ZOO BY WHOM?

 ZOO BY WHOM?

2Corinthians 5:1-21 We know that if the life we live here on earth is ever taken down like a tent, we still have a building from God. It is an eternal house in heaven that isn't made by human hands. …

  Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a zoo in Omaha, Nebraska. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Its mission is conservation, research, recreation, and education.^[4] In August 2014, TripAdvisor proclaimed Henry Doorly Zoo the "world's best zoo", leading San Diego Zoo and Loro Parque, based on an algorithmic assimilation of millions of reviews for 275 major zoos worldwide.^[5]

  Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is nationally renowned for its leadership in animal conservation and research. Evolving from the public Riverview Park Zoo established in 1894, today the zoo includes several notable exhibits. It features the largest cat complex in North America;^[6] "Kingdoms of the Night" is the world's largest nocturnal exhibit and indoor swamp;^[6] the Lied Jungle is one of the world's largest indoor rainforests, and the "Desert Dome" is one of the world's largest indoor deserts,^[7] as well as the largest glazed geodesic dome in the world.^[8][9] The zoo is Nebraska's top paid attendance attraction and has welcomed more than 25 million visitors over the past 40 years.

 (Taken from introductory remarks in Wikipedia; for a e-tour go to, then click on the many links.)

  Since the first summer of our moving here in 1984 we have maintained and made good use of a family membership as the zoo continues valuable to us in both recreation and education. Yesterday, Ann and I plus 2 daughters, 2 teen grandchildren and their friend, temporarily added to the park’s population.

  As I marvel at the unique design and function of the more than 17,000 animals there, two thoughts keep coming to my mind.

  The first person to enjoy such recreation and education lived in a menagerie at Eden, Adam. He enjoying close contact with fur, fang, et al; our, because of his original sin, now requiring fences, but that the day is returning when the lion will no longer be carnivore, but will eat hay like my namesake. (Isaiah 11:6-8; 65:25)

  Secondly, that “… since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities – His eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” (NIV Rom.1:20)

  There is however no need to move to Nebraska and purchase a zoo membership to be reminded of God Almighty; just look around at creation where you dwell. Candidly pondered, the reality may lead to your re-creation. 

EBB4  (5/5/09)

 

PS. Since 2009, with large donations received, many displays have been added and upgraded.                         

 

  

COMPREHENDING?

 A COMMUNIQUÉ

  God is Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent . . . and the Omni-Communicator. On the latter attribute, some would say “Not so!” as they consider His Word difficult to comprehend in KJV or any other version. I have observed a sudden initial comprehension on individuals’ part when they decided to agree with and trust God. I personally consider this change from bewilderment to blessedness a characteristic of being a Christian for Jesus explained “(CEV)  Jesus replied, "I tell you for certain that you must be born from above before you can see God's kingdom!"/ (ESV)  Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.”/ (GW)  Jesus replied to Nicodemus, "I can guarantee this truth: No one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above." (JN.3:3)

  What is this blessedness?

  Reading and pondering with personal application pleases God. (Rom.12:1-2)

  Reliance on His Communiqué is presently and ultimately beneficial.

  For your convenience, using English of ESV I present a few pertinent passages from The Word:

Joshua 1:7-8 Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.

Psalm 1:1-3; 19:7-9 Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. … The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the LORD are true, and righteous altogether.

Isaiah 40:6-8 A voice says, "Cry!" And I said, "What shall I cry?" All flesh is grass, and all its beauty is like the flower of the field. The grass withers, the flower fades when the breath of the LORD blows on it; surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever. [1Pet.1:24]

Matthew 5:14-18 [Jesus explained] "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. [Jesus was/is the accomplisher.]

Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

2Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

2Peter 1:16-21 For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased," we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain. And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

  Got it?  EBB4

CONFLATIONS

 

CONFLATING FLATIONS

 

  Inflation is a common life-experience; one obvious loss for young and old being the disappearance of penny candy. Then there’s the other serious effects each of you readers can tell of.

  Though you may not heard of skimpflation, you have and presently are again experiencing it: Paying the same price, but getting less product and/or service. I first recognized this as a lad spending a hard-earned nickel for a reduced size Hershey bar. We boys and girls were outraged and frustrated. And presently for all you Disney parks lovers, how do you like hiking from the parking lots.? And for you fast-food lovers, have you had to ask for condiments yet?

  And how about shrinkflation? Like the Hershey bar business, less for more, even while advertising “MORE FOR LESS”. Additionally, have you noticed shelf stocks lately? This blamed entirely on supply line problems, though it is not.

