Do You Doubt God?

Today's study is based on a question by Thomas. His question about where Jesus was going brought up that the disciples still didn't know who Jesus was. It may seem strange that they had been with Jesus for almost three years, yet Thomas still didn't know of the place that Jesus spoke about in John 14:4. Jesus said I am the way the truth and the life, no one comes to the father except through the son (v 16). Who was the first disciple after His resurrection that said I have to place my finger in the holes of the nails, lest I do not believe....that's right it was Thomas. A man of faith. A man who Jesus choose. A man who understood little about Gods plan. But Jesus understood Thomas that he appeared to him and told him to place his fingers in the hole (John 20:25-27). 

Day two of training we watched a documentary by James Burke. The interesting thing about this was the last sentence. "the universe is at anytime what you say it is, then say". It was quiet an interesting perspective on humans and the world. It implies that we create our own universe, our own world, our own reality. (Remember yesterday's soccer game?). Indoctrination of socialist ideals. That Buddhists figured out the earth and the meaning of life and that's why they have so many different gods. Totally walking all over the fact that God had been in existences before the world was ever formed. Man has made up religion to fill a void that he himself can not fill. That religion is either socialized institutions or thought. God is not a religion that you can fit him into a box. Or make rules that is for your own pleasures in order to explain life. He is. He was. He always will be. My life doesn't revolve around religion. It revolves around a God that has taken over my soul, redeemed it, and replaced it for a new soul. One without tarnish. He is not a crutch. Religion is the crutch. Get outside of your religion and find God. He is the wind that gives you life, the water that quenches your thirst, and the soul that gives you breath.

I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.” (Genesis 28:15 NIV)

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!

Historical Value of the Bible

Facts- funny how today Billy describes what is required to prove an event happened. You see, I was in training today where they challenged us to rethink reality by trying to prove something happened. The example was a soccer game where Italy beat England 2-1. How did we know that it actually happened if we were not there. The reality for certain events in history have to be proven by various forms of documentation. Alexander the Great death at 33 is less documented than the resurrection of Christ. Billy points out that people believe Alexander died with very little evidence. It's hard to imagine that a lot of people are blind when it relates to Christ. It is more convenient to not believe than to believe simply because the Bible is the historical document. At one point in time, the Bible was not in its current form. Documentation was done on scrolls which where stored in jars for safe keeping. Just because it's in the form of a book called the Bible, the authority the words once held as historical fact has lost its value. I pray that you look at the Bible without the prejudice. 

I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades. (Revelation 1:18 NIV)

Surf side in Texas

Is the World out of Control?

One would think the world is out of control. There are wars, rumors of war, civil unrest, fighting over rights ( guns, unborn, civil). But I believe everything is for a reason. (There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV)). As noted by Billy in today's reading, we live in the days of man. From the looks of it we aren't doing too good. Just to name a few, Polluted oceans, droughts, global warming, terrorist. Thankfully we as Christians look forward to the day of The Lord. When Christ will return for the church, aka His bride. There will be a glorious renunion of the living and the dead that have gone before.

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, (Philippians 3:20 NIV) 

I'm really disappointed in our government today. A judge said that a law that was meant to protect the life of both the mother and the unborn was only partially unconstitutional. All we can do it pray and act upon our outrage.

Jelly fish at aquarium

Are you pushy

Billy describes a story told by the book, "The American Girl". The girl married a French revolutionist who was passionate about what he believed. She had lost her passion because of her studies at a university. I believe it is true that one can lose their passion for Christ. Life has a way of pushing people around that they forget their calling or purpose. God can restore a persons faith if they are willing to work with God.
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (Romans 12:1 NIV)

It was a stormy day today. Knocked out the power and it didn't get restore for 6 hours. AUGH. Short entry.

Witness

Billy gives an example of how powerful the Holy Spirit is when He calls you. Nothing can compare to the gentle voice that drowns out all other things around. From this example, a song was being unsung that Tom Allan heard wasn't what drew him to God. It was the voice of the spirit who called to Tom's soul. Every soul is being called by God at some point in their lives. Sometimes it is through the trails. Sometimes it's through other people of God that touch the lives of those around them. And sometimes it is simply a word from God in the heart of him who is listening. 

