ARE ALL EVENTUALLY GOING TO HEAVEN?

ARE ALL EVENTUALLY GOING TO HEAVEN?

Thursday, June 30, 2016

  Without hesitation the answer to the question posed in today’s title is absolutely positively no.
  Early on in His incarnation Jesus said in response to Satan’s offer, and for all since to hear “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. “ (Mt.4:4; Lk.4:4)  Toward the end of His embodiment Jesus declared before His Father, His followers, and all since to hear, read,and take careful note “… your word is truth.“ (Jn.17:17)

  Looking to the word of truth to answer today’s question I first share Jesus’ words recorded in Matthew 25:46: “… these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.“

  Whether rendered “everlasting” or “eternal” in your favorite English translation or version, in the Greek it is most often αἰώνιος ; aiōnios; ahee-o'-nee-os; perpetual (also used of past time, or past and future as well): - eternal, for ever, everlasting, world (began). (Strong’s)

  So we see both lost or saved, the result of “already condemned” status unaltered or trusting Lord Jesus Christ as Redeemer, hell and heaven . . . are both perpetual. God’s Word does not say eternal life, temporary condemnation.

  αἰώνιος ; perpetual is in 43 verses in the 4 Gospels on thru Jude. Only once each in Ephesians and 1Timothy did Apostle Paul use a different word.  In Eph.3:11 ἀΐ́διος ;aidios; ah-id'-ee-os; everduring (forward and backward, or foward only): - eternal, everlasting. In 1Tim.1:17 αἰών ;aiōn; ahee-ohn'; properly an age; by extension perpetuity (also past); by implication the world; specifically (Jewish) a Messianic period (present or future): - age, course, eternal, (for) ever (-more), [n-]ever, (beginning of the, while the) world (began, without end). (Strong’s) But as you can clearly see, the meaning is the same.

  “everlasting” is seen 26 times in the NT with the same meaning of perpetuity, forever, eternal.

  Will everyone eventually enjoy eternal life? Absolutely positively not says the Sovereign Creator and Sustainer of one and all.

EBB4

A KJV ADVANTAGE

A KJV ADVANTAGE

Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Matthew 4:1-4 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But he [Jesus] answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. [Also note Lk.4:4]

2Timothy 2:14-16 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

  There is a KJV advantage that we elder pre-multiple versions students benefit from. Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance (SEC) as a study tool, which though I’ve used extensively, I have yet to exhaust.

  In hardback SEC is a physically large weighty tome. Remember the old library dictionary on a sturdy stand?

  SEC is KJV linked. My being first and foremost familiar with KJV, when studying, pondering, writing, answering inquiries, I frequently make use of SEC. And I have taught others how to do so in years past and presently if they don’t have the advantage of computer with e-Sword or other Bible software.

  How does one make use of SEC?

  Knowing that we are to first go to the Word, not simply initially and/or always rely on the writings of men and women, including this man -- When doing a study on a topic look up every word using SEC that you remember associated with the subject. By the word you will see chapter and verse Bible references.

  Personal example: When I was first exposed to the eternal security debate among my fellows I was troubled, confused, fearful, and at times terrified. A mentor suggested using SEC to lookup and study pertinent verses containing “sealed”. Doing so I gained the peace of God’s blessed assurance.

  SEC is not the Word of God. It is a convenient compass that saves travel time and energy. Which reminds me of friend Rodger saying that before he realized the convenience of using SEC his brain was cooked at times.

  If you read other than KJV then forget about trying to use SEC. Attempting to do so is like trying to use metric toolkit working on SAE built equipment. (People have requested and I’ve given away copies of SEC donated to me by those for such use when they switched to software programs. Not until years later did I discover it was a waste because the recipients did not, do not, read KJV saying “The language is too confusing.”

  Fear not! There are other resources in print that are quite useful. Here are 3 that I use and recommend:

·         Nave’s Topical Bible, A Digest of the Holy Scripture.

·         Where To Find It In The Bible, lists compiled by Ken Anderson.

·         Meredith’s Book of Bible Lists.

  May God bless you richly this day as you continue to seek His Word living and written.

EBB4

  

TRUMPETEERING?

DONALD TRUMP-PETEERING, OR NOT

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Romans [ESV] 13:1 Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.

  Dr. James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family and Family Talk, and Pastor Michael Anthony of GodFactor.com report that Donald Trump is now a baby Christian having recently trusted Christ. Pastor Anthony also reports Trump is being ministered to by a number of people.

  E. J. Dionne Jr., nationally syndicated op-ed writer, published in Omaha World-Herald, said “… there is no sure-fire way to know whether what a politician says about his or her belief in God is true.”