  In my nearly 86 years I’ve never seen the scenario so circular and conflated with our D.C. government fueling the flames with more tinder.

  But all of the above is not to be our overwhelming discombobulating center adding to the mental and emotional murk, for Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever. (Heb.13:8)

EBB4

 

 

SEEKING YOUR INPUT

 

SEEKING YOUR INPUT: As many of you know, I build, maintain, and offer a number of topical Bible study files. Available to anyone, most are requested by inmates as they select from the compiled list. When they initially contact us the list is sent to them in the BEGGINER”S STUDY PACKET. (The list or the packet is also available to outmates upon their request.)

  One available file is the BIBLE STUDY FILE, it including where-from, veracity, how to study, Why I believe the Bible is the Word of God, and a few other segments. What it does not include and is needed is “Why Study the Bible?”

  I’m inviting your input in answering the question. Including Scripture when possible, please include answering: God’s reasons? Historical reasons? Mental/emotional reasons? Observable reasons, changed lives? Your reasons? And other sub-topical reasons you may think of.

  If you like you can provide your identifying name, initials, or an alias for crediting your input. (Synonymous input will be topically merged.)

  After compiling input given, each contributor will receive a copy for review. As for others, you can receive it upon request.

  I’m quite excited about this team project and I too being a student am looking forward to your responses.

Edwin Bennett Bullock 4th

WORSHIP

 WORSHIP

John 1:12  But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

  To attend to worship in church or while walking in the woods et al, without Bible study resulting in increasing knowledge of God, what He has and does for us, and who we are as born again sons and daughters of God (Jn.1:12; 3:3; 2Cor.5:17) can make for limited worship.

  Understanding His provisions definitely increases reverent awe.

  To that end, I share some definitions:

* "received"; means to objectively or actively to take or to get hold of

* "power";  the sense of ability and privilege, force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (objectively) mastery (concretely magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token of control), delegated influence: - authority, jurisdiction, liberty, power, right, strength.

* "became"; a primary verb (action); to cause to be (“gen” -erate), that is, (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literally, figuratively, intensively, etc.): - arise be assembled, be (come, -fall, -have self), be brought (to pass), (be) come (to pass), continue, be divided, be done, draw, be ended, fall, be finished, follow, be found, be fulfilled, grow, happen, have, be kept, be made, be married, be ordained to be, partake, pass, be performed, be published, require, seem, be showed, X soon as it was, sound, be taken, be turned, use, wax, will, would, be wrought.

* "believe"; 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.

* "name"; involving authority and character

  In the spirit of worship I write from my awed heart: I, personally, have objectively and actively taken hold of Lord Jesus Christ with a gained sense of privilege and ability, force, capacity, competency, mastery in delegated influence to me, with all provided authority, jurisdiction, liberty, power, right and strength . . . and responsibility. In this truth I became and continue to be joined to God, ordained by Him alone (Jn.1:12-13), wrought and fulfilled by His provision without any goodness or earning on my part (Eph.2:8-9), turned as a new person in Christ. This accomplished by trust alone; having faith in the Word; Jesus authority and character as Almighty God Incarnate (Jn.1:1); sole deliverer from the eternal penalty of my sin!  EBB4

 

TITHING

 

TITHING

 

2Corinthians [CEV] 9:7-8  Each of you must make up your own mind about how much to give. But don't feel sorry that you must give and don't feel that you are forced to give. God loves people who love to give. God can bless you with everything you need, and you will always have more than enough to do all kinds of good things for others.

 

  Several years ago my sister spent several minutes explaining to her pre-teen son why she tithed.

  He decided that if he could give one tenth of his allowance and get back even more, he would try it. On Sunday he gave a tithe and was utterly amazed the very next day when a birthday card from his grandmother arrived with money in it.  He then and there decided that “tithing” is a wise investment plan. His mother tried to convince him that such motive was not the way it worked.

  How childish we Christians are when we give for all the wrong reasons.

Leslie Nivens (12/12/1928 – 3/1/2020)

MENTAL HEALTH: PREVENTION AND CURE

 MENTAL HEALTH: PREVENTION AND CURE

  Once again, living in the post-Eden era with the knowledge of good and evil, we all are exposed to what came to be deemed “mental health issues”, as individuals, families, or communities suffering the weight and distractions thereof. ☹

  However, Jehovah God Almighty, compassionately has not left us blowing in the wind of it.  Though there is no total cure this side of heaven, there is His freely available provision for optimizing prevention and cure. To gain the maximum simply involves trusting the Word living (Jn.1:1) and written (The Bible; Jn.17:17; 1Thes.2:13) and making regular personal application.