As in my own conversion, I could not tell you why I was crying.  The message wasn't anything that I would remember today.  It was just a feeling that I needed God.  The Spirit of God will call to you at some point.  Are you willing to listen?  One day, God's spirit will be lifted from the earth.  Pure evil will reign.  God's word will remain through sources like the internet, books, and Bibles.  

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.http://bible.com/1/mat.5.16.kjv

Sinful Us

Today's lesson is about how Christ can change a person instantly. Billy uses two example, Augustine and John Newton, who both experienced a dramatic conversion. Reminds me of Paul, aka Saul, who was going around persecution Christians after Christ's death. He had a run in with Christ and was changed in a moment. 

As for my own experience, it was nearly so dramatic, but it is my story. Lost, alone and pregnant, I found Christ. I knew without hesitation that is what I needed - salvation. God always makes a way for people to find him. Mine just so happened to be through my pregnancy. Sure times were tough afterwards. But I can't say that it wasn't for a reason because I know it was all for good.

God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV)

Resurrection - fact or fiction

Billy starts off today's topic with a conversation he had with the former Chancellor of Germany, Konrad Adenauer. The Chancellor was about to retire and surprise him by answering his own question about the most important thing in the world. Adenauer answered himself by stating it was the resurrection of Christ. He said this fact about that there would not be any hope without the resurrection. Believing that God raised him from the dead, just like he will for believers that have already passed, is the first step in a new life.
If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. (1 Corinthians 15:13, 14, 20 NIV)

Today my company had a function to kickoff the United Way campaign. I'm not a big fan of them however I did hear about a program that did interest me. It's part of a help center but specifically for veterans. I might have to go check them out. It sounds like a really good program which helps vets get their life back in order after deployment. 

Don't be Puzzled, it's easy to accept Christ

Skull & crossbones

Today's point by Billy is more relevant today than before. In the US, we are at a crossroads. As I said before, the world is becoming more and more evil. Billy states that human nature likes to wallow in our sin rather than accept Christ and his ability to eliminate sin within our hearts. This is why the Jews cried for the release of a vicious killer rather than Christ. He had pierced their hearts with truth and they decided to turn away from a life filled with God. That's why there are those who wish to take away our freedom and will not stop til we are compliant. 

I actually have had several of those encounters recently through my twitter account (@rachmasjt). The most recent one is in denial about the government coming to take out civil liberties away. The ACA is just the first step of control. I really believe that we are in the last days. I think the world as we know it will end before the next decade begins. But I am just one person with an opinion - I may be right, I maybe wrong. But no one can ignore the warning signs. Wars and rumors of wars. Deceit is rampant. Lies from our own government. Spying on the citizens and leaking information about our military and not protecting our military. 

Well all I can say is I hope you have fire insurance....Jesus don't leave earth without him....

When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. (Luke 23:33 NIV)

Its a statement

End times, anyone?

When Christ was on earth, sin was rampant. But compared to now, it was far less vicious, cruel, and devious. Billy states that some people believe that Christ would receive a better reception today than back then. However, he disagrees because it's a sin problem. More people in the world, more technology, and less Christian than after Christ (comparatively since the population has grown), Christ would be crucified faster. People are less tolerant of a "god" who would die for his people. They rather have faith in the goodness of mankind. Sure, there are good people who don't consider themselves Christians, but how many new religions are in the world that would tolerate someone who comes back from the dead? Good question.

Have you ever read the book series by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins, titled "Left Behind"? If not, I would encourage anyone who hasn't to read it. You see, as a Christian, we believe that Christ is returning. But before that can happen, evil will reign over the earth. The book takes the stance that all the Christians disappear before this happens and the anti-Christ (aka satan) will appear and some how resurrect himself and proclaim himself to be the "Christ". Excellent fictional book based on the Biblical facts of the end times.

http://www.leftbehind.com

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29 NIV)

Say hi to my little friend the lizard....

Death and rescurection

Billy points out that Christianity is different from most religions of the world. It is because Christ is risen. Buddha died, Muhammad died. They had no resurrection that they all shared in common. Only Christ, the Son of God experienced such a moment. Why, because he was found to be without sin.

Remember what I said a few days ago about how the birthing pains are getting strong? Well, another school shooting happened in the US. A child the same age or a little younger than my youngest, shot and killed and adult and then killed themselves. There are no words of comfort that one can say that will take away the sting of this death. It's final. The last step before eternity. This is one of the reasons why I want to take my daughter out of public schools. More and more people are just not in there right minds. I don't care if she will miss out on new friendships. I just want her healthy. My middle daughter had her life threatened because she did the right thing and turned in a group of students at her school  who destroyed a home by flooding it. Thankfully the girl was found out quickly and was transferred before they could carry out this plan of revenge. I say home-school if you can.