  Is Donald Trump authentic in a profession of faith, or is he politically blowing religious horn to gain increase in evangelical voters?

  Not “having complete or unlimited knowledge, awareness, or understanding; perceiving all things”; omniscience; Dictionary.com. . . . I cannot say for certain. I can however turn again to the Word of God for insight and wisdom.

  Jesus explained the helpful fruit test, that which my dear Dad referred to as “Track Record” that he relied on accordingly: "Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits. "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” (ESV Mt.7:13-21)

  Then there is the Apostle Paul’s comment in 1Corinthians 12: “… no one can say "Jesus is Lord" except in the Holy Spirit.” Coupling this with the fact that authentic believers trusting Christ are indwelled with God’s Holy Spirit (Jn.4:23; 1Cor.3:16; 6:19; 2Cor.1:22; Eph.4:30; also note 1Pet.2:5) can be useful as an evaluator.

  However, time is short for those evaluating and deciding who to vote for as our next POTUS. There is very little time to look for new fruit and change in vocabulary, and the reviewing of speeches and public comments by Trump, Clinton, Sanders , or any other lesser candidate for that matter.

  Then there’s the broader lack of omniscience problem had by the followers of Lord Jesus Christ: After the fact knowing about Sovereign Jehovah God’s designation of Saul, David , Solomon, Jeroboam I, Nadab,  Baasha, Elah, Zimri, Tibni, Omri, Ahab, Ahaziah, Joram/Jehoram, Jehu, Jehoahaz, Joash, Jeroboam II, Zechariah, Shallum, Menahem, Pekahiah, Pekah, Hoshea, Washington, Adams, Jackson, Carter, Nixon, Kennedy, Clinton, Reagan, Obama -- now Sanders, or Clinton, or a Trump, or _______?

  Still not omniscient but do know for certain that as with Israel and every other nation we will either get exactly what we deserve and/or exactly what we need according to God’s designation.

EBB4

PS. This does not mean not voting at all is an option for Christians for we are commanded to be salt and light within the Master’s great plan (Rom.8:28) and our participation therein shall in the end be judged accordingly by Lord Jesus Christ. (Mt.5:15; Mk.4:21; Lk.11:33; 2Cor.5:10)

PPS. Most of us have observed many candidates in many elections. How many of those professing Christianity have gone beyond saying “God” and declared “Jesus is Lord”?

FORGETFUL ME

FORGETFUL ME

Monday, June 27, 2016

Isaiah [ESV] 11:1- There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. And the Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. And his delight shall be in the fear of the LORD. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide disputes by what his ears hear, but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. Righteousness shall be the belt of his waist, and faithfulness the belt of his loins. The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together; and a little child shall lead them. …

1Timothy [ESV] 4:4-6; 2Tim.2:7-15 For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer. If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed. … Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel, for which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound! Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. The saying is trustworthy, for: If we have died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us; if we are faithless, he remains faithful— for he cannot deny himself. Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.

  Don’t know about you but I must be reminded of what God expects of me. For this reason I reread Scripture, theology, participate in a Sunday School class, do my best to hear what Pastor and others are communicating. Pastor Bob’s Sunday sermon reminded me of things. No revelation but important precepts that I must be reminded of.

  Sometimes it is not at all a theological discussion or homily that reminds. At times it’s an unexpected momentary occasion. Saturday morning was just such an event.

  It was grandson Michael’s birthday party celebrating his completing year 8 in this life. Grandson Ian and I were asked to come early to assist in setting up. I was assigned a task and began. As I was assembling the decoration my right arm and hand “essential tremor” set to dancing as it typically does when I grip something. Unknown to me Michael saw it ran over and embraced my arm saying “Don’t worry, I’ll stop it PopPop!”

  I again was well reminded of love, loving, loved . . .

EBB4

VACUUMING UN, FIN & COMPANY

VACUUMING UN, FIN & COMPANY

Sunday, June 26, 2016

Genesis [ESV today] 3:1-5 Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God actually say, 'You shall not eat of any tree in the garden'?" And the woman said to the serpent, "We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden, but God said, 'You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.'" But the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil."

Ephesians 6:10-20 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.

2Timothy 4:1-4 I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.

  Fact: A vacuum does not remain a void. Something will fill the space by being drawn in or set to.

  Fact: There are those inherently skilled or trained to create vacuum(s) so as to make space to backfill with design(s) of their or others making.

  Fact: By and large Bible readings and explicit teachings have pretty much been removed from public school systems. No longer is God presented as actual; Sovereign, Creator, Sustainer, Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent, Ultimate Judge et al. No longer are The Ten Commandments, Bible-based God-centered Golden Rule, et al presented as the true basis for right-living, “righteousness”.