  Having previously mentioned diet and rest, let us now share in the Word’s further provision.

  Decades ago I was hospitalized for 10 days with a list of uncomfortable distracting upper and lower gastrointestinal maladies. I couldn’t enjoy a glass of ice water without an upset. The velveteen jacketed specialist, Dr. Coco (sp?), prescribed an alleviating bland diet and at-hand Maalox, with the prognosis it would likely get worse rather than better.

  Company protocol didn’t consider it a presence-preventing problem, so the day after release I was back to work in the foundry. There being my earliest Biblical mentor.

  Ever the encourager, Bud Bond suggested the use of pocketed 3x5 cards. On the first one he had me copy Philippians 4:5-8. On the others in the rubber-banded packet he had me write the ‘whatsoevers”: true, honest, just, pure, lovely, good report, of virtue, praiseworthy etc. . . . list the blessings . . . and review often and “think on these things”. I was amazed how quickly the cards filled and how often I went to them.

  The resultant healing of body, soul, and spirit soon ensued, the pocketed cards soon displacing the Maalox container and thereafter allowing normal diet restoration.

  Though your symptoms may be quite different, God’s optimizing health remedies are not.  Seek and trust the Word!

EBB4

PS. Dear Ann, family and friends, were ever-present supportive. Also, there are additional applicable passages of Scripture.

MENTAL HEALTH: THE TRIAD

 MENTAL HEALTH: THE TRIAD

John 14:27 [Among His last words, Jesus declared] Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. 

  I repeat, optimizing mental health involves body, soul, and spirit. The spiritual being far more than an equal third, if grounded in the Word living (Jn.1:10 and written (The Bible, Jn.17:17; 1Thes.2:13). For sans the Word we walk contrary to He who made and sustains us. (Gen.1:26; Jn.1:1-4; Col.1:15-17; 3:17)

  The Word provides for renewing our mind (Rom.12:1-2) and our soul (Ps.23:3; 2Tim.1:7; 1Pet.5:7), if we so allow.

  This I initially did not learn without being a resistant. (Ps.32:8-9)

  A personal physical example is me as a diabetic, initially hypo, then hyper.

  Without spiritual mental/emotional submission my body suffers. When my body suffers it adversely effects spirit and soul. A circular event until interrupted by discipline forced or agreed upon. Or death.

  Consider Elijah. (1Kin.19) Obedient to Jehovah unto victory, his mental health suffered. Fearfully he fled and wished for death. What did God do? The physical initially, feeding him and provided time for rest-oration. Once recharged, God gave Elijah encouragement, a new purpose . . . and an assistant. Pastor Don McKnight taught “Come apart lest you come apart”, something I didn’t hear then.

  Also note Jonah’s angry depressed mental state apart from being in synch with God.

  God knows us most of all. Satan observes us well. Considering Romans 12:3, comparatively how well do we know ourself?

  Tomorrow we will look at some effective mental health tips provided by the Word.

EBB4

HEALTH POST EDEN

 HEALTH POST EDEN

Genesis, the first 4 chapters. 

  Adam and Eve’s distrust of Jehovah God Almighty resulted is drastic change. The resultant immediate changes in mind adversely affecting them and all people unto this day and beyond in body, soul, and spirit. Reading the Genesis record, we see the initial chilling naked differences.

·         From security to insecurity; fear.

·         From dignity to shame; humiliation.

·         Futile escapism; bushes or beaches.

·         Irresponsible blame-shifting.

·         Degradation unto deniability; lying.

·         From equality to inequality; the conflict of the sexes.

·         From vegetarian to carnivore; dissatisfied appetites.

·         From serenity to sorrow; angst and worry.

·         From weed and disease-free agriculture to aggravation; sweet to sweat.

·         Plus, aware of the truth of 1Corinthans 15:21-22, I’m left wondering exactly how life would be if Adam had said no? Would it have cost no more than another rib?

   The initial woeful list producing the expanding catalog of phobias and noias. Or as pal Al sums it, “The battle for the mind.” And then and now there’s man’s non-Biblical band-aid attempts to solve mankind’s mental health troubles.

EBB4

OPTIMIZING MENTAL HEALTH IS A TRUST ISSUE

 

OPTIMIZED MENTAL HEALTH IS A TRUST ISSUE

   Psalm 1:1-3 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 

  Proverbs [MKJV] 4:23 Keep your heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. 

  Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, in order to prove by you what is that good and pleasing and perfect will of God. 