He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: (Luke 24:6 NIV)

Gorgeous cavern formation

Daily Prayer

“This, then, is how you should pray: “ ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. ’ (Matthew 6:9-13 NIV)

This is the Lords Prayer.  It's a model of how to pray.  Feel free to put your own words.  God knows your heart and will accept you as you are.

Thought I would post this since it going around on twitter.  Follow me if you want. @rachmasjt

Disclaimer:  I am a God fearing non religious conservative single mom.  I fight for what I believe in....personal freedom, religious freedom, less government, pro-life.

Knowledge and Wisdom of the Bible

Today Billy stresses the importance of taking every problems to the Bible. It's knowledge is vast and it's words bring hope. I would add to this that asking God and the Holy Spirit for wisdom and knowledge on where the answers lay within this imprant book of the world. It will enlighten you, develop your relationship with God and you will find a source strength during times it is needed.
Today, I found out I had been cheated by a business establishment. I am still very pisssed off but, the confrontation is what I dread. I am not good with conflict nor am I good at speaking to someone about bad news. It really sucks. I will be praying and asking God for strength and wisdom in how to handle it. The Buble says in your angry, do not sin. “In your anger do not sin” : Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, (Ephesians 4:26 NIV). Unfortunately the business is closed on Sunday

Look in the scroll of the Lord and read: None of these will be missing, not one will lack her mate. For it is his mouth that has given the order, and his Spirit will gather them together. (Isaiah 34:16 NIV)

Another picture from a camping trip

Savior and Fence

Billy's lesson today was on the cross. How many had suffered before and after Christ and it didn't mean as much as the one time it did. Nor did the tomb which held him mean as much if it remained unopened. Gods son didn't died a needless death. He rose again in glory to reign over the hearts of men and women alike. Don't let His death pass you by without asking him in your heart.

Time is running out on mankind and the sins he has committed. God only knows the time but man can see the signs of his coming drawing nearer. The little birth pains have now increase to back pain, which on,y means on thing. The bowels of hades is trying whatever it can to drag as many humans souls down to the pits of hell. The pain won't end with your death there. Only intensify your weakness and ravage you tortured soul until you think you can bare anymore. 

Today I was called a liberal. Merely because I brought a subject that went off track back to its point. Oh, that is really funny. If only he knew what I have been through to get here. The pain endured. The heartache and loss I have suffered. Haha...guess what. I win anyways. I am a believer in Christ who will be caught up in the air when Jesus returns. 

My dog problem is finally resolved. For a lot less than I thought too. Yea! I am posting my fence because it is a beautiful site.

He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, (Luke 24:46 NIV)

Brokeness

In life, there are many things that can break the human spirit. Grief, money problems, depression, or just anything that would get a person down. But brokeness can lead to such joy. God is there whenever we are broken. He sees your need. He knows how you feel. He felt the same emotions when Christ was on earth and died for our sins. Nothing that you are going through or will go through will go not unnoticed by God.

In today's world, there is so much tragedy. People losing their jobs due to the economic downturn. Those that can't afford to feed their families due to this hardship. It can get a person down. I remember a time in my own life that I didn't have a car and had to rely on public transportation. It was one bus to drop off my daughter at daycare and another to go to work. Two hours each way. But the one day it rained was the day we danced in the rain, giving away our umbrella to someone without getting off the bus. There can be joy in your life due to God saving you. Even though you may endure hardship, the joy doesn't disappear. Once God is in your heart, you don't rely as much on your own emotion to say how you feel, but rather depend on how God makes you feel. His joy can replace your sorrow. His fulfillment can be your sufficiency. His provision can be enough.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18 NIV)

A bluff overlooking a snowy valley.

History Lessons

The great leader Napoleon recognize how great and powerful Jesus was when he stated, "I know men, and I tell you, Jesus is more than a man." Billy writes about Emerson not including him as a Representative Men, he replied, "Jesus was not just a man." Arnold Toynbee who was a British historian, philosopher of history, research professor of International History. One of is quotes was "There is a savior."  These great men of history all recognized Jesus deity. 