  Fact: In public schools and community youth social groups fashionable morals and ethics are being taught by staff and costumed super heroes and encouraged to adapt their personal hero mantle.

  Fact: We were expressly warned by God’s Holy Spirit. (1Tim.1:4; 2Tim.3:1-5)

  Fact: ______________________________________________

EBB4

 

PS: Un is a supervillain, Fin a superhero. Costumed, they serve under the auspices of the Omaha (NE) Business Ethics Alliance. This past week they taught Girls Inc. campers that good ethics means doing the right thing even when nobody is looking.  

KJV ONLY?

"What is the King James Version (KJV)?" (GotQuestions.org)

King James Version - History
In 1604, King James I of England authorized a new translation of the Bible into English to be started. It was finished in 1611, just 85 years after the first translation of the New Testament into English appeared (Tyndale, 1526). In the preface to the 1611 edition, the translators of the Authorized Version, or King James Version, state that is was not their purpose “to make a new translation . . . but to make a good one better.” The King James Version quickly became the standard for English-speaking Protestants. Its flowing language and prose rhythms have had a profound influence on the literature of the past 400 years.

King James Version - Translation method
The King James translation was done by 47 scholars, all of whom were members of the Church of England. In common with most other translations of the period, the New Testament was translated from the Textus Receptus (Received Text) series of the Greek texts. The Old Testament was translated from the Masoretic Hebrew text, while the Apocrypha was translated from the Greek Septuagint (LXX), except for 2 Esdras, which was translated from the Latin Vulgate. In 1769, the Oxford edition, which excluded the Apocrypha, became the standard text and is the text which is reproduced almost unchanged in most current printings.

King James Version - Pro’s and Con’s
For nearly 400 years, and through several revisions of the original, the King James Version has been deeply revered by English-speaking peoples worldwide, not only for the precision of the translation from the original languages, but for the beauty and majesty of the style, which has greatly influenced literature for centuries.
  Unfortunately, much avoidable dissension among Christians occurs about the use of the King James Version. While many people claim that the KJV is the only “true” translation, rarely are they actually in possession of the 1611 Authorized Version of the KJV. Rather, they have the more readable 1769 version. The difference between the two becomes clear when comparing passages from the two versions. For example, 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 in the 1611 version is as follows:
  “Though I speake with the tongues of men & of Angels, and haue not charity, I am become as sounding brasse or a tinkling cymbal. And though I haue the gift of prophesie, and vnderstand all mysteries and all knowledge: and though I haue all faith, so that I could remooue mountaines, and haue no charitie, I am nothing. And though I bestowe all my goods to feede the poore, and though I giue my body to bee burned, and haue not charitie, it profiteth me nothing.”
  The 1769 version, on the other hand, is much more readable and understandable:
  “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.”

Furthermore, in addition to the more readable character of the 1769 edition, further translations into modern English have proved invaluable for millions. Modern translations such as the New King James Version, the Modern King James Version, and the 21st Century King James Version have removed the confusing “thee’s” and “thou’s” and “-eth” verb endings, while still remaining true to the texts and retaining the beauty of the language.

King James Version - Sample Verses
John 1:1,14 – “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”
John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
John 8:58 – “Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.”
Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
Titus 2:13 – “Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ.”

Recommended Resources: How to Choose a Translation for All Its Worth: A Guide to Understanding and Using Bible Versions by Gordon D. Fee & Mark L. Strauss and Logos Bible Software.

MOURNING SAID

MOURNING SAID

Thursday, June 23, 2016

John 1:1-4, 14 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. … And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Matthew 4:1-4 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

John 7:45-48 Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why have ye not brought him [Jesus]? The officers answered, Never man spake like this man. Then answered them the Pharisees, Are ye also deceived? Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on him?

Acts 8:26-31 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.

  In a very short period of time Said was killed on the street along with several companions: Did, Accustomed To, In The Past, and Once So were outnumbered by and repeatedly assaulted by Used To and the Like You Know gang.

  The High Tower Academia & Writers Defense Committee did their best to keep Said and companions alive, well, and useful but finally wearying of their resuscitation efforts they allowed decease . . . and wrote that they used to care but now, like, you know, realized and accepted that communication matters most of all. It was not long before editors galore accepted used to and like you know from pen of journalists, novelists, non-fiction, and writers of every ilkyness.

  Doth thou understandeth thee above satire?

  Once upon a time I was a vigorous party-line King James Only proponent and defender. KJV is still my favorite and still my primary read, and as you well know, at times noted in my writings.