  James 1:5-8 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and with no reproach, and it shall be given to him. But let him ask in faith, doubting nothing. For he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, driven by the wind and tossed. For do not let that man think that he shall receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, not dependable in all his ways. 

  I’m sure that after reading today’s title that some of you think I’ve lost my mind. WHAT, a trust issue?!

  Mental health is a constant issue that historically recycles newsworthy as a cause; a problematic human condition at some level for one and all suffering the throes of the knowledge of good and evil. (Gen.3) The otherwise expert explanations and measurements of mental health varying through the ages, but generally identified by an individual(s) being functional in society or not. This general criteria of functional has and will continue to vary, _____ being considered normal in some cultures.

  Where and when did the problem start?

  With Adam and Eve. None of us will be sane as they were prior to their not trusting God.

  The remedy?

  There is no absolute cure this side of heaven. There is however optimized individual mental health depending on how much we trust The One that created us in his image. (Gen.1:26) His freely provided counsel being Truth (Jn.17:17); the Word living (Jn.1:1) and written (The Bible, 2Tim.3:16; 3Tim.2:14-16; 2Pet.1:20). His Truth, when relied upon makes us wise unto deliverance (2Tim.3:15); the embraced application of godly wisdom being synonymous with our possible blessed optimization of the health of body, soul, and spirit.

  Hear and heed the Word of God: “Grace and peace be multiplied to you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, according as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who has called us to glory and virtue, through which He has given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, so that by these you might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. But also in this very thing, bringing in all diligence, filling out your faith with virtue, and with virtue, knowledge; and with knowledge self-control, and with self-control, patience, and with patience, godliness, and with godliness, brotherly kindness, and with brotherly kindness, love.” (2Pet.2-7)

EBB4

MENTAL HEALTH

 MENTAL HEALTH

  Proverbs 4:23  Keep your heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. [also note 23:7a]

  1Corinthians 13:11-12  When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known. 

  Though much in the minds of people today, the term “mental health” is nowhere found in God’s Word. But the topic is definitely there pertaining to the condition of our soul, how we think and feel; emotions good and bad flowing from our thoughts.

  It is argued by experts and others that mental health is most often a definitive result of environment good or bad. This true or not depending on attitude (mental health). In particular for those trusting God’s purpose in life. The contrary being the life-is-all-about-me attitude.

  The apostle Paul declared this in his epistle to the Philippians, including affirming “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. Only let us hold true to what we have attained. … I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” (3:12-16; 4:12-13) His life being one of many stressful situations including then awaiting probable execution. (He was executed.)

  Let us accept the fact that Adam and Eve in the garden enjoyed sanity. Once they gained the knowledge of good and evil the insanity of living began, the work of optimizing mental health far more difficult than weeding the newly weedy fields. The first one to overtly fail being Cain. And we have been laboring ego-centric ever since.

  However, God freely, if accepted, provides renewal: Peace and rest in and by Jesus Christ.

  “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.” And to those trusting Him as Savior, “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (Mt.11:28-30; Jn.14:27)

EBB4

 

WATCHMEN

 WATCHMEN

Ezekiel 3:16-21  And it came to pass at the end of seven days, that the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me. When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul. When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man, that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul. 

  Not long ago as I drove thru Kansas City, Kansas, I crossed an overpass over railroad tracks. I saw a watchtower high above.. I don’t know what all the men in the tower do, but I do know they must be alert to danger and warn others and/or throw switches on time. If they fail to do so there would be drastic results.

  God has assigned as watchmen and we must warn people of the eternally drastic results of not accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

Leslie Nivens (12/12/1928 – 3/1/2020)

FAILED

 A DOUBLE FAILURE

Proverbs [GW] 27:17 As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens the wits of another.

  I failed doubly, and was promptly so informed. In the DT title I incorrectly spelled temperament as temperment, AND knowing my spellcheck software doesn’t correct titling I failed to check it. I appreciate the remain anonymous spellchecker for notifying me . . . and setting me on a lively path of thought that awakened me this morning: There is a far greater double failure.

  We can focus on that which may distract us from the most important spiritual application.

  Again pondering the matter in light of God’s Word, initially reviewing Revelation 2:1-6 letter to the congregation at Ephesus, the Word remaining applicable to assemblies and individuals everywhere ever since. Social works, patience in serving, resisting and fighting sin, despising false efforts were and continue to be commendable. Lacking in vertical and horizontal love is definitely not commendable.

  Next my thoughts turned to Jesus’ encounter with a scribe, a legal expert learned in written Scripture available at that time and much quoted and referred to by Christ.