The secular world no longer sees the benefit of faith. They are increasingly hostile towards those with faith and try to remove any offensive words, symbols, or references of a higher power....Jesus and God. If there was ever a time which the faith was under attack it is now. Faith in someone that died over 2,000 years ago has become old fashioned. I continually pray that we cam stand strong against the society that has deemed us replaceable and obsolete. 

He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. (Colossians 1:17 NIV)

Gorgeous sunset in Texas

Passionate

The passion that Christ gives is for the believers in Christ. A passion to love him, to fear God, and to hate sin. God is not unreasonable or does He sit in judgement of your every movement. He will expect you to make the right choices for His sake and don't think you won't be held accountable for your actions. 

God says in Isaiah 1:18, Come let us reason together. God desires a relationship with you so He can teach you His ways and direct your path. Reading the Bible or a devotional will lead to a greater understand of God's love and how He wants you to live. Have questions about what you read, ask for wisdom. God will either direct you to a person or another scripture to answer your questions. Not all of us are Bible scholars and even those that are can't answer questions that aren't explicitly answered in the Bible. Like why does bad thing happen to good people. No one can answer that except God. 

God is bigger than we can ever imagine. His thoughts towards us is endless. He is always there whether we feel him or not. Trusting him in ever situation is furthering the kingdom to glorify Him and shows the world he does exist.Jesus said, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ (Mark 12:30 NIV)

I personally had a situation happen to my family which would push the boundaries of love and forgiveness to a breaking point. It took many years of rebuilding these relationships and in some cases breaking them, for good reason, in order to reestablish the faith of the family unit. Some of these relationships are still strained but are less likely to impact the family future. There was also a breaking of the church family. My immediate family doesn't associate with the church family that failed to support us in a time of need, but we have found a church that works.

Keys to the Kingdom

Today I feel blah! Probably because of the absolutely awesome camping trip. My boss said I looked less stressed. I wish I could say that about this afternoon 😒
The glory of the cross is what Billy starts today's lesson off with....although Paul was not a follower of Christ until after his death, he saw the glory of the cross upon his conversion. As Billy notes, the crucification that took place on the cross is one of the most selfless acts any one person has every done for mankind. It showed how much God loves his creation. How much He desired to be reconciled with his people. God took back what satan had stolen away so many years earlier. God's son descended down into hell, took back the keys of the kingdom, and burst forth on that glorious morn with good news for the lost....there is hope.

It reminds me of a song by Group 1 Crew, "Keys to the Kingdom" which speaks about as Christians we can have the keys through our faith in Jesus.

May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. (Galatians 6:14 NIV)

This water fowl was searching the lily pads for food

Hope for Today

There is only one hope for America and the world....Christ Jesus and his saving grace. Today, Billy quotes Emil Brunner, who once said, "What oxygen is for the lungs, such is hope for the meaning of human life.” The life of a human can only be found in Christ. Just watching TV, one can see there is despair and hopelessness everywhere. God is willing and able to forgive those who need hope. Grace is there waiting for those willing to ask.

Just getting back into the routine of life after camping this weekend. We had a good time even though it rained, the tent leaked, and we were all wet.....The best times are made like this. Even my daughter stated that except for the rain, it was a good trip.

Here is a picture of one of the animals my daughter stalked. Isn't he gorgeous.

Lilly of the Valley

The life of Christ was a mere 33 years.  Today, Billy illustrates the fact that what was most important in all those years was his death. He states that nearly 1/3 of all the four Gospels was devoted to his death.  He states that most biolographys don't event take up half that much. But the Bible has more propeshy and accounts by the disciples, than any other historical event in this world history. That should speak volumes to how important this one man over 2,000 years ago is for mankind. If for no other reason than for the salvation of man through the forgiveness of sin. Most people don't have a concept of what sin is. They think well I am a good person, I never killed anyone, or I honor my mother and father.  But Gods word is clear. ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory if God (Rom 3:23).  Today could be a new day for you. Accept Christ as your redeemer.