  However, though I used to differ, I grew to realization that understanding God’s Word living (Jesus) and written (Holy Bible) supersedes defense of 1611 King James authorized English language or the newer 1769 KJV English translation more commonly held and read.

  I’ve decided to give you overnight to get used to what I’ve written in the above paragraphs. Tomorrow I am publishing something else to get used to, an essay from GotQuestions.org on the KJV issue.

  One last additional thought: Never forget that once upon a time hundreds of years ago 1611 and 1769 were new translations and resisted by church factions.

EBB4

AN UNVARYING CONTINUOUS CHOICE

AN UNVARYING CONTINUOUS CHOICE

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

2Timothy 2:1-2 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

2Timothy 2:15-16 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

1Peter [ESV] 5:6-11 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

  As usual I read Main News and Midlands sections of the Omaha World-Herald with my breakfast. (Today’s coffee with Italian bread toasted with American peanut butter slathered with English orange marmalade.) I took note of the info that USA government presently has 1,000,000 overall individuals on its terrorist watch list. Turning the pages I read other news of risk, threat, and actual criminal activity . . . some of the latter category not so far away.

  I’m not worried about possible or present threatening situation, at least not now.

  How did this come about?

·         It began with my calm discerning Dad. Mom worried. Thus I saw the comparison and choose to hear and observe Dad as opposed to Mom. While Mom worried about a lack of the next bag of groceries, Dad identified possibility or potential of problems, but then discerned what could be done to prevent or resolve, and asap implemented. Dad often emphasized “Concern is healthy. Worry is not for it distracts from clear thinking toward options and solutions. Sometimes his solution was to do nothing. Surprisingly, predicted problem didn’t result, or was resolved naturally, or simply negated. Dad also emphasized the value of being confronted by problems.

·         Yes, Mom worried for the whole family, neighborhood, nation, and world. Observing what she put herself through and at times others that loved her I decided I didn’t want to adopt her manner.

·         Then at age 14 while grinding corn at Eden Mill dear Ann walked across the gravel truck lot into my heart and soon thereafter into my life for 60+ wonderful years. Ann was not a worrier. She looked at problems as life challenges, adventures, and learning experiences.

  The outcome of the above described observations and resultant personal decision against living in anxiety left me being sometime calm, sometime worrying; the angst phases affecting me physically.

  The next step forward involved a momentary one-time encounter with a man named Desmond McNellis. Observing my Bible and companion books that I studied, taught, and preached from, he smiled and said “You know what to do.” The brief passing meet was transitory, leaving me with starting point of Yes, I do know.

  Ann already held God’s peace in her heart and practiced 1Peter 5:7. I began to and continued this journey all the way to this morning breakfast table, now at keyboard sharing my life with you, and this-side-of-heaven still facing daily the choice of to worry or live life trusting the Word, or not?

EBB4

To aid in Romans 12:1-3 transition I was encouraged by an elder to print out, have on my person, read and ponder list of applicable verses. I encourage you to practice the same way as needed.  [ESV]:

Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous     

to be moved.

Proverbs 3:5-7 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.

Proverbs 13:11-13 Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it. Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life. Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded.

Matthew 6:21-34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. "The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness! "No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.  "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.

Matthew 7:11-12 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him! "So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

Matthew 11:28-30 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

John 3:16-17 "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.

John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have

tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world."

Rom 5:3-6 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.

1Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

Ephesians 4:30-32 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Philippians 2:3-9 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

ALL IN THE FAMILY?

ALL IN THE FAMILY?

Tuesday, June 21, 2016

Matthew [NLT] 4:1-4 Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted there by the devil. For forty days and forty nights he fasted and became very hungry. During that time the devil[a] came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become loaves of bread.” But Jesus told him, “No! The Scriptures say, ‘People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

John [NLT] 1:1-14 In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He [Lord Jesus Christ] existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. [Col.1:16-17; Heb.1:2, 10]The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. God sent a man, John the Baptist, to tell about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light. The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God. So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.

John 3:15-18, 36 [Jesus explained] That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. … He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

Acts [NLT] 4:12 There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name [Jesus] under heaven by which we must be saved.”

  All lives matter. The horrific killings in Orlando are tragic for many reasons.

  A paramount reason is the again propagating of “Fortunately we are all God’s children.” Most recently I read this sentiment in newspaper this morning in comment on the massacre.

  Yes, a sentiment . . . sometimes even expressed by those claiming belief in and reliance upon the Holy Bible, God’s Word. It doesn’t take much study of His Word to discover that every human is God’s creation, but until they personally actually trust Jesus they are not a child of God redeemed now and forever more.