One of the teachers of the Law of Moses came up while Jesus and the Sadducees were arguing. When he heard Jesus give a good answer, he asked him, "What is the most important commandment?" Jesus answered, "The most important one says: 'People of Israel, you have only one Lord and God. You must love him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.' The second most important commandment says: 'Love others as much as you love yourself.' No other commandment is more important than these." The man replied, "Teacher, you are certainly right to say there is only one God. It is also true that we must love God with all our heart, mind, and strength, and that we must love others as much as we love ourselves. These commandments are more important than all the sacrifices and offerings that we could possibly make." When Jesus saw that the man had given a sensible answer, he told him, "You are not far from God's kingdom." After this, no one dared ask Jesus any more questions. (CEV Mk.12:28-34)

  Battling sin is very important, but it is very easy to primarily focus on resisting and overcoming sin in attempting to please God and man (fellow Christians in particular) and therefore be ill-equipped “to determine what God really wants-what is good, pleasing, and perfect.” (Rom.12:1-2); to love Him and one another and therein and thereby as byproduct accomplish resisting and overcoming “sin that so easily besets us”. (Heb.12)

  Jesus explained this correct order of heart and activity to the legalities-over-love people, Sadducees, Pharisees, Jews, and many of His followers then and since: “love me, keep my commandments.” (Grammarians, Please do take note of the placement of the comma.)

  Was the spelling correction ment to test my temper? I think not, for I know the heart of my corrector. Did it stimulate my heart and mind? Most certainly!

  And yours?!

EBB4

EXAMINING

 

A BROADER EXAMINATION – A GETTING OUT OF THE BOAT THING

 

… train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. [ESV 1Timothy chapter 4]

 

  An eventful week right up to drifting off last night. This morning I awoke thinking that in the pursuit of godliness I should broaden personal examination going beyond past ways of doing so. After prayerful ponderance I decided to think about the last year or so and make a list of both bad and good events by which I was touched.

  Pertaining to, here are questions arrived at:

1.       Did I fearlessly search God’s Word for applicable guidance?

2.       Did I fearlessly pray for all aspects, not just my feelings sad or glad?

3.       Did I go beyond the obvious and give thanks for all aspects?

4.       Did I fearlessly seeking His edification, praying for sight lessons beyond the visual bad or good?

5.       Have I taken time to consider Bible verses pertaining to the above 4 questions?

EBB4   Tuesday, May 01, 2018

CAFETERIA FAITH

 CHRISTIAN CAFETERIA FAITH

  Those of us trusting Christ are to present “sound doctrine” and no other. (2Tim.4:3; Tit.2:1)

  Recently a professing Christian stated that he doesn’t believe God is violent and that such Biblical accounts require different interpretations. (Deut.13:15-16; 20:16-18; 1Samuel chapter 15; Josh.5:14-21)

  Christian cafeteria faith is picking and choosing individual Bible precepts and stories by personal base interpretive desire. Such selectivity excluding the authenticity of God’s Word that is distasteful to self.

  A favored professing Christian contemporary selectivity includes believing in a forgiving, merciful, loving God, but excludes the jealous, righteous, expecting God; God incomplete with individual’s and group’s worldview producing lifestyle skewed away from godliness. (2Tim.2:15; 3:1-7)

  Beginning with Adam, outcomes of selective faith producing flawed life are told.

  Christian culture today includes spiritual seduction numbers not much different than non-Christian society. LTAs and divorce rates alone reveal much unfaithful emotional modeling after looking-for-love among professing Christian as opposed to Biblical Christ-like love, commitment. (Jn.3:16; Pr.5:18; Mal.2:13-17; Eph.5:25; Col.3:19; Heb.13:4)

  From Adam and Eve on, free will is ours. As with them, it is our choice alone to decide and take holy sanctified nourishment; sustenance whole in diet, resulting in the most productive advantageous spiritual health; or to reject reverence and respect for Jehovah and our fellow man. Genuine reverence for God and man centered in believing.

  Then there’s the matter that requiring, believing and promulgating concepts contrary to God’s Word is aiding and abetting Satan with his misdirecting conversations about Jehovah God Almighty’s Truth. (Genesis chapter3)

EBB4

WHY BELIEVE?

 Question: "Why should I believe the Bible?"

