‬ ‭2‬:‭6-8, 16, 18‬a NLT)

Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth.

So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world.

But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father. Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting for those who belong to the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and never treat them harshly. Children, always obey your parents, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged. Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything you do. Try to please them all the time, not just when they are watching you. Serve them sincerely because of your reverent fear of the Lord. Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. (‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭1-2, 5, 8-10, 12-23‬ NLT)

Masters, be just and fair to your slaves. Remember that you also have a Master—in heaven. Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Pray for us, too, that God will give us many opportunities to speak about his mysterious plan concerning Christ. That is why I am here in chains. Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should. Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. (‭Colossians‬ ‭4‬:‭1-6‬ NLT)

Our Life Is Temporary, But Jesus' Life Is Eternal

Some people don't believe in Jesus Christ and the Salvation he brings because they've never really met him, therefore they don't fully understand the cost of following him. Others, even after meeting Him and comprehending the cost of following Him, still don't believe because they've determined that something about this life has a better offer. 

"How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! (‭Isaiah‬ ‭52‬:‭7‬ NLT)"

"And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, “How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!” But not everyone welcomes the Good News, for Isaiah the prophet said, “ LORD, who has believed our message?” So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ."(‭Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭15-17‬ NLT)

"As Jesus was starting out on his way to Jerusalem, a man came running up to him, knelt down, and asked, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “Why do you call me good?” Jesus asked. “Only God is truly good. But to answer your question, you know the commandments: ‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. You must not cheat anyone. Honor your father and mother.’ ” “Teacher,” the man replied, “I’ve obeyed all these commandments since I was young.” Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him. “There is still one thing you haven’t done,” he told him. “Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” At this the man’s face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God!” This amazed them. But Jesus said again, “Dear children, it is very hard to enter the Kingdom of God. In fact, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!” The disciples were astounded. “Then who in the world can be saved?” they asked. Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But not with God. Everything is possible with God.” Then Peter began to speak up. “We’ve given up everything to follow you,” he said. “Yes,” Jesus replied, “and I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return a hundred times as many houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and property—along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life. But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then. ” (‭Mark‬ ‭10‬:‭17-31‬ NLT)

"If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it."(‭Matthew‬ ‭16‬:‭25‬ NLT)

"So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever." (‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭18‬ NLT)

Will You Live Once and Die Twice? Or Die Once and Live Twice?

No doubt Jesus is returning a 2nd time to this earth, but what is the real power of His second coming for those who believe in Him? 

This verse sums it up: " But as it is, Jesus Christ has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him."

Seek with ALL Your Heart

The Answer, The Solution, The Difference, The Remedy, The Cure, The Power, The Strength, The Change, The Encouragement, The Joy, The Love, The Peace, The Hope, The Way, The Truth, The Life:

"That it's divine power in our individual hearts is too little experienced we must confess. But this is because of our unbelief. If it were not for this unbelief, the mere thought of being ransomed and cleansed by the blood of God's own Son would cause our souls to leap for joy and to overflow with love. Would not every exercise of faith in the blood cause the sense of the favor and nearness of God and the glory of deliverance from the curse and dominion of sin to flow through the soul? But, alas! We may hear and think and sing about the blood, while it exercises almost no influence over us. Even the very thought that the blood always manifests such wonderful divine power seems strange and unreel to many, and so no wonderful work is done in us because of unbelief. Our faith must be quickened to expect the all conquering power of the blood of Jesus. Even if a change in our feelings does not come at once, or any sensation of new blessing, let us commence in perfect quietness to fix our hearts on these truths of God. When the blood becomes effective through the Holy Spirit, it operates with the divine power either for reconciliation or union with God or sanctification. Let us believe and still believe and ever keep on believing in the infinite power of the blood. Such faith will not be in vain. Although it may not be in the way, nor at the time we expected, we shall be brought into a new in deeper experience of salvation through faith in the blood. Let us but seek with our whole heart to hold fast the truth: what the blood does, it does with a divine power." Andrew Murray

She Bound the Scarlet Line in the Window - Joshua 2:21

"Have you implicitly trusted in the precious blood of Jesus? Have you tied the scarlet cord, as with a Gordian knot in your window, so that your trust can never be removed? Or can you look out towards the Dead Sea of your sins, or the Jerusalem of your hopes, without seeing the blood, and seeing all things in connection with its blessed power? The passer-by can see a cord so conspicuous a color, if it hangs from the window: it will be well for you if your life makes the efficacy of the atonement conspicuous to all onlookers. What is there to be ashamed of? Let you or devils gaze if they will, the blood is your boast and your song. Soul, there is One who will see that scarlet line, even when from weakness of faith you cannot see it yourself; Jehovah, the Avenger, will see it and pass over you. Jericho's walls fell flat: Rahab's house was on the wall, and yet it stood unmoved; your nature is built into the wall of humanity, and yet when destruction smites the race, you shall be secure. Soul, tie the scarlet thread in the window afresh, and rest in peace." Spurgeon

BE PARDONED! BELIEVE IN JESUS CHRIST TODAY!