  Going to what is probably the best know verse in God’s Word, we see “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (Jn.3:16) Then, and only then, by belief does any person become a child in God’s family “to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.”  (Jn.1:12; Act.4:12)

  So what is this belief requirement in John 3:16 and stated elsewhere in God’s Word?

  In the Greek it is πιστεύω; pisteuō; pist-yoo'-o; to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), that is, credit; by implication to entrust (especially one’s spiritual well being to Christ): - believe (-r), commit (to trust), put in trust with. (Strong’s Hebrew & Greek Dictionaries)

  In the early days of my Bible study guidance, a mentor introduced me to The Amplified New Testament. In John 3:16 I read “… so that whoever believes in (trusts, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish …” which was and still is very enlightening, assuring, and motivating for me.

  If and as we read on in John 3 we learn that not trusting Jesus results in not being condemned because of, but in remaining “condemned already” (Jn.3:18). Put another way to explain: Eternal condemnation, not being a child of God, is an existent condition cancelled only through trusting Jesus! Hell-bound is ongoing status until other-wise; just as heaven is assured for those trusting Jesus, hell is assured for those not trusting Jesus. (Jn.3:16-18; 14:1-2)

  Propagating the untruth of “We are all God’s family.” especially by professing Christians and others results in:

·         Relaxed dangerous attitude on the part of those “condemned already”.

·         Relaxed dangerous attitude on the part of God’s John 1:12 children, those holding the false family belief seeing no need to witness the Gospel Truth of salvation imperative of Jesus. (John 3:3)

·         Then there is the eternal risk of loss as the Apostle Paul explained: “For of God we are fellow-workers, a field of God, and you are a building of God. According to the grace of God which is given to me, as a wise master builder, I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let every man be careful how he builds on it. For any other foundation can no one lay than the one being laid, who is Jesus Christ. And if anyone builds on this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble, each one's work shall be revealed. For the Day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try each one's work as to what kind it is. If anyone's work which he built remains, he shall receive a reward. If anyone's work shall be burned up, he shall suffer loss. But he shall be saved, yet so as by fire. Do you not know that you are a temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone defiles the temple of God, God shall destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which you are. Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you seems to be wise in this world, let him become a fool so that he may be wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God; for it is written, "He takes the wise in their own craftiness." (ESV 1Cor.3:9-19)

  Let us never forgot Jesus’ marching orders, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.” Later repeated by Paul in his letter to young Timothy, “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. For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths.” (NLT Mk.16:15; 2Tim.4:1-4)

  “All in the family.” is just such a myth.

EBB4

CAPTIVE OF IGNORANCE

CAPTIVE OF IGNORANCE

Monday, June 20, 2016

Colossians [ESV] 1:1-29 …because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel,…

  You drive a newfangled keyless entry/start vehicle and love the convenience. The mall stores are closing for the night. Due to the many shoppers you had to park some distance away. It begins to precipitate heavily as you, arms loaded with packages, walk to your vehicle. Nothing happens. No lights blinking. No nothing.

  Remembering the old fashioned key lock in the driver’s door . . . “Okay” you say as you fumble for the key while juggling packages. Once you and bundles are ensconced safe and dry you move your hand to activate START.  Nothing happens.

  The battery has gone dead in the fob!

  “WHAT TO DO?” comes to mind.

  Then you think “I’ll bet there’s something about this situation in that shrink-wrapped manual in the glove compartment. ??”

  Then, for some odd reason you recall something a childhood Sunday School teacher said, “God’s children fail because of a lack of knowledge.” (Hos.4:6)

EBB4

PS. Fob batteries last about 2 years. If your vehicle is so equipped, you can hold dead fob against START button until hearing chime, chirp, or other signal. Then push the button. Then asap drive to BATTERIES+ or some other such store.

MY EDIFYING JOURNEY

MY EDIFYING JOURNEY

Sunday, June 19, 2016

Sometimes it takes a mountain,

                Sometimes it takes a desert,

                                Sometimes it takes a troubled sea,

                                                It has for me.

EBB4 (Pr.3:5; Lk.4:4; Rom.5:1-8; 8:22-28) 

LIVING BY FAITH

LIVING BY FAITH

Friday, June 17, 2016

“the just shall live by faith” …  no one is justified by the Law in the sight of God is clear, for, "The just shall live by faith." (Hab.2:4; Rom.1:17; Gal.3:11; Heb.10:38)

  “I live by faith.” Is a fairly common phrase heard. But what does it mean?

  It’s not as though living by faith is a classification of a culturally separatist mass of people. For the fact is, everyone lives by faith, though not by faith alone, for faith requires object and subjectiveness thereunto.