  The Bible makes claims about the creation of the universe, the nature of the God who created the universe and reigns supremely over it, and the fate of mankind. If these claims are true, then the Bible is the most important book in the history of mankind. If the Bible is true, then it holds the answers to life’s biggest questions: “From where did I come?” “Why am I here?” and “What happens to me when I die?” The importance of the Bible’s message demands it receive fair consideration, and the truthfulness of its message is observable, testable, and able to withstand scrutiny.
  The writers of the Bible claim that the Bible is God’s very Word. The apostle Paul writes that “all Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16). That is to say, all the words recorded in the original writing of Scripture originated from the mouth of God before ever reaching the minds and pens of the biblical writers. The apostle Peter also writes that “prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:21). The phrase “carried along” is indicative of a sail being propelled by the wind. That is, the writing of Scripture was directed by the Holy Spirit. The Bible does not originate with man and is, then, a product of God and carries the authority of God.
  At this point, it is important not to let circular reasoning become the justification for believing the Bible. We cannot say that one should believe the Bible simply because the Bible says it should be believed. If, however, the truth claims of the Bible are found true whenever it is possible to test their veracity or are proved true during historical and scientific discovery, then the internal claims of the Bible’s own trustworthiness are more compelling. The internal evidence works in tandem with the external.
  The internal evidence of Scripture’s veracity provides many compelling arguments for why one should believe the Bible. First, the unique message of the Bible sets it apart from other religious texts. The Bible, for instance, teaches that mankind is inherently evil and deserving of eternal death. If man were responsible for the content of the Bible, the view of humanity would not be so dark—we tend to make ourselves look good. The Bible also teaches that humans can do nothing of themselves to remedy their natural state. This, too, goes against human pride.
  The unity of the biblical message is further reason for why one should believe the Bible. The Bible was written over a period of approximately 1,550 years, with at least 40 human writers, most of whom did not know each other and were from varying backgrounds (king, fisherman, tax collector, shepherd, etc.). The Bible was written in various environments (desert, prison, royal court, etc.). Three different languages were used to write the Bible, and, despite covering controversial subjects, it carries one harmonious message. The circumstances surrounding the writing of the Bible would seem to guarantee its fallibility, and, yet, the message from Genesis to Revelation is uncannily consistent.
  Another reason why one should believe the Bible is its accuracy. The Bible should not be confused with a science textbook, but that does not mean that the Bible does not speak to issues that are scientific in nature. The water cycle was described in Scripture centuries before it was a scientific discovery. In some cases science and the Bible have seemed to be at odds with each other. Yet, when science has advanced, the scientific theories have proved wrong and the Bible proved right. For example, it used to be standard medical practice to bleed patients as a cure for illness. Many people died because of excessive blood loss. Now medical professionals know that bloodletting as a cure for most diseases is counterproductive. The Bible always taught that “the life of a creature is in the blood” (Leviticus 17:11).
  The Bible’s truth claims concerning world history have also been substantiated. Skeptics used to criticize the Bible for its mention of the Hittite people (e.g., 2 Kings 7:6). The lack of any archaeological evidence to support the existence of a Hittite culture was often cited as a rebuttal against Scripture. In 1876, however, archaeologists discovered evidence of the Hittite nation, and by the early 20th century the vastness of the Hittite nation and its influence in the ancient world was common knowledge.
  The scientific and historical accuracy of the Bible is important evidence of the Bible’s trustworthiness, but the Bible also contains fulfilled prophecies. Some of the biblical writers made claims about future events centuries in advance. If any one of the events predicted had occurred, it would be astounding. But the Bible contains many, many prophecies. Some of the predictions were fulfilled in a short amount of time (Abraham and Sarah had a son, Peter denied Jesus three times, Paul was a witness for Jesus in Rome, etc.). Other predictions were fulfilled hundreds of years later. The 300 messianic prophecies fulfilled by Jesus could not have reasonably been fulfilled by one person unless some greater power was involved. Specific prophecies like Jesus’ birthplace, activities, manner of death, and resurrection demonstrate the preternatural accuracy of Scripture.
  When it is put to the test, the Bible is proved true in every area. Its truth extends to the spiritual, as well. That means that when the Bible says the Hittite nation existed, then we can believe that there were Hittites, and when the Bible teaches that “all have sinned” (Romans 3:23) and the “wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23), then we need to believe that, too. And, when the Bible tells us that “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8) and that “whoever believes in [Jesus] shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16), then we can and should believe that, also.

© Copyright 2002-2021 Got Questions Ministries. All rights reserved.  www.GotQuestions.org

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The above essay, as with all other GotQuerstions.org essays, is used with permission so long as we/you do not take credit for or financially profit from. Also:  Upon request I’ll provide my 10 Reasons Why I Believe The Bible Is The Word Of God file, it being evidence outside of and apart from the “circular reasoning” mention in the above essay.