"We wrestle not against flesh and blood...." 

Taunts and manifestations of evil can be intimidating and may appear to have the upper hand because of the "might" that is behind them, but it is foolish to think that God has not or cannot deal with the evil in a Righteous and Just way. Most assuredly the might of evil is something to be concerned about because it literally manifests and impact people's lives in our world and in the spiritual realm. People can be harassed by demons and other evil spiritual powers and rulers. People can be threatened by world leaders and even killed because of evil. People are lusted after in the minds of other people without their knowing. Innocent children are murdered because somebody doesn't think it's a big deal. People steal and lie and the list goes on endlessly about what people do that are blatantly evil.  People may think that sexual activities kept for a man and woman within marriage alone is lame and boring, but at the same time they don't realize how much evil is outside of those protective boundaries for not only the couple but also for society. People think a little white lie is not that powerful, but they don't realize the deep division it creates between people. It is so important to realize and believe that the "might" of evil is the Law of Sin and Death which is described in 1 Corinthians 15:6 (For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power). This law of sin and death is both within people as their nature, and outside of them in principalities and rulers of the air (Eph 6). The reality is that Sin and Death impacts everyone the same. Sin has no prejudice, nor is it partial to a specific kind of person or race of people. EVERYONE past, present and future has a sinful nature, because Man fell into disobedience and rebellion from the beginning. In the grip of sin, the one who has killed one or millions is no different then the one who has not, but only lied once. They have the same eternal fate.  In the clutches of sin, the one who has lusted after another in the mind just once, and the one who lived a daily sexually explicit life will have the same fate. Sin is so potent that one incidence of it in the life of a person brings death to them. When God's law is broken just once then his whole law has been broken and we become guilty of breaking the whole of it. When sin takes its full effect it gives birth to death. This is a hard truth to accept, since we are all under the law of sin and death the one responsible for dropping a nuclear bomb on a city and kills hundreds of thousands will have the same fate as those "innocent" people they just murdered. Sin doesn't care how bad you have been treated or unjustly. It robs people of life.  To God all sin is known, and he understands its far reaching influence on our world. And he is a perfect Judge. God does not want anybody to perish due to the wage of their sin. But he knows that sin has everyone ensnared. He realizes that the most "innocent" of people are not free of sin, and that their souls and spirits will stand before Him after they die in their bodies. 

This perspective is important to understand: real death is not dying in the body! Real death follows bodily death and is called the second death, and it is the most fearful verdict of them all. After one dies in the body they will face a Just God who is all knowing and is not able to do wrong. If God does not see the perfect innocent blood of his Son Jesus Christ covering and washing your sin away by your faith in him He will not be able to transfer your sins onto Christ and pardon you. You have a big choice to make. You can stand before God with Jesus as your Savior, or you can stand before God without Jesus, alone. With Jesus you will be pardoned, without Jesus you will be judged by the law which you are guilty of breaking. The good news is that God has already defeated the real power of sin. "If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9. You will be Born Again. You will be pardoned. The power of the Word of God is this: "because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death!!" That is Romans 8:2! Through one manifestation of love, sacrificing his only Son on the cross, God provided the only way for you to be PARDONED and FORGIVEN of the sting of your sin which is eternal death. Jesus is a solid rock to put our faith in and live for now, because he shattered the darkness for us. On this side of the judgment, whether life is terrorized by hell, shakes in the storm or cruises through the wind the fact that Jesus destroyed sin and death forever is a powerful reality. The Bible is a Good book. It tells us the truth and destroys lies that keep us from experiencing the best God has for us which is Jesus Christ His Loving Son. After we die in the body we will fully and automatically know the weight of Authority that has been given to Jesus Christ whether we know him as Lord or not. I pray you will humble yourself today and receive the awesome love Jesus has for you. 

The truth is out there to be sought after and found by you. Jesus said if you seek Him and seek Him with ALL your heart you will find him. He is the Word of God...the Bible. Read the Bible.

Please listen to this message entitled "Free" by Jim Cymbala. He faithfully shares what being free in Christ really means!

Free- By Jim Cymbala

Also, here is a song that proclaims the power that is in the blood of Jesus Christ for you.

Finally, please read the message below in the photograph. It tells us about how far Jesus went to save us all and satisfy God's righteous requirements for us.

God bless you to childlike faith in Jesus Christ today!!