  Who does not live by faith? Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, Maoists, communists, materialists, humanists, Darwinists, Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, Rosicrucians, terrorists, pacifists, JW’s,  Baptists as variant as plentiful as snowflakes or sand, Jews, RC’s, Presbyterians, Lutherans of various stripes, C & E believers, brainiacs,  Know Nothings, nerds, jocks, socialists, Shintoist or shiftiest, et al, and of course agnostics and atheists; All live by faith. Every person has, does, will live by faith.

  Matthew recorded the words of Jesus speaking of faith and the lack thereof: “O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. [and He cast the demon out of the child, the disciples wondering why they could not]Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. (Mt. chapter 17) 

  What is this “faith” Jesus refers to?  Πίστις; pistis; pis'-tis; persuasion, that is, credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly constancy in such profession; by extension the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself: - assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity. (From Strong’s Hebrew and Greek dictionaries.)

  Knowing this I must ask myself “Professing as a disciple of Christ, what measure of such faith in Him is obvious in my life?” Credibility, moral conviction (Not guilt & shame, for they are contrary to beneficial moral conviction.), constancy (freedom, peace, stability), fidelity – all centered in reliance in Lord Jesus Christ for salvation in present circumstances and forever more?

  I conclude that I too am one of a multitude, confessing “Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.“ (Mt.9:24)

EBB4

PS: For those interested further I will provide “faith” file from International Standard Bible Encyclopedia.

THE WHITE LIE CAKE

THE WHITE LIE CAKE

Thursday, June 16, 2016

  In the furtherance of Proverbs 17:22 good health, I share the following tale.

  Have you ever told a white lie?

  If so, you are going to love this, especially all of the ladies who bake for church events:

  Alice Grayson was to bake a cake for the Baptist Church Ladies' Group in Greenville, but forgot to do it until the last minute. She remembered it the morning of the bake sale and after rummaging through cabinets, found an angel food cake mix & quickly made it while drying her hair, dressing, and helping her son pack up for Scout camp.

  When she took the cake from the oven, the center had dropped flat and the cake was horribly disfigured and she exclaimed, "Oh dear, there is not time to bake another cake!"

  This cake was important to Alice because she did so want to fit in at her new church, and in her new community of friends.  So, being inventive, she looked around the house for something to build up the center of the cake. She found it in the bathroom - a roll of toilet paper. She plunked it in and then covered it with icing.  Not only did the finished product look beautiful, it looked perfect.

  Before she left the house to drop the cake by the church and head for work, Alice woke her daughter and gave her some money and specific instructions to be at the bake sale the moment it opened at 9:30 and to buy the cake and bring it home. Trouble was, when the daughter arrived at the sale, she found the attractive, perfect cake had already been sold. Amanda grabbed her cell phone & called her mom.

  Alice was horrified - she was beside herself!  Everyone would know!  What would they think? She would be ostracized, talked about, ridiculed! They’d have to leave town!!

  All night, Alice lay awake in bed thinking about people pointing fingers at her and talking about her behind her back. The next day, Alice promised herself she would try not to think about the cake and would attend the fancy luncheon/bridal shower at the home of a fellow church member and try to have a good time.  She did not really want to attend because the hostess was a snob who more than once had looked down her nose at the fact that Alice was a single parent and not from the founding families of Greenville, but having already RSVP'd, she couldn't think of a believable excuse to stay home.

  The meal was elegant, the company was definitely upper crust old south and to Alice 's horror, the cake in question was presented for dessert! Alice felt the blood drain from her body and she suddenly felt as though she was going to faint.

  She started out of her chair to tell the hostess all about it, but before she could get to her feet, the Mayor's wife said, "My, what a beautiful cake!"

  Alice, still stunned, sat back in her chair when she heard the hostess (who was a prominent church member) say, "Thank you, I baked it myself."

  Alice smiled and thought to herself, "God is good.”

 "... know that your sin will find you out." (Numbers 32:23c)

EBB4

CHOOSING LESSER STREMGTH

CHOOSING LESSER STRENGTH  

Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Psalm [GW] 20:7-8 Some rely on chariots and others on horses, but we will boast in the name of the LORD our God. They will sink to their knees and fall, but we will rise and stand firm.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths smooth.

  In ordinary daily life or times of calamity, including implosion, every individual or nation has before them to trust God or own strength.

  The difference for Christian is if relying on own strength we as His John 1:12 child are worse off than non-believer relying on own strength; for isolationist pride doesn’t just leave us vulnerable to further stress, it engages God’s resistance and worsens our situation. (Jam.4:5-6)

  Said trust is not simply emotional. It includes recognizing and accepting all warfare is ultimately spiritual and for our mind: Requiring prayerfully laboring at seeking applicable wisdom from His Word, the Bible; Jesus as exemplary example; and garnering prudence from other saints with mature knowledge and experience.  