EBB4

THANKFULNESS

 THANKFULNESS, From  Nave’s topical Bible:

Jesus set an example of: Mat_11:25; Mat_26:27; Joh_11:41

The heavenly host engage in: Rev_4:9; Rev_7:11-12; Rev_11:16-17

Commanded: Psa_50:14

Should be offered:

To God: Psa_50:14

To Christ:1Ti_1:12

Through Christ: Rom_1:8; Col_3:17; Heb_13:15

In the name of Christ: Eph_5:20

In behalf of ministers: 2Co_1:11

In private worship: Dan_6:10

In public worship: Psa_35:18

In everything: 1Th_5:18

Upon the completion of great undertakings: Neh_12:31; Neh_12:40

Before taking food: Joh_6:11; Act_27:35

Always: Eph_1:16; Eph_5:20; 1Th_1:2

As the remembrance of God's holiness: Psa_30:4; Psa_97:12

For the goodness and mercy of God: Psa_106:1; Psa_107:1; Psa_136:1-3

For the gift of Christ: 2Co_9:15

For Christ's power and reign: Rev_11:17

For the reception and effectual working of the word of God in others: 1Th_2:13

For deliverance through Christ, from indwelling sin: Rom_7:23-25

For victory over death and the grave: 1Co_15:57

For wisdom and might: Dan_2:23

For the triumph of the gospel: 2Co_2:14

For the conversion of others: Rom_6:17

For faith exhibited by others: Rom_1:8; 2Th_1:3

For love exhibited by others: 2Th_1:3

For the grace bestowed on others: 1Co_1:4; Php_1:3-5; Col_1:3-6

For the zeal exhibited by others: 2Co_8:16

For nearness of God's presence: Psa_75:1

For appointment to the ministry: 1Ti_1:12

For willingness to offer our property for God's service: 1Ch_29:6-14

For the supply of our bodily wants: Rom_14:6-7; 1Ti_4:3-4

For all men: 1Ti_2:1

For all things: 2Co_9:11; Eph_5:20

Should be accompanied by intercession for others: 1Ti_2:1; 2Ti_1:3; Phm_1:4

Should always accompany prayer: Neh_11:17; Php_4:6; Col_4:2

Should always accompany praise: Psa_92:1; Heb_13:15

Expressed in Psalms:1Ch_16:7

Ministers appointed to offer, in public: 1Ch_16:4; 1Ch_16:7; 1Ch_23:30; 2Ch_31:2

Saints exhorted to:

General references: Psa_105:1; Col_3:15

Resolve to offer: Psa_18:49; Psa_30:12

Habitually offer: Dan_6:10

Offer sacrifices of: Psa_116:17

Abound in the faith with: Col_2:7

Magnify God by: Psa_69:30

Come before God with: Psa_95:2

Enter God's gates with: Psa_100:4

Of hypocrites, full of boasting: Luk_18:11

The wicked averse to thankfulness: Rom_1:21

Exemplified, General references:

Gen_32:10; Gen_48:11; Gen_48:15-16; Ex 15:1-21; Num_21:17-18; 1Ki_8:56; 1Ch_29:14; Ezr_7:27; Psa_9:1-2; Psa_9:4; Psa_13:6; Psa_22:23-25; Psa_26:7; Psa_28:7; Psa_30:1; Psa_30:3; Psa_30:11-12; Psa_31:7; Psa_31:21; Psa_35:9-10; Psa_35:18; Psa_40:2-3; Psa_40:5; Psa_41:11-12; Psa_44:7-8; Psa_54:6-7; Psa_56:12-13; Psa_59:16-17; Psa_66:8-9; Psa_66:12-16; Psa_66:20; Psa_68:19; Psa_71:15; Psa_71:23-24; Psa_79:13; Psa_89:1; Psa_92:1-2; Psa_92:4; Psa_98:1; Psa_100:4; Psa_102:18-20; Psa_104:1; Psa_116:12-14; Psa_116:17; Psa_119:65; Psa_119:108; Psa 136:1-26; Isa_63:7; Dan_2:23; Dan_4:2; Dan_4:34; Dan_6:22; Act_2:46-47; Act_28:15; Rom_14:6; Col_1:3; 1Ti_1:12

By David: 1Ch_29:13

By the Levites: 2Ch_5:12-13

By Daniel: Dan_2:23

By Jonah: Jon_2:9

By Simeon: Luk_2:28

By Anna: Luk_2:38

By Paul: Act_28:15

LITTLE CHILDREN

 LITTLE CHILDREN

Matthew [NLV] 19:13-15 Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray for them. The followers spoke sharp words to them. But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me. Do not stop them. The holy nation of heaven is made up of ones like these.” He put His hands on them and went away. [Mk.10:13-16; Lk.18:15-17]

  My grandson is 17 today. How the years have flown! The summer of 1990 he spent most of his time with us on the farm. He and I talked a lot about God, Jesus, and the Word of God. In July we went to church camp together. The second night, he went forward during the altar call and accepted Christ as his Savior.