Singing About Jesus Leads To Encouragement

Dad's Resurrection Song

My dad and I were sitting together outside on Resurrection Sunday talking and singing about Jesus. He and I don't get to see one another as much any more since we live in different states, but my dad has always been an encouragement to me whenever we share time together. When we are together we talk about Jesus often and for that I am grateful! He has written many songs, and each one has his unique touch. He is one of those guys who truly ministers through heartfelt song. He was playing a number of songs out on the patio, and there was one that said it all. I asked him if I could record it, and this is the result. I hope you will be uplifted by it in your spirit toward Jesus Christ. 

Preparing for the Road Ahead

Do you have enough oil for the journey ahead? Praying that if you don't have oil that you will get it, and praying that those who have it are prepared so they don't run out!! There comes a point on this road where each person will have only enough for themselves. Now is the time to get it. The oil is the Spirit of God. Faith comes by hearing the Word of God and believing it. That can't happen if you don't read it for yourself. The Word of God is contrary to the customs, and patterns of this world. The world says not to take seriously what the Bible says to have urgency towards. Jesus is a faithful Groom cleansing, loving, and purifying His Bride. A faithful Bride remains watchful for her Husband to be and prepares for Him. 

“Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them, but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a cry, ‘Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those virgins rose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise answered, saying, ‘Since there will not be enough for us and for you, go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves.’ And while they were going to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut. Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ But he answered, ‘Truly, I say to you, I do not know you.’ Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour. (Matthew 25:1-13 ESV)

There is Power in the Blood of Christ

"What title does the believer have for being blessed... for enjoying the presence of God...the fellowship of the Holy Spirit? Is it because he lives righteously? Is it because he serves without mixed motives? "Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven" the Psalmist says...."whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit." In other words, it isn't the perfect person..it's the person who is open before God....trusting in the blood of Christ and it's efficacy. The blood of Christ cleanses us from sin. The blood of Christ gives our advocate all the evidence he needs to plead our case before the Father. He is our propitiation. He satisfies every demand of God for righteousness and holiness. The blood of Christ cleanses us from sin.  How deeply? He cleanses us even to the conscience. He cleanses us in a way that no offering other then the blood of Christ could do. He makes us perfect for all time the Scriptures are saying. He's ransomed us not with perishable things like silver and gold, but with the precious blood of Christ. It doesn't say He makes us ransomable...he's ransomed us. He doesn't make us cleansible...He cleanses us. He doesn't make us forgivable....He forgives us...." Dr. Rick Horne

"After any act of obedience or devotion, look to Christ for he is the cause. After any moral failure, look to Christ for he is the cure. " Paul Washer

A Mighty Rushing Wind

When you pray sometimes things come to mind from scripture that you have heard over and over again that are for people in need. The Holy Spirit is a person, and is alive and well. In thinking and praying for those children, women and men who have been kidnapped by ISIS, you wonder what their fate will be. Well the phrase that is coming to mind for them for prayer is "a mighty rushing wind." I'm certain these people are praying for God's intercession. Think about what 10,000,000 people could do to influence these situations around the world who believe in prayer through the name of Jesus...let alone 1! Prayer in Jesus' name gets things before the Father. It's where powerful intervention begins and ends. 

"And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting." (Acts 2:2 ESV)

Let's pray a mighty rushing wind comes over those in harms way in Jesus' name. 

The Importance of Being Born Again, The Shemitah, and the Lateness ofthe Hour

There are many who are speaking to the heart of the matter, and whose words and encouragement are focused on the main thing that matters. They are aware of and know the lateness of the hour and faithfully are warning and calling people to respond to the call of salvation in Jesus Christ. They are exposing the layers of lies and deception, and are shining the light in the darkness. I'm thankful for them. They are piercing the darkness. I've read the Bible and it speaks to the finger prints of God and His orderliness, and his faithfulness to bring us always into the light.  People are born into the dark, but they are not to remain in the dark...we are to be born again into light and then we are to be light in the dark. Yes, the end of all things is at hand. And If you are in the dark ( not born again or compromised living in sin without repentance) you most likely do not realize this or even believe that shaking is at hand. Judgement is at hand. How do we know? Apathy and deception in leadership, murdering of babies in the womb by the millions, drug, porn, alcohol addictions, no fear of God or faith in the hearts of men for this One God of Abraham Isaac and Jacob, disrespect and dishonor toward boundaries within marriage, family and relationships of all kinds, hatred and anger within people groups toward other people groups, Man made religions, Bible Prophecy, Biblical warnings, signs in the heavens etc. I think of all the people who have come across my path in life: Wife and children, Family, friends, co-workers, teachers, coaches, and all the acquaintances, and simultaneously realizing what only God can reveal, that all that matters in those relationships is their soul's status with the Living God Jesus Christ. I think of my status with this most amazing God equally every day. I know the fight against my sin nature falling, getting back up again in repentance and trusting in Jesus alone to have the power to restore. Everyone has their own soul and life but the ultimate question is Are we Born Again? Are we right with God today? Am I and Are those I have not seen in years...are they in Christ and if so are they fighting the good fight of repentance and faith? Will all I know and care about be in the safety of Jesus when the door finally shuts and it is too late to believe in him? I pray humbly for us all and those even reading this whom I don't know but care about, because I know who I am and we are ( sinners saved by the grace of God and washed clean by the blood of Jesus) and I know who God is ( The Loving and Just Father, Son and Holy Spirit---Three in One Creator)  I don't know if we all realize who this God is equally. I pray that the miracle of being born again and being restored to a right relationship with Jesus Christ will happen today for all of us. It's His work to save us all. You can be saved and born into the light of Christ today in Jesus Name!! 

Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can these things be?” Jesus answered him, “Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony. If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.” (John 3:1-21 ESV)

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (1 Peter 1:3 ESV)

since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God; (1 Peter 1:23 ESV)

if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV)

This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. (1 John 1:5-10 ESV)

Dialogue with Doug Hagmann and Jonathan Cahn

"If this was your last message, your last public address what would you tell to those who are listening. What would you say?" Doug Hagmann

"There have been several key foreshadows that have happened at the beginning of this current Shemitah. I have warned for a long time that if America does not turn back to God then the American age, as we know it, will come to an end. That's what the warning of the Shemitah is. The rise and fall of Nations is geared toward the coming of the Shemitah. And here we are in one now. The American age began in 1871 and became the strongest economic power on earth. The current Shemitah began at the very end of September 2014, and within first two weeks of the Shemitah beginning, the American age as we know it, has come to an end. America is no longer the strongest economic power on earth. That age is over. It's been supplanted by China. The crown has passed to China. The crown as the head of nations is beginning to pass. I believe this is going to open up the scenario of end time prophecy, because America is not the head of nations at the end. Now what do we do? There are people listening in America, and there are people listening all over the world. This has to do with everybody, because these things are going to touch the whole world. First of all I believe this-everything that can be shaken will be shaken- so what do we do? First of all, if you are not Born Again the message to you is this- if you're saying, "I want to be safe, how do I get safe....should I build a shelter...what do I do?" Well I would tell you this- in Hebrew the word for "safety" is Yeshua. And Yeshua is the name of Jesus. The safety, the only safety is in him. Outside of him there is no safety. Inside of him there needs to be no fear. So if you are not in Jesus, if your life is not in him, doesn't matter what your religion is, if you are not in him, If you are not Born Again you need to get Born Again. Secondly, if you are in him but there are things in your life, look at your life, if there are things in your life that are not in the will of God, that are outside of God's will the time is to get them out of your life now. Don't say tomorrow, the time is late. Whatever is outside the will of God is under judgment. And so do not share in judgment. Get those things out of your life now. Whatever God is calling you to get into your life the time to do that is now. Do it today- even before you go to bed. Start it now, take the first step, because the time is late. If we are watching the dark getting darker which is what is happening. If the dark is getting darker, then it's time for the light to get brighter. These are the days of Elijah. Well, we have to be the Elijahs of the day. Because the days of Elijah were days of apostasy and persecution. But Elijah stood strong. God is not looking for the many who are lukewarm now, but he is looking for the few who are on fire for God. You be that person, you who are listening- you be that person. You be that church. You be that people. And God will raise you up, and God will keep you. God will anoint you for such a time as this. These are prophetic times, and we must be prophetic people, and so if the people of God- the Church- had been the salt of the earth they were supposed to be to America it could never have gotten as rotten as it is.  If we had been the light to America it could have never gotten as dark, but God is now calling us to be great. You see these are the times that produce the greatest believers. So God is calling us to be great. To be great, you have to be bold, you have to get compromise out of your life, be uncompromised. Don't be intimidated by the darkness. Be stronger than ever. Be a light, and God will use you. The light that shines in the middle of the day, you know it's easy to shine, but you can't really see it. But the light that shines at night, you know it's harder to shine, because it goes against the grain, but it can light up the night. And God has called us to light up the night. So is there hope? Yes, as long as there is God there is hope. I don't believe that revival can happen without shaking now. I believe that revival can happen through shaking, but we have to be the leaders of revival, and that's why it says, "if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray, and turn from their evil ways, I will hear from heaven, Forgive their sin, and heal their land." We have to be that people. We need to pray for revival, but not just revival, but we need to start living in revival. Not just praying for it but living it. Start the revival now, and God and you, a remnant, who are listening can change the world." Jonathan Cahn - Hagmann and Hagmann Report 2/18/15