For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. (1 Thessalonians 5:9, 10 NIV)

From our camping trip this weekend

Death & Blood

There are so many things that those two words can mean. But to the saved redeemed Christain, it only means one thing.  I have been saved by the blood of Christ who has redeemed me with his blood.   Billy speaks about how dying on the cross and rising again has made Christ the king of a kings. One who satan can not compete with in power and truth. However it does not mean that any one who goes to church every Sunday is going to be with him in heaven. The Bible states many times that Jesus is our salvation. That those that believe in Him would have everlasting life.   One can believe with their mind but not be saved.  One can say is name but not be saved. It has to come from the heart and the soul.  I can't describe the feeling that one gets because it maybe be different for everyone.  But for me it was a warmth in my gut right under the rib cage. Accept His love by asking him into your heart

Camping in the rain is never fun. Especially she your tent leaks so what does one woman and her daughter do....go buy another tent and set it up in the dark. Not the first time this has happened and won't be the last  I think it will be fine tomorrow the weather looks okay. Be blessed

Don't live in Darkness

Billy speaks about light of the world. He makes the point that even though God was using his creation throughout the centuries, until Jesus came there truly was darkness which covered the earth. Jesus is described in Matthew 4:16, a "great light". The darkness is the sins of this world that has man in its hand around those still in the darkness throat. Until they come to realize they are in the dark, satan will continue to hold the hostage.

The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1 NIV)

Here is a little about Milne. http://www.archives.presbyterian.org.nz/missions/newhebrideshistory.htm

This weekend, I will be posting very short blogs....going camping with my youngest daughter...so thankful that my 14-yo still wants to do that with her mom. ☺️

This bat lives in darkness....don't be like him, accept Christ.

Prideful Deceit

Finally started to feel better.

Billy continues to teach on pride, furthering the discussion about how pride is typically mans downfall. As noted in yesterday's blog, satan was prideful which led to his boot out of heaven. Billy points out King Saul was proud and Peter the disciple of Jesus was prideful which led him to deny Christ.

This sin has such a grip on America and the world. Along with pride comes hatred. This is the reason why so many groups hate the other group, nations go to war, politicians don't fund the government. (Well that's the other blog). For this reason, Christ was crucified. People were expecting a king that would setup his kingdom on earth. What they got was a king of the heart. He wanted to be the king of their hearts and soul because that is where the issues laid. The heart and soul of man had been changed due to Adam and Eve. God sent his son to change this and region over the people in spirits which is where the breakdown occurred.

For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. (Matthew 23:12 NIV)
Daily Prayer, Lord Jesus, You suffered such humiliation and pain for me on the cross. I ask You, humbly, to forgive my pride and errant ways that nailed You there.

Sunny day by the sea.

Women - What I hope for them

This is for my daughters.  Miley Cyrus can't even burn the candle against them!

Most of these verses are based on a "wife", but I believe a woman can be a single mom, a working woman, a teenager finding herself, a college student, or any woman in all walks of life.  

A wife of noble character who can find?

 She is worth far more than rubies. 

Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. 

She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. 

She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. 

She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar.

 She gets up while it is still night; 

she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants. 

She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. 

She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. 

She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. I

n her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. 

She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. 

When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet. 

She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. 

Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.

 She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. 

She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. 

She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. 

She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.

 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” 

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. 

Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. (Proverbs 31:10-31 NIV)

Light and Dark

Many people today say they believe in a higher being. Something or someone that is controlling all the activity on earth. Then there are some that are controlled by darkness. They are in darkness controlled by evil thoughts. 

Have you noticed over the past few years how it seems evil is over coming the light of the world. Billy's thoughts can be translated as, “And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness understood it not.” The light of God still shines today. It's all around us. Some people just ignore it or simply are drawn away by the ruler of this earth who is ready to accept God's creation as a payment for his own sin. Satan will quickly wrap his claws around those unbelievers in truth and will drag them into a painful lair. Pride is where satan tripped up and most people today also get caught up in this trap. 

Billy's point of today's lesson is that God can change anyone who is willing to see the light around them. Willing to walk away from the darkness and be open to the new mindset full of light. God has enough mercy and grace for anyone who asks.

This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. (John 3:19 NIV)




The sunset at airport.

Mankind & Compassion

Compassion - As Billy notes, Jesus had compassion for a friend, for the city of Jerusalem, and for everyone that has troubles. Although, its been several millennia  since His death, his compassion still lives on earth today through his believers man mankind in general. There are many organization that have compassion for those less fortunate, those in third world countries, and those stricken with illness. We can say that we have compassion but not many will stand up and they are willing to die for this cause. Jesus' message is I died for all who have sinned. Not just for the few in this group or that group but all.

Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. (1 John 4:8 NIV)

This verse speaks of God's love - many people love but put conditions on their love.  

The illustration used in today's study is about a tough boy who says the further away you get in the neighborhood the tougher they are. And his house was the last one - he was the toughest.  This reminded me of the story of Nicky Cruz. There are several videos on youtube about him, but the most famous was the movie, "The Cross and the Switchblade". I encourage you to watch this and be sure to watch his testimony: Gangs to God
Nicky Cruz

Sorry guys, this is another state park photo...no shooting allowed!

Endless love

God's love is endless. There is nothing that one of his children can do that he won't forgive them. God's son is the peace offering between man and God. Without it there is no redemption from sin.

In today's world, there are many things that claim to be godly. However there is only one God who is holy. He demands a price for ever sin committed by man. One way that man can cover all his sins is through Jesus. Without him there is no forgiveness and no salvation

Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— (John 1:12 NIV)

Daily Prayer
Your love overwhelms me, Father. In spite of my sin, Jesus’ death on the cross can cleanse me from all the past. Humbly I accept this gift, Lord.

I ain't got time for that!

Well, after being sick for the past few days, I hope to get back on track. I hate being sick, especially when it is just a common cold.

I feel as if today's world is always trying to reason away the true religion. From new religions based on self sacrifice to new methods of psychiatry that explains it as a crutch. The God of this earth can't be explained away nor the blood of Jesus be put into a box. Jesus died for all sins and no amount of self or money can explain him away.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and Forever - Hebrews 13:8

Sorry this is so short, I hope to do better tomorrow.

Sick

Will try to post something by tomorrow afternoon

Purity not just for virgins

Purity. God desires His people to be pure in heart. In Jesus' day there was a group of men who where suppose to be the keepers of the law. The Phariseesthese men tried to keep every law that had been written to the tee. Some people today feel that if they just keep the Ten Commandments that they will be accepted into the kingdoms of heaven. All God wants is His people to be pure in their hearts. To accept the purest commandment there is known to man. Jesus. Jesus was on earth an didn't sin. Tempted by satan but did not fall. Crucified for keeping pure of heart. Rose from the grave due to God's mercy and grace towards mankind. Once you are accepted by God through faith in Jesus you are an insider to the heart of God. That all mankind will find God

Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure. (1 Timothy 5:22 NIV)

Can't get no....Satisfaction

What a difference a day makes. Definitely, a far cry from yesterday....

Satisfaction - Day 81. Not finding things that satisfies one seems to be the norm these days. My spouse doesn't satisfy me, so I am going to get it from someone else. I'm not satisfied at work, so I'm going to look for another job. I'm not satisfied with life, so I am going to take my life.

The Bible has a different view point on what we as humans should be satisfied  y....The creator of the human masterpiece is always there. He can satisfied every desire that is bound up in truth. This may not be the same view we as humans hold but if we look at situations in the same light as God, one would see the whole picture. The problem is today, most people are unwilling to see how their current situation will glorify God. They want to jump ship and be their own god. Ignore the God of the world that can see far into the future. He knows every step, thought, and situation we will ever get into.

As Billy notes, our spiritual problems can only be resolved by God. As for me, I will be vindicated and will see your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness. (Psalm 17:15 NIV)

This verse says that one day all injustices will be vindicated and when we awake, we will be satisfied by His likeness.  Or in other words, we will know that justice has been served by the only judge of the world and not question it.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend and be thinking of me as I help chaperone 60 teenage choir members to a practice competition.  The heaviness of the weight of that responsibility has me wondering why did I sign up for this....but the up side is going to the movies afterwards.  Then come home and collapse in my nice warm bed with my faithful dog.  I can only hope that I get enough sleep.

Be blessed and bless someone with your smile!

Another state park encounter with deer.....

The day nothing goes right - literally

Well today wasn't the kind of day that I expected.  Nothing to seem to go my way.  The ankle that I had elective surgery on has been killing me for at least 3 days and I was in a meeting for 4 hours.  Then I was side tracked into chasing something down that wasn't even an issue, and I didn't accomplish anything until the last hour and the hour after I got home.  AUGH!  I had no lunch to read my study since the meeting was through lunch.  So that puts me doing my study at almost 10 PM at night.  Gosh!  I just love those kind of days!