EBB4

ORLANDO POTENTIAL

ORLANDO POTENTIAL

Tuesday, June 14, 2016

John [NLT] chapter 17 … Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so he can give glory back to you. For you have given him authority over everyone. He gives eternal life to each one you have given him. And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth. I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. Now, Father, bring me into the glory we shared before the world began.

  … My prayer is not for the world, but for those you have given me, because they belong to you. All who are mine belong to you, and you have given them to me, so they bring me glory. Now I am departing from the world; they are staying in this world, but I am coming to you. Holy Father, you have given me your name; now protect them by the power of your name so that they will be united just as we are. During my time here, I protected them by the power of the name you gave me. I guarded them so that not one was lost, except the one headed for destruction [Judas], as the Scriptures foretold.

  Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy. I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They do not belong to this world any more than I do. Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth. Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.

  I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.”

Romans [NLT] 12:1-3 [Paul exhorting] And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.  Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us.

  As a disciple of Christ every day requires the work of studying, seeing, considering, accepting, and applying God’s Word . . . ACTUALLY AUTHENTIC WORSHIP . . . and for this man then the additional responsibility to keyboard and/or vocalize His truth in the hope of eternal and present freedom.  Admittedly there are times I’d much rather not, but instead prefer cleaning the refrigerator et al.

  “Why Orlando?!!” is question heard loud and clear.

  I begin to answer with a memory from Mr. Hanley’s high school World History class, “Don’t ask ‘Why war?’ -- ask ‘Why peace?’”

  God’s Word answers the questions unequivocally:

·         Political leadership, general population, and a number of professing Christians don’t believe in evil, thinking evil happens. Fact is, none of us are good. We all naturally have ghastly potential ranging from jealous nasty attitude to murderous action. Jer.17:9; Mt.19:17; Mk.10:18; Rom.3:10-18; Jam.4:1-4.

·         There is ambient peace that can be had in this world, but it is fleeting at best, and rotten at worst. By and through trusting Jesus inner peace can be had presently and eternally regardless of surroundings; such peace counteracting, even negating our warring self. Gen.3:1-8; Jer.17:7-8; Jn.14:27; 16:33.

  As you’ve noticed, today I’ve not printed out Bible verses for your convenience. I’m leaving you to decide whether to clean the refrigerator or look up, read, consider, accept, and apply His truth that will free you of the shallow questions of those inclined otherwise.

EBB4

DROOPING

DROOPING WITH ANTHROPOCENTICISM

Friday, January 10, 2014

Matthew 18:1-4; 23:10-12 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. … Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.

But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

Acts 11:25-26 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

Galatians [MKJV] 5:22-26 … the fruit of the Spirit is: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control; against such things there is no law. But those belonging to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become glory-seeking, provoking one another, envying one another.

Ephesians [MKJV] 5:8-9 … you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth),

Anthropocentric [an-thruh-poh-sen-trik], adjective

1. regarding the human being as the central fact of the universe.

2. assuming human beings to be the final aim and end of the universe.

3. viewing and interpreting everything in terms of human experience and values.

  For many, all or much of personal identity has to do with prideful things: race, family, genealogy, culture, ability, achievements, wealth, intelligence, prowess, toughness, possessions (may possessively  include spouse and children), knowledge, education, stature, looks, position, talents, neighborhood, dwelling(s), et al. 

  When our being is based in pride, our common practice is investing considerable time and effort in said identity’s maintenance and increase. When we trust God and His Way (Jn.14:6) and leave prideful identification, in its place we gain that which is truly finest, the fruit of the Spirit; “love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control . . . all goodness and righteousness and truth.”; the blessed state of usefulness of moral excellence in character and obvious demeanor.

  Having lost old basis of indentifying being that was trusted motivator for so many years we may droop without anthropocentric incentive. Or, clinging to our old way for being, we simply shift our pride to Christian works; thereby stumbling to and fro in confusion as we incur God’s resistance. (James 4:1-10) This should not be and will not be if we live in our new identity.

  Once we were only unregenerate human being; God’s creation but not His child. (Jn.1:12) After trusting Lord Jesus Christ, we are family, Christian being, “a follower of Christ”, redeemed, a being in and by Him. It is our Christian being that should and will motivate us if we so allow; “We don't look for things that can be seen but for things that can't be seen. Things that can be seen are only temporary. But things that can't be seen last forever. … So from now on we don't think of anyone from a human point of view. If we did think of Christ from a human point of view, we don't anymore. Whoever is a believer in Christ is a new creation. The old way of living has disappeared. A new way of living has come into existence.” (GW 2Cor.4:18; 5:16-17)

  Droop not.  EBB4

LONGING FOR THAT MOSES MOMENT?