  Oh, if all children would trust Him and His love for them!

Leslie Nivens (12/12/1928 – 3/1/2020)

A GLORIOUS WALK

 A GLORIOUS WALK

1Thessalonians [GW] 5:16-20 Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Whatever happens, give thanks, because it is God's will in Christ Jesus that you do this. Don't put out the Spirit's fire. Don't despise what God has revealed. (Underling mine.)

  Let’s “walk worthy” in gratitude.

  Many of the men that helped with our Christian Service Brigade club for boys were military. In the summer we were privileged to be assisted by Academy cadets. Hence the brigade was a bit quasi-military. The boys liked it. One of the things the boys enjoyed was vocal marching cadence when hiking. Each intonation sung being a Scriptural principle taught. Two favorites were:

 

Thank you Lord for saving my soul.

Thank you Lord for making me whole.

Thank you Lord for giving to me,

Thy great salvation so rich and free.

 

If the Lord is in your heart today,

And has taken all your sins away.

You can walk each mile with a happy smile,

If the Lord is in your heart today.

 

Colossians [MKJV] 1:1-14 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colosse. Grace to you, and peace from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love you have to all the saints, for the hope which is laid up for you in Heaven, of which you heard before in the Word of the truth of the gospel, which has come to you as it has also in all the world, and it is bearing fruit, even also among you, since the day you heard and fully knew the grace of God in truth, even as you learned from Epaphras our beloved fellow-servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ for you, he also having shown your love in the Spirit to us. For this cause we also, since the day we heard, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that you might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, that you might walk worthy of the Lord to all pleasing, being fruitful in every work and increasing in the knowledge of God, being empowered with all power, according to the might of His glory, to all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness, giving thanks to the Father, who has made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light. For He has delivered us from the power of darkness and has translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son; in whom we have redemption through His blood, the remission of sins. (Eph.4:1; 1Thes.2:12)

EBB4

BEWARE THE WHIRLPOOP OF INGRATITUDE

 BEWARE THE WHIRLPOOL OF INGRATITUDE

2Timothy [GW] 3:1-5 You must understand this: In the last days there will be violent periods of time. People will be selfish and love money. They will brag, be arrogant, and use abusive language. They will curse their parents, show no gratitude, have no respect for what is holy, and lack normal affection for their families. They will refuse to make peace with anyone. They will be slanderous, lack self-control, be brutal, and have no love for what is good. They will be traitors. They will be reckless and conceited. They will love pleasure rather than God. They will appear to have a godly life, but they will not let its power change them. Stay away from such people. 

  We may be in the last days, or not. However, in our nation we are definitely seeing characteristics of the last days on the increase. Note in 2Timothy 3:2 the blunt descriptive includes “no gratitude”. In my 85+ years I’ve never seen so much ingratitude with so many people clamoring for more and more. This even among many professing Christians reflecting a lack of reverence and awe for God’s gracious provision of a kingdom that cannot be shaken. (2Cor.2:14) God’s kingdom stands fast, whereas far too many of professed citizens of heaven are wobbled by desires. (1Pet.1:6-7)

  Let us be examples of crediting and thanking God for His providing “every good and perfect gift”. (Jam.1:17)

Let us not be drawn into the current ungracious whirlpool of reckless conceited selfishness!

  Have we not been blessed with “all spiritual blessings”? (Jn.10:10; Eph.1:3)

EBB4

CONTINUING THANKFULNESS

 CONTINUING THANKFULNES 

  My most difficult area in elementary school was all the memorization required by the curriculum. At 85+ that part of my brain has not changed.

  However, there are things, though not by determination or effort, that I remember – stuck in my heart and mind as if by Gorilla Glue. After trusting Lord Jesus Christ as personal Redeemer, I was rereading Romans with my new John 3:3 vision. Romans 5:8 permanently fastened as I saw it anew. It, with thanksgiving, remains in my memory and I often see or hear the verse: “But God commended His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

  Possibly you too, without memorization industry, experienced this wonderful effortless embedding? And would delight in blessedly sharing your event with others?  If so, please do and I’ll share them here in a few days.

  Better together, “Bless the Lord, O’ my soul, and all that is within me!”

EBB4