Standing Firm -

It seems like here recently, God has been reaffirming a message that I have been given time and time again.  It's not a message for anyone but me, but it has been loud and clear.  Stand Firm.  On my political views.  On my faith.

So with that being said, Lord Help me to stand by faith in You, when I am tempted or when I fail, or when I have not faith in myself.

Ephesians 6:13.  Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

To stand....I could only pray that I will be able to stand whenever the troubles of this world comes knocking at my door.  I can only hope that my spirit is strong enough to ensure any pain (emotional or physical).  

It's sad to say that I actually thought something that I never ever in a million years would have even conceived to do.  However, the fight at hand might push my decisions to do what I never thought I would ever do in a million years.  Journal is getting the full story....for now.  With this being said though, it would be in line with the message that I believe I hear God saying, over and over and over again.  Praying for further confirmation that I am still headed in the right direction.

This awesome shot was between Pagosa Springs and Durango, CO

Unstoppable

I'm doing something a little different today. Posting twice. Let me just say that if you haven't had the chance to see Kirk Cameron's movie Unstoppable, it is a must see. Through the stories of God's creation of Adam and Eve, the serpent and the sin, the evil of mankind, this movie definitely places hope for the world back where it should be....in God's hands. To say that this movie doesn't move someone would be missing the point of the whole movie. The designer of the world is still in control. Nothing doesn't happen for a reason. And God can turn the question, Why? to Why!.

I can't wait to get to my Forever Home!

Scientific

Today's lesson is how science has time and time again attempted to disprove the concept of God as creator. But as Billy points out, when they solve one theory another theory or questions arise. You see, you just can try to prove that there is no God. You have to take His existence on faith. 

Just like I did so many years ago during one of my depths of despair moments. I had been raised in church most of my life, but found myself in a situation that I didn't want to be in. As soon as I moved, I was able to rediscover the truth of God's existence through a job I went to find out about at a church. Little did I know that God had a greater purpose and with tears streaming downing my face, I truly met God in person. I can't tell you how or why I knew it was God, He just was there. Through my ups and downs he has been there. Even when I had not been fully walking beside him, He was there.

“Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. (Mark 11:22 NIV)

A whirlpool created artwork

Is your Temper too Hot?

Temper.

Anger can be used for good or for evil. But the only way it can be used for good is to control it for a better purpose Billy points out that for one to be happy, they must learn to control their anger. That it must be repurposed for against the injustices of the world.

You know, most people, consider Christians to be very meek and dutiful. But this is not how Christ wants a christian to be remembered We are a powerful force, world changers, and those who speak up for those without a voice. We should be the ones who are screaming at the top of our lungs when a wrong is done against our fellow man - Christian or not. I can think of several instances where christian have done just that...sex trafficking abortion, those wrongfully accused.

As I mentioned earlier in the blog, Jesus became very angry when he saw how people were disrespecting the temple. He turned over the tables to make a point - God is Holy and His anger is justified.

How much different of a world there would be if Christians throughout the ages would have used their gifts of God to benefit the world. Not saying that all of them did nothing, just some let fear hold them back. What if the Boston Tea Party never happened. What if the pilgrims never set sail to be able to worship God as they were led. 

Recently, even I have been angered with the most recent events of our political system. OF course starting a different blog to voice my opinion, but I also kicked up my activity on twitter (current social media of choice) and joining other political groups. 

But the Lord replied, “Is it right for you to be angry?” (Jonah 4:4 NIV). This verse is about Jonah who refused to do what God asked. So there is a downside to not taking actions - you might just get swallowed by a whale. Be sure that you are following God's will for your life. You don't want to miss out on anything that God has in store for your life.

Monarch Butterfly Cocoons

Today's a Joyful Day

Day 2 of Joy in Christ

Billy emphasizes that Christian are joyfully when they follow Christ. He says that those in the world can't understand it. It would be like explaining television to a blind person. It is incomprehensible to them because they have never seen anything. So it is the same with the unbeliever. They don't understand where the joy comes from since they can't "see" it.

Only Christ can bring sight to a blind person - take the example of the blind man. He replied, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” (John 9:25 NIV). It's a good analogy of how the unbeliever is like. They have to be to a point that they desire to see. Every story in the Bible is there for a reason. To give sight to the blind, to help the lame walk, to heal the brokenhearted.

Today can be a day of spiritual awakening for anyone who chooses it. Your life can change that quickly just by seeking God.

Farmland outside of Durango, CO.