LONGING FOR THAT MOSES MOMENT?

Sunday, June 12, 2016

Exodus chapter 3

Matthew 25:13-29  Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh. For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents. And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two. But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more. His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them. His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed: And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine. His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.

  There he was, in the 40^th year of the second third of his life, as fragrant as his father-n-law’s sheep he tended. Was he expecting that day to be any different than the past 14,599 or so? Was he thinking or even hoping “Maybe today God will soon give me something really meaningful to do?”, or was he preferring the rural routine.

  Possibly, or was it niggling angst that however long it had been since he killed that overseer, an Egyptian SWAT would swoop out of the desert and chariot him away for trial unto death or pyramid building slavery. Or possibly his surrogate mother would now be in control and intercede with a government pardon and restoration to royal wardrobe and all that goes with it. Maybe, but more likely he was just doing his job, responsibly moving from one normal task to another.

  As Jon Mayo communicated to me one afternoon, God doesn’t intend our sitting around waiting or longing for a Moses Moment. Jon is absolutely correct and can provide verification from OT, NT, personal observation, and his own maturation.

  Our responsibility is to be faithful exactly where we presently are. Indeed God may intercede, or interfere. (Note Moses reaction.)

  I quote dear succinct Ann, “Bloom where you’re planted.”

  Yes, wherever that place is we are to be regarded as active faithful servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. (1Cor.4:1-2) This includes being “found faithful” whether smelling of roses, savory stew, or reeking of lanolin, cabbage, sewage, or any other ambient fragrance.

EBB4

 

  

HEEDING HEURISTIC HEARTENING

HEEDING HEURISTIC HEARTENING

Friday, June 10, 2016

Matthew [ESV] 6:33  But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness,

Luke [KJV] 11:1-2  And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.

John [ESV] 8:31-32  So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

John [ESV] 17 [Soon to depart, Jesus prayed to Father] …  I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.

2Corinthians  [ESV] 5:14-21  For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

2Timothy [ESV] 2:1-2  You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.

2Timothy [ESV] 2:14-15  Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.

    People tell me they want to be more godly in living. Some expect this to occur without investment of effort. Godliness doesn’t grow on trees, nor is it easily acquired.

·         It takes submission to laboring.

·         It takes submissive acceptance to what is discovered by laboring.

·         It takes submissive personal application to Truth realized.

·         Without submissiveness in the 3 previous points we will not live free; restricted and hindered by our refusing to submit to spiritual labor, its personal revelations and needed applications.

·         With submissiveness to Truth discovered we practice godliness and are freely active 2Corinthians 5:14-21 and 2Timothy 2:2 kingdom agents.

  Truly, godliness with competency and contentment is great gain! (1Tim.6:6)

EBB4

ACCOMPLISHMENT

ACCOMPLISHMENT

Thursday, June 09, 2016

Matthew [ESV] 11:27-30 [Jesus explained]  All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

Hebrews [MKJV] 4:9-13  So then there remains a rest to the people of God. For he who has entered into his rest, he also has ceased from his own works, as God did from His. Therefore let us labor to enter into that rest, lest anyone fall after the same example of unbelief. For the Word of God is living and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing apart of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight, but all things are naked and opened to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.

  Everything involves what yoke we chose to wear on any given day or in any given instance.

  Knowing this, at the end of the day I typically exercise asking myself several questions.    

  Some main ones are:

                Whose yoke did I wear this day, mine, or His?

                Did I live in His rest today?

                What did I learn today?

                What, if anything, was accomplished today?

  Rereading old files I found:

  “Yesterday I again assisted in stripping and re-shingling family member’s home and plan on doing so again today. This is an accomplishment for a man in his 77^th year that is either spiritually egocentric or a matter of gratitude in still mentally and physically working to help others.

  Once upon a time it would have been egocentric all-about-me. Not being skilled at sports I made labor my game and won at beating others at work. Somewhere along my lifeline God changed this, leaving me (for now) with physical ability, but altering soul agility. When did this latter occur? Like most important changes in my life, I don’t know. I just know for certain that it did.”

  With this, though not corresponding in calendar, I later realized that this is part of the bundle of moving forward in His rest, which is absolutely important accomplishment of His in my life. Thankfully so for the other yoke would have weighted me down at ground level far from rooftop experience. 

EBB4, presently at rest sans ladders and roof walks in 81st year.